ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AFFECTING RURAL LIVELIHOOD DIVERSIFICATION MONG RURAL DWELLERS IN ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study analyzed the environmental factors affecting rural livelihood diversification in Adamawa State, Nigeria. The data used for the analysis were generated from 360 respondents, using multi-stage random sampling procedure. The analytical tools used were descriptive (frequencies and percentages) and inferential statistics (Tobit regression). The descriptive statistics were used in categorizing the respondents on the basis of their socio-economic characteristics. Tobit regression was employed to determine the environmental factors affecting livelihood diversification. The major findings were that: the frequency of natural disasters (X1) and season of the year (X5) were positive and significant for livelihood diversification at 5% level of significance. The number of natural resources (X3) available in an environment was positive and significant for livelihood diversification at 1% level of significance. The distance between state headquarters, local government headquarters and major towns (X2) and where a respondent lives was found to be not significant. Similarly, distance between markets (X4) and where a respondent lives was also found to be not significant for livelihood diversification. It was concluded that the number of natural disasters that occur and the number of natural resources available in the study area are strong factors that affect livelihood diversification. It was recommended, among others, that the prevailing environmental factors in a given area should be considered at the planning stages for any rural development or empowerment projects meant for livelihood diversification. Livelihood diversification opportunities should be made available and possible during dry season periods in the study area.