A GIS Approach in Assessing the Spatial Distribution of Petrol Stations in Umuahia North Local Government Area, Abia State

The rapid expansion of urban areas and increasing vehicular population in Nigeria have necessitated the proliferation of petrol stations. However, inappropriate siting poses serious challenges to safety, environmental sustainability, and urban planning. This study leverages Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques to examine the spatial distribution and regulatory compliance of petrol stations in Umuahia North Local Government Area, Abia State. Data were sourced through field surveys using handheld GPS, satellite imagery, and existing geospatial datasets from OpenStreetMap and the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGOF). ArcGIS software was used to perform spatial and proximity analyses using official standards set by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). The study found that 94% of the petrol stations failed to meet the required 15-meter setback from roads, only 6% adhered to the 400-meter spacing between stations, and just 2% maintained a 100-meter distance from schools. All stations complied with the market and hospital setback requirements. The findings reveal critical lapses in urban fuel infrastructure planning and call for urgent regulatory interventions. Recommendations include enforcing compliance through spatially integrated Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), updating urban spatial databases, and adopting GIS-based approval systems for new stations to enhance environmental safety and sustainable development.