Mr. Nurudden Bello, a climatologist and Director of African Climate Reporters (ACR), has urged communities across northern Nigeria to adopt tree planting as a strategic response to pressing environmental challenges, including windstorms, deforestation, desertification, and erosion.
In an interview in Kaduna at the Womenhood School of Health Science and Technology, Bello emphasized the importance of planting trees around homes, schools, markets, hospitals, and places of worship to reduce environmental vulnerability.
He pointed out that several communities, particularly in Southern Kaduna, have suffered devastating wind and water erosion. According to him, towns such as Kasuwan Magani have seen homes and places of worship destroyed by windstorms—damage that could have been lessened with adequate tree cover.
“Trees serve as natural barriers,” Bello said. “They reduce the force of strong winds and help prevent soil erosion. Their roots bind the soil, especially in areas with weak or loose soil.”
Highlighting the affordability and sustainability of tree planting, Bello noted that it provides long-term benefits such as shade, food, and environmental protection. He recommended the use of medium-sized trees and shrubs for effective erosion control, saying they are easier to manage and adapt well to local conditions.
Bello also called on government agencies and environmental stakeholders to promote renewable energy alternatives like fuel-efficient cooking stoves. He stressed that making these stoves more affordable for women in rural and urban areas would reduce the region’s reliance on firewood and charcoal.
He warned that unchecked tree felling for firewood and timber is depleting forest reserves in the North and contributing to environmental degradation.
To curb this trend, Bello appealed to the government to lower the cost of cleaner energy sources such as gas and kerosene. According to him, making these alternatives accessible would discourage deforestation and promote healthier environmental practices.
“Trees are not just part of our scenery—they are a frontline defense against climate-related threats,” he concluded.
0 Comments