Malam Balarabe Lawal, the Minister of Environment, has declared that tree planting remains one of Nigeria’s most effective strategies to combat climate change.
Lawal spoke at the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing in Abuja where he emphasized the crucial role forests play in regulating the climate, conserving biodiversity, and sustaining millions of livelihoods across the country.
In his address, Lawal noted that under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, significant strides have been made to restore Nigeria’s forests and curb deforestation.
As part of efforts to combat desertification, Lawal announced the cultivation of over 3.8 million neem tree seedlings for planting across 11 frontline states. This reforestation initiative is expected to rejuvenate degraded lands and improve climate resilience in the affected areas.
“We are curbing illegal logging and unsustainable farming, and this is already yielding results,” Lawal stated confidently.
The Minister highlighted a historic agreement signed with Cameroon on April 19, 2024, aimed at protecting shared forests and wildlife. The pact encompasses the Cross River National Park in Nigeria and Korup National Park in Cameroon, marking a critical step toward transboundary environmental protection.
Story was adapted from Vanguard.
