IMPACT OF URBAN GROWTH IN NEW OWERRI IMO STATE ON HOST COMMUNITIES, 1976-2020

Abstract

This study examines the impact of urban growth in New Owerri, Imo State, on host communities between 1976 and 2020, with a view to highlighting its effects and implications on the host communities. It analyzes government implementation of rural land-use policies, as well as the problems and prospects these policies present for the communities. The study emphasizes the commonalities, peculiarities, and contributions of the host communities to the development of New Owerri. The study recognizes that three (3) communities host the “twin city” of Owerri, officially referred to as New Owerri, with emphasis on the area and size of land mass each community contributed to the development of the twin city. The research method adopts a historical narrative approach, thematically and analytically structured, using qualitative methods for collecting and interpreting available data. Both primary and secondary sources were utilized, including oral interviews, journals, and books relevant to the study. The findings reveal that the urban built environment in the area has more than doubled over the 44-year period (1976–2020). Urban expansion occurred largely at the expense of vegetation, fallow lands, open spaces, and, to some extent, wetlands. The study further shows that the host communities have been impacted positively, negatively, or both. It concludes by recommending that principles of planning standards, land control, and land suitability should be strictly adhered to in the development process of New Owerri for the benefit of the host communities.