Geospatial analysis of end-of-life/used Vehicle dumps in Africa; Nigeria case study

Abstract

Spatial interaction is the hub and wheel of any human society; and immobility in whatever form is the bane of individual poverty and national backwardness. However, the threats of energy shortage, climatic change and urban traffic gridlock globally has necessitated the crusade for biofuel series, sustainable transport system, green mobility and ITS among the nations of the world. Sub-Saharan countries among others are now the dumping ground for out-modelled automobiles that may have global consequences. This study uses ArcGIS 10.0 to analyse LandSat ETM+ imageries of four selected cities in examine the spatial implication of used and end-of-life vehicle trade in Africa with focus on Nigeria. The study reveals that in Abuja alone (Nigeria,), there are approximately 42 used vehicles dealers occupying about 0.19km2 of the city total land area, in Kaduna there are seven (20) major vehicle dealers occupying about 0.32km2 of land area, in Minna about 7 major dealers occupying about 0.14 km2 and in Akure; with about 23 major dealers occupying about 0.21km2. It is therefore recommended that enforceable rules regarding the differentiation between ELVs and used cars at EU level and other vehicle exporting countries should be enhanced. The Organization of Africa Unity (OAU) should as a matter of urgency redefine their policy on used vehicles importation and smugglers, while doggedly enhancing the pathway to home-built vehicles.