The Impact of Human Activities on Agricultural Practices in Selected Regions of Bwari Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria.
Abstract:
This study aimed to assess the effects of anthropogenic practices on agricultural activities in specific regions of Bwari Area Council, including Igu, Mpape, Bwari, and Bazango Kubwa. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to farmers and households in the study area. Additionally, Landsat Images from 1988, 2008, and 2018 were analyzed to identify various anthropogenic practices occurring in the region, such as deforestation, overgrazing, urbanization, and mining.
The analysis of land cover change in Igu, Mpape, Bwari, and Bazango Kubwa revealed a significant reduction in vegetation over the years. Agricultural land in Kubwa experienced a reduction from 16.9614 Km2 (43.39%) to 14.2263Km2 (36.41%) and 12.4209(Km2) (31.78%), while in Bwari, it decreased from 24.5988Km2 (45.96%) to 18.9612Km2 (35.45%) and 6.327 (Km2) (11.83%). Similarly, in Igu, the agricultural land decreased from 75.3138Km2 (58.79%) to 57.4758Km2 (44.91%) and 47.1006(Km2) (36.77%), and in Mpape, it reduced from 31.2831km2 (57.96%) to 24.9831km2 (46.3%) and 18.1692Km2 (33.66%). The degraded land cover was found to have a direct impact on agricultural practices in the study area, leading to soil nutrient loss, erosion, impeded plant growth, and soil salinity, ultimately resulting in lower agricultural yields.
The study suggests implementing various strategies to mitigate and adapt to the effects of land cover change on agricultural activities. These strategies include organizing training programs to promote proper anthropogenic practices, expanding and improving the management of protected areas, and regulating anthropogenic practices within the vicinity of agricultural land. Policy interventions should be designed to control and restrict practices such as mining and deforestation to prevent their hazardous effects on lives and properties of the people. Moreover, enlightening programs should be conducted to raise awareness about appropriate anthropogenic practices and the risks associated with improper practices. By implementing these measures, it is possible to sustainably support agricultural activities while preserving the environment in the study area.
The Impact of Human Activities on Agricultural Practices in Selected Regions of Bwari Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria.