Evaluation of Deforestation and Its Impact on Biodiversity in Obudu, Cross River State

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction

Forests play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, supporting biodiversity, and regulating the global climate. They provide essential ecosystem services such as carbon storage, soil protection, and water regulation. However, deforestation has become one of the most serious environmental challenges in Nigeria. It leads to the loss of wildlife habitats, soil erosion, and disruption of local climate patterns.

In Obudu, Cross River State, forests are a natural heritage that supports both human livelihood and wildlife diversity. Unfortunately, increasing population pressure, agricultural expansion, logging, and infrastructural development have contributed to rapid deforestation in recent years. According to Eneji and Ukpong (2021), the rate of forest depletion in Cross River State remains one of the highest in Nigeria, threatening many species found only in the region. Therefore, evaluating the impact of deforestation on biodiversity in Obudu is crucial for sustainable forest management.

1.1 Background to the Study

Deforestation refers to the permanent removal of forest cover to make land available for other uses such as farming, settlement, or mining. It affects biodiversity by reducing the number of species, fragmenting habitats, and altering ecosystem functions. Globally, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO, 2020) reported that about 10 million hectares of forest are lost each year, with tropical regions facing the most severe losses.

Cross River State contains a large portion of Nigeria’s remaining tropical rainforest, which is home to endangered species such as the Cross River gorilla, drill monkey, and various bird species. However, human activities such as slash-and-burn agriculture, timber harvesting, and road construction have destroyed large portions of these forests. Agbor et al. (2022) observed that between 2000 and 2020, forest cover in Obudu declined by nearly 35%, leading to significant habitat fragmentation.

The destruction of forest ecosystems affects not only plant and animal life but also local communities that depend on forest resources for food, medicine, and shelter. Understanding the causes and consequences of deforestation in Obudu helps identify effective conservation strategies to protect biodiversity and support sustainable livelihoods.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Deforestation in Obudu has reached alarming levels, causing serious environmental and ecological damage. The conversion of forest land into farmland and settlements has reduced wildlife habitats and increased soil erosion. Logging activities, both legal and illegal, continue without adequate reforestation measures. Consequently, many species face extinction, and the ecological balance of the region is under threat.

Despite government and community efforts to control deforestation, biodiversity loss remains widespread because of weak enforcement, poor awareness, and poverty-driven exploitation of forest resources. There is also a lack of recent and comprehensive research that examines the link between forest depletion and biodiversity decline in Obudu. This study therefore evaluates the impact of deforestation on biodiversity in the area to provide data for effective policy decisions.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The main aim of this study is to evaluate deforestation and its impact on biodiversity in Obudu, Cross River State.

The specific objectives are to:

1. Identify the major causes of deforestation in Obudu.

2. Assess the rate and extent of forest cover loss in the area.

3. Examine the impact of deforestation on wildlife diversity and forest resources.

4. Suggest practical measures to promote sustainable forest management in Obudu.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What are the main causes of deforestation in Obudu?

2. How has forest cover changed over time in the study area?

3. What are the effects of deforestation on biodiversity in Obudu?

4. Which sustainable management strategies can help reduce deforestation and biodiversity loss?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This research is significant because it contributes to a better understanding of how deforestation affects biodiversity and ecological sustainability in Obudu. The results will benefit government agencies, conservation organizations, and local communities by providing data that supports the development of effective forest management policies.

Additionally, this study aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15, which focuses on protecting, restoring, and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. It will raise public awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation and encourage community participation in reforestation and environmental protection initiatives.

By identifying the key factors responsible for deforestation, the research will help decision-makers design programs that balance human needs with environmental conservation, ensuring long-term ecological stability in Cross River State.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study covers selected forest communities in Obudu, including areas around Bebuabong, Alege, and Utanga. It focuses on the causes of deforestation, the rate of forest cover loss, and its impact on local biodiversity. The research also considers the socioeconomic factors that contribute to forest exploitation. However, it does not include laboratory analysis of species diversity due to time and resource limitations.

1.7 Definition of Key Terms

• Deforestation: The permanent removal of forest vegetation for non-forest uses such as farming or settlement.

• Biodiversity: The variety of living organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, within an ecosystem.

• Forest Cover: The proportion of land area covered by forests within a region.

• Habitat Fragmentation: The process by which large habitats are divided into smaller, isolated patches.

• Sustainable Forest Management: The practice of maintaining forest resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising future generations.

References

Agbor, M. A., Nchor, A. A., & Udoh, E. I. (2022). Forest loss and biodiversity decline in Cross River State, Nigeria. Journal of Environmental Conservation, 15(2), 61–78.
Eneji, C. V., & Ukpong, I. E. (2021). Drivers of deforestation and biodiversity loss in Southern Nigeria. African Journal of Ecology, 19(1), 35–49.
FAO. (2020). Global Forest Resources Assessment. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome.