By Idibia Gabriel, Kaduna
A climatologist and Director of African Climate Reporters (ACR), Mr. Nurudden Bello, has called on residents of northern Nigeria to embrace tree planting as a critical step in combating environmental challenges such as windstorms, desertification, deforestation, and erosion.
Speaking in an interview at the Womenhood School of Health Science and Technology in Kaduna, Bello stressed the urgent need for individuals and communities to plant trees in and around homes, schools, markets, hospitals, and places of worship.
According to him, planting trees can significantly reduce the impact of wind and water erosion, which has devastated several communities—particularly in Southern Kaduna.
“In areas like Kasuwan Magani, we’ve seen windstorms destroy homes and places of worship—damage that could have been minimized with adequate tree cover,” Bello said.
He explained that trees act as natural windbreakers and help prevent soil erosion by stabilizing the soil with their roots, especially in regions with loose or weak soil structures.
“Trees offer long-term environmental benefits at a low cost. They provide shade, food, and serve as natural defenses against environmental hazards,” he added.
Bello recommended planting medium-sized trees and shrubs as effective, manageable options for controlling erosion and improving environmental resilience.
He also urged government agencies and environmental stakeholders to promote renewable energy alternatives, particularly fuel-efficient stoves, by making them more accessible and affordable for women in both rural and urban areas.
Bello warned that the continued reliance on firewood, charcoal, and timber is accelerating forest degradation across the region. He called on the government to reduce the prices of gas and kerosene to discourage tree cutting and encourage the use of cleaner energy sources.
“Trees are more than just part of our landscape—they are a vital natural defense against many environmental threats,” he concluded.
