1Yawudima, Z.B., 1Mohammed, A. and 2Sulumbe, I.M.
1Department of General Agriculture, Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri, Borno State Nigeria.
2Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Borno State Nigeria.
*Corresponding author’s Email: banayeyya@yahoo.com, doi.org/10.55639/607.020100118
ABSTRACT
In post-conflict Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria, charcoal remains the dominant household cooking fuel due to persistent energy poverty, insecurity, and limited access to modern energy alternatives. This study examined charcoal value chain dynamics and their livelihood implications using a mixed methods approach. Primary data were collected from 150 respondents across five actor categories (producers, transporters, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers) using structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and field observations. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and value chain analysis techniques. Results revealed significant inequities in value distribution, with producers capturing only 38% of the final retail price despite bearing the highest production burden. Charcoal activities contributed between 58% and 72% of household income across actors, highlighting its central role in livelihood sustenance. Although 70% of producers were aware of environmental impacts, only 15% adopted conservation practices, indicating a substantial knowledge–practice gap. Charcoal remained the dominant cooking fuel (54%), with 68% of consumers willing to transition to cleaner alternatives if affordable and accessible. The study concludes that charcoal trade is both a critical livelihood source and a driver of environmental degradation, necessitating balanced policy interventions focused on market formalization, energy transition, and sustainable resource management.
KEYWORDS
Charcoal value
chain,
Deforestation,
Northeast Nigeria,
Energy
poverty.

