Abstract:
Wetlands provide numerous ecosystem services supporting livelihoods of people around the world. However, in spite of these benefits,
wetlands are continuously being degraded through over exploitation, poor management and other unsustainable uses. A major challenge
on wetland development in Nigeria is how to raise awareness of, and provide guidance on, the importance of wetlands as providers of benefits
to urban populations. This study assessed urban development and sustainable livelihoods of communities around Eleyele wetland in
Ibadan, Oyo State. 240 respondents in three major communities around the wetland including Ijokodo, Eleyele and Apete were selected for
this study. Also, indepth interviews and Focus Group Discussions were conducted in each on the communities. Findings revealed that almost
all households surveyed derive benefits from the wetland. However, a wide range of human activities mostly resulting from urban encroachment
have affected the wetland and caused their degradation hence negatively impacting the services provided by the wetland. The
study recommends provision of alternative livelihoods for people living around the wetland. There is need to strengthen the implementation
of existing laws and policies on wetland use, management and protection in the state and in the country as a whole so as to reduce the
existing pressures on wetland use.
