Application of geographic information system in the documentation of settlement pattern of Imeri, Ijebu-Mushin Ogun State Nigeria

Abstract

The aim of the study was to demonstrate how Geographic Information System (GIS) can be used to document settlement pattern of Imeri, Ijebu-mushin Ogun State Nigeria. The method of data collection was through the collection of information gathered on the site with the use of Geographic Information System, Global Positioning System, and questionnaires and oral interview method. The research was carried out in Imeri Ogun state Nigeria. Information was derived from Imeri, a secondary village settlement in Ogun State. The results  indicate that, 2% of the building is used for commercial purposes, while 4% of the buildings are dilapidated. 5% of the building in Imeri is not yet completed as at the time of carrying out this research, 5% is used for both residential and commercial purposes and another 5% is used for religious purpose. 79% of the buildings are used for residential purposes and this percentage ranks highest regarding the use of building in Imeri. Also, 2% of the buildings are constructed with wood, while 5% are made of mud and not with plaster, 12% are made of concrete and also not with plaster, 18% of the buildings are made of concrete and are plastered while, 63% of the buildings are made of mud and are plastered. Therefore, it is recommended that GPS should be used often as a powerful technological tool that could help a lot in knowing the settlement pattern of a large area and ways to help a particular community when needed.