The recent announcement by the Federal Government focuses on creating a strategic roadmap for the preservation and safeguarding of mangroves in Nigeria. The plan aims to emphasize reforestation, afforestation, and financial sustainability in this conservation effort.
During an interactive session with journalists in Abuja, Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, the Director General of the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat, highlighted the importance of the roadmap. It will prioritize key actions for mangrove conservation, reforestation, afforestation, and protection in Nigeria.
The roadmap aligns with the mangrove breakthrough initiative launched during COP27 and the Secretariat’s 2025 theme, which centers on enhancing nature-based climate solutions. It will involve outlining necessary steps, establishing clear objectives, and formulating a strategic investment plan to ensure the successful implementation and long-term viability of environmental projects.
Dr. Maduekwe emphasized the significance of mangroves for livelihood, coastal resilience, and nature-based climate solutions. The initial phase involves technical visits to mangrove sites in the nine states of the Niger Delta to assess the current status and determine further actions needed for adaptation in this crucial area.
As part of these visits, a town hall meeting will be held in Calabar, Cross River State, to engage with stakeholders, including Commissioners of Environment and international partners. The meeting will explore challenges and opportunities for financing mangrove conservation and protection in Nigeria, with a focus on identifying grant possibilities.
Furthermore, preparations are underway for a symposium in Lagos State in March, which will explore the connection between arts, climate change, and mangroves. An art exhibition is also scheduled to take place on March 5th, emphasizing the importance of tree planting in combating the accelerated reduction of Nigeria’s forest cover.
The mangrove breakthrough initiative aims to secure $4 billion in sustainable finance for mangrove conservation, afforestation, and protection. Nigeria aims to be part of this initiative and is developing the roadmap to address challenges such as the lack of a policy framework for mangrove conservation and protection.
Dr. Maduekwe highlighted the need for Nigeria to access climate finance grants to support these efforts, pointing out the absence of a strategy document as a current challenge. By developing the roadmap, Nigeria aims to position itself to receive grants for mangrove conservation, afforestation, and protection projects.