Yobe plans to plant 40m trees in 5 years to combat climate change
The Yobe State government has said that 40 million assorted seedlings will be planted over a period of five years to combat land degradation, desertification and erosion across the 17 LGAs of the state.
Governor Mai Mala Buni said the project would be funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB).
He said the project included the planting of a two-kilometre shelterbelt, two-kilometre woodlot, orchard, sand dune fixation and oases rehabilitation in each of the 178 electoral wards of the state.
He added that the state government would embark on a mass seed production to establish roadside plantations, landscaping, resuscitation and maintenance of a 300-hectare gum Arabic plantation in an effort to increase the vegetation cover of the state.
Climate change in Northern Nigeria
Northern Nigeria is experiencing the impacts of climate change, which are posing significant challenges to the region’s environment, economy, and livelihoods. The effects of climate change in this region are diverse and multifaceted, impacting various aspects of life including agriculture, water resources, and human health.
Impact on Agriculture
Climate change has led to changes in rainfall patterns and increased temperatures in northern Nigeria. These changes have resulted in prolonged dry seasons and erratic rainfall, leading to droughts and desertification. As a predominantly agrarian society, these changes have had a profound impact on agricultural productivity. Crop yields have decreased, and farmers are facing challenges in sustaining their livelihoods. Additionally, the availability of grazing land for livestock has been significantly reduced, exacerbating conflicts between farmers and herders.
Water Resources
The availability of water resources in northern Nigeria has been affected by climate change. Erratic rainfall patterns have led to water scarcity, particularly during the dry season. This has implications for both domestic water supply and agricultural irrigation. Communities are facing challenges in accessing clean and reliable water sources, leading to increased competition and conflicts over water resources.
Human Health
Climate change has also impacted human health in northern Nigeria. The rise in temperatures has contributed to an increase in heat-related illnesses. Additionally, changes in precipitation patterns have led to an upsurge in waterborne diseases such as cholera and other vector-borne diseases. The impacts of climate change on health are further compounded by challenges in accessing healthcare services and adequate medical facilities.
Adaptation and Mitigation Efforts
Efforts to address the impacts of climate change in northern Nigeria include adaptation and mitigation strategies. These efforts involve implementing sustainable agricultural practices, promoting water conservation and management, as well as enhancing community resilience to climate-related hazards. Additionally, there is a growing recognition of the need for policy interventions at local, national, and international levels to address the root causes of climate change and its impacts.
Climate change is significantly affecting northern Nigeria, with implications for agriculture, water resources, and human health. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local communities.
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