IMPACT OF LAND USE CONVERSION ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN SULEJA, NIGERIA

Abstract

BSTRACT This study have been undertaken to examine the impact of land use conversion on the socio-economic development in Suleja, Niger State, Nigeria. The problems associated with land use conversion in Suleja ranges from traffic congestion leading to lack of parking space, to shortage of residential accommodation resulting from incessant land use conversion from residential to commercial use. Other challenges are pollution emanating from high traffic, overstretched infrastructures like power, water, roads, drainage, and other problems such as inaccessibility and lack of open space. Data were collected on the factors of land use conversion, the socio-economic benefits of land use conversion and the challenges resulting from land use conversion in the town. The research use stratified and systematic random sampling methods with a total of 300 questionnaires administered on the household in the selected 3 wards out of 10 wards in the town. Also, physical observation was undertaken and pictures of the variables under investigation taken. The study reveal that residential to commercial land use is the major conversion type constituting over 50 percent of total land use conversion. And that economic gain, increase in land value, increase in rent and other factors play a great role in bringing about the menace of land use conversion in the study area. Based on the findings of the study, sustainable solutions such as urban renewal programme aimed at phasing out all commercial activities that are not in conformity with planning specifications, re-planning of the area, creation of commercial hub, empowerment of the inhabitants and sanction of illegal conversion were proffered among others. This will aid and lead to having an environment that is convenience, functional, economic and aesthetic for living and working.