Abstract
This research examines the relationship between smart city projects and the financial constraints faced by households in the suburban areas of Abuja, Nigeria. As the Federal Capital Territory moves toward digital urbanisation and the development of smart infrastructure, questions have arisen about whether low- and middle-income families are truly included in these transformative efforts. Employing a mixedmethods strategy that involved administering structured questionnaires to 270 residents, along with focus group discussions, the study reveals that a significant number of suburban households lack access to smart housing and digital services, primarily due to income restrictions and infrastructure gaps. Statistical evaluations, including Chi-square and regression analyses, indicate that factors such as income level, education level, and internet access significantly influence participation in the advantages of smart city initiatives. The results suggest that the current smart city policies in Abuja exacerbate socio-economic exclusion, particularly in satellite towns, due to an insufficient focus on affordability, digital inclusivity, and community-driven governance. The study recommends that upcoming smart city plans should integrate income-sensitive housing options, engage with the community, and prioritise investments in digital infrastructure to align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).