Urbanisation and Deforestation using GIS in Bwari Area Council Abuja

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between urbanisation and deforestation in Bwari Area Council of Abuja from 2007 through 2017. Satellite images of the study area for 2007 and 2017 were retrieved and measured four parameters; water bodies, grassland, forest and built up area. The mean and standard deviation of the parameters were calculated while Pearson Correlation was used to analyse the relationship forest size and built up area. Results show that a 65599ha increase in built up area coincided with a reduction of 56888ha of forest size. Correlation result further showed a significant relationship. It recommends therefore that the government should mainstream forest management in its mass housing scheme programme.