POPULATION GROWTH AND LAND USE CHANGE IN BENUE STATE: IMPLICATION FOR SOCIAL SECURITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN SANKERA (2001 – 2023)

Abstract

The Earth’s environment has become progressively configured by multiple
land use and land cover changes, which are all products of global intensification in
anthropogenic activities relative to sustained population growth over space and time. This
paper uses a frequency distribution table, simple percentages, t-test, correlation statistics,
geographic information system (GIS) and remote sensing as techniques for data analysis to
examine the phenomenon of population growth against the background of land use and land
cover changes in the Sankera Geographical District of Benue State. These variables are
examined in relation to their implications for social security and economic development.
Primary data were obtained through the administration of 180 questionnaires via multi-stage
sampling, field surveys and photo elicitation as well as key informant’s interview (KIIs). The
secondary data were sourced from journal articles with related focuses. The study revealed
that there has been significant growth in the size of the population in the study area from
2001-2023, which is a combined function of excess fertility over mortality as well as
migration. Similarly, the results of this study show that population growth in the study area
has significantly impacted land use and cover changes, with adverse effects on social security
and economic development. The paper accordingly recommends that effective family
planning measures be made available for intending users, the adoption of more effective land
use policies, agricultural mechanization and the pursuit of greater security to protect the
vulnerable population in the locality.