Abstract

The rapid increase in population, in conjunction with increase in the rate of urbanization, had led to unplanned and uncontrolled expansion of Lokoja town, these have also resulted in the gradual loss of open spaces in the city, due to quest for built up area. Land uses were classified using I.L.WIS 3.2, from acquired land sat E.T.M images for 1987 and Niger sat images for 2007. It was found that the loss of open spaces increased to 23.23 sq.km by 2007, this calls for a need for revitalization of open spaces. Suggestions as a solution had been made, through the enforcement of town planning laws.

Key words: Increase built-up area, loss of open space, enforcement of town planning laws.