Background of the Study
Soil erosion is one of the most serious environmental challenges in Nigeria, particularly in the middle-belt region, where extensive agricultural activities and deforestation contribute to land degradation (Okoye et al., 2024). In Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State, soil erosion has led to the loss of arable land, destruction of infrastructure, and the displacement of communities. Local government authorities play a crucial role in mitigating erosion through the implementation of erosion control programs, such as tree planting, the construction of drainage systems, and soil conservation practices (Eno & Abah, 2023). However, the effectiveness of these measures has been limited by inadequate funding, lack of technical expertise, and poor enforcement of land use regulations. This study evaluates the response of the Makurdi Local Government to erosion control, assessing the success of its initiatives and identifying the barriers to effective implementation.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the implementation of various erosion control measures in Makurdi, soil erosion continues to pose a significant threat to the environment and local communities. The response of the local government has been insufficient in addressing the root causes and mitigating the effects of erosion. This study seeks to critically evaluate the local government’s efforts in erosion control and propose recommendations for improving the effectiveness of these interventions.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
• To evaluate the effectiveness of local government erosion control initiatives in Makurdi.
• To assess the environmental and socio-economic impacts of erosion on communities in Makurdi.
• To identify the challenges faced by the local government in controlling soil erosion in Makurdi.
1.4 Research Questions
• What are the most effective erosion control measures implemented by the Makurdi Local Government?
• What are the environmental and socio-economic impacts of erosion in Makurdi Local Government Area?
• What challenges hinder the success of local government erosion control efforts in Makurdi?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
• H1: The local government’s erosion control initiatives have significantly reduced soil erosion in Makurdi.
• H2: Soil erosion in Makurdi has a significant negative impact on agricultural productivity and local infrastructure.
• H3: Insufficient funding and technical expertise negatively affect the success of erosion control measures in Makurdi.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant because it offers an in-depth evaluation of the local government’s role in addressing soil erosion, which is a major environmental challenge in Makurdi (Eno & Abah, 2023). The findings will provide recommendations to improve erosion control policies, ensuring that they are more effective in reducing land degradation and supporting sustainable agriculture. This study will also contribute to the broader field of environmental management by highlighting the importance of local government engagement in combating soil erosion.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on Makurdi Local Government Area, specifically evaluating the local government’s erosion control policies and their effectiveness. It will not cover other regions of Benue State or national-level erosion control policies. Limitations include challenges in obtaining detailed data on government spending and implementation, as well as potential bias in community responses.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
• Erosion Control: Measures and practices used to prevent or reduce soil erosion, such as vegetation cover, drainage systems, and soil stabilization.
• Soil Erosion: The displacement of soil caused by wind, water, or human activities, leading to the loss of topsoil and degradation of land.
• Local Government Response: The actions taken by the local government to address environmental issues, including policy implementation, resource allocation, and enforcement.
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