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22 Dec 2024

Nigeria Witnesses Alarming Tree Cover Loss, Latest Incident in Zamfara
Nigeria Witnesses Alarming Tree Cover Loss, Latest Incident in Zamfara

Nigeria's environmental landscape has faced significant challenges over the years, with the latest incident reported on December 22, 2024, in Zamfara, Nigeria, marking yet another fire alert in the country. Over the span of two decades, Nigeria has experienced a net loss of approximately 1.47 million hectares in tree cover, which equates to a 6.07% decrease from its original tree cover extent. This loss is primarily driven by shifting agriculture, which accounts for a substantial portion of the tree cover loss, followed by urbanization and forestry activities.

The data reveals a concerning trend of escalating tree cover loss, with the most significant annual loss recorded in 2017, amounting to over 171,000 hectares. Shifting agriculture remains the predominant cause, responsible for the majority of the tree cover loss each year. Urbanization also plays a significant role, contributing to the deforestation and degradation of Nigeria's natural habitats.

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The impact of these losses on the environment is profound, with the total gross emissions of CO2 equivalent reaching staggering levels. The cumulative effect of these activities not only diminishes the country's rich biodiversity but also exacerbates the effects of climate change, affecting the livelihoods of millions who depend on these ecosystems.

As the latest fire incident in Zamfara indicates, the challenges are ongoing. The loss of tree cover not only represents an environmental crisis but also a call to action to address the underlying causes and work towards sustainable land management practices.

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