Analyses of Spatio-Temporal Land Use Conversion and Implication in Akure, Nigeria.

Abstract

Land use conversion is an emergent challenge to urban planners globally, particularly in

developing countries such as Nigeria. Most land and residential buildings in Akure have

continually experiencing conversion from the initial purpose of acquisition to evolving usages. The study aimed to

identify the peculiar factors affecting land-use conversion and the strength of these factors in Akure core in the past

37 years (1984-2021). A total number of 123 pieces of the questionnaire were distributed for the study. The study

investigated the pattern and factors of land use conversion. The pattern of land use conversion was analysed using

GIS, while the factors of conversion were determined using the Factor Analysis statistical technique. Findings

revealed that most respondents did not acquire their lands from the government but from distressed owners who

inherited the properties, hence converting their lands without adhering to the approval procedure for formal

planning permission. It was also revealed that the city core has significantly converted from residential to

commercial use. Land scarcity accounted for 15.8% of the total variance in conversion, leading to traffic congestion

issues, amongst others. It is recommended that regulatory authorities and planners utilise urban planning measures

to ensure that lands are used for the allocated purposes, and penalties are meted out on contraventions.