Impact of Urbanization on Farmland Loss in Ibadan’s Peri-Urban Fringe

The conversion of agricultural land at the urban-rural fringe is an inevitable consequence of urban expansion, but poorly managed agricultural land loss can threaten food security, rural livelihoods, and ecological function. This study examines the impact of urbanization on farmland loss in Ibadan's peri-urban fringe, focusing on communities in Ona-Ara and Lagelu local government areas. The research uses a combination of GIS-based land use change analysis using satellite imagery from 2015 to 2023 and a household survey of 185 farming households affected by urban encroachment. The survey captured farm size changes, reasons for land sales, alternative livelihood adoption, and household income effects of farmland conversion. Key informant interviews were conducted with community leaders, estate developers, and Oyo State Ministry of Agriculture officials. Change detection analysis quantified the rate and spatial direction of agricultural land conversion. Findings are expected to reveal rapid farmland loss along major arterial roads and real estate development corridors, driven by speculative land acquisition and weak agricultural land protection policies. The study examines the consequences for crop production, food supply to Ibadan's urban markets, and the welfare of displaced farming households. Recommendations propose establishment of urban agricultural protection zones in Ibadan's spatial planning framework, acquisition of farmland banks for community agriculture, compensation frameworks for displaced farmers, and reforms to prevent speculative land banking in peri-urban areas. Keywords: Urbanization, Farmland loss, Peri-urban, Ibadan, Agricultural land.