Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
1
SEÇÃO ARTIGOS
Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits of wetland corridors
through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach:
Lagos-Nigeria in perspective
Explorando os potenciais de conservação da biodiversidade e os benefícios ecológicos do
corredor de zonas úmidas por meio do ecoturismo sustentável e do paisagismo:
Lagos-Nigéria em perspectiva
Explorando el potencial de conservación de la biodiversidad y los beneficios ecológicos
del corredor de humedales a través del ecoturismo sostenible y el diseño paisajístico:
Lagos-Nigeria en perspectiva
DOI: https://doi.org/10.22409/eg.v12i25.65955
John Adekunle Adesina
1
University of Lagos (UNILAG),
Akoka-Yaba, Nigéria
e-mail:
johnadekunleadesina@gmail.com
Xiaolan Tang
2
Nanjing Forestry University (NJFU),
Nanjing, Jiangsu Province,
República Popular da China
e-mail: xiaolant@njfu.edu.cn
Nnezi Uduma-Olugu
3
University of Lagos (UNILAG),
Akoka-Yaba, Nigéria
e-mail:
nnezi.udumaolugu@gmail.com
Abstract
The primary goal of a green corridor is to efficiently connect ecosystems, providing animals with a readily
accessible path between their habitats. Recently, the wetlands on the University of Lagos’s campus have
experienced issues including flooding, deforestation, excessive sedimentation, obstructed streams, misuse,
overuse, and wetland invasion. The green corridor behind the faculties of law and management science was chosen
as a model supported by sustainability principles. It is an exemplary foundation for the university’s campus
landscapes. The study aims to explore the potential for conserving biodiversity, the green open spaces eco-benefits,
and the sustainable restoration strategies for wetlands. Direct survey techniques and qualitative data analysis were
employed using the Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats (SWOT) matrix to analyze data obtained from
primary sources. The study revealed threats to the wetlands, including habitat loss, overuse of resources, pollution,
invasive species, disease, hunting, and climate change impacts. The study concludes that adaptive landscape
planning, the design and construction of wetlands with physical features such as off-road bike lanes, nature walking
trails, and raised hardwood platforms are ecologically sustainable and have low carbon emissions.
Keywords
Biodiversity conservation; Green corridor; Landscape design; Sustainability; SWOT.
1
Environmental Enthusiast, Adjunct Lecturer, Research Assistant, and Research Fellow at the Department of
Architecture, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, University of Lagos, Akoka-Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria.
2
Professor of Landscape Architecture at the College of Landscape Architecture, Nanjing Forestry University,
Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.
3
Associate Professor of Architecture at the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Environmental Sciences,
University of Lagos, Akoaka-Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria.
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
2
Resumo
O principal objetivo de um corredor verde é conectar ecossistemas de forma eficiente, proporcionando aos animais
um caminho de fácil acesso entre seus habitats. Recentemente, as áreas úmidas do campus da Universidade de
Lagos enfrentaram problemas como inundações, desmatamento, sedimentação excessiva, obstrução de córregos,
uso indevido, uso excessivo e invasão de áreas úmidas. O corredor verde atrás das faculdades de direito e ciências
administrativas foi escolhido como um modelo apoiado por princípios de sustentabilidade. Ele é uma base
exemplar para as paisagens do campus da universidade. O objetivo do estudo é explorar o potencial de conservação
da biodiversidade, os benefícios ecológicos dos espaços verdes abertos e as estratégias de restauração sustentável
das áreas úmidas. Foram empregadas técnicas de pesquisa direta e análise de dados qualitativos usando a matriz
Forças-Oportunidades-Fraquezas-Ameaças (FOFA) para analisar os dados obtidos de fontes primárias. O estudo
revelou ameaças às zonas úmidas, incluindo perda de habitat, uso excessivo de recursos, poluição, espécies
invasoras, doenças, caça e impactos da mudança climática. O estudo conclui que o planejamento paisagístico
adaptativo, o projeto e a construção de áreas úmidas com características físicas, como ciclovias off-road, trilhas
para caminhadas na natureza e plataformas elevadas de madeira de lei, são ecologicamente sustentáveis e têm
baixa emissão de carbono.
Palavras-chave
Conservação da biodiversidade; Corredor verde; Paisagismo; Sustentabilidade; Análise FOFA.
Resumen
El objetivo principal de un corredor verde es conectar eficazmente los ecosistemas, proporcionando a los animales
un camino de fácil acceso entre sus hábitats. Recientemente, los humedales del campus de la Universidad de Lagos
han sufrido problemas como inundaciones, deforestación, sedimentación excesiva, obstrucción de arroyos, mal
uso, sobreexplotación e invasión de humedales. El corredor verde situado detrás de las facultades de Derecho y
Ciencias de la Administración fue elegido como modelo respaldado por los principios de sostenibilidad. Constituye
una base ejemplar para los paisajes del campus universitario. El estudio pretende explorar el potencial de
conservación de la biodiversidad, los beneficios ecológicos de los espacios verdes abiertos y las estrategias de
restauración sostenible de los humedales. Para analizar los datos obtenidos de fuentes primarias se emplearon
técnicas de encuesta directa y análisis cualitativo de datos mediante la matriz Fortalezas-Oportunidades-
Debilidades-Amenazas (FODA). El estudio reveló amenazas para los humedales, como la pérdida de hábitats, la
sobreexplotación de recursos, la contaminación, las especies invasoras, las enfermedades, la caza y los impactos
del cambio climático. El estudio concluye que la planificación paisajística adaptativa, el diseño y la construcción
de humedales con características físicas como carriles bici todoterreno, senderos naturales y plataformas elevadas
de madera dura son ecológicamente sostenibles y tienen bajas emisiones de carbono.
Palabras clave
Conservación de la biodiversidad; Corredor verde; Diseño del paisaje; Sostenibilidad; FODA.
Introduction
It is crucial to investigate the possibilities for biodiversity preservation and the
ecological advantages of wetland corridors through sustainable ecotourism and landscape
architecture to mitigate the impact of climate change on the Lagos metropolis. This strategy
maintains biodiversity while making use of the wetlands’ natural resources, encouraging
community engagement, boosting tourism, and offering financial opportunities for residents.
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
3
Wetland restoration and biodiversity conservation are growing in popularity as ways to mitigate
environmental changes, adapt to them, and improve people’s health and well-being. (Adedeji,
2023; Otubu, 2021). In addition to providing compensation for direct biodiversity losses
associated with human presence and urban development, wetlands are occasionally built and
restored for a variety of purposes (Del Rio; Willemen; Vrieling; Nelson, 2022).
Wetland restoration involves modifying deteriorating or previous physical, chemical, or
biological features to restore their natural functions (Dorado-Guerrero; Willemen, 2022;
Pandey; Ghosh, 2023; Zhang; Ye; Liu; Lai; You; Dong; Dong, 2023; Masheula, 2023). This
approach has faced an array of challenges because the entire ecological consciousness of the
wetland, which has suffered continuous infiltration of foul sewage water and rainfall runoff
packed with plastic refuse waste, is essential to the health of the primary host community and
the surrounding local communities. To boost tourism, it is necessary to restore and revitalize
the landscapes which will directly impact how universities and colleges are promoted
internationally. Only when institutions such as a university with distinct green credentials for
all of the surrounding towns appreciate and restore the degraded landscapes will they serve as
a template for the host town.
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) provides a favorable atmosphere that supports
teaching, learning, research, and development. The wetland in question is located behind two
outstanding faculties: The Faculty of Law and the Faculty of Management Sciences. This study
area was selected because of its proximity to the Lagos Lagoon and the coastal settlement,
which can be accessed via the waterways and wetlands. The choice was also made due to an
understanding that restoring the ecosystem dynamics, as well as the environmental needs of
both plants and animals, is essential for wetland restoration and campus revitalization. The
purpose of this study is to investigate wetlands as biodiversity hotspots and the use of
ecotourism and landscape design as conservation tools, as well as community involvement.
Including local populations in conservation initiatives, possibly through ecotourism or other
sustainable activities, may promote an attitude of connection and concern for the environment.
One of the study’s many benefits is increasing awareness of environmental concerns
among residents, tourists, and students. The study revealed the need to sponsor conservation
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
4
initiatives directly, provide financial assistance, and allow the initiatives to make decisions
independently through research. The main objectives of the study are identifying biodiversity
around campus, promoting sustainable ecotourism, enhancing sustainable tourism experiences,
increasing access to green outdoor spaces, reducing campus temperatures, improving air
quality, and identifying the dominant plants and animals. Wetlands are recognized as
biodiversity hotspots because they support a wide range of plants and animals, including birds,
reptiles, and other distinctive ecosystem elements. Ecotourism should be examined as a
conservation strategy since it may improve awareness of the value of wetlands and their
biodiversity, resulting in further protection efforts. Ecotourism is centered on responsible travel
to natural regions. The study concludes with a suggestion to implement a biophilic landscape
design for biodiversity conservation. Improving the connectivity of wetland corridors through
intelligent landscape design may facilitate animal movement and support ecosystem health.
Literature Review
Ecotourism is defined as responsible travel to scenic locations and natural beauty spots
including protected areas such as national parks, which are abundant in biodiversity. It involves
educational and evaluative activities, protects the environment, and promotes the well-being of
the local population (Del Rio et al., 2022; Tang; Adesina, 2022a). The United Nations World
Tourism Organization (UNWTO), defines sustainable tourism as “travel that promotes resource
management in a way that fulfills social, cultural, and economic demands while preserving
biological diversity, vital ecological processes, and life support systems” (UNWTO, 2017; Ye
et al., 2023; Keramitsoglou; Koudoumakis; Akrivopoulou; Papaevaggelou; Protopapas, 2023).
A crucial aspect of sustainable ecotourism is benefiting host communities socioeconomically.
It can also be said that those who live in and around the destination stand to gain the most from
tourism (Koko; Han; Wu; Zhang; Ding; Luo, 2023; Numbere, 2021). Ecotourism can boost the
local economy by bringing in money for communities to benefit through the sale of native goods
and crafts, guided tours, and lodging amenities. However, essential plants (natural components)
and light structures (man-made amenities for comfort, and relaxation gazebos) need to be
introduced into this park to enhance its livability and usability.
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
5
Combining these native plant species and park furniture is essential to improving the
academic landscape atmosphere in each of the wetlands while adding aesthetic value. The
biophysically restored wetlands can illuminate the landscape, and the green corridors may
attract the academic community. All of these elements can be implemented using an
environmentally friendly landscape planning, management, and design model. Ecotourism
encompasses ecological conservation, biodiversity preservation, local revitalization and
renewal, and environmentally friendly travel (Tang; Adesina, 2022a; 2022b). Tang and Adesina
(2022a), opined that those who develop, engage in, or market ecotourism-related activities
should follow the aforementioned ecotourism guidelines with consideration to existing
biodiversity and its conservation. Ecotourism has positive environmental, social, behavioral,
and psychological effects. In other words, the perception of the wetlands and green space by
the local residents is important, as it increases respect for and knowledge of the environment
and cultures. In addition, ecotourism offers immediate monetary rewards for conservation
efforts, creates wealth for the local community and private sector, and ensures enjoyable stays
for both guests and hosts (Clark; Nyaupane, 2022).
A distinctive approach to creating a welcoming environment within the wetlands and
their surroundings is based on ecotourism hospitality concepts. The tourism industry extends
hospitality to guests while maintaining our culture and learning atmosphere by upholding these
ideals (Morán-Ordóñez; Hermoso; Martínez-Salinas, 2022). Vegetation plays a beneficial role
in mitigating the negative environmental effects of urban growth (Maiti; Kuniyal; Sekar; Satish;
Singh; Bisht; Sundriyal, 2022; Clark; Nyaupane, 2022). This is achieved by regulating the
temperature, lowering atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, improving air quality, reducing
runoff from rainfall, decreasing noise pollution, increasing urban energy efficiency, improving
thermal comfort within buildings, and enhancing the visual appeal of urban areas (Maiti et al.,
2022; Adesina; Adejumo, 2018). Ecotourism sites offer low-impact, small-scale alternatives to
traditional commercial mass tourism, which is common in megacities and urban areas where
people travel for sightseeing (Zhang et. al., 2023; Masheula, 2023; Clark; Nyaupane, 2022;
Sobhani; Esmaeilzadeh; Sadeghi; Wolf, 2024). It entails taking reasonable trips to protected
regions, preserving the environment, and improving the quality of life for locals and the host
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
6
communities (Sobhani et al., 2024; Melicher; Špulerová, 2022). Its goals may include educating
tourists, funding environmental preservation, directly assisting local communities’ political and
economic advancement, and promoting tolerance for other people’s cultures and human rights
(Sobhani et al., 2024).
Gulpinar Sekban and Acar (2021) consider ecotourism a vital undertaking, believing
that it will allow future generations to visit places that are protected, and it typically involves
engagement with the living components of the natural world. The three main aims of ecotourism
are environmental sustainability, human development, and socially conscious travel. Travel to
protected areas and national parks typically involves visiting places where the main attractions
are the flora, fauna, and cultural heritage (Tauro; Ojeda; Caviness; Moses; Moreno-Terrazas;
Wright; Rozzi, 2021). It involves increasing visitor’s awareness of our natural environment
through responsible tourism and providing insight into how humans affect the environment
(Tauro et al., 2021).
Figure 1 illustrates the research indicators for sustainable ecotourism and landscape
design needed to sustain environmental ecology, human economic development, and social
equity through socially conscious travel to protected areas. Ecological programs that promote
social cohesion and cultural integrity of the community and reduce the negative impacts of
traditional tourism on the environment are examples of responsible ecotourism (Figure 1).
Therefore, in addition to addressing environmental and cultural factors, ecotourism must also
promote wetland restoration, street design, waste management, energy efficiency, and the
creation of economic opportunities for local people. In light of these factors, ecotourism is a
popular option for travelers who respect environmental conservation and social justice (Qiu;
Sha; Scott, 2021).
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
7
Figure 1 – The three pillars and main attributes of community-based ecotourism
Source: The authors (2024).
Qiu et al. (2021), define ecotourism as visiting relatively pristine environments with the
express purpose of enjoying, understanding, and learning about the environment, its wildlife,
and its cultural features (Qiu et al., 2021; Liu; Zhang, 2024). In addition, according to Štrbac,
Kašanin-Grubin, Pezo, Stojić, Lončar, Ćurčić, and Pucarević (2023), wetlands are areas where
water either sits on the soil or is present at or near the soil surface throughout the year,
occasionally even during the growing season. Wetland ecosystems are home to a wide variety
of freshwater and terrestrial plant and animal species, and the prolonged presence of water
promotes the development of unique wetland soils and ideal growth conditions for plants with
special adaptations (王玥, 2023). Sustainable tourism initiatives include those that preserve the
integrity of local landscapes and foster cultural appreciation while minimizing the negative
environmental impacts of traditional tourism (Wan; Wan, 2023; Zhou; Yao; Chen; Tang, 2023;
Bian; Li; Deng; Zhang; Liu; Wang; Wang, 2024; Liang; Zhai; Li, 2023).
Sustainable
Ecotourism
and Landscape
Design
Framework
Social Equity
(Responsible visit
through Tourism)
Ecology
(Biodiversity
Conservation)
Economy
(Economic
Development
through Tourism)
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
8
Restoration in focus
Kyriakopoulos (2023) defined restoration as the process of re-establishing and
reconstructing a degraded wetland and its functions. Restoring a degraded or abandoned
wetland to its original functions involves modifying its physical, chemical, or biological
properties, and this process is known as wetland restoration (Kyriakopoulos, 2023). Eliminating
a threat or stopping the deterioration of wetland conditions is the definition of wetland
protection (Fang; Hassan; Horng, 2024). Along with the restoration of endangered ecosystems,
the natural ecosystem service and species. The conservation of naturally occurring wetlands is
a crucial part of the restoration strategy through ecological intervention for natural habitat
protection (Kyriakopoulos; 2023; Jing; Chen, 2024).
These wetlands serve as biological buffers and green spaces that absorb and store large
amounts of floodwater, which can help reduce the frequency and intensity of flooding in the
campus community. Three acres or one million gallons of water can often be submerged three
feet below the surface of a wetland (Fang et al., 2024). The land is protected from storm surges
by coastal wetlands during hurricanes and tropical storms (Enoh; Okeke; Nkechi, 2023). In the
Gulf Coast region, barrier islands, shoals, marshes, and other coastal landscape features can
absorb storm surges and wind waves from hurricanes and tropical storms in significant and
potentially sustainable ways (Enoh et al., 2023). The role of trees in restoring degraded
landscapes is being increasingly recognized worldwide to halt drought, forest destruction, strip
mining, water scarcity, pollution, loss of plant and animal life, and urban heat waves associated
with climate change (Moshood; Adeleke; Olayemi; Ibrahim, 2023).
Leveraging the city’s rivers, natural areas, urban green infrastructure, and other
connections is essential when creating a restoration framework for a university’s wetlands.
Their continued presence impacts not only the integrity of land, air, water, and forest resources
but also the quality of life (Olaleru; Agbaosi; Tijani; Emmanuel; Agidi; Otusanya, 2023). They
support a variety of uses by humans and the environment. Wetlands, the foundation of the
landscape, ecology, history, and recreation, create connections at local, regional, national, and
international levels (Moshood et al., 2023). These same authors noted that the outdoor green
spaces include schoolyards, playgrounds, wetland corridors, community gathering places,
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
9
drainage canals, farm settlements, parks and gardens, and athletic centers in the community and
on university campuses. Their continued presence impacts not only the integrity of land, air,
water, and forest resources but also the quality of life.
Adesina and Zhu (2022) discussed the accessibility, sustainability, and coherence of
forests, their products, wetlands, and natural areas. They stated that the resources are so
important that they must be restored, protected, and preserved as needed. The campus is lined
with ecological and recreational trails that provide an up-close view of the natural world
(Chang; Heejun; Alexander, 2024). Although there are many ways to make these places more
sustainable now and in the future, visitors do not need or want to visit them (Adesina; Zhu,
2022; Chang et al., 2024). Responsible ecotourism is exemplified by organizations that support
the cultural vitality of the community and reduce the negative environmental impacts of
conventional tourism (Adesina; Zhu, 2022; Olaleru et al., 2023). Therefore, restoration
ecotourism, as described in this study, often appeals to social, economic, and environmental
advocates because it actively promotes reuse and recycling, energy efficiency, water
conservation, and the development of income streams for local communities, in addition to
considering ecological and historical factors.
Sustainable Landscape Design Approach
The goal of sustainable landscape design is to create outdoor spaces that are both
ecologically conscious and visually pleasing. It places a strong emphasis on optimizing the
benefits of natural systems while reducing negative environmental impacts (Kyriakopoulos;
2023; Jing; Chen, 2024). This includes establishing thriving ecosystems, conserving resources,
and promoting biodiversity. This research provided a thorough examination of the essential
elements of environmentally friendly landscaping, taking into account the fundamental ideas of
resource conservation, which are essential for reducing waste, energy use, and water
consumption. Working with natural processes, promoting biodiversity, and maintaining
ecological balance are crucial (Kyriakopoulos, 2023). A major component of sustainable
landscaping is long-term viability, which aims to create landscapes that can thrive despite
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
10
requiring a lot of maintenance or source of support inputs. Sustainable landscaping can create
aesthetically pleasing and useful landscapes that both locals and tourists can appreciate.
Native plants are a fundamental component of sustainable landscaping. Because native
plants are acclimated to the soil and temperature of the area, less fertilizer, pesticides, and
irrigation are required (Tauro et al., 2021). The following considerations are important
components of sustainable landscape design:
1. Water control: Water use can be significantly reduced by implementing effective
irrigation systems, using rain harvesting strategies, and constructing highly permeable
structures.
2. Soil conditioning: Plants grow more easily and require less chemical fertilizer when
soil health is improved through methods such as mulching, composting, and reducing
soil compaction.
3. Debris reduction: It is important to encourage composting and recycling of yard
waste while minimizing the use of synthetic materials.
4. Sheltering animals and wildlife: Incorporating features that benefit animals, such as
native plants, water features, and natural areas, can make an ecosystem more thriving
and diverse.
The Study Area
The Lagos Lagoon surrounds the main campus in Akoka, offering a stunning
perspective of the university. The main campus, located on 802 acres in Akoka, the eastern part
of Yaba, is largely surrounded by the picturesque panorama of the Lagos Lagoon. The campus
is located along the sandy barrier lagoon region of the western coast of Nigeria. The
geographical area under study is bounded by the equator at latitude 6°31’14.88” and longitude
3°23’49.76” (Google Earth, 2023). The communities of Akoka, Iwaya, Onike, Abule Oja,
Bariga, and Oworonsoki are all close to the main campus and the total land area that was marked
for this study is approximately 2,100 m² (Figures 2 and 3).
This is intended to be the beginning of the restoration efforts for the wetlands that stretch
for about 5 km along the main campus of UNILAG. The study area was selected to be in a
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
11
location that aligns with the most prominent, populous, and productive faculty on campus. The
site was chosen for its biodiversity richness, accessibility, low risk, and location. After
obtaining the base map and conducting a site inventory, it became apparent that the site has two
connecting roads that provide easy access to nearby facilities without directly entering the
wetland. In addition, the site contains certain species of trees and monkey habitats and has been
used as a garbage dump for many years. However, the main advantages of the site over other
sites along the green zone and corridor are the dominance of biodiversity of all kinds and its
limited vulnerability to human encroachment.
Figure 2 – Aerial imagery of the University of Lagos showing the selected wetland
Source: The authors (2024).
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
12
Figure 3 – a (right) & b (left): (a) Map showing the selected wetland and (b) a longitudinal
section through the floodplain
(a) (b)
Source: The authors (2024).
Table 1 presents the assessment and site inventories in random order and classifies the
list based on the SWOT checklist. The Green Zone and Riparian Corridor surrounding the
campus share similar microclimatic conditions and have the same biodiversity, albeit in varying
amounts. The SWOT analysis/matrix is a strategic planning technique used to express and
evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with the study area. A
SWOT analysis is a strategic planning technique that evaluates the opportunities, threats,
weaknesses, and strengths of an entity or task to help identify areas that need improvement and
to guide decision-making. The process of SWOT analysis includes:
1. Strengths: Advantageous qualities of wetlands in the context of urban open space.
2. Weaknesses: Internal deficiencies that could affect the functioning of the landscape.
3. Opportunities: These are external forces that an urban open space can take advantage of.
4. Threats: External variables that could have a detrimental effect on the landscape.
This study carries out the SWOT analysis by first determining the objective of the
possible use of the wetland and listing the following factors that determine the possible
advantages, disadvantages, opportunities, and threats (see Table 1). The analysis also examines
the factors of the components found and their possible effects. Finally, based on the analysis,
the process creates plans to capitalize on opportunities, correct weaknesses, leverage strengths,
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
13
and mitigate threats. It puts the tactics into practice and monitors their implementation and
results. The results of this field survey led to the development of conceptual plans and designs
(landscape management plan and landscape design) for strategic and immediate action by
stakeholders for implementation. However, Table 2 shows the level of impact and influence the
following criteria have on the assessment of the wetland for ecotourism: accessibility,
ecological diversity, natural engagement, capacity, recreation, functionality, and social
activities. “Opportunity” appears to have the highest rating and implies that there are inherent
opportunities at the site that have yet to be explored for sustainable ecotourism. It is followed
by “Strengths and Weaknesses” which show extreme impacts. However, “Threat” does not
seem to have much impact on both the campus and the immediate community around the
selected wetland, considering the landscape elevation profile and its proximity to existing
buildings (Figure 4).
Figure 4 – Aerial imagery of the University of Lagos showing the selected wetland
Source: The authors (2024).
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
14
Materials and Methods
The Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats (SWOT) matrix was used in a
qualitative and exploratory manner, which included exploring the land area, current
biodiversity, hydrology, and its potential through landscape mapping and analysis. The strategy
consists of six steps, starting with a prospective analysis of the town. To give an idea of what a
restored wetland might look like, a comparison with current wetlands is presented. This is
followed by the acquisition of the base map and the completion of the site inventory. The six
phases focused on defining the University’s biologically diverse areas and current drainage
networks. The current vegetation and drainage network of the campus were documented using
secondary data from topographic maps, 2023 satellite imagery from Google Maps, previous
soil and hydrological surveys, and fieldwork. To understand the intrinsic ecological goods and
services, the second step was to map the biotopes through a direct field survey methodology,
which included the following steps:
1. The landscape features: Site features include natural and undisturbed topography,
vegetation, soils, and wetlands. There are not many major attractions near the site, except
for an undeveloped wetland that offers an unobstructed view of the horizon and green
vegetation consisting mostly of water weeds and raffia palm vegetation.
2. The climate data analysis: Research and analysis of the microclimate of the site and how
it relates to the region’s microclimate, taking into account the characteristics of the site.
3. Flood and rainfall records: There are records of water flooding into the campus in
previous years due to rising water levels caused by climate change. The results show that
rainfall or precipitation occurs mainly from April to November, with a variation in the
amount from April to June at the lowest to July at the highest.
The wetland networks and interconnectivity are made up of extremely biodiverse
freshwater areas that make up approximately 10% of the total land area of the campus. The
existing site plans of the institution and its wetlands did not consider the actual evolution of the
drainage network of the area over the past years of continuous noticeable encroachments and
abuses. The following interrelated actions were undertaken: field surveys of the selected
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
15
wetlands; classification of plant communities; and organized interviews with selected tourists,
faculty, and students in the area. Further to record the fish and wildlife inventories of the
wetlands. Information from satellite photos, topographic maps, and previous ecological
research were the sources of secondary data. The third stage involves synthesizing organized
interviews with students, visitors, and teachers. The remaining phases include an assessment of
the current wetlands and green corridors, an analysis of open space for the design and
construction of the park, and an exploration of campus opportunities and issues based on the
integration of all identified phases.
Findings and Discussions
A section through the site shows that the wetland has an average depth of four meters
and a gentle slope on both sides of the land. Figure 4 illustrates how close and the proximity of
both the Faculty of Law and Faculty of Management Science is to the green corridor. The
wetland itself is needed for ecological restoration because it is home to a variety of species that
should be conserved. Along with a reasonably level upland and a steep slope, the property
features an average floodplain of 4.5 meters below the natural ground level.
Table 1 – Criteria for rating the SWOT analysis
Criteria
Strength
Opportunities
Threats
Accessibility
****
****
*
Ecological diversity
****
***
*
Natural engagement
****
****
*
Capacity
***
***
*
Recreation
**
****
*
Functionality
*
****
*
Social activities
*
****
*
Note: 4*(extreme impact), 3*(critical/high impact), 2*(fair/low impact), 1*(very low impact).
Source: The authors (2024).
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
16
Table 2 – On-site assessment of the study area
Strength
Weakness
Opportunities
Threats
Good scenic view,
Located in the quiet part
of the campus,
Proximity to the lagoon,
Scenic view,
Natural resources,
Road access,
Location within an
educational institution
(limited community
abuse),
Existing vegetation,
High-value adjoining
properties.
Poor maintenance of
the facilities,
Lack of direct access
to the lagoon front,
Difficult access from
a major road leading
directly to the
waterfront,
Inaccessibility for
adequate analysis,
A large portion of the
site is used for refuse
dumping.
Create employment
opportunities,
It can be transformed
into a tourist center,
Accelerate new
investments,
Improve socio-
economic conditions,
Closed dense tree
canopy,
Preserved animals,
Natural vegetation,
Road access,
Presence of a financial
institution.
The Lagos Lagoon
(influx of boats and
security breach
through the lagoon),
Some poisonous
crabs coming out of
the holes,
Damaged cage,
Waterlogged and
marshy area,
The threat of erosion,
Waste pollution,
Inaccessibility and
undefined
boundaries.
Source: The authors (2024).
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
17
Table 3 – Existing situation on-site and research problems
Pictures
Field Survey Remarks
Challenges and Threats
Pictures showing faculty behind
the wetland.
The drainage network and rainwater
runoff around the area are channeled to
the wetland behind.
Shops and unapproved
buildings in front of the
wetland.
The shops and illegal businesses in front
of the wetland generate a lot of garbage
and dirt.
A transparent fence around the
perimeter of the wetland along
the existing road and academic
buildings.
This is to prevent easy access or intrusion
into the wetland, thereby preventing
further abuse and misuse.
Unauthorized refuse dumpsite
to be relocated to designated
waste disposal point.
The foul water from the waste dumped in
this area ends up flowing into the wetland
during heavy rain downpours. This waste
also causes air pollution when burned.
Visible signage throughout the
campus. Image showing the
access road.
The presence of roads directly from the
wetland has caused the influx of people to
directly reduce the number of monkeys.
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
18
Trees are planted to shade off
the wetland.
Monkeys often play on trees, which also
attract many species of birds.
Picture showing the area of the
wetland with a stable terrain.
This area has a limited amount of water
and many dangerous reptiles. It only
floods during the rainy season.
Wetland covered with water
weeds.
The part of the wetland has a depth of
about 4.5m below the natural ground
level.
Bodies of water were visible,
and someone could be seen
fishing around the corridor.
The bodies of water must be maintained
and not disturbed to preserve the animals.
A “Wetland Restoration in
Progress” sign was written on
the wetland to inform people of
the need to stay away from the
site (see attached photo).
A restoration site must be restricted from
further misuse.
Source: The authors (2024).
The main components of a SWOT analysis in Tables 1-3 are broken down as follows
and are analyses of both internal and external aspects that influence an initiative or operation’s
goal. First, the internal elements of the wetland have control over its strengths and weaknesses,
and the external elements such as the threats and opportunities are elements that are outside the
Ensaios de Geografia
Essays of Geography | POSGEO-UFF
AO CITAR ESTE TRABALHO, UTILIZAR A SEGUINTE REFERÊNCIA:
ADESINA, John Adekunle; TANG, Xiaolan; UDUMA-OLUGU, Nnezi. Exploring the biodiversity conservation potentials and eco-benefits
of wetland corridor through sustainable ecotourism and landscape design approach: Lagos-Nigeria in Perspective. Ensaios de Geografia.
Niterói, vol. 12, nº 25, e122510, 2025.
Submissão em: 30/12/2024. Aceito em: 19/04/2025.
ISSN: 2316-8544
Este trabalho está licenciado com uma licença Creative Commons
19
wetland’s control. The relevance and suitability of the methodology that led to these findings
are simply for several uses, such as the monitoring of urban space projects, urban renewal,
planning for the future, and in-depth growth. Table 3 identifies possible risks and opportunities
to create a successful landscape design strategy.
This analysis helps to assess the existing wetlands in the urban space, identify areas for
progress, and develop new strategies. After careful analysis of the three hotspot areas through
the existing situation on-site research. This study determined the advantages and disadvantages
of the various aspects that were considered, as well as setting goals for their growth. This
methodological approach helps to take a fresh and diverse look at the wetland habitat. Figures
5 (a) and (b) show the existing buildings and road infrastructure and the current direction of
runoff into the wetland. A large amount of human waste has been deposited into the area
through these facilities. Figures 5b and 6 show the main contours and direction of water flow
runoff from the existing environmental situations around the existing buildings.
Figure 5 a & b – a) The study area location plan. b) The boundary of the study site (2,100
m
2
) alongside the peak and depression
(a) (b)
Source: The authors (2024).