The Ecology and its Implications for the Economy of Toto Area, North Central Nigeria, 1800-2000
Maiyaki Muhammed Mejida
Department of History
Nasarawa State University Keffi, Nigeria
Email: maiyaki2006nsuk@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Human beings from time immemorial are tied to nature for basic raw materials, food, and resources for survival. Natural phenomena of climatic elements such as rainfall, sunshine, relative humidity and precipitation determine the extent to which man enjoys sustainable and stable ecosystem for agricultural activities, sufficient food supply and healthy living in general. The role of ecology and economy in shaping history cannot be over-emphasised. Recourse to it would place historical developments in their natural contexts. In the context of this study, we focus on such features as the soil, highlands, the plains and valleys, the rivers, climate, the fauna and flora. All these ecological features are discussed in relation to human activities, sustainability and development. Using both written and oral evidence, the paper notes that the relationship between man and the environment is a dynamic one. The physical environment provided both opportunities and challenges for man.
Keywords: Ecology, Economy, Toto Area, North Central Nigeria
