TYPES OF NON-TIMBER FOREST PRODUCTS IN YOBE STATE, NIGERIA

The study identified the types of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) in Yobe State, as well as comparing the types available in the three geopolitical zones (Eastern Yobe, Southern Yobe and Northern Yobe: Zone A, B and C respectively) of the state. Structured questionnaire complemented with interview were used to collect data from 600 forest users (hunters and traditional herbalist) residing in the main towns of the three geopolitical zones of the State. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings of this study include the presence of more than fifty (50) different plants’ and animals’ common to the three geopolitical zones. In addition, each of the three geopolitical zones has not less than 40 species of NTFPs. The study also revealed Southern Yobegeopolitical zonehad the highest species diversity and quantities of plants’ and animals related NTFPs with 91% and 100% of the total identified NTFPs respectively. Similarly, nearly all the species and products of animals related NTFPs identified in both Eastern Yobe and Northern Yobe were found in Southern Yobe meaning that there were many NTFPs thriving in Southern Yobe but absent in Eastern Yobe and Northern Yobe. The study also found fruits, nuts, honey, fibre, oil, bush meat among others as the major NTFPs in the state. Thus, there is the need to create awareness among the people by both government and NGOs on the sustainable use of these resources so as to ensure continuous supply both now and in the future.