URBAN RENEWAL AND ITS EFFECTS ON SMALL BUSINESSES IN ABAKPA NIKE ENUGU EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, ENUGU STATE

pressures, resulting in physical, social, environmental, and economic changes. Urban regeneration involves comprehensive strategies to address urban problems and achieve lasting improvements across these aspects. These efforts are vital for building resilience and fulfilling population needs in evolving urban areas. However, regeneration projects frequently trigger gentrification. Gentrification entails an influx of wealthier residents, rising property values, and the displacement of lower-income communities. AIM OF STUDY: This study seeks to examine gentrification as a potential approach for urban revitalization in the Ogui residential neighborhoods of Enugu Urban, Enugu State, with the objective of proposing strategies to restore the declining slum districts in Ogui. METHOD: For better understanding, mixed research method (qualitative and quantitative) was used. The research objectives were designed to collect both qualitative and quantitative data so as to have an in-depth understanding of the existing problem. Quantitative data involved data collection with regards to demographic information of the respondents while qualitative data involved understanding the extent to which the residential problems were affecting the study area. RESULTS: More males than females were interviewed, with the oldest age group dominating and most being married. Trading was the main occupation, closely followed by civil or public service, with few in farming. Most respondents had tertiary education, followed by secondary level. The majority were tenants rather than owners, with long-term residency driven by affordability. Flats were the common housing type, often with many rooms, mostly plastered but largely dilapidated. Roads were mostly tarred and in good condition, with drainages widely available. Waste was typically disposed at collection centers, causing a smelly environment and deteriorating amenities with negative socioeconomic effects. CONCLUSION: Urban renewal is crucial in developing countries like Nigeria, driven by rapid population growth and urban sprawl, particularly in areas like Ogui. Gentrification offers benefits such as improved aesthetics, infrastructure, and economic vitality but causes negatives like resident displacement, social dislocation, increased homelessness, and impacts on children's education and well-being. Recommended strategies for Ogui include gentrification, master plan implementation, public-private partnerships, public sensitization, and infrastructural advocacy to address urban issues. KEYWORDS: Urban renewal, small businesses, gentrification.