Economic Analysis of Fuelwood Consumption in Yobe State, Nigeria

Abstract

Since rural and urban poor areas in Nigeria depend mainly on fuelwood (Biomass) as their major energy source, this triggers fuelwood consumption and adversely affects the environment. The analysis focused on fuelwood production as a source of livelihood in rural areas of developing countries. The study employs a purposive sampling technique in selecting case study units within the study area. The selected units include Bade, Damaturu, and Potiskum, respectively. Their selection was based on the population’s size and the state’s zonal districts. Three hundred and ninety-five respondents from fuelwood collectors have been obtained through stratified and random sampling techniques. Data were collected using a questionnaire, focus group discussion, personal interview, and observations. The finding reveals that more than 85% of people living in the study area use fuelwood collection as their second major source of livelihood after farming. On identifying the importance of fuelwood collection, the study suggested encouraging massive campaigns on tree planting programs, coppicing practices, and applying protective rules safeguarding forests. On the other hand, provision of grant and empowerment projects, and access to modern fuels, among others. Thus, it improves people’s ways of living in rural areas, encourages livelihood generation, reduces forest exploitation, and maintains environmental protection.