Experts Warn: Nigeria’s Biodiversity at Risk in Climate Emergency – What You Need to Know

Biodiversity loss is a pressing issue, especially in Nigeria, where extreme weather plays a big role. The dry season brings wildfires that can wipe out entire forests, while the rainy season brings floods that wash away soil and life.

Nigeria is rich in biodiversity, filled with unique plants and animals. This diversity is crucial for the health of both the environment and the people who rely on it. Studies show that when nature thrives, communities thrive as well.

Recently, the Nigerian government unveiled its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), aiming to curb biodiversity loss by 2030. This plan sets a clear goal: manage areas of high biodiversity to minimize loss.

As the rainy season begins, Nigeria faces severe flooding, raising alarms about the impact of climate change. For instance, floods in Mokwa, Niger State, led to 207 deaths, displacing over 3,000 households and destroying hundreds of homes and farms. Events like these underscore the urgent need for action against climate hazards.

Flooding is not just a natural disaster; it’s a significant threat to biodiversity. “Prolonged flooding harms both plant and animal life,” warns Paul Odinko, an environmental advocate. “Vulnerable species can’t escape rising waters, and their habitats are destroyed.”

While the government is committed to ambitious targets under the NBSAP, challenges persist. Issues like waste dumping, poor drainage, deforestation, and urban development that encroaches on waterways continue to threaten ecosystems.

According to a recent report by the United Nations, about 1 million species are at risk of extinction worldwide, emphasizing the dire state of global biodiversity. This underscores the need for concerted efforts, not only in Nigeria but globally, to protect our natural world.

In summary, Nigeria’s rich biodiversity is under threat from climate challenges, and urgent action is needed to protect it. The government’s new plan is a step in the right direction, but it will require commitment and cooperation from all sectors of society to see real change.

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