MIGRATION PATTERNS AND URBANISATION IN GWAGWALADA METROPOLIS, 2007–2020

This study investigates migration patterns and urbanisation in Gwagwalada Metropolis, Abuja, between 2007 and 2020. It examines how urban drift shaped the town’s demographic growth, settlement patterns, and socio-economic realities. The study adopted historical methodology; hence, it employed the use both primary and secondary sources. Primary data were obtained through interviews with residents, community leaders, and stakeholders, while secondary data were drawn from census estimates, academic works, and government reports. Findings revealed that Gwagwalada’s population has increased exponentially during the period of study which was influenced by both urban-to-urban migration from central Abuja and rural-to-urban migration from different parts of Nigeria. Push factors such as high living costs and demolition exercises in the central area of Abuja, alongside pull factors including affordable housing, the presence of the University of Abuja, and the Teaching Hospital, accounted for this drift. Consequently, this influx led to the expansion of informal settlements, overstretched infrastructure, and rising insecurity. The paper concludes that urbanisation in satellite towns creates opportunities and vulnerabilities, reflecting broader urban trends in Nigeria.