Impacts of Land use Dynamics on Montane Ecosystems in Ekiti State, Nigeria: Evidence from Satellite Images

The study provided information on the NDVI and extent of land use/cover in the montane ecosystems in Ekiti State, Southwestern Nigeria which are generally lacking and this is critical for its proper functioning, sustainability and conservation. This study aimed at providing information on the impact of LUCC on the extent of the montane ecosystems which is crucial for policy makers and planners to conserving this disturbed ecosystem. The LUCC and NDVI were examined for a period of four decades (1986-2025) using Landsat Enhanced Thematic Mapper (ETM). Montane ecosystems were modelled using SPOT6 Digital Elevation Model (DEM) with a Ground Survey Distance (GSD) of 20m. There was steady increase in the NDVI values indicating the resilience of these ecosystems to anthropogenic activities. The dense vegetations were pronounced in altitudes above 700m and this covered 32% while low-lying ecosystems expanded to 62%. Rock-outcrops witnessed fluctuations and markedly a decline in 2001, 2006 and 2025 indicating they are being quarried for landscaping, constructions of roads and buildings. There was also increase in the extent covered by bare lands and built-up areas by 27%. The water body also recorded decline steadily over the periods examined. Concerted and timely interventions are crucial for policy making that will combat the human induced activities towards sustainability, conservations and proper functioning of these ecosystems.