Abstract
Land degradation and persistent decline in agricultural productivity in Nigeria are issues of concern to government since the food production system is adversely affected. This has affected the carrying capacity of available natural resources with many of the rapidly increasing population not able to meet their basic food needs. Policy makers have now realized that for any sustainability of economic growth and development, appropriate policy to reverse the trend of land degradation is a necessity that cannot be compromised. This review shows that the trends of land use have shown relatively high degree of dependence on forestland for agricultural expansion and other industrial/urban uses. It is therefore important for the government to ensure adequate land use planning in conjunction with all stakeholders in the agricultural sector. Such plans should critically evaluate nation’s needs of land in the nearest future and how current uses can ensure sustainability in the long term period. Key words: Land use, degradation, sustainability, carrying capacity, Nigeria.
Highlights
The importance of agriculture in Nigerian economy cannot be over-emphasized
This review shows that the trends of land use have shown relatively high degree of dependence on forestland for agricultural expansion and other industrial/urban uses
It is important for the government to ensure adequate land use planning in conjunction with all stakeholders in the agricultural sector
Summary
Land degradation and persistent decline in agricultural productivity in Nigeria are issues of concern to government since the food production system is adversely affected This has affected the carrying capacity of available natural resources with many of the rapidly increasing population not able to meet their basic food needs. This review shows that the trends of land use have shown relatively high degree of dependence on forestland for agricultural expansion and other industrial/urban uses. It is important for the government to ensure adequate land use planning in conjunction with all stakeholders in the agricultural sector. Such plans should critically evaluate nation’s needs of land in the nearest future and how current uses can ensure sustainability in the long term period
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