ByBarr. Ladi Ahmed Jatto.
July 26th marks a crucial day in the Conservation Calendar – The International Day for the Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystems.
Mangroves, the unsung heroes of our coastal ecosystems, play a vital role in safeguarding our planet’s biodiversity, climate, and human well-being.
Mangroves are trees or shrubs that grow mainly in tropical coastal swamps having numerous tangled roots that grow above ground and form dense thickets. In Nigeria for instance, it is found in the coastal region of the Niger-Delta.
The Niger-Delta mangrove ecosystem is increasingly being threatened by Nipa palm, encroachment, industrial and oil pollution. There is therefore a great need to protect, restore and conserve mangrove forest!
Mangrove forest shields communities from extreme weather events, protect lives and properties from storm surge, prevent erosion and stabilize coasts.
Why Mangroves matter: –
Coastal Protection: Mangroves act as natural barrier against storms, erosion, and tsunamis; shielding communities and infrastructure.
Carbon Sequestration:
These ecosystems are highly efficient at absorbing carbon dioxide, making them a crucial tool in the fight against climate change.
Biodiversity Hotspots:
Mangroves provide habitat for a diverse array of species, including fish, birds, and mammals.
Livelihoods: Mangrove forests support the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide, through fishing, tourism, and other industries.
The Threats:
Deforestation: Mangrove clearance for agriculture, urbanization, and other human activities poses a significant threat to these ecosystems.
Climate Change:
Rising sea levels, increased temperatures, and ocean acidification, all impact mangrove health and resilience.
– Chief Ladi Ahmed Jatto OON, MBA,MIAD, BL, LLB, FCISM (DR) was the Former SA on Environment to Kogi Government., SA on Multilateral and Donor Agency to Kogi Government., Project Coordinator/ Head NEWMAP Kogi, and currently the Project Coordinator ACReSAL Kogi state.
