Protect Our Planet: Government Issues Urgent Warning Against Unchecked Tree Cutting Amid Climate Crisis

Nigeria is facing a looming environmental and health crisis, primarily due to rampant tree cutting. The Federal Government has raised alarms about the severe consequences of this practice, especially in urban areas lacking sufficient green spaces.

At a recent conference titled ‘Sustainable Cities: The Future of Housing,’ Saleh Abubakar, Director-General of the National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW), shared insights on this pressing issue. He emphasized that Nigeria’s population is expected to soar past 265 million by 2050. If we don’t integrate more greenery into urban planning, the repercussions could be dire.

Abubakar pointed out that many Nigerian cities are ill-prepared for future climate challenges. Without urban forests, cities become hotspots for extreme heat and health issues. “A city without trees is vulnerable; it will face heatwaves and health crises,” he explained. He urged that cities should include parks and green corridors to allow residents to relax and socialize.

He also proposed new laws that would make it mandatory to plant trees during construction. Every home, he suggested, should have at least four trees—one at each corner. This could help manage rainwater and mitigate soil erosion.

A key part of the conversation was the urgent need for Nigeria to move beyond mere policy statements to real action. States like Gombe and Borno have begun tree-planting initiatives, even amidst tough financial and security challenges.

Jonah Barde, a representative from the Department of Climate Change, echoed these concerns, stating that climate change is an immediate issue, not something for the distant future. He noted the coastal flooding in Lagos and desert encroachment in northern regions, urging the adoption of climate-resilient home designs and improved drainage systems for new buildings.

Statistics suggest that by 2050, about 70% of the global population will reside in cities. Without a shift in our urban planning approach, we risk increasing environmental damage and social inequality. Barde stated that the future of housing isn’t just about concrete and bricks; it must involve smart design and innovation. Investing in technology that streamlines land titles and construction costs can significantly impact housing quality.

Sonia Somuvie, Managing Director of Coresphere, highlighted the rising costs of rent and deteriorating housing conditions as significant urban challenges. She called for a re-evaluation of current planning policies and urged the private sector to adopt best practices from around the world. “We need new ideas that focus on sustainability and community well-being,” she said.

As we move toward a future where climate impacts are more pronounced, the necessity for greener cities becomes urgent. This issue requires not just voices from the government but collective action from citizens and private enterprises alike.

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