DEPARTMENT OF GEOGRAPHY AND REGIONAL PLANNING

This study evaluates the functionality of satellite towns in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Satellite towns are usually designed to ease pressure on major cities. The objectives of this study were to examine the sociodemographic attributes of residents in the satellite towns; examine the functions of satellite towns in the FCT; evaluate their effectiveness in reducing population pressure in the Federal Capital City (FCC); assess the availability of infrastructural facilities; and examine residents’ perceptions of the quality of life (liveability) in these towns. A mixed-methods approach was adopted to achieve these objectives, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative analyses of socio-demographic characteristics, infrastructure facilities, housing conditions, healthcare access, environmental quality, and governance. Data was collected with the aid of a structured questionnaire and an interview guide from a total of 1,110 respondents across selected satellite towns including the more developed satellite towns such as Kubwa and Bwari and the less-developed satellite towns like Kusaki-Yanga and Anagada. Interview was conducted with 5 purposively selected key informants. The study employed a multistage and systematic sampling technique with data analysis encompassing cross-tabulations and inferential statistical methods of Principal Component Analysis (PCA), ANOVA, and Multiple Regression. Qualitative data from interviews were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that satellite towns play a critical role in reducing urban congestion, decentralizing economic activities, and fostering urban growth. However, disparities in
infrastructure and service delivery emerged as significant challenges, with underdeveloped satellite towns experiencing acute infrastructural deficits. Key infrastructural gaps identified in these satellite towns include unreliable electricity, inadequate water supply, poorly developed road networks within some satellite towns, and ineffective waste management system. Healthcare and educational facilities were found to be moderately available, although disparities persist between towns. Additionally, environmental quality concerns, including poor air quality, inadequate drainage systems, and limited access to recreational and open spaces, further constrain the liveability of these towns. Residents expressed moderate satisfaction with governance, citing deficiencies in civic engagement, enforcement of urban planning regulations as critical governance challenges. Despite these constraints, the potential of satellite towns to significantly enhance urban functionality and liveability in the FCT is evident. To address the identified challenges, the study recommends prioritizing investments in critical infrastructure, such as electricity, water supply,
road connectivity, and waste management system, particularly in the less-developed satellite towns. Improving access to affordable housing, healthcare, and educational services are also essential to enhancing the quality of life of residents. Furthermore, targeted environmental interventions, including urban greening and air quality improvement, are necessary to promote sustainable urban life. Strengthening governance mechanisms and in enhancing community participation in urban planning are also advocated. By so doing, the satellite towns would be fulfilling their functions of easing population pressure on the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Migration, both internal and international, plays a significant role in shaping the growth and development of cities worldwide, particularly in developing countries. Benin City, located in Edo State, Nigeria, is experiencing rapid urbanization driven by migration, with rural-to-urban migration being a major contributing factor. This study investigates the impact of migration on Benin City's socio-economic, infrastructural, and urban planning dynamics. The research uses a descriptive survey design, gathering primary data from 385 respondents through structured questionnaires, including migrants, long-term residents, urban planners, business owners, and government officials. Secondary data from maps, journal articles, and institutional publications complement the primary data to provide a comprehensive understanding of migration trends. The study finds that migration is primarily driven by economic, social, and environmental factors, including job opportunities, educational prospects, and security concerns. Migration has led to significant demographic changes in Benin City, including increased population density, ethnic diversity, and a higher proportion of youth. The influx of migrants has positively influenced the economy through business growth, job market expansion, and remittances, while simultaneously creating challenges such as housing shortages, overcrowding, and strain on public services like healthcare, education, and transportation. Furthermore, migration has resulted in changes to urban planning and housing development, contributing to informal settlements and increasing pressure on urban infrastructure. The study suggests that policymakers and urban planners should focus on long-term strategies to address the challenges posed by migration, such as expanding healthcare, improving transportation, and prioritizing affordable housing development. The study emphasizes the need for policies that balance the benefits of migration with the necessity of sustainable urban growth.

This study investigates crosswalk safety in Ugbowo Campus of the University of Benin, focusing on the perceptions of road users, adequacy of crosswalk infrastructure, compliance with safety measures, and enforcement of pedestrian safety rules. Using a quantitative approach, data was collected through structured questionnaires administered to three sample groups of students, staff, and drivers in the campus. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics and hypotheses was tested with chi-square at 0,05 significance level. The results suggest that comprehensive solutions incorporating improved infrastructure, increased enforcement, and educational campaigns are essential for creating a safer campus environment for all road users. The findings revealed a general negative perception of crosswalk safety, with key concerns around aggressive drivers’ behavior, including over-speeding and mobile phone usage while walking and driving. The research also identifies significant deficiencies in crosswalk signage and markings, with a substantial proportion of respondents reporting poor visibility of crosswalk infrastructure. Whereas, drivers claimed to yield at crosswalks, pedestrians frequently experienced drivers’ non-compliance, highlighting a disparity in perceptions between these groups. Furthermore, the study found a widespread agreement on the need for infrastructural improvements such as better signage and clearer markings. These findings emphasize the need for addressing both infrastructure deficiencies and behavioral issues to improve pedestrian safety. The study contributes to existing knowledge by providing empirical data on crosswalk safety in a university setting, offering valuable insights for future interventions aimed at enhancing pedestrian infrastructure and safety enforcement. This study concluded by providing important insights regarding crosswalk safety in Ugbowo Campus of the University of Benin, emphasising critical concerns related to pedestrian and driver conduct, along with infrastructural deficiencies. It recommended that all existing crosswalk signage should be repainted using reflective and durable thermoplastic materials to improve visibility, particularly at night and the University’s Security Department, along with local traffic authorities, should enforce pedestrian laws to ensure compliance by both pedestrians and drivers.

The study focused on the characteristics and effects of pluvial flooding on soil quality under oil palm plantation in Ovia North East, Edo State in order to avert soil degradation, loss of nutrents and fertility. Soil samples were collected from two sites within the same area which was then labeled as experiment A (Flooded Soils) and experiment B (Non flooded soils/control) and at depths of 0 – 15 , 15 – 30 and 30 – 45 cm respectively. The soil samples collected were analyzed using standard laboratory procedures. The treatments were non-replicated and the data was analyzed using factorial arrangement in randomized complete block (RCB) design. The result showed that sand and clay particle distribution had the highest value in the non-flooded soils than the flooded soils, silt was higher in the flooded soil. It was only Bulk density (BD) that indicated significant difference (P>0.05).water holding capacity (WHC) and Hydraulic conductivity (K-Sat) value was higher in the flooded soils, there was no significant difference (P>0.05). Porosity value was higher in the non-flooded soils, there was significant difference (P>0.05. The pH and Organic carbon (O.C) value of the flooded soils was higher than the non-flooded soils. Total Nitrogen (T.N) was higher in the non-flooded soils; Its LSD was not significant at 0.05 level of probability. Available phosphorus, Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg) and Sodium (Na) were higher in the flooded soil except Potassium; LSD was not significant at 0.05 level of probability. The LSD of exchangeable acidity (E.A), Effective Cation Exchange Capacity (ECEC) and base percentage was not significant at 0.05 level of probability. Fe, Mn and Zn were higher in the flooded soil, but significant difference (P>0.05) except Zn which is not significant at 0.05 level of probability. It was only Cu was high in the non-flooded soil and LSD indicates no significant difference at P>0.05. From the mean values gotten for SEF and SFI, it was discovered that flooded and non-flooded soil are both fertile and are of good quality. It can be concluded that moderate flooding actually helps to improve the quality of the soil.

Spatial distribution of health infrastructure in Edo State using Oredo Local Government area as a case is examined. The location of healthcare facilities in the twelve wards of the local government areas is presented against the background of the pattern of population distribution. Data was obtained from both primary and secondary source. Methods of data analysis are simple ratio, percentages and averages. The Geographic Information Systems analysis was used in spatially depicting data, while coefficient of localization analysis was run with SPSS to determine the level of uniformity in distribution of health facilities with respect to population distribution. Findings show that distribution of he alth care facilities, are not exactly uniform with respect to population distribution among the wards in Oredo Local Government Area. Perception analysis on accessibility, reveal that accessibility to health facilities is average, due to the reasons of poorly maintained accessible roads and financial affordability. The study concluded by recommending a policy of deliberate dispersal of health care services to areas of insufficiency as well locating intending new and affordable health facilities in ideal and accessible locations. It is also suggested that the Government should make provision for better transport systems, improved staffing and equipment in health care centres.

This study investigated the causes of flooding in Egor Local Government Area. In carrying out this study questionnaire were sorted using SPSS version 21. The result from this research work revealed that there are both physical and anthropogenic causes of flood in Egor Local Government Area from respondents perception. The physical causes in their order of importance include: heavy rainfall, lack of vegetal cover, topography (low-lying areas etc). amongst others. While the anthropogenic or humaninduced causes in their order of severity include: increase in built-up areas (urbanization), poor drainage system, blockage of drainage system with debris and so on. This research approach which is purely descriptive or exploratory in nature has indeed create robust awareness on the human-base activities and the physical factors responsible for the flood problem in the study area Thus, this study
saw the need to adopt some measures such as adequate drainage system provision, proper refuse disposal system, creating environmental awareness, raising building foundation in low lying areas, and so on to prevent, control and mitigate the causes of flood in the study area . Undoubtedly, this study is an eye opener to residents, leaders, planners within the study area and may also provide vital
information and guide to researchers and government on the causes of flood in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria

The study focused on the characterizing, classifying and identify the soil-forming processes in a waterlogged soil in Ovia North East Local Government Area, Edo State for the purpose of providing an understanding of the ecosystem and land-use sustainability. A soil profile of up to 180 cm was dug in the area, and six soil samples were drawn from the each of the horizons in the profile for laboratory analysis. The morphological properties of these soils: colour, soil structure, soil consistence, drainage, boundaries and root inclusions were recorded in the field. The soil samples collected were analyzed using standard laboratory procedures. The treatments were non-replicated and the data was analysed using different weathering indices. The results showed that the soil in the study area has a moderate, medium, sub-angular blocky structure in the topsoil, with colours ranging from dark reddish brown to red. The bulk density of the soil was found to be within acceptable limits. The water holding capacity (WHC) was highest in the subsurface horizon and lowest in the surface horizons, with the highest values found at the Bt2 horizon and the lowest at the AB horizon. The pH of the soil was slightly acid to neutral and did not show a clear pattern throughout the profile. Available phosphorus was very low and not sufficient for crop production. The levels of micronutrients in the soil, including manganese, copper, zinc, and iron, were higher than necessary for crop plant growth, and crops sensitive to these micronutrients should not be planted. The soil contained high levels of heterogeneous bacteria and fungi, with microbial activity being
particularly high at the topsoil. However, microbial activity decreased with soil depth. There is evidence of transformation, translocation of clay, eluviation, illuviation, and leaching. The soils were classified according to the USDA Soil Taxonomy as Typic Kandiudults. These findings provide important information for understanding the suitability of the soil for crop production and identifying potential management strategies. To improve the productivity of the soil in the study area, the study recommends putting in place a well-functioning drainage system and water management facilities, engaging in good organic matter management practices, including the use of farmyard manure, and periodically applying lime to the soil

The study focused on the characterizing, classifying and identify the soil-forming processes in a waterlogged soil in Ovia north East Local Government Area, Edo State for the purpose of providing an understanding of the ecosystem and land-use sustainability. A soil profile of up to 180 cm was dug in the Area, and six soil samples were drawn from the each of the horizons in the profile for laboratory analysis. The morphological properties of these soils: colour, soil structure, soil consistence, drainage, boundaries and root inclusions were recorded in the field. The soil samples collected were analyzed using standard laboratory procedures. The treatments were non- eplicated and the data was analysed using different weathering indices. The results showed that the soil in the study area has a moderate, medium, sub-angular blocky structure in the topsoil, with colours ranging from dark reddish brown to red. The bulk density of the soil was found to be within acceptable limits. The water holding capacity (WHC) was highest in the subsurface horizon and lowest in the surface horizons, with the highest values found at the Bt2 horizon and the lowest at the AB horizon. The pH of the soil was slightly acid to neutral and did not show a clear pattern throughout the profile. available phosphorus was very low and not sufficient for crop production. The levels of micronutrients in the soil, including manganese, copper, zinc, and iron, were higher than necessary for crop plant growth, and crops sensitive to these micronutrients should not be planted. The soil contained high levels of heterogeneous bacteria and fungi, with microbial activity being particularly high at the topsoil. However, microbial activity decreased with soil depth. There is evidence of transformation, translocation of clay, eluviation, illuviation, and leaching. The soils were classified according to the USDA Soil Taxonomy as Typic Kandiudults. These findings provide important information for understanding the suitability of the soil for crop production and identifying potential management strategies. To improve the productivity of the soil in the study area, the study recommends putting in place a well-functioning drainage system and water management facilities, engaging in good organic matter management practices, including the use of farmyard manure, and periodically applying lime to the soil.

The study assessed the distribution of infant mortality in Egor Local Government Area of Benin city. The investigation was based on the use of research survey employing the instrument of questionnaire and observation. The objective was based on the use of research and was directed to identify the causes of infant mortality of the study area, to determine the relationship between infant mortality and the respondent’s attributes (location, social, economic and demographic) in the study area, to show the spatial distribution of households with at least a case of infant mortality, to show the spatial distribution of healthcare facilities and their cases of infant mortality, to suggest solutions and recommendations to the problems associated with the causes of infant mortality. Childhood mortality is one of the important indicators of a country’s general medical and public health conditions and consequently the level of socio economic development. In developed countries, infant mortality rates are generally low, while in developing countries, they tend to be higher. There are many factors that contribute to infant mortality, including poverty, inadequate access to healthcare, malnutrition, and poor sanitation and hygiene. The analysis revealed that they are various variables which may lead to infant mortality
in the study area and socio demographic factors which may lead to infant mortality in the study area. The analysis shows that income and education in particular have a
reasonable or rather a significant effect on infant mortality in Egor Local Government Area, Benin City. Reducing infant mortality rates is a global health priority, and numerous efforts have been made to address the underlying causes of infant mortality in order to improve the health and survival of infants and young children around the world. Its decline is therefore not only desirable but also indicative of an improvement in general living

This study examines the spatial distribution and utilization of fire services in Benin City. The aim of this study is to examine the way fire services are spatially distributed across space, if they are evenly distributed or sparsely distributed. Are fire services in Benin City enough to cover and attend to the needs of all the people in Benin City and where the fire services are located can they reach the people on time to avoid casualties; to examine the usefulness and utilization of fire services in Benin City, are fire services efficient in the sense of executing maximum productivity when performing their duties; to examine the efficiency and availability of firefighting equipment in fire services in cases of fire outbreak, are there enough equipment to combat the fire and how useful are this equipment and to evaluate the causes of fire services in Benin City and how it should be prevented. It will also discuss the challenges faced by fire services and the solutions to resolve these challenges. A total of 409 questionnaires were administered to respondents and coordinates of fire service stations were also collected for spatial analysis. It was discovered that fire service stations in the study area are clustered. The stations were also affirmed to be understaffed and ill-equipped especially in Ovia North East Local Government Area where there is only one fire service station. It was severally suggested that the government should adequately equip fire stations as this will ensure their optimal operation. Adequate education and sensitization on fire safety was also suggested as an
action plan to combat fire hazards in Benin Metropolis.