Geomorphological Mapping of the Obudu Plateau, Cross River State

The Obudu Plateau in Cross River State, South South Nigeria, represents one of the country's most scenic and ecologically significant highland terrains, yet detailed geomorphological documentation of its landform assemblage is lacking in the contemporary literature. This study undertakes a systematic geomorphological mapping exercise of selected areas within the Obudu Plateau, integrating field survey with digital elevation model analysis and remote sensing interpretation. A digital elevation model derived from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission was processed to extract slope categories, hypsometric curves, drainage networks, and morphometric indices for sub-catchments. Field mapping documented landform types including inselbergs, tor clusters, pediments, v-shaped valleys, and waterfalls, recording their distribution in relation to underlying lithology and structural controls. Geomorphic indices including the hypsometric integral, stream length gradient index, and valley width-to-height ratio were computed to assess the relative tectonic and erosional maturity of the terrain. The interplay between resistant basement lithologies, duricrusts, and deep weathering profiles is examined in the context of the plateau's geomorphic evolution. The study contributes to ecotourism resource characterisation and informs sustainable land use planning within the Cross River National Park buffer zone. This research provides undergraduate students with practical exposure to terrain analysis in a high-relief Nigerian context. Keywords: geomorphology, Obudu Plateau, digital elevation model, landforms, Cross River State.