Agro Forestry Practices and Green Economy for Environmental Sustainability in Nigeria (A Case Study of Obudu and Obanliku Local Government Areas of Cross River State Nigeria)

Abstract

This study examined the role of agroforestry practices in promoting the green economy and enhancing environmental sustainability in Obudu and Obanliku Local Government Areas of Cross River State, Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to identify common agroforestry practices in the area, assess their contributions to environmental conservation, evaluate their socio-economic benefits, and explore the challenges faced by farmers in implementing these practices. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected from 360 respondents selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection, and the results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while hypotheses were tested using chi-square at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that agroforestry practices such as alley cropping, home gardens, silvopasture, and shelterbelts are widely adopted in the study area. These practices were found to contribute significantly to soil fertility improvement, erosion control, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity conservation. Moreover, agroforestry was shown to provide socio-economic benefits including increased farm income, food security, and fuel wood supply. However, the study identified challenges such as inadequate extension services, limited access to credit facilities, land tenure issues, and low awareness of advanced agroforestry techniques. The study concludes that agroforestry serves as a viable pathway for achieving a green economy while ensuring environmental sustainability in rural communities. It recommends that government agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and development partners should intensify awareness campaigns, provide financial and technical support to farmers, and integrate agroforestry into local development policies. These measures will enhance the adoption of agroforestry practices and contribute to the sustainable management of natural resources in the study areas.