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PUBLISHED DATE: - 23-09-2024
https://doi.org/10.37547/TAJMSPR/Volume06Issue09-05
PAGE NO.: - 20-36
LOSS OF BIODIVERSITY AND FOOD
SECURITY IN NIGERIA
Inyang G. John
Ph.D. Student, City University, Cambodia
Gloria Chigbu
Lecturer, ESFAM-BENIN University, Benin Republic
O.M.C Osazuwa
Ph.D. Student, City University, Cambodia
Maryjane Y. Oghogho
Ph.D. Student, City University, Cambodia
INTRODUCTION
Nigeria, rich in biodiversity, boasts diverse
ecosystems and numerous species, including over
864 birds, 117 amphibians, 203 reptiles, 775 fish,
285 mammals, and 4,715 vascular plants. The
country's ecosystems range from semi-arid
savannas to montane forests, floodplains,
rainforests, freshwater swamps, and coastal
vegetation (UNODC 2022). The Niger Delta, a
global biodiversity hotspot, contains Africa's
largest mangrove forest and 11 Ramsar sites
covering 1,076,728 hectares, hosting endangered
species like the Niger Delta red colobus, Cross
RESEARCH ARTICLE
Open Access
Abstract
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River gorilla, African manatee, and leatherback
turtle (Numbere, 2019). Despite this richness,
Nigeria's biodiversity is undervalued and
threatened by habitat loss, overexploitation,
pollution, invasive species, and climate change,
driven by factors such as population growth,
urbanization, poverty, weak governance, and lack
of awareness. According to the IUCN Red List 2019,
Nigeria has 309 threatened species (Mongabay
2022; Onipede 2024).
Biodiversity conservation in Nigeria also offers
many opportunities, such as enhancing economic
development, poverty reduction, food security,
health, and resilience. However, the biodiversity
within
these
agricultural
landscapes
is
increasingly under threat, posing significant risks
to food security in the country. Biodiversity loss
within agricultural areas not only diminishes
resilience against pests and diseases but also
hampers soil fertility and reduces the essential
ecosystem services necessary for crop production
(Sangothari et al., 2024). The intensification of
agricultural practices, habitat destruction, climate
change, and other human-induced factors have
collectively contributed to a notable decline in
biodiversity,
thereby
jeopardizing
the
sustainability of food systems and exacerbating
food security challenges (Lenda, 2024).
The erosion of biodiversity in Nigeria's agricultural
ecosystems has far-reaching implications for food
production and national security. Diminished
biodiversity can lead to a decrease in agricultural
productivity, heightened vulnerability to pests and
diseases, and an increased reliance on a limited
range of crop species, rendering food systems less
resilient to external shocks (Sangothari et al.,
2024). This loss of biodiversity is intricately linked
to various food security issues such as
malnutrition, fluctuations in food prices, and the
livelihoods of rural communities that heavily rely
on diverse ecosystems for their sustenance
(Sangothari et al., 2024).
Furthermore, the decline in biodiversity can
contribute to broader socio-economic and political
instability, as food insecurity often triggers
economic downturns, social unrest, and political
vulnerabilities (Sangothari et al., 2024). The global
trend of agricultural intensification and the
continual conversion of natural habitats into
agricultural lands have been identified as major
threats to biodiversity worldwide, leading to the
extinction of native flora and fauna (Lenda, 2024).
Agricultural biodiversity serves as the foundation
for research and development in agriculture,
highlighting its critical role in sustaining food
production systems (Joshi & Upadhya, 2019).
While agricultural landscapes are essential for
food production, the expansion of agricultural
activities often comes at the expense of
biodiversity loss, emphasizing the need for a
balance between agricultural productivity and
biodiversity conservation (Sangothari et al., 2024).
In Nigeria, as in many other regions globally, the
challenge lies in reconciling the need for increased
agricultural output to meet the demands of a
growing population with the imperative to
conserve biodiversity for long-term food security
and ecosystem health. The intricate interplay
between agricultural practices and biodiversity
conservation underscores the necessity for
integrated farming systems that prioritize both
agricultural
productivity
and
biodiversity
preservation (Sangothari et al., 2024). The
coexistence of agriculture and biodiversity is
crucial for maintaining ecosystem services,
ensuring sustainable food production, and
safeguarding the livelihoods of communities
dependent on agriculture for their well-being
(Sangothari et al., 2024).
This study aims to assess the extent of biodiversity
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loss in Nigeria's agricultural ecosystems,
specifically focusing on the impacts of pollution
from oil exploration, deforestation, desert
encroachment, migration, hunting and gathering,
harvesting of species without afforestation (such
as timber), indiscriminate burning, shifting
cultivation, sea and river pollution, and
uneducated application of insecticides by farmers.
By analyzing the relationship between these
factors and food security challenges
—
including
malnutrition, food price volatility, and rural
livelihoods
—
this study seeks to illuminate the
broader implications of biodiversity decline.
METHODOLOGY
This research will employ a comprehensive review
of existing literature, synthesizing key findings to
provide
actionable
recommendations
for
enhancing biodiversity conservation and food
security strategies in Nigeria. By focusing on
practical strategies and case studies, the review
will offer insights into effective policy
interventions and sustainable practices that can be
implemented at local, national, and international
levels. This study is limited to a review of existing
literature and does not involve primary data
collection. Therefore, the findings may be subject
to limitations in terms of data availability and the
depth of analysis. By conducting a thorough
literature review, this study aims to provide a
comprehensive overview of the complex
relationship between biodiversity loss and food
security in Nigeria, informing future research and
policy development.
Literature Review
Conceptual Framework
Biodiversity
Biodiversity refers to the amazing variety of life on
Earth, encompassing everything from microscopic
bacteria to towering trees and the majestic
creatures that roam the planet (Palombo, 2021).
This diversity isn't just about the number of
species; it includes the variation in genes within a
species (genetic diversity), the variety of different
species within an ecosystem (species diversity),
and the incredible range of ecosystems that make
up our planet (ecosystem diversity). Just like a
healthy and balanced forest ecosystem teeming
with life is more resilient to disturbances, so too is
a planet with high biodiversity (Kommidi, 2021).
From the microscopic bacteria enriching the soil to
the towering trees filtering air, each organism
plays a crucial role in this intricate web. This
variety provides us with essential services like
clean air and water, regulates the climate, and
protects us from natural disasters. It also
underpins food security by supporting healthy
agro-ecosystems and providing a vast genetic
library for food production and medicine.
However, this precious biodiversity faces a
significant threat: human activity. Human activity
threatens this rare biodiversity as tropical and
subtropical species are vanishing at alarming
rates. Losing species variety, abundance, and
ecological interactions is a global issue (Muluneh,
2021). Due of its complexity, this decline must be
addressed holistically.
Causes of Biodiversity Loss in Nigeria
Nigeria’s biodivers
ity is seriously in danger of
going extinct due to the charges in climate,
economic growth, land tenors system, invasive
species, and pollution from oil exploration,
deforestation and desert encroachment, migration
and hunting and gathering, Road construction and
lack of good attitude from other government and
the general public (Ogundipe, 2019). Potently,
biodiversity loss is as a result of traditional human
activities which involve harvesting of species
without
afforestation
like
the
Timber,
indiscriminate burning, shifting cultivation,
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sea/river pollution, and uneducated application of
insecticides by farmers, deforestation and many
more variables. The IUCN Red List identifies
habitat loss, overexploitation, invasive species, and
climate change as key drivers. These are often
fueled by population growth, poverty, weak
governance, and a lack of public awareness
(Duenas, et al 2021).
Additionally, according to Ben & Okon, (2020), soil
degradation is having a great negative impact on
nearly all the 36 states of Nigeria including Cross
River, Edo, Ondo and even the Federal Capital
Territory (FCT) as a result in the loss of
biodiversity. The exploitation and deforestation of
the forest risk in biodiversity including the
aforementioned states has led to greater loss of
biodiversity such as soil micro, macro faunas and
floras. Also, the depleted savannah forest and
resources have resulted to a variety of negative
consequences such as loss of natural vegetation,
wildlife, soil organisms and fertilize top layer of the
soil (Ogunbode, et al 2021).
Nigeria's biodiversity is seriously threatened by
climate change, as seen by noticeable alterations in
weather patterns and environmental factors.
According to Anabaraonye et al. (2022), Nigeria's
biodiversity is negatively impacted by climate
change due to rising sea levels that cause flooding,
changes in rainfall patterns, and higher
temperatures and humidity. Similarly, Okudu and
Ifeanacho (2020) note that population growth and
economic activity are driving natural resource use.
Humans and wildlife compete for water as they
move to biodiversity-rich areas. This competition
strains ecosystems, destroying habitats and
biodiversity.
Inadequate implementation of biodiversity and
conservation regulations may also contribute to
biodiversity loss. Preventing the development of
areas suitable for exploitation, mining, exploration,
and road extension inhibits economic growth and
conservation initiatives (Kazapoe, et al 2023).
Thus, the lack of biodiversity legislation and a lack
of understanding of species language and values
make biodiversity conservation in Nigeria difficult
(Ashukem & Sama, 2023).
Furthermore, loss of biodiversity also occurs as a
result of pollution. This is because it reduces the
quality and quantity of water, air, and soil; altering
the chemical and physical properties of natural
resources thereby causing diseases, mutation,
death of living organisms and disrupting the food
chains webs (Groh, et al 2022). According to
Achimugu (2021), the Niger Delta has suffered
from over 50 years of oil pollution which has
resulted in widespread environmental damage and
human right violations. To reduce this trend of
pollution, Nigeria needs to promote and support
the use of clean and green technologies and
practices that minimize the generation and impact
of pollutants on the environment (Pona, et al.
2021). Invasive species, which are species that are
imported or spread outside of their indigenous
environment, ultimately cause biodiversity loss
and harm to the local ecosystem. Examples of such
organisms include water hyacinth, giant mimosa,
tilapia, and cassava mosaic virus. The presence of
plants on adjoining agricultural land in Nigeria's
southern and central regions cause’s native species
to be displaced (Akani, et al 2022).
Effects of Biodiversity Loss in Nigeria
In addition to environmental deterioration, the
loss of biodiversity in Nigeria has a significant
impact on ecosystems and the well-being of
humans. Decreased biodiversity diminishes the
ability of ecosystems to withstand droughts,
floods, and disease outbreaks (Casu, et al 2024).
The extinction of a single species can have far-
reaching consequences throughout the ecosystem,
negatively impacting other species that rely on it
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for pollination or as a source of food. Furthermore,
a varied and abundant plant and animal population
is essential for ensuring food security. Biodiversity
loss has adverse effects on crop diversity, making
them more susceptible to pests and diseases, and
altering soil fertility processes. This poses a threat
to food security (Muluneh 2021). Also, the
availability of water is contingent upon the proper
functioning of robust ecosystems that regulate the
water cycle. Water scarcity is worsened by the loss
of biodiversity, which leads to increased soil
erosion and reduced water penetration.
Resource depletion is a significant consequence of
biodiversity loss. The decline in biodiversity
diminishes the accessibility and excellence of
timber, medicinal plants, and fibres, hence
impacting livelihoods and economic progress
(Dagar, et al 2020). Indigenous groups have a
profound connection
with
their
natural
surroundings; hence biodiversity loss has a
significant impact on them. The eradication of
culturally significant animals has the potential to
disrupt customs and undermine identity.
Ultimately, the decline in biodiversity exacerbates
climate change as ecosystems effectively store
carbon dioxide. Forests have the capacity to
sequester carbon, but the decrease in biodiversity
diminishes their ability to do so, which could
worsen the effects of climate change (Joshi & Singh,
2020).
Food security
Food security, as defined by the Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO), is a complex state
that is crucial for the welfare of individuals and the
progress of societies. Food security is the condition
in which every person consistently has sufficient
access to safe and nutritious food that meets their
dietary requirements and personal preferences,
enabling them to lead an active and healthy life
(Mbow, et al 2020). This concept highlights the
complex interaction of different elements that
contribute to food security, underlining its
intricate nature and the need for a comprehensive
approach to attain it.
Food security is essential for the overall physical
and mental health of individuals, as well as for
maintaining a stable economy and fostering social
cohesion. It has a direct influence on the
productivity of individuals and the advancement of
society, serving as the foundation for sustainable
development. In the absence of food security,
populations are exposed to heightened health
hazards, diminished educational achievements,
and hindered economic progress. Furthermore,
the issue of food security is intricately linked to
political stability and peace, as a shortage of food
can result in societal unrest and conflicts
(Behnassi, & El Haiba, 2022).
Dimensions of Food Security
Food security is underpinned by four main
dimensions: availability, access, use, and stability.
Each dimension addresses a critical aspect of food
security, collectively ensuring robust, inclusive,
and resilient food systems. Food availability refers
to having ample amounts of food that meet quality
standards, sourced through local production,
imports, or food assistance. This dimension
primarily concerns the supply aspect of food
security, emphasizing the importance of a reliable
and adequate food production system. Key
determinants affecting food availability include
agricultural
output,
climate
conditions,
technological advancements, and infrastructure.
To ensure food availability, investments in
sustainable agricultural practices, efficient supply
chains, and robust infrastructure are necessary to
reduce post-harvest losses and guarantee timely
food distribution (Chauhan et al., 2021).
Food access is the ability of individuals to obtain
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sufficient resources to acquire appropriate foods
for a nutritious diet. This dimension focuses on
economic and physical resources that people use
to access necessary nourishment. Economic access
involves factors such as income levels, food prices,
and market functionality, while physical access
pertains to the presence of food markets and
adequate transportation infrastructure. Policies
aimed at equitable economic development,
poverty reduction, and enhanced infrastructures
are essential to improve market access and food
affordability (Smith et al., 2020).
Food utilization involves the proper use of food,
which includes a comprehensive understanding of
basic nutrition and care, as well as access to clean
water and sanitation. This dimension ensures that
consumed food meets the nutritional needs of
individuals and promotes good health. Effective
utilization includes proper food handling and
cooking, a varied diet, and access to
uncontaminated water and sanitation. Public
health initiatives, nutrition education, and
improvements
in
water
and
sanitation
infrastructure are vital for enhancing food
utilization and ensuring that diets provide
necessary nutrients (Jones, 2019). Food stability
refers to the consistent availability of adequate
food without disruptions caused by economic,
climatic, or political factors. This dimension
highlights the importance of resilient food systems
that can withstand and recover from sudden and
prolonged disturbances. Enhancing food stability
involves managing risks related to food
production, supply chains, and market volatility.
Measures to improve stability include safety nets,
strategic food reserves, early warning systems, and
climate adaptation strategies to mitigate the
impact of adverse events on food security (Doe &
Smith, 2018).
Empirical Review
Sufiyan (2022) emphasizes the importance of
agro-biodiversity, including crop, animal, forest,
and microbial biodiversity, in maintaining food
security. The study outlines how different
components of biodiversity contribute to food
production, soil fertility, and ecosystem resilience.
It stresses the need for conservation and
sustainable use of biodiversity to support future
food security efforts. Sufiyan argues that the
preservation of genetic resources is essential for
crop improvement, livestock development, and
maintaining soil health, which are critical for
sustainable agriculture and food security.
Renard, & Tilman (2021) explore the potential of
biodiversity to address sustainability challenges in
modern agriculture. They highlight how increased
crop diversity can stabilize food systems and
reduce reliance on high-input monocultures. Their
research suggests that biodiversity can lead to
greater and more stable yields, decreased land
clearing,
and
reduced
use of
harmful
agrochemicals. This approach not only supports
food security but also promotes environmental
sustainability by enhancing ecosystem services
and reducing agricultural impacts on the
environment.
Moura de Oliveira Beltrame et al. (2021) focus on
the role of underutilized edible plants in Brazil's
food and nutrition security policies. The study
underscores the potential of these plants to
diversify diets, promote agricultural development,
and conserve biodiversity. The authors discuss
how integrating native species into national food
programs can enhance food security and resilience
to climate change. Their work demonstrates the
importance of policy support and research
partnerships in mainstreaming biodiversity for
food security.
Fedotova et al. (2021) examine the global
implications of biodiversity loss on food security.
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They discuss how human activities and population
growth disrupt biological diversity, affecting the
stability of ecosystems and their capacity to
support food production. The study highlights the
need for international cooperation and sustainable
practices to mitigate the impacts of biodiversity
loss on food security. Fedotova et al. conclude that
conserving biodiversity is vital for maintaining the
life-support systems necessary for a growing
human population and sustainable economic
development.
Wahab & Iyiola (2023) emphasize the role of
climate change in exacerbating biodiversity loss
and its subsequent impact on food production in
both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The study
highlights the challenges posed by climate change-
induced factors such as erratic rainfall patterns,
heatwaves, and rising sea levels on agricultural
yields, leading to food shortages. Oritseshemaye et
al. (2022) draw attention to the direct correlation
between biodiversity loss and human security in
the Niger Delta region. Their findings underscore
the vulnerability of communities reliant on
ecosystem services for their livelihoods. The study
emphasizes the cascading effects of biodiversity
decline on food security, health, and overall well-
being.
Oloyede et al (2023), advocate for the preservation
of neglected and underutilized horticultural crops
as a crucial strategy for enhancing food security
and biodiversity conservation. Their research
highlights the potential of these crops to contribute
to sustainable agriculture and nutrition. Mafiana et
al. (2022) emphasize the significance of
environmental degradation in exacerbating
biodiversity loss. The study underscores the need
for sustainable practices to maintain ecological
balance and achieve the Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs), particularly in relation to food
security.
Ajayi et al, (2022) discuss the detrimental effects of
biodiversity loss due to human activities. They
stress the necessity for holistic policies and
heightened public awareness to mitigate
biodiversity decline. Such measures are essential
for maintaining ecological balance and ensuring
long-term food security. By protecting diverse
ecosystems, the stability and productivity of
agricultural systems are safeguarded. Popoola
(2022) explores Nigeria's aquatic resources,
advocating for advanced genetic techniques and
sustainable fish production methods. These
approaches aim to boost food security and
conserve biodiversity by increasing fish yield and
maintaining aquatic ecosystem health. Genetic
improvements can lead to more resilient fish
species, enhancing food availability and quality.
A study by Akin-Idowu et al (2022), highlights the
significant role of biotechnology in enhancing crop
production and food quality while conserving
biodiversity. The study advocates for biologically-
based agricultural practices, which integrate
modern biotechnology with traditional farming
techniques. This integration supports sustainable
agriculture by improving crop yields and
resilience, thereby contributing to food security.
Additionally, Oritseshemaye et al. (2022) examine
the impact of environmental degradation on
hu
man security in Nigeria’s Niger Delta. They find
a strong correlation between threatened
biodiversity and food and health insecurity. The
study underscores the need for environmental
conservation efforts to protect biodiversity, which
is crucial for sustaining human health and food
resources in the region.
Identified Gaps
The existing literature on biodiversity and food
security in Nigeria underscores various key areas,
the implications of biodiversity loss due to human
activities (Ajayi et al, 2022), the potential of
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aquatic resources and genetic techniques for
sustainable fish production (Popoola, 2022), and
the benefits of biotechnology in crop production
and food quality (2022). Studies on underutilized
edible plants and neglected horticultural crops
(Beltrame et al., 2021; Oloyede et al, 2023)
highlight their potential but fail to integrate
findings into broader agricultural policies or
address socio-economic barriers and market
dynamics. Additionally, while environmental
degradation and biodiversity loss are linked to
food security (Mafiana et al., 2022; Oritseshemaye
et al., 2022), there is a lack of detailed exploration
of the interconnectedness between ecosystem
services and human security in various regional
contexts.
Moreover, despite the fact that agro-biodiversity
plays a critical role in food security, most of the
literature (Fedotova et al., 2021; Sufiyan, 2022)
stresses theoretical frameworks and general
implications rather than providing concrete
solutions and case studies that are relevant to a
certain area. Renard & Tilman (2021) and Wahab
& Iyiola (2023) discuss crop diversity and climate
change challenges but do not provide detailed
analyses of policy interventions and practical
applications. Additionally, studies such as
Oritseshemaye et al. (2022) discuss the impact of
environmental degradation on human security in
the Niger Delta. However, gaps remain in the
comprehensive assessment of biodiversity loss in
Nigeria's agricultural ecosystems due to pollution
from oil exploration, deforestation and desert
encroachment. This study addresses these gaps by
providing a focused analysis on how these factors
contribute to biodiversity decline and its
subsequent effects on agricultural sustainability
and food security in Nigeria.
RESULTS
Biodiversity Loss in Nigeria's Agricultural
Ecosystems Due To Pollution from Oil Exploration
Pollution, the introduction of harmful substances
or energy into the environment, significantly
impacts biodiversity and ecosystems. In Nigeria,
pollution arises from various sources including
industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, oil spills,
solid waste, sewage, and gas flaring, leading to
degraded water, air, and soil quality (Onipede
2024). Oil spills are a major pollution source in the
Niger Delta, contaminating water, soil, and
vegetation. This is particularly evident in Nigeria's
agricultural ecosystems, where pollution from oil
exploration severely hampers biodiversity.
This contamination affects the health and
livelihoods of millions, including wildlife.
According to UNEP (2017), the Niger Delta has
endured over 50 years of oil pollution, causing
extensive environmental damage and human
rights violations. The widespread pollution has
disrupted food chains, leading to reduced
agricultural productivity and compromised food
security in the region. Fish, birds, mammals, plants,
wetlands, forests, and coral reefs have all suffered
from the persistent pollution, illustrating the
severe impact on biodiversity and ecosystem
health. The cumulative impact of these oil spills is
profound, causing habitat loss and fragmentation,
which are primary drivers of biodiversity loss. The
contamination of water bodies and soil makes it
difficult for plant and animal species to survive,
leading to decreased agricultural yields and
increased poverty among local communities
reliant on farming and fishing
Data from the National Oil Spill Detection and
Response Agency (NOSDRA) indicates a persistent
issue with oil spills. The agency's reports detail
numerous incidents each year, particularly in the
Niger Delta, where oil spills have caused significant
environmental degradation (NOSDRA Reports
2023). Additionally, Shell Nigeria provides
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detailed annual data on oil spills covering spill
counts, causes, and volumes. This data as shown in
the chart below, indicates consistent spill
incidents,
contributing
to
the
ongoing
environmental challenges in the region (Shell
Nigeria (nd).
Data Source: Shell Nigeria (Oil Spill Incident Data 2010-2023)
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Biodiversity Loss in Nigeria's Agricultural
Ecosystems Due To Deforestation and Desert
Encroachment
Biodiversity loss in Nigeria's agricultural
ecosystems, driven by deforestation and desert
encroachment,
presents
a
significant
environmental challenge. Analysis of data from
2010 to 2023, published by Global Forest Watch,
reveals a concerning trend of primary forest and
tree cover loss. This trend exacerbates biodiversity
decline and poses a threat to the sustainability of
agricultural practices. From 2010 to 2023, Nigeria
experienced a substantial decline in primary forest
cover. This reduction is attributed to various
factors, including deforestation and the conversion
of forests to agricultural land. Primary forests are
critical habitats for a diverse range of plant and
animal species. Their loss not only leads to a
decline in biodiversity but also impacts essential
ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration
and water regulation. These services are vital for
maintaining
agricultural
productivity
and
environmental stability.
The annual data indicates a steady increase in tree
cover loss, with significant peaks during years of
intensive deforestation activities. This consistent
loss
highlights
ongoing
environmental
degradation primarily driven by human activities.
The removal of trees diminishes biodiversity,
disrupts habitats of numerous species, and leads to
cascading
ecological
imbalances.
The
categorization of tree cover loss by dominant
drivers provides insights into the underlying
causes of deforestation in Nigeria. Key factors
include agricultural expansion for commercial
purposes, traditional farming practices involving
the clearing of forestlands for crop cultivation,
legal and illegal logging activities, natural and
human-induced wildfires, and the encroachment
of urban areas into forested regions.
Spatial data from 2010 to 2023 highlights hotspots
of tree cover loss, predominantly in the southern
and central regions of Nigeria. These regions, rich
in biodiversity, are particularly vulnerable to
deforestation due to agricultural expansion and
infrastructural development. The concentration of
tree cover loss in these areas underscores the need
for targeted conservation efforts to protect
remaining forested areas and restore degraded
lands. The cumulative fire alerts data visualizes the
frequency and intensity of fire incidents over the
years. The increasing number of fire alerts
correlates with heightened deforestation and
forest degradation. Fires, whether natural or
anthropogenic, pose a significant threat to forest
ecosystems, leading to the loss of vegetation, soil
fertility, and wildlife habitats. A subset of the tree
cover loss data specifically attributed to fire
incidents further illustrates the destructive impact
of fires on Nigeria’s forests.
Fires not only lead to
immediate vegetation loss but also create
conditions that hinder forest regeneration,
contributing to long-term biodiversity decline.
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Data
Source: Global Forest Watch
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DISCUSSION
From the results of this study, oil spills have
profound implications on biodiversity, which in
turn exacerbates issues such as malnutrition, food
price volatility, and the livelihoods of rural
communities. Oil spills contaminate water bodies
and
soil,
severely
affecting
agricultural
productivity. This contamination leads to reduced
yields of crops and fish, which are vital sources of
food and nutrition for local populations. Reduced
availability of these food sources directly
contributes to malnutrition, particularly among
vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant
women. Studies indicate that areas impacted by oil
spills show higher rates of malnutrition due to the
decreased availability of safe, nutritious food
(Nkodo et al., 2023; Babatunde, 2023). Also, the
degradation of agricultural land and fisheries due
to oil spills disrupts local food supply chains. As the
productivity of these sectors declines, the scarcity
of food products drives up prices. This volatility
affects not only the local markets but also regional
food security, as communities become increasingly
reliant on imported food items, which are subject
to price fluctuations in the global market.
According to Akpan, (2023), the financial strain on
households due to higher food prices further
exacerbates food insecurity.
Furthermore, oil spills have a devastating impact
on rural livelihoods, especially in communities
dependent on agriculture and fishing. The
contamination of water and soil resources leads to
a decline in both crop and fish production. As a
result, many farmers and fishers lose their primary
sources of income, leading to increased poverty
and economic instability. The loss of biodiversity
also means that alternative sources of income, such
as the harvesting of non-timber forest products,
are no longer viable as noted by Asani & Akinyode,
(2022). Additionally, the decline in biodiversity
due to oil spills has broader ecological implications
that further affect food security. The loss of key
species and habitats disrupts ecosystem services
such as pollination, water purification, and soil
fertility, which are essential for sustainable
agriculture. Oritseshemaye et al., 2022; Ben-
Chendo et al., 2022, also explained that the
resulting ecological imbalance can lead to the
proliferation of pests and diseases, further
threatening food production and security,
Deforestation and desert encroachment are
significant environmental threats that can have
devastating consequences for food security,
particularly in Nigeria, where many rural
communities rely heavily on natural resources for
their livelihoods. One of the primary ways
deforestation and desert encroachment harm food
security is by reducing biodiversity. Primary
forests provide critical habitats for a wide variety
of plant and animal species, many of which serve
as essential food sources for local communities.
When these habitats are destroyed, the availability
of these food resources diminishes, leading to
malnutrition, especially among vulnerable groups
like children and pregnant women. For instance,
the decline in fish populations due to polluted and
degraded water bodies can significantly impact
protein intake for communities that rely heavily on
fishing. Similarly, the loss of forest products, such
as fruits, nuts, and bushmeat, can reduce the
dietary diversity of local populations, making them
more vulnerable to malnutrition.
Deforestation and desert encroachment also
disrupt local food supply chains by reducing
agricultural productivity. As forested areas are
converted to agricultural land, soil fertility often
declines due to factors like erosion and nutrient
leaching. This leads to lower crop yields, making it
difficult for communities to produce enough food
to meet their needs. The scarcity of food products
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drives up prices, creating economic pressure on
households. Farmers and fishermen displaced by
environmental degradation may migrate or
forsake their customary livelihoods, reducing local
food production. Therefore, communities grow
more dependent on imported food, which
fluctuates in price globally. This volatility in food
prices further exacerbates food insecurity, making
it difficult for low-income families to afford
nutritious food.
Furthermore, rural livelihoods are particularly
hard hit by biodiversity loss due to deforestation
and desert encroachment. In Nigeria, many rural
communities depend on agriculture and fishing for
their survival. The degradation of these natural
resources leads to reduction in agricultural and
fishery productivity, resulting in loss of income
and increased poverty. As biodiversity declines,
alternative sources of income, such as harvesting
non-timber forest products, also diminish. This
loss of biodiversity undermines the resilience of
rural livelihoods, making communities more
susceptible to economic and environmental
shocks.
The broader ecological implications of biodiversity
loss due to deforestation and desert encroachment
also affect food security. The decline in key species
and habitats disrupts ecosystem services such as
pollination, water purification, and soil fertility,
which are crucial for sustainable agriculture.
Pollinators, such as bees, are vital for the
production of many crops. The loss of forest
habitats for these pollinators can significantly
reduce crop yields. Additionally, the destruction of
wetlands and forests that filter and regulate water
supplies leads to water scarcity and quality issues,
further impacting agricultural productivity. The
resulting ecological imbalance can lead to the
proliferation of pests and diseases, further
threatening food production and security.
CONCLUSION
The study highlights the complex correlation
between the decline in biodiversity and the issue
of food security in Nigeria. An examination of
agricultural ecosystems demonstrates that
pollution resulting from oil exploration,
deforestation, and desert encroachment has
substantially diminished biodiversity, leading to a
series of consequences on food production,
availability, and accessibility. The adverse
environmental
conditions
have
caused
disturbances in ecosystems, resulting in decreased
crop yields and negatively impacting the
livelihoods of rural communities that rely
primarily on agriculture and fishing. The steady
increase in oil spills, tree cover loss, driven by
various human activities, emphasizes the urgent
need for sustainable land management practices
and robust conservation policies. Protecting and
restoring Nigeria’s forests are crucial for
preserving biodiversity, supporting agricultural
productivity,
and
ensuring
environmental
resilience.
Resolving biodiversity loss and ensuring food
security are interdependent problems that require
a
comprehensive
strategy.
Strengthening
environmental regulations, restoring degraded
ecosystems, extending protected areas, and
promoting community engagement are vital
measures
for
biodiversity
conservation.
Concurrently, the promotion of sustainable
agriculture, the diversification of crop production,
and the investment in agricultural value chains can
improve food security. Enhancing social safety nets
and promoting research and innovation are crucial
elements of this strategy. The rapid and concerning
rate of deforestation highlights the immediate
necessity for strong and effective conservation
efforts. Adopting sustainable land management
practices and safeguarding current forests are
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crucial for conserving biodiversity, promoting
agricultural
productivity,
and
enhancing
environmental
resilience.
Also,
utilizing
technology, such as integrated deforestation alerts,
can greatly enhance forest monitoring and
enforcement activities.
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