Prof. Zachariah Yaduma, Director-General of the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), says Nigeria has over 10.6 million hectares of forests with vast economic potential.
This is contained in a statement issued on Saturday by his media aide, Idara Umoh-Ido, to mark the International Day of Forests and World Wood Day.
The International Day of Forests is observed annually on March 21 to highlight the importance of all forest types.
The 2026 theme, “Forests and Economies,” underscores the critical role forests play in driving economic growth and sustainable development.
Yaduma said forests go beyond income and job creation, as they also sustain agriculture, improve productivity and protect vital watersheds for communities nationwide.
He, however, lamented that current approaches capture only a fraction of the forests’ economic and environmental potential.
According to him, FRIN has advanced conservation, research and community engagement, laying the foundation for an inclusive and sustainable green economy.
“The 2026 theme resonates with national aspirations. We are at the forefront of a transformative vision to unlock forests’ economic potential,” he said.
Yaduma, who also chairs the Man and Biosphere Committee in Nigeria, said FRIN is pursuing UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status for key forest reserves.
These include Shere Hills, Omo and Oban reserves in Plateau, Ogun and Cross River states, respectively.
He said the initiative would promote harmony between biodiversity conservation and sustainable economic development.
“The activation of Nigeria’s National Carbon Market framework positions the country as an emerging player in the global carbon economy,” he said.
He added that it creates direct financial incentives for reforestation and conservation nationwide.
“FRIN’s scientific data, monitoring protocols and verified planting stock are vital for attracting climate finance and maintaining global credibility,” Yaduma said.
He noted that the era of extractive economies is waning, giving way to innovation, regeneration and shared prosperity driven by green growth.
“It is now incumbent on policymakers, the private sector and citizens to transform forests into engines of future economic growth,” he said.
Yaduma urged collective action, noting that FRIN’s efforts have laid a strong foundation for a sustainable and greener Nigeria.
“As we commemorate the day, Nigerians must protect forests and their resources, which remain essential from cradle to coffin,” he added.
