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International Journal of Food Science and Agriculture

ISSN Online: 2578-3475 ISSN Print: 2578-3467 CODEN: IJFSJ3
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ArticleOpen Access http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/ijfsa.2025.12.011

Human Activities and Livelihood Dependence as Drivers of Deforestation in Agudu Forest Reserve

O. J. Rotowa1,2,*, Z. T. Egbewole2

1Department of Ecology and Silviculture, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Krakow 31-120, Poland.

2Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, Nasarawa State University, Keffi 911019, Nasarawa State, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author: O. J. Rotowa

Published: January 12,2026

Abstract

Deforestation remains one of the most pressing environmental challenges in Nigeria, particularly in the Guinea Savannah, where agricultural expansion, fuelwood extraction, and weak governance converge. This study assessed the human activities driving forest decline in Agudu Forest Reserve, Lafia Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. Data were collected from 50 respondents using structured questionnaires, direct field observations, and photographic evidence. The results were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including frequencies, percentages, chi-square tests, and regression analysis. Findings revealed that access to the reserve is almost unrestricted, with 98% of respondents confirming entry rights and 62% visiting very often. Farming was the leading reason for entry (60%), followed by hunting, fishing, and fuelwood collection. Livelihood dependence on the forest was high, as 76% of respondents relied on it for income, most of which was generated year-round. Awareness of deforestation was relatively high (76%), and while only half of respondents acknowledged their personal role in forest loss, 96% expressed willingness to comply with restrictions, and all indicated readiness to plant trees if provided with seedlings. These results suggest that deforestation in Agudu is driven more by livelihood needs than by ignorance, and that communities could be mobilized for conservation. The study concludes that effective conservation requires balancing forest protection with local survival needs. It recommends alternative livelihood programmes, community-based afforestation, clean energy access, and stronger governance mechanisms.

Keywords

Forest governance; Community participation; Conservation policy; Sustainable forest management

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How to cite this paper

Human Activities and Livelihood Dependence as Drivers of Deforestation in Agudu Forest Reserve

How to cite this paper: O. J. Rotowa, Z. T. Egbewole. (2025) Human Activities and Livelihood Dependence as Drivers of Deforestation in Agudu Forest Reserve. International Journal of Food Science and Agriculture, 9(4), 346-356.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/ijfsa.2025.12.011

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