THE NEED FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF ADVANCED GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR PLANNING IN UGEP, CROSS RIVER STATE

This study examined the need for developing an advanced Geographical Information System (GIS) for urban planning in Ugep, Cross River State, Nigeria. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining questionnaire surveys administered to 250 urban planning stakeholders and spatial analysis of existing geographic data. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chisquare tests, and Pearson correlation analysis. Results revealed significant deficiencies in current spatial data management systems, with 78.4% of respondents reporting inadequate planning infrastructure. Statistical analysis confirmed strong positive correlations between GIS adoption and planning efficiency (r = 0.742, p < 0.01), decision-making accuracy (r = 0.681, p < 0.01), and sustainable development outcomes (r = 0.709, p < 0.01). The study found that absence of integrated spatial data systems has contributed to haphazard urban development, inefficient land use allocation, and limited capacity for disaster risk management. Findings underscore the critical need for implementing advanced GIS technology to enhance spatial planning capabilities, improve infrastructure development coordination, and support evidence-based policy formulation. The research provides empirical evidence supporting investment in GIS infrastructure and recommends establishment of a centralized spatial data repository, capacity building programs for planning officials, and integration of GIS technology into local government planning processes.