Household dependence on forest resources in rural enclave of ago-owu, osun state, nigeria
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Abstract
Forest ecosystems remain vital to rural households; however, growing socio-economic pressures and weak enforcement of conservation policies have intensified resource depletion in Nigeria. This study assessed household dependence on forest resources in Ago-Owu, Osun State, focusing on utilization patterns, socio-economic drivers, and conservation awareness. Data were obtained from 120 households using structured questionnaire, and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square, and Pearson correlation tests. The results indicated active participation of both men (n = 68) and women (n = 52) in forest-related activities, with most respondents (43%) being middle-aged (31-50 years). Educational attainment was generally low, as 62% had no formal education or only primary schooling. Most (76%) households earned between ₦200 000 and ₦400 000 (USD$ 130-270) annually. In addition, bush meat (n= 44) and fuel wood (n= 38) were the most utilized forest products, primarily for household needs (61%) such as cooking fuel, food, and shelter. Household size (r = 0.42, p < 0.05) correlated positively with forest dependence, while income (χ2= 34.612, p= 0.001) and education level (χ2= 9.434; p= 0.001) were significant determinants of resource reliance. Although, general awareness of conservation laws was moderate (58%), adoption of sustainable practices was low, with only 23% of respondents involved in tree planting and/or selective harvesting. The findings highlight the socio-economic importance of forest resources in sustaining rural households and emphasizes the need for livelihood diversification, improved forest governance, and enhanced environmental education in Ago-Owu and/or similar contexts.
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