The researchers explored the adoption of communication strategies for behaviour change in the development of informal cooperative housing in Nigeria, given the fact that an estimated 14.9 million housing deficit confronts the country. The study is based on the Theory of Self-Reliance, a theory that originated from two resolutions of the United Nations in 1973. It focuses on the need for the establishment of a New International Economic Order (NIEO) to provide for the autonomous self-reliance of individuals or countries rather than trade and transfer of technology from foreign countries. The study recommends integrated communication as a strategy with greater potential for behaviour change among informal housing cooperatives. This is because it can aggregate the creation of awareness and relevant information to the entire population through the mass media. Equally, through the interpersonal communication process, it aggregates the exchange of ideas and positive discussions that can lead to change in attitudes or behaviour of potential informal housing developers.  

Keywords: Behaviour change, cooperative housing, integrated communication, interpersonal communication, mass media, self-reliance.