MANAGING THE LAGOS MEGACITY AND ITS GEOSPATIAL IMPERATIVE

Abstract. Lagos has assumed the Megacity status and it is projected to have its population doubled in the first quarter of this century. The Megacity has extended beyond the administrative boundary of the state, which is also one of the fastest growing urban agglomerations in the world. Information is the most vital component of urban management; however, a survey of the spatial data infrastructure of the city proves it derisory or out-of-date, thereby creating a void between urban development and its management. This has led to a sporadic growth of slums and unplanned settlements which now accounts for over 60 % of the city. To avoid an impasse, it is necessary to review the level of geospatial technologies used at the local level and recommend formidable means of integration in the decision making process. This paper examines the level of geospatial technologies the 20 local governments of Lagos State and within the Megacity region and suggests success factors.