ABSTRACT
This study evaluated land use, land cover dynamics in the Main (Ugbowo) Campus of the University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria. The objectives were to map the land use, land cover for 1970, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020; analyze the pattern and magnitude of changes observed and as well examine the drivers of the changes. Survey research design was used to collect relevant data and information for analysis and interpretation. The major data required for this study were spatial data from multi-date satellite images (Landsat TM, and land-sat ETM) covering the period of study (1970 to 2020). Primary data regarding the location details of land mark features in the study are were also captured. The process involved the extraction of spatial data from local maps, topographical maps and satellite imagery, oral interviews and discussion. Google Earth and GPS data of landmark features were used for filed verification and accuracy assessment. The proximate factors and underlying cause of land use changes in the study were identified using Interview Schedule. ERDAS Imagine 9.3 (for digital image processing) and ArcGIS 10.2 (for spatial-temporal analyses of pattern of land use changes in the research area) were used in analysis and complemented with descriptive analysis. The study revealed that from 1970 to 2020, built area increased from 2,2% coverage to 97.8%. The result also revealed that the existing built-up areas was 10.0374 hectares in 1970 as against the 25.7801 hectares in 2000 and 59.2915 hectares of land in 2020. The rate of change in built up areas between 1970-2000 is 5.2% while the general growth rate in the campus was 9.8% per annum. The study further revealed a decrease of -58.9% in thick vegetation between 1970 and 2000 and 76.3% between 2000-2005. The land consumption rate increased from 0.747 in 1970 to 0.898 in 2000 and beyond 2010 there was a drastic and progressive increase in the land consumption rate. The major drivers of land use change identified are TETfund and NEEDS assessment invention projects as well as population pressure. It was observed that the growth of the campus has also influence the development of adjoining communities. The study emphasized the efficacy of GIS and remote sensing techniques in monitoring Campus growth and development and hence recommended that it should be incorporated by higher institution as a tool in development control and impact assessment so as to keep their campuses on check as regards expansion and pressure on infrastructure. It further recommends proper land use zoning, planting of vegetation as well as a review of the Masterplan.
Keywords: Satellite, Growth, Change, Analysis, Pattern, Institution, Earth, Data
