DESIGN APPROACHES TO MANAGING HUMAN FLOW IN CROWDED PUBLIC EVENT VENUES: A NIGERIAN CASE STUDY

Abstract

This study investigates the role of architectural planning in optimizing human flow and safety within high‑density public event spaces in Nigeria. Rapid urbanization and a vibrant culture of mass gatherings have increasingly exposed design deficiencies that contribute to congestion, disorientation and, in extreme cases, crowd‑related disasters. Through systematic field observations, spatial mapping and semi‑structured interviews with architects, event organizers and security personnel, this research employs quantitative flow‑analysis tools to measure circulation efficiency under varying crowd densities, while qualitative feedback informs the cultural appropriateness of wayfinding elements. Findings reveal that integrated zoning strategies, clearly defined circulation corridors, and context‑sensitive wayfinding cues—including vernacular motifs and color coding—significantly reduce bottlenecks and improve user experience. The study concludes with a set of evidence-based design guidelines tailored to Nigeria's climatic, cultural, and infrastructure realities, and offers policy recommendations for municipal authorities and event planners. By showcasing how human-centered architectural interventions can foster safer, more legible public environments, this work aims to inform future developments in urban event facility design across rapidly densifying cities.