Determinants of Rural Household Livelihood Vulnerability to Forest Degradation in the Central Zone of Taraba State, Nigeria

Abstract

Forest degradation increasingly threatens rural livelihoods in sub-Saharan Africa, yet the household characteristics shaping vulnerability remain insufficiently understood. This study examined the determinants of rural household livelihood vulnerability to
forest degradation in the Central Zone of Taraba State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional mixed-methods design was adopted. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 391 systematically selected households in Gashaka, Kurmi, and Sardauna Local Government Areas, while key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and direct observations provided qualitative evidence. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression were used for analysis. A Household Livelihood Index, comprising income, food security, access to basic amenities, and perceived well-being, served as the dependent variable. Agricultural expansion, uncontrolled bush burning, population growth, mining, and fuelwood collection were identified as the principal drivers of forest degradation. Reported livelihood effects included reduced fuelwood access, greater crop vulnerability, declining income, scarcity of medicinal plants, and unreliable water supplies. The regression model was statistically significant (F = 37.342, p < 0.001) and explained 32.8% of the variation in household livelihoods. Forest degradation was the strongest negative predictor (β = -0.408, p < 0.001). Female-headed households (β = -0.138, p = 0.001) and larger households (β = -0.133, p = 0.004) also recorded poorer outcomes, whereas household-head age (β = 0.176, p < 0.001) and education (β = 0.142, p = 0.002) improved livelihood resilience. The study concludes that vulnerability reflects environmental decline and household inequalities. Community-based forest management, livelihood diversification, clean energy access, reforestation, stronger enforcement, and gender-responsive support are recommended to strengthen resilience among forest-dependent households.