Abstract
In this study, analysis of sales, costs and demands for timber species was carried out in selected timber markets of Plateau State, Nigeria. Association as well as relationship between factors influencing timber sales, costs and demands were investigated, and the dependency of timber sales on factors affecting it was ascertained. Data obtained through administration of 400 structured questionnaires were analysed. Results from the use of descriptive statistics showed that Khaya senegalensis (mahogany) was the mostly demanded timber species by consumers, and that the cost per timber species for most of the sawn woods ranged between N1001 and N1500, which was equivalent to US $2.42–$3.63 using the current conversion rate of Nigerian Naira 413.83 to 1US dollar. Pairwise use of Pearson product moment correlation (PPMC) indicated positive correlation between timber sales and variables representing costs, demands, stored timber and spoiled timber species. F-test statistics showed that timber sales were significantly affected, and t-test aided identification of the extent to which timber sales were affected by costs, demands, stored timber and spoiled timber species. Further analysis of results using multiple linear regression (MLR) gave a model representing dependence of timber sales on factors affecting them. With a positive correlation and relationship between variables, possibility of future increase in timber sales may be experienced due to increase in demand coupled with other factors. Therefore, timber regulatory agencies have to put in place measures to encourage planting of trees such as Khaya senegalensis (mahogany), whose timber species are mainly demanded by consumers of wood products, and curb excessive overexploitation of forests in Plateau State, Nigeria.