Post by Edobong Akpabio (@edobongakpabio)
International Day of Forests
The global community marks the International Day of Forests every year on March 21st, as established by the United Nations (UN) in 2012 to raise awareness on the importance of forest ecosystems. The theme for 2026 is "Forests and Economies” to highlight the central role of forests in sustaining livelihoods and economic opportunities across social and business sectors.
#InternationalDayofForests
#ForestsandEconomies
#LekeeLekee
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Edobong Akpabio: On every International Day of Forests, individuals, groups, countries & their sub-nationals organize activities involving forests and trees, such as tree planting campaigns, writing competitions, advocacy walks, seminars, etc. Tree planting events seem to be more common in Nigeria but regularly orga...
Edobong Akpabio: According to the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), "Nigeria is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including 17 National Parks, over 1,129 Forest Reserves, Game Reserves, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Ramsar Sites. These areas play a critical role in biodiversity conservation, climate change mi...
Edobong Akpabio: According to the March 2024 Newsletter published by theconversation.com, "Nigeria’s forests are fast disappearing, with forest cover increasingly diminishing in extent and quality". Many factors account for this unfortunate development.
1. Rapid urbanization: The construction of roads, housing proj...
1. Rapid urbanization: The construction of roads, housing proj...
Edobong Akpabio: 2. Commercial Logging: Illegal logging, mostly, for timber, export & furniture production, have significantly depleted the nation's forest reserves.
3. Firewood usage/Charcoal Production: Major energy needs, especially in the rural areas, are met by wood, hence the massive harvesting of forest tree...
3. Firewood usage/Charcoal Production: Major energy needs, especially in the rural areas, are met by wood, hence the massive harvesting of forest tree...
Edobong Akpabio: There are other activities that lead to the loss of forest trees and destruction of forest ecosystems. They include mining, oil exploration & production, and natural causes like desertification, erosion, etc. However, these deforestation drivers are exacerbated by high poverty levels, high populatio...
Edobong Akpabio: Forests are very important for the socio-economic development of every nation. They provide goods and services - raw materials for manufacturing, natural foods and non-timber products, medicinal plants, aquatic habitats, wildlife for eco-tourism, etc, that provide employment and income for many hous...
Edobong Akpabio: Climate change is real. Let's join hands with other individuals, organizations and institutions to take action in preserving Nigeria’s forests and biodiversity. Whether through advocacy, community participation, sustainable business practices or supporting conservation projects, we all have a role t...