PATTERNS AND DRIVERS OF LAND USE CONVERSION ALONG ADIGBE-PANSEKE ROAD, ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE

Abstract

The study examines the patterns and drivers of land use conversion along Adigbe-Panseke Road, Ogun State, Nigeria. The research employs a survey of 88 buildings out of 112 identified using Taro Yamane sample size calculator as being converted in the study area, to assess the nature of land use changes and identify the key factors driving conversion in the study area. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data out of which 89.8% of the research instrument was duly filled and returned. Findings reveal that the conversion of residential and agricultural land to commercial and industrial use is driven primarily by population growth (mean = 3.84, t-test = 2.928, p < 0.05), economic development (mean = 3.90, t-test = 3.391, p < 0.05), and inadequate urban planning (mean = 3.94, t-test = 2.351, p < 0.05). The other factors driving land use conversion within the study area was found to be cultural and social factors. Inadequate urban planning, zoning regulations, economic development and industrial growth were the key drivers. It was concluded that, patterns of land use were driven by rapid urbanization, growing of commercial activities, and changes in population density. While economic opportunities are expanding, it was found that, weak enforcement of zoning laws and planning regulations has allowed unplanned conversions to emerged causing physical and environmental challenges. Therefore, Government needs to involve in provision and management of the essential infrastructure to prevent congestion and deterioration of the study area.