Speaking in Lagos on Tuesday, 10th June,  Prof. Edem Eniang, a lecturer at the University of Uyo and a biodiversity expert, has expressed great concerns about the escalating rate of indiscriminate tree cutting for timber and charcoal. 

He highlighted that illegal logging has surged across Nigeria in the past two years, largely due to mounting economic difficulties.

Eniang acknowledged the economic hardships faced by many but cautioned against sacrificing the environment for immediate financial benefits, emphasising that such actions are ultimately detrimental and self-defeating. He warned that the long-term consequences of unchecked logging would be severe and irreversible.

Eniang pointed out that large portions of the country’s forests, especially mangroves, are being stripped by individuals seeking quick profits or alternative energy sources, leading to alarming levels of environmental degradation. 

He added that the natural consequences of such actions could be disastrous.

“The unlawful exploitation of forest reserves, without regard for existing conservation efforts, reflects a serious step backwards,” he said. “Our environment forms the foundation of life and must be preserved as a core part of any development strategy.”

In addition to calling for a move towards renewable energy, he encouraged the government to refrain from enacting laws that force people to depend on forest resources for energy or survival.

Source: AgroNigeria

Image Credit: FreePik