Spatio-temporal pattern of urban growth in Jos Metropolis, Nigeria

Rapid rates of urbanization being experienced in Nigeria have created serious environmental problems noticeable along the Jos metropolis. Evidence shows unguided and uncontrolled expansion in all directions, resulting in large scale urban growth and change in urban land use. This study examines the pattern, direction and nature of growth in Jos Metropolis for the time period: 1984-2014 (30 years). The combined approach using remotely sensed data, with change detection techniques and selected spatial metrics proved effective in understanding and representing the spatial-temporal dynamics of urban growth. The results revealed that built up area in the Metropolis had grown from 15 km2 in 1984 to 62 km2 in 2014 at an average growth rate of 6.7%. In total, 47 km2 of non-built up has been converted to urban area. The rate of urban growth in Jos Metropolitan area can be divided into three key epochs: (1) slow and rapid growth rate (1984-1991), (2) consistent growth rate (1991-2003), (3) very rapid growth rate (2003-2014). The produced maps display a clear pattern of increased urban expansion. This extends from urban core to adjoining non-built up areas in all directions, largely towards the south direction and along major transportation corridors. The results of landscape analysis revealed that the city experienced fragmented urban growth process, mostly towards the outlying areas; while the urban core experienced relative compact growth.