Examining Deforestation and Forest Degradation in North-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Deforestation and forest degradation pose significant environmental and socio-economic threats to North-Eastern Nigeria. This region, ravaged by insurgency (such as Boko Haram) and climate change, has witnessed unprecedented forest loss, compromising biodiversity, water resources and livelihoods. This study examines the pattern, consequences and drivers of deforestation and forest degradation in North-Eastern Nigeria. Using mixed-methods approach, combining satellite remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Normalise Differential Vegetation Indices (NDVI) and field data, this research analyze forest cover changes over time and the impact of human activities such as agricultural expansion, illegal logging and urbanization. The findings reveal alarming rates of forest loss with significant implications for environmental sustainability, food security and human well being. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of high resolution satellite imagery and machine learning techniques in detecting subtle vegetation changes.The study recommends sustainable forest management practices, conflict sensitive conservation approaches and climate resilient agriculture to mitigate deforestation and forest degradation. It also highlights the need for policy reforms, community engagement and international cooperation to protect North-Eastern Nigeria’s fragile forest ecosystems and promote sustainable development.