Assessing the impacts of climate change on peri-urban land use in Nigeria. A study of Ibeju-Lekki LGA, Lagos State

Abstract

The study investigated the impact of climate change on land use dynamics in the peri-urban region of Nigeria, focusing on Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area (L.G.A.) in Lagos State. Integrating both primary and secondary data, the study deployed a structured questionnaire which was administered among 125 respondents across three peri-urban communities in Ibeju-Lekki: Imobido, Idaso, and Ilege. Geographic Information System (GIS) tools, alongside Landsat 7 and 8 imagery, were used for comprehensive land use and land cover (LULC) analysis. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was employed to quantify temporal changes in vegetation cover, revealing notable shifts in land use patterns. Findings underscore significant LULC changes within Ibeju-Lekki, reflecting the extensive influence of climate change on land management and urban planning in rapidly urbanizing peri-urban areas. The study highlights the necessity for integrated, adaptive land use policies that address climate-induced challenges and promote sustainable development. These insights offer policy recommendations aimed at enhancing resilience in land use systems, fostering a model for sustainable urban expansion in similar coastal communities.