Nigeria's forests hold immense economic potential, according to the director-general of the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, Zachariah Yaduma. He notes that the country has over 10.6 million hectares of forests that could drive economic growth and sustainable development.
The International Day of Forests is observed annually on March 21 to highlight the importance of forests worldwide. This year's theme, 'Forests and Economies', underscores the critical role forests play in driving economic growth and sustainable development.
Mr Yaduma believes that forests extend beyond providing income and jobs, as they also sustain agriculture, improve productivity, and protect vital watersheds for communities nationwide. However, he laments that current approaches only capture a fraction of forests' economic and environmental potential.
FRIN has made significant strides in conservation, research, and community engagement, laying the foundation for an inclusive and sustainable green economy. Mr Yaduma is pursuing UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status for key forest reserves, including Shere Hills, Omo, and Oban reserves in Plateau, Ogun, and Cross River states.
The activation of Nigeria's National Carbon Market framework positions the country as an emerging player in the global carbon economy, creating direct financial incentives for reforestation and conservation nationwide.
The Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria's push for a green economy is long overdue. Director-General Zachariah Yaduma's vision for unlocking forests' economic potential is commendable, but it will require more than just words from policymakers and the private sector. The people of Nigeria must see tangible benefits from their forests, not just empty promises. The activation of the National Carbon Market framework is a step in the right direction, but it is crucial that the funds generated are used to benefit local communities and not just line the pockets of a few. As Mr Yaduma rightly said, it is time for collective action to transform forests into engines of future economic growth.
