Borno Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has called for the revival of the Sambisa forest, which has been severely impacted by the over decade-long Boko Haram insurgency.
Speaking at the UN’s High-Level Segment Roundtable on “Forest-based solutions to the triple planetary crises: A focus on people, science, technology, and finance” in New York, Zulum emphasized the urgent need for restoration and conservation efforts.
The governor highlighted the devastating effects of the insurgency on Borno State, including widespread displacement, infrastructure destruction, and loss of livelihoods.
According to him, the conflict has also exacerbated environmental degradation, leading to deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and increased vulnerability to climate change impacts in the region.
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Zulum stressed that the shrinking of Lake Chad, a vital source of water and livelihood for millions, is a direct consequence of climate change resulting from the destruction of forests like Sambisa. He identified population growth, agricultural expansion, unsustainable land use practices, energy needs, and conflict as drivers of deforestation in Borno State.
To address these issues, Zulum proposed initiatives such as rehabilitation and restoration, community engagement, monitoring and evaluation, and collaboration and partnership to save the forest and promote sustainable development.
The Nigerian delegation, led by Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawan, included Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State and other officials.
