Abstract

This study assessed the rate, causes and impacts of deforestation on socio-economic development of selected communities in Borgu local government of Niger state, Nigeria. Data were collected using structured questionnaire from one hundred respondents in five communities in Borgu local government area. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings show that female respondents recorded the highest percentage (55%) and age group 41-50 had the highest percentage (40%).  The major occupation of the respondents was farming with 30%.  The source of fuel of majority of the household was firewood (64%). The level of Knowledge about of deforestation revealed that 60% of the respondents have engaged in deforestation. The rate and extent of deforestation revealed that deforestation witnessed in a slow rate recorded the highest. The causes of deforestation in the study area shows that construction of building and farming were the major causes of deforestation. The socio-economic benefits that directly influence the exploitation of forest resources in this community shows that source of income recorded the highest (60%). The negative effects of deforestation in shows that global warming is the highest (40%). The study recommends that alternative source of income should be provided to the communities.

Key Words:Deforestation, Rate, Causes, Impacts, Forest