A Review of the Impact of Afforestation on the Socio-Economic Development of Nigeria

Abstract

Afforestation has been a driving force in enhancement of the socio-economic development of many nations including Nigeria. This highlights its impact on climate change, biodiversity, livelihood security and employment creation to mention but a few. This paper reviews the historical trend of afforestation programmes in Nigeria and identified the gaps retarding the full implementation of the previous afforestation programmes. The paper recommends an all-inclusive participatory approach especially with the host communities and other stake holders in afforestation programmes through bottom-up awareness campaign for stakeholders on the consequences of forest degradation. The importance of tree planting and sustainable forest management through a compulsory ‘plant and nurture a tree program’ was also emphasised for all loggers which is meant to enhance protection and restoration and finally, to put in place a better political will to implement forest management laws and policies to reduce environmental degradation in Nigeria.