By Obiabin Onukwugha and Faridat Salifu
Reforestation plays a vital role in not only sequestering carbon dioxide but also restoring ecosystems and providing habitats for biodiversity. It is a measure aimed at mitigating climate change.
In Nigeria, the World Bank in December 2021, established the Nigeria Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project with an initial approval of a $700 million credit from the International Development Association (IDA).
The project which has a six-year life span, is expected to restore about one million hectares of degraded lands in Northern Nigeria. Beneficiary states include; Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Yobe, Zamfara, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Plateau, Adamawa, Taraba, Niger, Kwara, Kaduna and Kogi.
However, a recent information has emerged that the project may not achieve its target if the right trees are not planted.
It was gathered that in planting the trees, some factors such as soil test and tree species should be factored in to enable the trees survive and grow.
According to a study recently published by Briticana.com, trees that survive in Nigeria include; Mahogany (Khaya spp.): Valuable for their timber and beneficial for restoring forest ecosystems; Gmelina (Gmelina arborea): A fast-growing tree species suitable for timber production and ecological restoration; Teak (Tectona grandis): Highly valued for durable timber and conducive to reforestation efforts; Acacia (Acacia spp.): Known for nitrogen fixation, enhancing soil fertility, and supporting ecosystem restoration and African Walnut (Tetracarpidium conophorum): Providing valuable nuts and contributing to forest ecosystem restoration.
For instance, Kogi State has suffered challenges regarding the cutting down of trees without proper planning, leading to deforestation and subsequent poor growth due to planting unsuitable tree species.
The issue was compounded by the sale of these trees for charcoal production, highlighting the importance of fostering a more sustainable approach to tree management in the region.
Tree Species for Reforestation in Kogi State based on the research include; Mahogany (Khaya senegalensis): Known for its beautiful wood and shade, mahogany trees are suitable for the soil conditions in Kogi State; African Teak (Milicia excelsa): Valued for its durable timber, this tree species can adapt well to the climate and soil in the region; Gmelina (Gmelina arborea): A fast-growing tree that is commonly used for timber and reforestation efforts, demonstrating resilience in the local environment; Neem (Azadirachta indica): Renowned for its medicinal properties, neem trees can thrive in Kogi State’s climate and contribute to sustainable practices and Cashew (Anacardium occidentale): Apart from producing delicious nuts, cashew trees offer shade and can flourish in the region.
The research highlighted the need to consult with local experts or agricultural agencies to obtain specific recommendations tailored to the soil and climate conditions of the region.
This collaborative approach, it said, will ensure that tree species selected for reforestation endeavors are well-suited to the local ecological context, promoting long-term success.
The research also called for awareness and soil testing so as to address the challenges of unplanned tree cutting and unsuitable planting practices
It emphasized the importance of soil testing in determining suitable tree species for reforestation, not only benefits Kogi State but also contributes to nationwide efforts in achieving sustainable environmental practices and working towards the net-zero emissions target.
“By implementing informed decision-making processes and prioritizing sustainable tree planting practices, Kogi State can contribute to the preservation of its forests and the promotion of a healthier environment. Spreading awareness about the importance of soil testing and the adoption of proper,” the study said.
In an interview, Bauchi State ACReSAL Project Communications Officer, Jennifer Magawata, told NatureNews that the project in the state carries out soil test before planting trees.
She also pointed out that currently, there is high level tree survival. She said: “Whether they carry out soil test before planting the trees, she said, Yes, we do that.
“So far, of the planting that we have done the trees are all growing well. So far majority. The only ones that the growth is slow is as a result of the type of soil that is there but it is drought-resistance trees that were planted there so we are still holding on to the soil.”
On his part, the ACReSAL Project Coordinator in Sokoto State, Alhaji Ibrahim Gatawa, who spoke with NatureNews correspondent pointed out that tree survival cannot be measured now as the project is still at the planting stage.
According to him, any data collected now may not be a true representation of result, especially because of the rainy season.
“We are now at the beginning of the programme. When you start a program, especially afforestation, you need to wait for at least one year so that you assess the survival rate. You dont plant two months ago and start thinking of survival rate.
“Because the rainy season is over now, let’s see which one survives and which one did not. Now, work is ongoing we have not finished the work. We are on it. Our contractors are still in the field they have not finished the work and when you take data now you would likely get a wrong information because the exercise is ongoing.
“We have not finished, the work is ongoing, it’s not yet over. Whether there is provision for replanting those that did not survive, he said “Of course there must be provision for replanting. Moreover, we have not taken over the work from the contractors. They are the ones doing it”, he stated.