Assessment of Urban Heat Island Effects and Green Space Provision in Lagos Island

Urban heat island effects, characterized by elevated temperatures in densely built urban areas relative to surrounding rural environments, have important implications for resident comfort, energy consumption, and climate resilience in Nigerian coastal cities. This study assesses the urban heat island phenomenon and its relationship to green space provision on Lagos Island, Nigeria's commercial core, one of the most intensely built environments in sub-Saharan Africa. The study combines remote sensing analysis of land surface temperature data with field measurements of ambient temperature at 30 selected points across Lagos Island. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index values were computed to quantify green space distribution and quality. A resident survey of 170 respondents assessed thermal comfort perception, patterns of outdoor space use, and awareness of cooling benefits offered by urban trees and parks. Secondary land use and building density data were obtained from the Lagos State Physical Planning Authority. Findings are expected to confirm high surface and ambient temperatures in densely built commercial and residential zones, with identifiable cooling effects in the few surviving green patches and waterfront areas. The study evaluates the extent of green space loss due to infill development between 2019 and 2023. Recommendations include mandatory green area ratios in new development approvals, urban tree-planting programs along major streets, and integration of urban cooling strategies into Lagos Island's ongoing urban regeneration plans. Keywords: Urban heat island, Green space, Lagos Island, Climate resilience, Remote sensing.