A new report has revealed that Nigeria has lost a staggering 1.25 million hectares of forest cover in the past 20 years, primarily due to illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and other human activities. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for a concerted effort to address deforestation and protect Nigeria’s vital ecosystems.
The report, compiled by environmental organizations and research institutes, highlights the rapid decline of Nigeria’s forests, which are crucial for maintaining biodiversity, mitigating climate change, and supporting local communities. Deforestation has escalated over the last two decades, with logging activities accounting for a significant portion of the damage.
Experts warn that continued forest loss poses serious threats to Nigeria’s environment, including soil erosion, reduced water quality, and the loss of habitats for countless species. Furthermore, the loss of forests exacerbates climate change, as trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
The Nigerian government, along with international partners, is being called upon to enforce stricter regulations on logging activities, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and invest in large-scale reforestation projects to reverse the damage.
“It is imperative that we take immediate action to protect and restore our forests,” said Dr. Amina Bello, an environmental scientist involved in the report. “The future of our planet depends on our ability to halt deforestation and ensure the long-term health of our natural resources.”
The report also calls for greater community engagement and awareness programs to reduce the demand for illegal timber and promote sustainable alternatives. While progress has been made in some areas, the report emphasizes that much more needs to be done to safeguard Nigeria's forests for future generations.