Experts have called for the adoption of digital forest management to unlock Nigeria’s vast economic and environmental potential.
Delivering a virtual keynote address at the 9th Biennial Conference of the Forests and Forest Products Society (FFPS) themed “Healthy and Resilient Forests for a Buoyant Nigerian Economy” in Akure on Wednesday, Professor Timo Tokola of the University of Eastern Finland said digital monitoring can transform forest management and sustainability in Nigeria.
He highlighted the high economic value of forests — including medicinal plants, timber, paper, fibre, furniture, and ecosystem services — but warned that these benefits are threatened by illegal logging, urbanization, outdated policies, and weak enforcement.
Tokola urged Nigeria to shift from mere resource extraction to sustainable management through digital transparency, private sector participation, and realistic socio-economic policies.
Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), Professor Adenike Oladiji, stressed the need for institutional collaboration to promote research and innovation, commending Elizade University for co-hosting the conference.
Similarly, Elizade University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Sunday Adeyemo, expressed optimism that outcomes from the conference would translate into practical ideas for national economic growth.
Representing Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Chief Segun Odusanya, Permanent Secretary, Ondo State Ministry of Agriculture, said the state is committed to reversing deforestation and aligning with the European Union’s Deforestation-Free Program.
FFPS President and Vice Chancellor of Redeemer’s University, Professor Shadrack Akindele, described forests as “the lungs of our planet and anchors of rural economies,” emphasizing the need for innovation, reforestation, and green entrepreneurship to combat deforestation and climate challenges.
Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Professor Mathew Oyun, urged participants to use the conference as a platform for learning, collaboration, and practical impact in shaping the future of Nigeria’s forests.
