Abstract
Campus planning plays a critical role in shaping the physical, social, and environmental quality of higher institutions, particularly in the provision and integration of sports and recreational infrastructure. This study examines campus planning strategies for optimizing land use for sports and recreational facilities, using Covenant University as a case study. The research evaluates the spatial organization, accessibility, functionality, and sustainability of existing sports and recreational facilities within the university’s master plan framework.A mixedmethod approach was adopted, including site analysis, spatial mapping, policy review, and assessment of user experience to determine how effectively land resources are allocated and utilized. The study investigates the relationship between sports infrastructure and overall campus development, considering factors such as circulation patterns, environmental impact, student population growth, and future expansion potential.Findings reveal that strategic zoning, integration of green open spaces, and proximity of facilities to residential and academic clusters significantly enhance usability and campus vitality. However, challenges related to land pressure, maintenance, and evolving recreational demands highlight the need for adaptive planning and periodic master plan reviews.The study concludes that optimizing land use for sports and recreational infrastructure requires a balanced approach that aligns institutional vision, sustainability principles, and student development goals. Recommendations are provided to guide future campus planning initiatives in Nigerian universities and similar institutional contexts.