Nigeria's Tree Cover Under Threat: A Look at the Impact of Shifting Agriculture and Urbanization

Nigeria's Tree Cover Under Threat: A Look at the Impact of Shifting Agriculture and Urbanization

Nigeria is facing a significant challenge in preserving its tree cover. Over the years, the country has experienced a substantial loss in tree cover, primarily due to shifting agriculture and urbanization. The data reveals a troubling trend, with the total tree cover loss reaching 106,189 hectares in 2022 alone, marking a stark increase from previous years. Shifting agriculture remains the predominant driver, responsible for approximately 89.70% of the loss in 2022, while urbanization accounts for around 5.90%.

The cumulative impact over the years is alarming. Since 2001, Nigeria has seen a net loss of approximately 1,468,749 hectares in tree cover, which constitutes a 6.07% decrease from the stable tree cover. This loss not only affects biodiversity and habitats but also has broader implications for climate change, as trees play a crucial role in carbon sequestration.