Remote sensing data are reliable basis for making predictions about growth. Present study was aimed to analyze the spatial
growth through remote sensing (RS) data to assess urban expansion in Kogi state, central Nigeria. This study integrated
LandSat TM of 1987, LandSat ETM 2001 and Nigeria Saturday, 1 2005 satellite imageries and came out with a
comprehensive land cover change over the period, 1987-2005. It used ILWIS 3.1 for image processing, which were classified
into these land uses; bare surface, built-up area, cultivated area, natural vegetation and water body. The analysis shows that
between, 1987 and 2005 the size of the built-up area (settlement) increased by 9.97 km 2 from 0.34 km 2, with over 162%
growth rate indicating a rapid rate of physical development. Arising from this is the substantial ecological resources
increasingly being lost due to the physical expansion. Other problems include flooding, over-stressed facilities and
environmental pollution. The study conclude by recommending the increased use of RS data in urban management because it
is one of the best approach to making inventory and to map, monitor urban growth and model the natural environment. © 2011
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