Urgent Action Needed: Ibadan Botanist Calls for Enforcement of Forest Laws to Curb Deforestation.
Credit : Femi Ojo
A leading botanist at the University of Ibadan, Owolabi Michael-Kayode, has urged the federal, state, and local governments to implement existing forest laws and policies. This call comes amid alarming deforestation rates across Nigeria, posing a significant threat to the environment and human well-being.
Mr. Michael-Kayode, Chief Technologist at the University’s Botanical Garden/Botany Department, made this plea during an interview with Splash FM news reporter Femi Ojo. The discussion focused on the extinction of economically and medicinally valuable trees and herbs in Nigeria, highlighting the dangers associated with deforestation.
Trees and Humans: A Shared Destiny
Trees are not only essential for the environment, but also for human survival. They act as the lungs of our planet, producing oxygen and filtering harmful pollutants. Additionally, trees provide food, shelter, and habitat for countless species, promoting biodiversity.
For centuries, cultures around the world have recognized the profound value of trees. From ensuring food security to offering spiritual solace, trees are intricately linked to human well-being.
Beyond their physical benefits, trees offer valuable lessons about resilience and interdependence. They provide shade and beauty, while also serving as sources for numerous resources we rely on daily. Medically, studies suggest that spending time amongst trees can reduce stress and anxiety, boosting the immune system. Certain tree species even emit beneficial biogenic volatile compounds (VOCs) with protective properties.
Nigeria’s Looming Crisis
However, Nigeria faces a grim reality. The country has one of the highest deforestation rates globally, losing an estimated 860,000 to 990,000 acres of forest annually. This translates to a staggering 3.5% deforestation rate each year.
With nearly 80% of Nigeria’s forests already lost, the consequences of deforestation are dire. Soil erosion has accelerated, while greenhouse gas emissions have risen dramatically. This disruption to the natural ecosystem threatens to exacerbate climate change, impacting the nation’s future.
A Call to Action
Mr Michael-Kayode emphasizes the urgency of government intervention. He advocates for the strict enforcement of existing forest laws and policies to curb deforestation and protect remaining natural resources. Additionally, he proposes the establishment of medicinal and botanical gardens across the country. These gardens would serve as vital resources for research, conservation, and potentially preventing a future “pharmaceutical chaos.”
Sustainable development requires a delicate balance. While urbanization and economic growth are crucial, so too is environmental protection. Governments and citizens alike must prioritize the coexistence of humans and plants to ensure a healthy and sustainable future.
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