The role of afforestation programme in combating desertification in Nigeria

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to determine the extent to which an afforestation programme as spelt out in the Forestry II programme has checked the encroachment of desert in the arid and semi-arid zone of northern Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach - The study is carried out in the afforestation project states aimed at evaluating the success/failure of the program. Field observation and a site visit are conducted on some communities as well as policies relevant to forestry sector are reviewed. Findings - The preliminary findings of this paper indicate that the afforestation projects had a positive impact on both biophysical and socioeconomic environment and contributed to the sustainability of the afforestation programme. Research limitations/implications - This paper is primarily focused on the various components of the Forestry H programme and the extent they have helped in combating desertification. Originality/value - The paper addresses the need for sustainable afforestation projects and discusses on how the community effort and participation of women plays an important role during the afforestation programs.