Impact of Population Growth on Land Use and Urban Development Control Strategies in Port Harcourt Metropolis 2000-2023

In Port Harcourt Metropolis, rapid population growth has had a major impact on land use patterns and urban development, increasing the strain on housing, infrastructure, and natural resources. This study employed purposive sampling approaches. 348 responders were selected as a sample. The primary source of data for the study is primary data. Tables, frequency counts, basic percentages, descriptive statistics, mean, and standard deviation were used to analyze the obtained data. The study highlights important issues in urban planning, including environmental degradation, lax enforcement of development control rules, and ineffective zoning laws. According to research, migration and economic opportunity have fueled increasing urbanization, which has resulted in land-use disputes, deforestation, and traffic, calling for better planning and governance. The report suggests a strategy framework for sustainable urban development that incorporates smart growth principles, better land-use planning, and more robust regulatory enforcement. In light of ongoing population increase, these actions are intended to improve Port Harcourt's urban landscape's sustainability and resilience.