By Abbas Nazil
Professor Jibo Abdullahi Umar has devoted more than two decades to advancing forest conservation, combating desertification and promoting sustainable natural resource management in Nigeria, earning recognition as NatureNews Africa’s Eco Personality of the Week.
Through groundbreaking research, academic leadership and community-focused environmental solutions, Umar has contributed significantly to efforts aimed at restoring degraded landscapes, strengthening climate resilience and improving livelihoods across the country’s fragile dryland ecosystems.
Currently serving as the Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State, the Professor of Forest Ecology and Genetics has built a distinguished career around understanding the relationship between forests, climate and human wellbeing.
A former Head of the Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management at the university, he has consistently championed research-driven approaches to addressing environmental challenges including desertification, biodiversity loss, deforestation and climate change.
His scientific work focuses on forest ecology, drought adaptation, genetic diversity of tropical trees, nutrient cycling and sustainable forest management.
Among his most notable contributions is his extensive research on *Acacia senegal*, a drought-resistant species that produces gum arabic and plays a vital role in desertification control across the Sudano-Sahel region.
His studies on drought tolerance, soil moisture dynamics, root distribution and gum yield have generated valuable knowledge that supports climate adaptation strategies and sustainable land restoration programmes in northern Nigeria.
As lead researcher on TETFund-supported projects, Umar investigated how drought influences gum arabic production and explored innovative methods for improving tree establishment and regeneration.
These efforts have provided practical solutions for afforestation, reforestation and ecosystem restoration initiatives in regions vulnerable to land degradation and climate stress.
His extensive publication record reflects a commitment to environmental sustainability and evidence-based conservation.
Through numerous peer-reviewed studies, he has examined forest regeneration, biodiversity conservation, agroforestry systems, tree improvement, ecosystem restoration and the economic value of forest resources.
Several of his studies have demonstrated how neem and gum arabic plantations can simultaneously support environmental restoration, carbon sequestration and rural economic development.
Beyond research, Umar has mentored generations of forestry and environmental professionals, helping to build the human capacity needed to address emerging ecological challenges.
His participation in international scientific conferences in the United Kingdom, Spain and Nigeria has further strengthened knowledge exchange on sustainable forestry, climate adaptation and ecosystem management.
As a member of the Forestry Association of Nigeria, the Nigerian Environmental Society, the British Ecological Society and the International Society of Tropical Foresters, he continues to contribute to local and global conversations on environmental sustainability.
NatureNews Africa recognises Professor Jibo Abdullahi Umar as Eco Personality of the Week for his sustained contributions to forest conservation, desertification control, climate change mitigation and ecosystem restoration.
His research has helped deepen understanding of how forests can be managed sustainably under changing climatic conditions, while his academic leadership continues to inspire the next generation of environmental scientists.
At a time when climate change, land degradation and biodiversity loss pose growing threats to livelihoods and ecosystems, Umar’s work demonstrates the critical role of science, innovation and education in securing a more sustainable future for Nigeria and Africa.
