By ibrahima yakubu
Echoes of the Ancestors: Indigenous Activism Preserves Northern Nigeria’s Vanishing Forests
In Northern Nigeria, Indigenous warriors are resolutely dedicated to protecting their ancestral forests from extinction, driven by the pressures of the timber, charcoal, and firewood industries. For too long, Indigenous Peoples and local forest communities have been excluded from decision-making processes, repeatedly advocating for recognition and respect as rightful custodians of their lands.
These warriors have initiated persistent campaigns aimed at safeguarding both their ancestral territories and native trees from the destruction wrought by unsustainable human activities. The rising costs of cooking gas have intensified these pressures, leading to increased logging for timber, charcoal production, and firewood harvesting.
Research conducted by Ibrahima Yakubu, leader of the Network of Environmental Journalists in Northern Nigeria, underscores the significant impact of deforestation on the livelihoods of Indigenous residents. Their habitats are increasingly threatened by resource extraction and the growing demand for timber for construction in both rural and urban areas.
In an interview, Mr. Sam Smith, an Indigenous warrior, expressed grave concern over the alarming decline of forests due to rising demand for timber. He noted that this situation compels communities to migrate, akin to wildlife, and has motivated them to develop strategies to combat bush burning and indiscriminate tree felling.
Over centuries, Indigenous Peoples have honed adaptive strategies to address environmental changes. Their traditional knowledge encompasses valuable insights into climate-resilient practices such as agroforestry, water management, and disaster preparedness. These communities have crafted approaches to mitigate climate change and environmental degradation, thereby protecting their forests.
Indigenous Peoples are custodians of unique knowledge that emphasizes a balanced relationship between humans and the natural world. Their traditional practices offer effective solutions to climate challenges, including sustainable agricultural systems and resilient water management strategies. By preserving vital ecosystems that act as carbon sinks, they provide critical environmental services to the global community. Regrettably, these communities are often excluded from decision-making processes, and their land rights are frequently disregarded.
Achieving the objectives of the Paris Agreement requires the full and effective participation of Indigenous Peoples, including their free, prior, and informed consent. It is imperative that governments recognize their rights, provide direct access to climate finance, and integrate Indigenous knowledge into climate policy.
In another interview, Mr. Paul Walker, a leader of an Indigenous tribe in Northern Nigeria, highlighted the sophisticated agroforestry systems developed by Indigenous Peoples over centuries. These systems enhance soil fertility and reduce erosion, while also mitigating the risk of crop failure due to pests, diseases, or extreme weather conditions. This ensures food security and sustains livelihoods in the face of climate extremes.
“we kicked against falling down of our ancestral forests, forcing large number of our members into migration ”
“we must rise toward ending deforestation, desertification and climate change issues affecting us, and our wildlife ”
Globally, Indigenous communities maintain profound cultural and spiritual connections to forests, playing a crucial role in conservation efforts. Their stewardship is essential for maintaining the delicate balance between human activities and the natural environment.
Dr. Yohanna Moses, an environmental expert, emphasized the need for widespread education on the detrimental effects of bush burning, which removes natural vegetation and exposes soil to erosion and UV radiation. He highlighted the adverse impacts of bush burning on the environment, public health, and local economies, including air pollution from various harmful emissions.
Dr. Moses called for the revitalization of agricultural extension services aimed at reducing carbon emissions and encouraging farmers to transition from bush burning to composting. He recommended implementing penalties for those who engage in bush burning and noted that some hunters use fire to flush animals from their habitats, further contributing to environmental degradation.
Recent investigations reveal that many Indigenous communities in Northern Nigeria have ceased activities related to deforestation. Reports indicate a significant decrease in bush burning for hunting purposes. Furthermore, Indigenous groups are actively engaging with government officials to eliminate the charcoal and firewood businesses that threaten their ecosystems
