Community Monster: Reclaiming The Borrow Pits In Batagarawa Community Of North-Western Nigeria

Abstract

Land degradation is a global issue caused by weather extremes and human actions. Active pursuit of land reclamation policy, an aspect of land management techniques can help reverse the menace of land degradation. Land reclamation, particularly of borrow pits, can create a self-sustaining environment that attracts biodiversity and improves ecological services. Batagarawa township in North-Western Nigeria has a massive borrow pit covering an estimated area of 0.78 hectares. The pit is encroaching on other, important sites, causing environmental damage, loss of life, and contaminating other sources of water around it. This study used purposely selected samples and administered 300 copies of a structured questionnaire to collect primary data. Data collected were analysed using simple descriptive statistics such as percentages and frequency tables. The borrow pit, privately owned, has become a sewage and garbage dump due to extensive excavation work and population growth. It now extends to perimeter fencing walls of buildings, causing a threat to the environment. The study recommends restoring the site and supervising excavators with strict laws and penalties. Reclaiming existing borrow pits is a sustainable measure in environmental management.