Detection and Delineation of Agricultural Land Losses in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the losses in agricultural lands and enrichment of other land usages in agricultural area in Minna and environs in the state capital of Niger state, Nigeria. Data captured using Landsat Multispectral Scanner (MSS) (1990), Thematic Mapper (TM) (2000-2010) and Enhanced Thematic Mapper plus (ETM+) (2000, 2010 and 2020) used to quantify LULC changes. A post-classification matrix prepared to assess the modification and conversion in LULC from 1990 to 2020. The significant modification in LULC observed as agricultural lands and vegetation underwent noticeable decline by 714.39km2 and 578.94km2, respectively whereas built up area increased substantially to a value of 96.91km2. About 12.29km2 agricultural land lost to barren land and 12.83km2 converted to water bodies. Finally, the encroachments of vegetation and built up area in agricultural area caused substantial decreased the available land for agricultural activities. Remote sensing data provide useful for estimations of agricultural land loss on a regional scale.