Determinants of forest land use decisions among rural farm households in south-western Nigeria

The study examined factors determining forest land use decisions among rural farm households in south-western Nigeria. Primary data on socio-economic and community characteristics as well as land use systems were obtained from 300 farm households using a structured questionnaire through a multistage sampling technique. The study revealed that marital status (P < 0.01), gender (P < 0.01), land tenure security (P < 0.01), dominant crop type (P < 0.05), and preference for tree on farm land (P < 0.01) are factors influencing forest land use decision in either agroforestry, pure cultivation or in both practices. Land use choice proportion estimation shows that 63 % are still willing to retain their existing land use practice (pure cultivation). A total of 32 % are willing to shift completely from their existing land use practice while 4 % of the respondents are willing to practice both “agroforestry and pure cultivation” simultaneously. The study therefore suggests the need for a change in forest land use policy, particularly, with a view influence the pattern of use, limitation on type of crop that can be grown, and compliance to sustainable land use practice. This would go a long way in driving forest land use towards agroforestry – a practice identified as a means of ensuring food security while ensuring safe environment.