THE ROLE OF FORESTRY IN PROMOTING RURAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA (A CASE STUDY OF FEDERAL MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT, ABUJA)

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to The Study

Forest resources are an important part of the natural resource base of any community, region or country in sub-Saharan Africa and play a fundamental role in the socio-economic well-being of the people of these communities. Depending on the circumstances, forest products can provide both a day net (everyday use) and a safety net (occasional use). The daily web describes everyday use with products that meet current household needs and provide a reliable source of income to purchase agricultural inputs or feed for livestock herds (Shackleton and Shackleton, 2004). A safety net comes into play when other sources of household income (e.g., petty trading, agriculture, and plantations) cannot meet nutritional deficiencies or when a quick cash option is needed (McSweeney et al., 2003). Forest resources are of great economic importance to both rural and urban populations, especially the poor. This is particularly true in sub-Saharan Africa, where most countries have large rural populations, whose livelihoods depend on the exploitation of natural resources (Pimental et al., 1997). According to Bryon and Arnold (1997), most rural households in developing countries and a large proportion of urban households rely on plant and animal products from forests to meet part of their nutritional needs.

Pimental et al. (1997) estimated that about 250 million people in Africa rely on forests, while Roper and Roberts (1999), as in Usman et al. (2016) put the number at 500 million. It is estimated that 90% of the world's poor rely on forests for at least part of their income (World Bank, 2003). Anderson et al., (2006), cited in Usman et al., (2016), argued that an estimated 600 million people in Africa rely on forests and forests for their livelihood, while another study in India estimated that 50 million People directly depend on forests to secure their livelihoods. While rural areas struggle with problems such as poverty, unemployment and inadequate infrastructure, forestry is proving to be a multi-faceted solution that addresses both environmental and economic needs. By integrating sustainable forestry practices into rural development strategies, Nigeria can harness the potential of its forests to improve livelihoods, support local economies and promote environmental protection. One of the main ways in which forestry contributes to rural development is through the creation of employment opportunities. In Nigeria, the forestry sector provides jobs in logging, processing and production of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) such as nuts, fruits and resins (Ojo, 2021).

These employment opportunities are critical in rural areas where alternative economic activities may be limited. In addition, the development of the sector can stimulate the growth of related industries such as ecotourism and agroforestry, thereby broadening the economic base of rural communities (Akinlade et al., 2022). Forestry also plays an essential role in supporting rural infrastructure development. Forests contribute to the construction of vital infrastructure such as roads and schools by providing wood and other resources (Ibrahim, 2020). Additionally, sustainable forest management practices can improve soil fertility and reduce erosion, positively impacting agriculture, which is the primary source of livelihood for many rural Nigerians (Adesina & Adeniran, 2019). By investing in forest management and conservation, government and communities can improve agricultural productivity and build resilient rural infrastructure. Environmental sustainability is another crucial aspect in which forestry contributes to rural development. Forests in Nigeria act as carbon sinks, help regulate water cycles, and maintain biodiversity, which together contribute to the health and stability of rural environments (Olawuyi, 2021). Effective forest management ensures that these environmental benefits are maintained, which in turn supports agriculture and other rural activities that rely on a stable ecosystem (Ogunwande & Ayinde, 2022).

1.2 Statement of The Problem

Forestry in Nigeria holds significant potential for promoting rural development, yet several challenges undermine its effectiveness in this role. One major issue is the inadequate implementation of sustainable forestry practices, which hampers the sector's ability to provide consistent economic benefits to rural communities. Despite the rich forest resources, many rural areas continue to experience high levels of poverty and unemployment due to inefficient resource management and a lack of investment in forestry-related enterprises (Olawuyi, 2021). This mismanagement not only limits job creation but also impacts the overall economic growth that could be achieved through a well-developed forestry sector.

Furthermore, there is a critical gap in infrastructure and technological support for the forestry industry in Nigeria. Many rural areas lack the necessary infrastructure for processing and marketing forest products, which constrains local economic development (Ibrahim, 2020). Without proper roads, processing facilities, and market access, the economic potential of forestry remains untapped. This infrastructural deficit not only affects the efficiency of the forestry sector but also impedes the broader development efforts aimed at improving rural livelihoods.Top of Form

1.3 Objectives of The Study

The main objective of the study is to examine the role of forestry in promoting rural development in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:

1. To Assess the Current State of Forestry Practices and Their Impact on Rural Livelihoods.
   1. To Examine the Potential of Forestry for Rural Development and Poverty Reduction.
   2. To Identify Policy and Institutional Challenges and Opportunities.

1.4 Research Questions

To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:

1. What are the dominant forestry practices currently employed in rural Nigeria, and what are their primary economic and ecological benefits?
2. What are the potential economic and environmental benefits of expanding forestry activities in rural Nigeria, and how can these benefits be maximized?
3. What are the major policy and institutional challenges hindering the effective contribution of forestry to rural development in Nigeria?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:

Ho: Forestry does not have a significant impact on promoting rural development in Nigeria.

1.6 Significance of The Study

The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:

Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Forestry and Wild Life sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.

Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analyzed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organizations used as a case study.

Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.

1.7 Scope of The Study

The study is delimited to Federal Ministry of Environment, Abuja. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.

1.8 Limitations of The Study

The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.

1.9 Organization of The Study

The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.

Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.

Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.

Chapter Four highlights’ data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.

Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.

1.10 Definition of Terms

1.  Forestry

 The science and practice of managing forests and woodland areas for various purposes, including timber production, conservation, and recreation. In the context of rural development in Nigeria, forestry involves activities such as tree planting, forest management, and agroforestry to support ecological health and economic growth.

2.  Rural Development

 A broad set of activities and strategies aimed at improving the quality of life and economic well-being of people living in rural areas. In Nigeria, this includes enhancing infrastructure, increasing agricultural productivity, and creating job opportunities through sustainable practices like forestry.

3. Agroforestry

 A land-use management system that integrates trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes to achieve environmental and economic benefits. In Nigeria, agroforestry practices can enhance soil fertility, provide additional income sources, and improve biodiversity in rural areas.

4. Sustainable Forest Management

The practice of managing forest resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This involves balancing ecological, economic, and social goals to ensure the long-term health and productivity of forests in Nigeria.

5. Community-Based Forest Management

A participatory approach to managing forest resources where local communities are actively involved in decision-making and management processes. In Nigeria, this can empower rural communities, enhance forest conservation efforts, and create local employment opportunities.

6.  Ecotourism

 Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, respects local cultures, and promotes sustainability. In Nigeria, ecotourism can leverage forest resources to attract visitors, generate