Socio-Economic Determinants of Land Use and Land Cover Change in Kwande Local Government Area, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates the socio-economic drivers of land use and land cover change (LULCC) in Kwande Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria. Utilizing a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 398 household heads through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Binary Logistic Regression (BLR). The results revealed widespread engagement in forest-degrading activities, with 98.5% of respondents involved in farming, 82.1% in logging, and 58.7% in fuelwood harvesting. Regression analysis identified age, education, income, years of residence, and occupation as significant predictors of involvement in unsustainable land use practices. Specifically, lower levels of education and income, longer residency in the area, and farming as a primary occupation significantly increased the likelihood of engaging in forest exploitation. The findings indicate that socio-economic vulnerabilities and livelihood dependence on land are key contributors to LULCC in the region. This study underscores the urgent need for integrated land management policies that promote alternative livelihoods, environmental education, enforcement of land use regulations, and sustainable energy access. By addressing the root socio-economic causes of land degradation, stakeholders can enhance conservation efforts and ensure long-term ecological sustainability. The study contributes to the localized understanding of human-environment dynamics and offers evidence-based recommendations for mitigating environmental degradation in rural Nigerian communities.