Microeconomic Analysis of Losses from Deforestation in Enugu State, Nigeria

The study provided an economic analysis of the losses from deforestation in Enugu State of Nigeria. Specifically, the study evaluated the effects of resource-use patterns and processes associated with cleared forest land in Enugu State. It also identified estimated and analyzed financial and economic losses from deforestation in the state. Primary and secondary data generated were analyzed with descriptive statistics; furthermore, total economic valuation (TEV) model of valuing deforestation was used to achieve aggregate economic loss from different deforestation operations in different sectors of forest use. The major finding of the study shows that bush fire was the highest cause of deforestation in Enugu State. From the study, 69% of the respondents stated that they had no knowledge of any forest extension services. Furthermore, the total economic value (TEV) loss of forests in the last three years were N75,855,558.00 for 2018; N89,674,707.00 for 2017 and N85,683,956.00 for 2016. Among other recommendations, the study recommends that frequent use of workshops, advocacy and seminars are necessary to educate the rural and urban farmers more on the negative consequences of deforestation. This will help the rural stakeholders to have adequate information on the new policies of the government concerning forestry sector