SEO Riders:
– Minister Lawal emphasizes forests’ role in climate mitigation and biodiversity
- – Highlights mangrove restoration and cross-border conservation efforts
- – Advocates for sustainable forest management to combat climate change
On May 7, 2025, Nigeria’s Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal, underscored the critical importance of forests in enhancing the nation’s climate resilience. Speaking at the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing in Abuja, he highlighted forests’ roles in biodiversity conservation, water cycle regulation, and providing livelihoods for millions.
Minister Lawal detailed several initiatives aimed at forest restoration and conservation:
Mangrove Restoration in Ogoniland: Through the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), Nigeria has embarked on the world’s most extensive mangrove restoration, covering 560 hectares with over two million seedlings planted.
Transboundary Conservation Agreement:
In April 2024, Nigeria signed a Cooperation Framework Agreement with Cameroon to promote sustainable management of shared ecosystems, including the Cross River and Korup National Parks.
Great Green Wall Initiative: The ministry has raised 3.85 million neem seedlings to support reforestation across 11 frontline states, aiming to combat desertification and enhance ecosystem services. oice of Nigeria.
Minister Lawal emphasized that these efforts are part of a broader strategy to improve the resilience of vulnerable communities, particularly in Nigeria’s drylands, against climate change and variability.
