An assessment of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) utilization on rural livelihoods in Ini local government area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

<p>The study examined the contribution of non-timber forest products (NTFPS) utilization on rural livelihood in Ini Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The specific objective was to investigate the utilization of NTFPs and ascertains it effects on rural livelihood. Data were obtained through the administration of 373 copies of structured questionnaire to 10 communities with large portion of natural rainforest. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The multiple regression result showed that the utilization of NTFPs was significantly influenced by socio-economic factors (age, gender, income and educational level) (p<0.05). The t-statistic result revealed that the utilization of NTFPs greatly contributed to rural livelihood such as cooking, medical treatment, roofing materials, craft making and income generation (p<0.01). The study revealed that 96.7 per cent of forest lands in the area were owned by individuals, families and communities, while only 3.3 per cent was owned either by the state or local government. The study suggests the domestication of economically valuable products be given priority at the local level as well as improves trade in NTFPs.