A STUDY OF THE IMPACT OF SOIL EROSION AND CONTROL STRATEGIES IN APO VILLAGE FCT

Soil erosion remains a critical environmental and socio-economic challenge, particularly in regions where agriculture is the mainstay of livelihood. This study examined the causes, impacts, and control strategies of soil erosion in Apo Village, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Primary data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, observations, focus group discussions, and photography from a sample of 120 respondents. Secondary data were obtained from textbooks, journals, and relevant reports. The findings revealed that soil erosion in Apo Village is primarily driven by deforestation (33.3%), poor farming practices (25%), overgrazing (20.8%), urban expansion (12.5%), and heavy rainfall/climate change (8.4%). Its impacts include loss of soil fertility (29.2%), low agricultural productivity (20.8%), flooding (16.7%), siltation of water bodies (12.5%), destruction of infrastructure (12.5%), and food insecurity (8.3%). Although soil conservation practices such as tree planting, contour farming, and mulching have been introduced, only 35% of respondents considered them effective, while 45% rated them partially effective. The study concludes that soil erosion poses significant threats to agricultural sustainability, food security, and rural livelihoods in Apo Village. It recommends strengthening community awareness, expanding afforestation efforts, promoting conservation agriculture, enforcing urban planning regulations, and enhancing government support through funding, training, and partnerships. These measures, if effectively implemented, will reduce erosion, restore soil productivity, and improve the socio-economic well-being of the community. 2