Leveraging Big data Analytics for Predictive Maintenance of Critical Urban infrastructure in Nigeria.A Smart City Approach

Abstract

Urban infrastructure in Nigeria is increasingly under pressure due to rapid urbanization, inadequate maintenance practices, and weak adoption of digital technologies. This study examines the potential of Big Data Analytics in enhancing predictive maintenance of critical urban infrastructure within the context of smart city development. Using a systematic literature review approach, the study synthesizes global, African, and Nigerian evidence on infrastructure maintenance challenges, Big Data applications, and smart city frameworks. Findings reveal that while predictive maintenance systems are well established in developed economies, Nigeria still relies heavily on reactive maintenance approaches. The study identifies key barriers, including weak digital infrastructure, limited technical capacity, and fragmented data systems. It concludes that Big Data Analytics offers a transformative pathway for improving infrastructure reliability, reducing maintenance costs, and enhancing urban sustainability in Nigeria. A smart city-based predictive maintenance framework is proposed to guide future implementation.