Advancing Sustainability in Nigerian Architecture: A Systematic Review of Sustainable Materials, Circular Economy, and Low-Carbon Solutions

Sustainability in architectural practices is pivotal in mitigating environmental impacts while enhancing the resilience of Nigeria’s built environment. This systematic review examines sustainable materials, circular economy principles, and low-carbon solutions within the Nigerian context from 2014 to 2024. A total of 497 articles were screened, with 53 selected for final analysis using the PRISMA framework. Findings reveal an increasing adoption of eco-friendly building materials, albeit with challenges in cost, which is often higher than conventional materials and availability, particularly in remote areas. Circular economy strategies, including material reuse and waste reduction, show the potential to reduce environmental degradation. Low-carbon solutions, particularly passive design techniques and renewable energy integration, contribute to enhanced sustainability. Thematic and meta-analyses indicate a progressive shift towards sustainable architectural practices; however, gaps remain in policy implementation and stakeholder collaboration. The study underscores the need for regulatory enforcement, incentives for sustainable building practices, and heightened awareness among practitioners. Future research should focus on localised material innovations and the scalability of circular economy models in the Nigerian context.