EFFECT OF RAPID POPULATION GROWTH ON HOUSING DEMAND (A CASE STUDY OF AMOYO TOWN IFELODUN LGA OF KWARA STATE)

This study investigates the effect of rapid population growth on housing demand in Amoyo Town, located in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State. Over the years, Amoyo has experienced significant demographic expansion driven by natural population increase, rural-urban migration, and its growing economic relevance within the LGA. Using a mixed-method approach that combines household surveys, interviews with community stakeholders, and analysis of demographic records, the study examines how accelerated population increase influences housing availability, affordability, and quality. Findings reveal that demand for housing in Amoyo Town has outpaced supply, resulting in overcrowding, rising rental costs, proliferation of substandard structures, and increased pressure on basic infrastructure. The study concludes that without coordinated urban planning and adequate investment in affordable housing, the gap between housing demand and supply will continue to widen. It recommends proactive policy interventions, including improved land-use planning, public–private partnerships for housing development, and strengthened regulatory frameworks to ensure sustainable settlement growth. This research contributes to understanding the localised impacts of population dynamics on housing systems in rapidly growing semi-urban communities.