THE MAN-ENVIRONMENT INTERFACE IN THE GUINEA SAVANNAH ECOLOGICAL ZONE IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This paper looks at the Man-Environment Interface in the Guinea savannah ecological zone. The study highlights an overview of the settlements in guinea savannah from north to south. natural/ecological activity systems, human activity system in the guinea savannah as well as environmental issues. The paper utilizes desk study to highlight human and environmental issues in the Guinea savannah and also employs random sampling across the states within the zone for the citation of experiences. In conclusion the study indicates that the negative impacts of the human-induced influence on the Wetland ecosystem through land-use and waste effluent discharges with attendant degradation/loss on one hand through urbanization and on the other hand Encroachment on flood plain areas/changes in the pattern of rainfall will possibly lead to flooding and erosion coupled with discharge of pollutants (solid, liquid and gas) by man through industrial and agricultural activities amongst others. Finally, the study recommends the need to implement Kaduna Metropolis Floodplain Action Group to regulate floodplain ordinances and acquiring and storing relevant data through an equipped Watershed Information System. Likewise, the National Environment Standards and Regulation Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to be focused on the protection and sustainable development of the environment and its natural resources among others.