IMPACT OF ROAD EXPANSIONS ON BUSINESS LOCATION AND COMMERCIAL SPACE CHOICES IN MINNA, NIGERIA

Purpose: This study investigates the influence of urban construction activities on land use and commercial space preferences in Nigerian cities, using Minna, Niger State, as a case study. It examines how construction projects influence the type and location of commercial spaces chosen by business owners and investors, explores spatial distribution patterns, and assesses the relationship between infrastructure development and evolving commercial dynamics.

Design/Methodology/Approach: A mixed-methods approach integrating quantitative and qualitative methods was employed. Data were collected from 120 purposively selected respondents, business owners, real estate agents, and investors, from Bosso Road, Tunga, and Central Market in Minna. Structured questionnaires and key informant interviews were used to obtain data. Quantitative analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26, applying descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and multiple regression. Spatial patterns were further examined using Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping.

Findings: Findings suggest that although urban construction correlates with spatial changes, other non-measured factors, such as social networks, rent cost, and customer proximity, may be stronger determinants of business location choices.

Research Limitations/Implications: The study is limited to selected commercial districts in Minna, restricting generalisation to other cities. The purposive sampling technique may also limit representativeness.

Practical Implications: Despite statistical insignificance, the study offers useful insights for urban planners and policymakers. The observed spatial shift in commercial development underscores the need for proactive urban planning, improved data-driven land use management, and equitable infrastructure distribution to guide sustainable commercial expansion.

Originality/Value: This study contributes to urban development literature by empirically examining the interplay between urban construction and commercial space dynamics in a medium-sized Nigerian city. It highlights the complexity of commercial location decision-making, demonstrating that infrastructure improvements alone may not significantly influence investment preferences without supporting socioeconomic and policy factors.