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31 Jan 2025

Nigeria Grapples with Escalating Tree Cover Loss and Recent Fire Incident in Borno
Nigeria Grapples with Escalating Tree Cover Loss and Recent Fire Incident in Borno

Nigeria, a country with an area spanning over 90 million hectares, has been experiencing significant tree cover loss over the years. The country's tree cover extent, which stands at approximately 10 million hectares, has seen a concerning decline due to various factors.

An analysis of historical data reveals that shifting agriculture is the predominant driver of tree cover loss in Nigeria, accounting for a substantial percentage of the total loss each year. Urbanization also plays a significant role, contributing to the reduction of tree cover across the nation.

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The cumulative impact of these drivers has led to a net loss in tree cover. The total loss amounts to over 2.30 million hectares, while gains are relatively minimal in comparison, at just under 930,000 hectares. The net change in tree cover represents a decrease of approximately 6.07%, underscoring the severity of the environmental situation.

The most recent incident in Borno, Nigeria, where a fire alert was reported, adds to the series of environmental challenges the country faces. While the number of incidents might seem small, it is indicative of a larger pattern of environmental degradation that requires attention.

The ongoing loss of tree cover not only has implications for biodiversity and habitat but also affects climate regulation and the livelihoods of local communities. The data presents a clear call to action to address the underlying causes of tree cover loss and to implement measures that can reverse this trend for the betterment of the environment and the people of Nigeria.

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