Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The study aims to analyze the poverty status of forest dwellers in coastal communities, focusing on the socio-economic factors contributing to their impoverished conditions. Forest dwellers in coastal regions often face unique challenges due to their reliance on natural resources for livelihoods and the vulnerability to environmental changes. The research will employ a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather data on household income, assets, access to basic services, and perceptions of poverty among forest dwellers. The quantitative analysis will involve calculating poverty indicators such as income levels, expenditure patterns, and asset ownership to determine the extent of poverty in the target communities. The qualitative component of the study will explore the underlying causes of poverty among forest dwellers, including limited access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Interviews with community members will provide insights into the social dynamics, cultural factors, and historical contexts shaping poverty in coastal forest communities. Additionally, the research will investigate the impact of environmental degradation, climate change, and natural disasters on the livelihoods of forest dwellers, further exacerbating their poverty status. Furthermore, the study will examine the role of government policies, conservation initiatives, and development projects in addressing poverty among forest dwellers. By analyzing the effectiveness of existing poverty alleviation programs and social protection mechanisms, the research aims to identify gaps and challenges in policy implementation and propose recommendations for more targeted interventions. The findings of the study are expected to contribute to the existing literature on poverty in coastal communities and inform policymakers, development practitioners, and non-governmental organizations working to improve the well-being of forest dwellers. In conclusion, the analysis of poverty status among forest dwellers in coastal communities is essential for understanding the complex socio-economic dynamics influencing their livelihoods and well-being. By combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative insights from community members, the research seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of poverty in these marginalized populations. Ultimately, the study aims to generate evidence-based recommendations for effective poverty reduction strategies that promote sustainable development and social inclusion in coastal forest communities.

Thesis Overview

This study analyzed poverty status of forest dwellers in coastal communities of Ondo State, Nigeria. Ten communities were randomly selected in the coastal region of Ondo State. In the two local government areas that were selected, two sets of structured questionnaires were administered to ten randomly selected respondents in each of the communities visited. The result of the study shows that 60% of the respondent in both communities has no formal education. In Okitipupa, 50% of the respondents earn₦ 80,000-₦100,000 while 44% of the respondents in Ese-odo community earn between ₦60,000-₦80,000 per annum. This study also showed that 38% and 36% of the respondents in Ese-odo and Okitipupa community respectively have transportation problems. The Lorenz curve in the study show the cumulative income share against the percentage of forest dwellers indicates that there is inequality in the income of the respondents. Government should help provide good roads and health centers in the rural areas of the study area. This will help to solve transportation problem faced by many of the forest dwellers of the study area. By providing health centers, many of the respondents that are faced with ill-health problems will have access to better health services.