Why Forests are Essential for Climate Resilience: Insights from the Environment Minister | EnviroNews on Climate Change & Renewable Energy

The Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal, recently highlighted the important role forests play in Nigeria’s climate stability during a press briefing in Abuja. He stressed that forests are vital for biodiversity, maintaining water cycles, and supporting millions of livelihoods.

Lawal noted that the government has taken significant steps to reduce practices that harm forests, such as unsustainable agriculture and excessive logging. These efforts have effectively lowered deforestation rates, as well as the negative impacts of climate change.

“We’ve seen real progress in restoring forests under President Bola Tinubu,” Lawal remarked. He specifically mentioned the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), which is addressing oil spill damage in Ogoniland. HYPREP has initiated a major mangrove restoration project that has already planted over two million seedlings of different mangrove species across 560 hectares, with an impressive 85% of the project completed.

In an exciting development, Nigeria signed a Cooperation Framework Agreement with Cameroon in April 2024 to enhance the conservation of shared ecosystems. This agreement focuses on protecting vital areas, such as the Cross River National Park in Nigeria and Korup National Park in Cameroon, both known for their rich biodiversity.

Lawal also emphasized the ministry’s commitment to making vulnerable communities more resilient to climate change. The National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW) has raised 3.85 million neem seedlings for reforestation and medicinal purposes across 11 frontline states. This initiative aims to strengthen both the environment and local economies.

The Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) has been crucial in advancing forest research and developing digital solutions for monitoring forest zones. Meanwhile, the National Park Service (NPS) continues to play a vital role in protecting national parks and wildlife. Lawal pointed out that NPS has enhanced forest security through better collaboration with the military, yielding positive results in recovering areas previously taken over by bandits.

Amid growing environmental concerns, these initiatives demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to forest conservation and climate resilience. According to a recent study, forests in Nigeria could mitigate about 543 million tons of CO2 emissions annually, underscoring their importance in global efforts against climate change.

As these programs continue to unfold, they not only promise to improve Nigeria’s environmental health but also to secure a sustainable future for its communities and ecosystems.

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