The rapid urban growth has led to greater poverty, increasing government inability to provide services for all people. The growing population, relatively low per capita income, and inadequate existing infrastructure are all causes for concern as the government confronts critical deficits in infrastructure and public services including transportation, electricity, water, health, and sanitation services. Poor infrastructure and public services leave people disenfranchised, reduces economic opportunities, and presents logistical challenges.
Urbanization and the absence of affordable housing have led to the expansion of slum areas, exacerbating socio-economic disparities, and contributing to widespread poverty within the country. Infrastructure remains poor with growing fatalities due to multiple buildings collapsing, natural gas and fuel truck exploding.
Natural gas explosions generally occur due to poorly maintained pipelines, theft, and insufficient safety protocols at illegal refilling depots. In addition, fuel truck explosions from overturned tankers killed over 100 people in southern Nigeria and injured hundreds more in 2019.