Population Growth and Environmental Impacts of Changing Land use And Landcover in the FCT, Abuja, Nigeria

Innocent E. Bello; Maximillian C. Uzohoh; Christabel C. Ifuwe

doi:10.56201/ijgem.vol.12.no3.2026.pg80.87

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Population Growth and Environmental Impacts of Changing Land use And Landcover in the FCT, Abuja, Nigeria

Innocent E. Bello, Maximillian C. Uzohoh, Christabel C. Ifuwe

Abstract

This study examined the trend in population growth in the Federal Capital City between 1994 and 2024, as well as the environmental impacts of changing land use and landcover . Population datasets of the study area were acquired from the National Population Commission and used to examine population trend in the last thirty (30) years using quantitative techniques. Questionnaire was used to elicit the perceived environmental impact of changing LULC in the the study area. The study established that FCC in 1994 had a population of 125,125 people with 11.55% at the growth rate of 3.68%. In 2004 the population was 198,866 at the rate of 3.70% with a change of 73,741 people representing 20.76%. In 2014 at the rate of 3.74%, the population was 299,991 people with an increase of 101,125 people representing 31.32% growth. Lastly, in 2024 at the growth rate of 3.75%, the population increased to 458,884people with increase of 158,893 people representing 47.91%. The study further established climate change, Biodiversity loss, altered hydrological cycles, soil degradation and pollution as the major environmental impact of LULC change as a result of urbanization processes. The study therefore recommended; introduction and further expansion of family planning policies to control birth rate, incorporate the use of remote sensing and GIS in its entire sectors to enhance data sharing and monitoring and planning for a better and sustainable development. In addition, incorporating the use of geo-tech analysis (remote sensing and GIS) in its entire sectors to enhance data sharing and monitoring of a better and sustainable development is recommended. There should also be a strict adherence to land use control measures in order to strike a balance between economic development and eco-system conservation, constantly monitor land developments activities; to check land resource degradation and improving management through involvement of local communities.

Keywords

Geo-AnalysisLand use and LandcoverRemote Sensing and GISPopulationGrowth rate.

References

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Population Growth and Environmental Impacts of Changing Land use And Landcover in the FCT, Abuja, Nigeria

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