On July 21, 2025, CAfPRA participated in a high-level national conference held at the Presidential Villa. The theme of the event was “Unlocking the Forest Potentials in Nigeria”, and it brought together top policymakers, experts, and stakeholders to discuss the future of Nigeria’s forests.
Key Insights from the Conference
One of the most striking revelations was that 70% of Nigeria’s forest reserves lie in border towns. These areas are now being considered for Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) with foreign investors.
While such partnerships can attract investments and development opportunities, they also come with serious risks if not handled properly:
- National Sovereignty: Loss of control over critical forest assets
- Environmental Integrity: Threats to biodiversity and natural balance
- Community Rights: Displacement or exclusion of local communities that depend on the forests
CAfPRA’s Stand
At CAfPRA, we believe that Nigeria’s forests are not just economic assets; they are heritage, livelihood sources, and ecological safeguards. As such, they must be protected with strong regulations, transparent agreements, and community involvement.
We are actively monitoring this issue and will continue to engage with government agencies, policymakers, and communities to ensure that any forest-related reforms or investments put sustainability and people first.