The Nigerian Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal has expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s environmental crisis. He stated that the country is facing a severe depletion of tree cover, primarily caused by extensive Logging and charcoal production. Lawal emphasized the seriousness of the issue by pointing out that Nigeria’s tree coverage now stands at a mere 3.7 percent, significantly lower than the recommended minimum of 25 percent for maintaining ecological balance. Lawal, in an interview exclusive to the media in Abuja, expressed that the current situation is a grave crisis.
The minister emphasized the critical need for urgent action to address the country’s dwindling tree cover, which is contributing to oxygen depletion and rising carbon dioxide levels in our community. Illegal logging and charcoal production have been cited as the main causes of this drastic loss of tree coverage over the past two decades, leading to a dire situation that must be reversed promptly. Foreign individuals, such as those from China, are exploiting our tree resources through exportation, all the while keeping a larger percentage of tree coverage in their own countries.
Urbanization in Nigeria is a significant driver of deforestation.
A major factor contributing to Deforestation is the rapid growth of Agriculture in Nigeria, as many individuals depend on farming for their livelihood. This expansion of farmland has resulted in the depletion of forests. Additionally, Deforestation in Nigeria is also driven by logging, whether legal or illegal, which is often related with Corruption and inadequate enforcement of laws. Urbanization in Nigeria is also a significant driver of deforestation, with the continual growth and expansion of cities resulting in the loss of forests within urbanized regions.
He suggested that to tackle the issue of deforestation Nigeria must implement a policy that mandates the planting of three trees for each tree that is cut down. He highlighted the importance of engaging various groups such as youth, women’s organizations, and other community members in order to reach the ministry’s target of planting a minimum of 100 million trees. Lawal expressed his belief that Nigeria has the capability to surpass this goal, pointing to Ethiopia’s success in planting over 2 billion trees as inspiration. He also stated that the country should develop new tree planting techniques, such as using drought-resistant species that are able to thrive in harsh environments, in order to enhance reforestation initiatives.
Existing regulations for illegal logging are not enough.
Lawal recognized the heightened seriousness of the situation due to this year’s extended period of hot weather, which began in February. He pointed out that the heat has been particularly intense, made worse by the absence of trees. As part of efforts to combat deforestation, he mentioned that the Federal Executive Council has endorsed a new national cooking policy to decrease dependence on charcoal. This policy aims to promote the adoption of gas and other Alternative Energy sources. Additionally, Lawal urged for more strict regulations to address environmental crimes.
It was stated that the existing punishment regulations for illegal logging and wildlife poaching are not enough, especially in light of the recent elephant poaching in Borno State. He argued that stricter regulations and dedicated environmental courts should be established to address these issues. The ministry is focused on improving legal enforcement and safeguarding Nigeria’s natural resources through initiatives like training for legal professionals and introducing Environmental Law courses at universities. This is a matter of urgency which Nigeria needs to take immediate action against to safeguard the environment for the well-being of future generations.
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Encouraging the adoption of Eco-friendly farming practices is another key way to ease the strain on forests. Incorporating methods like conservation agriculture, agroforestry, and utilizing advanced seeds and fertilizers can aid in this effort. Additionally, advocating for sustainable Forestry techniques like selective logging, reforestation, and Afforestation can also contribute to conserving forests. Also, focusing on enhancing law enforcement and combating corruption can lead to a decrease in illegal logging and other practices that fuel deforestation.
