…..12% of Nigeria’s Tree Cover Lost Since 2001
As the world marks International Day of Forests, conservation group Wild Africa is calling on the Nigerian government, private sector, and environmental organizations to step up efforts to protect the country’s forests—critical habitats for some of its most iconic wildlife species.
Over the past two decades, Nigeria has lost 12% of its tree cover, equivalent to 1.25 million hectares of forest. The primary drivers of deforestation include illegal logging, slash-and-burn agriculture, and commercial plantations, which account for approximately 60% of the destruction.
This year’s theme, “Forests and Foods,” highlights the essential role of forests in food security, nutrition, and livelihoods. Beyond sustaining ecosystems, forests provide fuel, medicine, income, and employment—especially for communities that live near them. They also play a crucial role in water conservation, carbon sequestration, soil fertility, and crop pollination.
Africa’s Forests Under Threat
Across Africa, deforestation is accelerating at an alarming rate, with forests disappearing at over 4 million hectares per year—twice the global average. The consequences of this rapid loss include biodiversity decline, food insecurity, and climate instability, affecting both people and wildlife.
Globally, forests serve as a vital source of nutrition, supplying nuts, fruits, seeds, roots, tubers, mushrooms, honey, cacao, and even insects, which provide essential nutrients. An estimated 1.6 billion people—25% of the world’s population—depend on forests for their livelihoods and sustenance.
Nigeria’s Rich Biodiversity at Risk
Nigeria is home to some of Africa’s most biodiverse rainforests, including the Cross River National Park, which spans 4,000 square kilometers in the south. This vital ecosystem shelters Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzees, drill monkeys, forest elephants, and the critically endangered Cross River gorilla.
However, these species face increasing threats from illegal logging, agricultural encroachment, and rapid urban development. As forests disappear, biodiversity declines, and the millions who rely on forest resources for survival are left vulnerable.
Call for Action: Protecting Nigeria’s Forests
Despite these challenges, a sustainable future is possible through innovation, collaboration, and strong conservation policies. Tackling deforestation requires:
Sustainable land management to balance development and conservation.
Stronger law enforcement to combat illegal logging and forest degradation.
Investment in renewable energy to reduce reliance on wood fuel.
Community-driven conservation efforts to empower locals as forest stewards.
The public also plays a crucial role by avoiding activities that destroy habitats and supporting conservation initiatives.
“The forest is more than trees—it is life, shelter, and the heartbeat of our planet. When we protect it, we protect our future. But Nigeria’s forests are disappearing at an alarming rate, taking with them critical biodiversity, essential ecosystem services, and the livelihoods of millions. If deforestation continues unchecked, we risk crossing an irreversible threshold that will devastate both people and nature.”— Dr. Mark Ofua, Wild Africa’s West Africa Spokesperson
Wild Africa’s Conservation Efforts
Wild Africa remains committed to advocating for stronger policies and increasing public awareness through radio, TV, billboards, newspapers, and public service announcements (PSAs).
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The organization has also collaborated with Nigerian celebrities, including 2Baba and Nela Duke Ekpenyong, to amplify the message of forest conservation and inspire action.
With bold steps and collective responsibility, Nigeria can secure its forests and preserve its wildlife and natural heritage for future generations.
