Local Knowledge of Utilization of Nipa Palm (Nypa Fruticans, Wurmb) in the Coastal Areas of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

摘要

This study was aimed at identifying the uses and problems associated with the local utilization of nipa palm (Nypa fwticans, Wurmb) in the coastal areas of Akwa ibom State of Nigeria with a view to making recommendations for improved locai utilizationtechniques. Multi-stage sampling technique was used in randomly selecting 140 households from 14 coastal villages randomly selected from two of the seven Local Government Areas where nipa palm is found in the state. Data collection was by means of 140 questionnaires sent to representatives of each of the selected households for completion. The data collected were subjected to descriptive statistics and chi-square (x~2) tests at 95% probability level. Results showed that 91.6% of the respondents derivedeconomic benefits such as roofing mats, brooms, fuel, hats and dyes from nipa palm. 97.7% of the people inherited their knowledge of nipa palm utilization. The sources of knowledge of nipa palm utilization was independent of the sample villages, whereastheir levels of dependence for livelihood, their perception of effects of the spread of the palm on the environment, and opinions on ways of controlling the spread varied from village to village (p=0.05). Since the utilization is based on local knowledge, it is necessary for government and environmentally based non-governmental organizations to enlighten the people on improved and scientific techniques of utilization.