In celebration of the 2024 International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, Minister of Environment Balarabe Lawal and Niger Delta Minister Engr. Abubakar Momoh participated in a symbolic mangrove planting ceremony at Bomu Waterfront in Ogoniland, Rivers State. The event shows the vital role of mangroves in coastal protection, biodiversity preservation, and carbon sequestration.
Minister Lawal highlighted the multifaceted benefits of mangrove ecosystems, noting their function as natural barriers against storms and erosion, their superior carbon storage capabilities—sequestering carbon at rates three to four times higher than terrestrial forests—and their role as nurseries for countless marine species. “Mangroves are not just trees; they are vital protectors of our coastlines, essential in the fight against climate change, and provide livelihoods for millions,” he stated.
The event emphasized the significance of mangrove ecosystems for enhancing climate resilience and supporting local communities by offering natural protection and resources such as medicine and food.
Lawal mentioned that July 26 is dedicated to the conservation of mangroves and highlighted HYPREP’s initiative, which is the world’s largest restoration project of oil-degraded mangroves. To date, 514,819 mangrove seedlings have been planted. He also introduced Growcoon, a sustainable alternative to single-use plastics for nurturing mangrove seedlings.
In a press statement, the ministry’s head of press and public relations, Ibrahim Haruna, conveyed Lawal’s appeal to the community to safeguard the newly planted mangrove seedlings and encouraged further planting to benefit the Niger Delta and the entire country. Minister Momoh echoed this sentiment, urging the Niger Delta residents to plant more trees to protect their environment and ecosystem.
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