EFFECT OF RAINFALL VARIABILITY ON LAND USE/LAND COVER DYNAMICS WITHIN ENUGU URBAN

The importance of rainfall variability in understanding the dynamics of climate change and land use/land cover (LULC) changes in any region cannot be overemphasized. This study examined rainfall variability in Enugu urban and metropolis as it affects land use/land cover change and climate change. Secondary rainfall data were collected from the archives of the Meteorology Unit, Enugu State University of Technology, covering the period 1971–2020. The rainfall data were tabulated and analyzed in decadal format using descriptive statistics, frequency tables, means, and graphical representations. The annual mean rainfall for the period 1971–2020 was determined using line graphs, which revealed both normal and abnormal rainfall trends. The results showed higher rainfall in years such as 1995, 1997, 2008, 2012, 2018, and 2020, with total annual amounts reaching 2,170.9 mm and 2,173.9 mm respectively. Conversely, decreases in rainfall were observed in years including 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, and 1983, with recorded values such as 813.4 mm, 889 mm, 947 mm, and 1,104.4 mm. The findings revealed significant variations in rainfall patterns in Enugu, accompanied by notable reductions in land cover over time. Furthermore, the study established a significant relationship between rainfall trends and land cover dynamics in Enugu urban area. The study recommends further research using remotely sensed imagery and GIS techniques to confirm whether the observed decrease in land use/land cover is solely attributable to rainfall variability. It also advocates for robust education and enlightenment programs to raise public awareness of rainfall trends in the study area, thereby promoting sustainable utilization of natural resources and enhancing understanding of land use/land cover dynamics for future research.