Assessing Forest Cover and Composition in Nigeria

Nigeria’s once expansive forests are now under severe threat, reduced to only 12.8% of the country’s land—around 110,890 square kilometers. Over time, deforestation has severely damaged these ecosystems, with forests vanishing at 350,000 hectares annually. If this trend continues, it is estimated that in 2052, the forests may be completely gone, resulting in catastrophic consequences for biodiversity, climate stability, and community livelihoods.

Nigerian forest ecosystems exhibit rich diversity, with distinct regions supporting various vegetation types. In the southern areas, lush tropical rainforests dominate, transitioning into savannah woodlands as one moves north. These ecosystems support a variety of tree species, including economically valuable hardwoods like Mahogany and Teak. Additionally, fruit-bearing trees such as Mango (Mangifera indica) and Avocado (Persea americana) provide sustenance and economic benefits and play a crucial role in carbon sequestration.

The sequestration potential of these forests is substantial. For instance, a Persea americana tree can sequester up to 125,916.7 kg of CO2 over its lifetime, while urban tree studies in Nigeria’s Edo State indicate that certain species like Terminalia mantaly and Delonix regia are exceptionally effective at storing carbon. Such findings highlight the need to preserve and restore Nigeria’s forests as natural carbon sinks essential to mitigating climate change.

 

The Dual Threat of Logging and Wildfires to Nigeria’s Forests

Over the past decade, logging and land development have led to the loss of approximately 350,000 to 400,000 hectares of forest annually, wiping out nearly 3.7% of forest cover each year. Agricultural expansion for cash crops like palm oil and cocoa and urbanization has driven large-scale deforestation. Weak enforcement of environmental laws has allowed illegal logging to thrive, further exacerbating the crisis.

In addition to human activities, wildfires have become a significant force of destruction in Nigeria’s forests. Although less widely reported than logging, wildfires have devastated areas like the Akure-Ofosu Forest Reserve, where 45% of the primary forest cover was lost between 2002 and 2021. Wildfires, often ignited by a mix of natural factors and human negligence, not only destroy vast swathes of forest but also release stored carbon back into the atmosphere, intensifying climate change.

Public Policy Impact on Forest Coverage

Nigeria’s efforts to curb deforestation and promote sustainable forest management are anchored in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the Paris Agreement. In pursuit of these goals, the country has launched a National REDD+ Strategy to reduce deforestation and forest degradation emissions. This strategy highlights sustainable practices and low-emission development as key measures to balance the environmental and economic demands of forest resources.

However, public policy is a double-edged sword. While protective measures like the REDD+ Strategy show promise, ineffective enforcement and socio-economic pressures undermine conservation efforts. Local communities often rely on forests for survival, creating a conflict between conservation and economic development. Public policies should focus on safeguarding forests while meeting the needs of the communities that rely on them, ensuring that conservation initiatives are both sustainable and inclusive.

As we reflect on the key issues presented, the nation’s forest reserves are at a critical juncture. With millions of hectares lost and the pressures of deforestation and wildfires growing, decisive action is needed to preserve the remaining forest cover. The country’s policies and strategies must balance conservation and development, integrating community engagement and sustainable management practices. Through comprehensive forest management, Nigeria can safeguard its forests, protect biodiversity, and contribute to the global fight against climate change.

Primary Influencer

Rachel Ikemeh

Founder/Executive Director, South West/Niger Delta Forest Project.

info@swnigerdeltaforestproject.org.ng

 

Take Action Message

Dear Rachel Ikemeh,

Your incredible work through the South West/Niger Delta Forest Project has made a significant impact on forest conservation in Nigeria, and I want to commend you for your dedication and achievements. Your efforts are vital to preserving our nation’s natural ecosystems, and your leadership has been truly inspiring.

As we continue to address the challenges of deforestation and environmental degradation, I encourage you to consider promoting a balanced approach that incorporates both conservation and economic development. Public policies should safeguard our forests and meet the needs of the communities that rely on them. Focusing on sustainable and inclusive conservation initiatives can create lasting benefits for the environment and local communities.

Your expertise and leadership are essential in driving these initiatives. By incorporating community-based strategies, we can ensure the long-term success of conservation efforts across Nigeria.

Yours faithfully,

[Sign Name]

This post was submitted by Nigeria Country Manager Michael Johnson.

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