Evaluating the Role of e-Backcasting in Enhancing Social Learning for Sustainable City Development: A Case Study of Abuja, FCT

The growing complexity of urban planning challenges in Nigerian cities necessitates participatory and adaptive approaches to achieving sustainability. This study evaluates the effectiveness of e-backcasting as a tool for enhancing social learning among diverse stakeholders in Abuja, Nigeria. Using a prototype participatory valuation approach, 239 participants aged 18 to 68 engaged in online deliberative processes via social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, blogs, and emails. The findings revealed that participants experienced significant improvements in critical thinking, collaborative interaction, and sustainable city concepts. Over 46% of participants reported that the process positively impacted their goal-setting abilities. The study highlights how e-backcasting fosters flexibility, inclusivity, and interaction, creating a social learning environment for sustainable urban planning. Policy recommendations emphasize adopting e-backcasting in city governance to facilitate collective decision-making and enhance urban sustainability in Nigeria.