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29 Jan 2025

Nigeria Battles Environmental Challenges as Tree Cover Loss Persists
Nigeria Battles Environmental Challenges as Tree Cover Loss Persists

In Nigeria, a concerning trend has emerged as the country grapples with ongoing environmental challenges. Over the years, Nigeria has experienced a significant decline in tree cover, which has had substantial environmental repercussions. The country's tree cover extent, which stands at over 10 million hectares, has been consistently compromised by various drivers, with shifting agriculture being the predominant cause.

Analysis of historical data reveals that shifting agriculture accounts for the majority of tree cover loss, with percentages often exceeding 80% of the total annual loss. Urbanization, although less significant in comparison, has also contributed to this decline. Notably, the impact of wildfires on tree cover loss is minimal, often representing less than 1% of the total loss each year.

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The net change in tree cover in Nigeria paints a grim picture. Despite some gains, the overall loss has led to a net negative change of approximately 1.47 million hectares over the years, which translates to a 6.07% decrease in tree cover. This loss not only affects the environment but also has implications for carbon emissions, biodiversity, and local climates.

The latest incident data from Borno, Nigeria, indicates that fire incidents continue to pose a threat, albeit small, to the remaining tree cover. As of January 29, 2025, a single fire alert was recorded, underscoring the need for vigilance and effective management strategies to protect Nigeria's forests and natural resources.

The ongoing tree cover loss in Nigeria calls for a broader discussion on sustainable land use practices and the importance of preserving natural habitats for the health of the planet and future generations.

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