SOCIO-ECONOMIC EFFECT OF GULLY EROSION ON LAND USE IN GOMBE METROPOLIS.

ABSTRACT This study investigates the profound socio-economic impacts of gully erosion on land use patterns within Gombe Metropole, Gombe State, Nigeria, Gombe, situated in the fragile ecological zone of Northern Nigeria faces severe and accelerating gully erosion, which poses critical threat to its urban landscape, infrastructure, and livelihoods Preliminary findings indicate that gully erosion has led to, significant loss of arable land, reducing agricultural productivity and threatening food security. It has caused infrastructure, including roads and drainage systems, is consistently damaged, disrupting commercial properties, leading to displacement of populations and loss of capital. Critical mobility, economic activities, and access to services. The psychological stress and increased poverty levels among affected residents are notable socio-economic costs. The study but a pressing socio-economic crisis that undermines sustainable land use and development. concludes that gully erosion in Gombe Metropolis is not merely an environmental challenge It recommends an integrated mitigation framework involving urgent engineering interventions, community-based erosion control practices, improved land-use planning policies, and enhanced public awareness. The findings are expected to provide valuable evidence for policymakers, urban planners, and environmental agencies in formulating effective strategies for land rehabilitation and sustainable urban management in erosion-prone regions.