Socio-Economic and Environmental Factors of Firewood Vendors in Damaturu Local Government Area, Yobe State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the socio-economic and environmental factors of firewood vendors in Damaturu Local Government, Yobe State, Nigeria. The firewood business has increased significantly in Damaturu area. The poor economic status, social needs and obligations on firewood vendors, led to prevalence of firewood trading activities in the area. Sampling technique was adopted for site selection based on the prevalence of firewood trading in the area. Data were collected using well-structured questionnaire. The result of the findings revealed that majority of the firewood vendors have being affected by extreme poverty. Their family welfare has been
affected as they lack opportunities to provide basic needs for their families. The findings of the study also revealed that firewood vendors are not able to pursue formal education for themselves and their families. The major consequence of firewood trading is deforestation in the area. Based on the findings, the study recommended that it is important to address this type of activities by
engaging in more enlightenment campaigns to educate the people on the dangers of their activity. The concern authorities should provide better job opportunities and more reliable energy source for cooking and other uses so as to reduce forest destruction and environmental deterioration.