World Environment Day: Expert Warns Nigeria is Highly Vulnerable to Climate Change

Nigeria faces growing environmental threats from climate change, and citizens should take the issue seriously, environmental expert Desmond Majekodunmi said on World Environment Day.

Speaking during a chat with our correspondent, Majekodunmi said Nigeria is among the countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, with desertification in the north and coastal erosion in other parts of the country already affecting communities.

He pointed to the shrinking of Lake Chad as one of the clearest examples of environmental change.

According to him, the lake has reduced to less than a quarter of its original size, affecting millions of people who depend on it for farming, fishing and livestock rearing.

He said the loss of land and water resources has forced many people to migrate, increasing poverty and social tensions.

Majekodunmi also warned that rising temperatures are contributing to heavier rainfall and flooding in many areas.

He said Nigerians should be aware of the risks and support efforts to protect the environment.

The environmentalist described tree planting as one of the most effective ways to fight desertification and climate change.

However, he stressed that planting trees alone is not enough unless existing forests are also protected and new trees are properly maintained.

“We need to have a massive tree planting initiative and also ensure that we protect the ones that are still there, which is just very, very important that the forest should be protected,” he said.

He called for a large-scale tree-planting programme across the country, saying forests play a vital role in preserving soil, supporting rainfall and reducing environmental damage.

For people living in cities, Majekodunmi urged authorities to protect green spaces and create more parks and tree-lined areas.

He said excessive construction and the loss of vegetation are increasing temperatures in urban centres.

He also called for better waste management, warning that blocked drainage systems contribute to flooding. Residents, he said, should avoid dumping refuse into drains and demand proper waste collection services from government agencies.

"We are our brother's keeper," he said, urging Nigerians to work together to protect the environment for future generations.