An Assessment of the Nature of Urban Growth and Development in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

The aim of this study was to assess the nature of urban growth and development in Akwa Ibom State. Using the Remote Sensing and Geographical Information Systems (GIS) technologies land cover maps of the area for the period 1986 and 2007 were produced. With these maps, the changes in the sizes, shapes and pattern of urban centres were modelled. The Remote sensing and Geographic Information System based analysis showed that, urban centres have grown by expansion and compaction. This growth pattern negates the concept of green city which planners the world over are trying to implement to make cities/urban areas sustainable. The approach is derived from theories and concepts such as sustainable development, sustainable cities, compact cities, green urbanism, sustainable urbanism, ecocities to mention just a few which came into existence in the twentieth century. The paper concludes that, the nature of urban growth in Akwa Ibom State still leaves much to be desired as far as the concepts of sustainable city, green city, smart growth and compact city are concerned. That immediate action needs to be taken to control urban expansion/sprawl and preserve sufficient green spaces within urban areas.