Sustainable Forest-Based Livelihood in Nigeria

Forests in Nigeria cover approximately 10% of the country’s land area. Sustainable forest-based livelihood in Nigeria provides employment opportunities for millions of people, particularly in rural areas, while playing a crucial role in environmental conservation and biodiversity protection^[1]. Activities such as timber harvesting, non-timber forest products collection, agroforestry, and ecotourism, provide essential resources for local communities and contribute to the country’s economy^[2]. Sustainable forest management practices help to ensure the long-term availability of these resources, supporting the livelihoods of local communities and driving economic growth^[3]. By supporting the sustainable management of forests and empowering local communities to participate in decision-making processes, Nigeria can ensure the long-term viability of forest-based livelihood activities^[2].

Challenges of Implementing Sustainable Forest-Based Livelihood Activities

Despite the benefits, Nigeria faces several challenges in implementing sustainable forest-based livelihoods. These include deforestation, illegal logging, land degradation, inadequate enforcement of forest regulations, and limited institutional capacity. Traditional forest management practices, which are often effective and sustainable, lack recognition and support from government authorities. Communities with indigenous knowledge of sustainable forest management are often not integrated into national forest policies, causing conflicts with government agencies. Additionally, the lack of access to markets for forest products undermines the economic potential of these livelihoods^[2]. These challenges threaten the sustainability of forest-based livelihoods and contribute to environmental degradation and biodiversity loss^[3].

Opportunities for Sustainable Forest-Based Livelihoods

Despite these challenges, there are opportunities to enhance sustainability and improve the well-being of local communities^[3]. These include:

1. Community-based forest management initiatives supported by government policies and incentives can empower local communities to sustainably manage forest resources and derive livelihood benefits from them.
2. Investment in value-added processing and marketing of forest products can create employment opportunities and improve the income of forest-dependent communities.
3. Strengthening forest governance, law enforcement, and community participation in decision-making processes are essential for sustainable outcomes.
4. Promoting sustainable forest management practices that balance conservation with economic development. 
5. Capacity-building and training programs on sustainable practices, entrepreneurship, and market access can equip local communities with the skills and knowledge needed to enhance productivity and profitability.

References

[1]. Agbeli, D.K. and Ifatokun, O.M. (2019). Economic analysis of the impacts of forest-based livelihoods on household welfare in Nigeria. Journal of Sustainable Forestry, 38(5): 464-481.

[2]. Ogunmokun, A. A., Sule, J. D., and Adedayo, A. A. (2018). Challenges of sustainable forest management in Nigeria: The way forward. Environmental Development, 25: 35-43.

[3]. Onuwa G. C., Mailumo S. S., Chizea C., and Alamanjo C. (2022). Socioeconomic Determinants of Livelihood Diversification among Arable Crop Farmers inShendam, Plateau State, Nigeria, Agricultural Socio-Economics Journal (AGRISE), 22 (4): 301-309.

Author: Godfrey C. Onuwa
Federal College of Forestry, Jos, Nigeria
Contact: onuwag@gmail.com