Remote Sensing Assessment of Urban Green Space Adequacy in Abuja

Urban green spaces provide critical ecosystem services including urban cooling, air quality improvement, stormwater management, and psychological well-being. This study assesses the spatial adequacy of urban green spaces in Abuja's central area and satellite districts using Sentinel-2 imagery and GIS analysis. Green space areas are extracted using NDVI thresholding and on-screen digitising of parks, gardens, and green corridors. Per-capita green space ratios are computed for each district and benchmarked against the World Health Organisation standard of 9 square metres per person. Population distribution data from the National Population Commission's 2023 estimates are used for ratio calculations. Results reveal significant spatial inequity in green space provision, with planned districts in the central area exceeding WHO standards while satellite districts in Bwari and Kuje fall well below minimum thresholds. The study maps accessibility to the nearest public green space within a 400-metre walkability radius, further confirming disparities. Recommendations are directed at the Federal Capital Development Authority for integrating green space equity criteria into area development plans. Keywords: urban green space, Abuja, remote sensing, GIS, ecosystem services