Babagana Umara Zulum, the Governor of Borno State, has made a compelling case for the revival of the Sambisa forest, heavily impacted by the long-standing Boko Haram insurgency. Speaking at the UN’s High-Level Segment Roundtable in New York on Thursday, Zulum highlighted the urgent need to address the environmental devastation wrought by the conflict.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Zulum underscored the profound impact of the Boko Haram insurgency on Borno State, resulting in widespread displacement, infrastructure destruction, and loss of livelihoods. He emphasized how the conflict exacerbated environmental degradation, particularly in the vital Sambisa Forest, exacerbating the region’s vulnerabilities.
Zulum pointed out that the depletion of forest cover has led to dire consequences such as soil erosion, diminished water availability, loss of biodiversity, and heightened susceptibility to climate change impacts. He attributed the shrinking of Lake Chad, a crucial water source for millions, to climate change induced by the destruction of forests like Sambisa.
The governor attributed deforestation in Borno State to various factors, including population growth, agricultural expansion, unsustainable land use practices, energy needs, and the impact of the conflict. He outlined a series of initiatives, including rehabilitation and restoration efforts, community engagement, rigorous monitoring, and collaboration with partners, as crucial steps in preserving forests ravaged by terrorist activities.
Leading the Nigerian delegation, Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawan, accompanied by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and other officials, supported Governor Zulum’s call for concerted action to rehabilitate and safeguard forests vital for environmental sustainability and regional stability.
