Pre-modern forest conservation practices in Southern Nigeria

Long before deforestation became an issue of major concern, different cultural practices and traditions of the world has substantially conserved nature with divers approaches. This does not exclude the local communities of Nigeria where the traditions passed down from one generation to the next has played a great role in preserving some forest to this day.
Nigeria is blessed with tremendous width of forestland area, the marsh backwoods at the edge of Southern part of the country, the tropical rainforest in the South-western pivot and the lush savannah in the middle belt. Nigeria is positioned among the nations of the world with plenty of forest assets. Forest areas in Nigeria cover about 110,890 km2 of the country's total land mass, which is about 910,770 km2, This means that forests cover about 12.18% of vegetation cover of the country.
Deforestation is an unethical act of cutting down trees or clearing out of forest without replanting or replacing them (reforestation). Deforestation is known to be associated with more negative implications than positive ones as it is mostly anthropogenic.
Importance of Forest to Nigerian Communities
As numerous as communities and cultures are in different regions of the world, so is the values and symbolic functions of the forest. They encompasses cultural, social, and economic significance in a way that could be represented both physically and intangibly, including language, history, art, religion, medicine, politics, and social structures. The locals in southern Nigeria holds the believe that spirits of ancestors' are sometimes entombed in forest trees as well as those of newborns. In addition, forests can be perceived from both positive and negative points, as a source of generous benefits and potential harm respectively. it also can be viewed as a source of development as well as hindrance In the preceding lines, this article will disclose some of the ways in which forests are culturally, socially, and economically valued.
Cultural significance
* A bridge between the physical world and the spiritual realm: Numerous cultures and beliefs associate the tree with significant symbolic meaning. It frequently refers to connections between humans and the spiritual realm of their ancestors. The tree is a protective figure, a maternal symbol, and a site where people may connect with their deity and ancestors. The tree can also be exploited by evil spirits to their advantage. The tree is a symbol of the interconnectedness of all things, and it bridges the heavens to the earth, the living to the dead, and the material to the spiritual. The symbolic significance of the tree is illustrated in numerous myths and tales, and it is valued as prized cultural icons that links people to their particular past.
*The home of deities or higher power, it attracts worship: Some trees are believed to be the dwelling place of the spirits. The Iroko (chlorophora excelsa or milicia excelsa) are sacred trees throughout the whole southeastern region. According to a study that examined the religious significance of several forest species for distinct West African civilizations, it was mostly guarded while sacrifices and gift where presented to it. There were many communities around it, and sometimes the Iroko was planted there. The tree was especially associated with pregnancy and childbirth. For instance, the Ibo people of southern Nigeria consider it to be the source of the souls of the newborn.
Social Significance
Specific forest resources may contain social-cultural symbols that connect individuals to a particular history, to a region's values, or to particular groups.
* A reliable judiciary system: In the social fabric of southern Nigeria, the significance of a forest emerges as a force of moral redemption. Within this context, an immoral act is often followed by a ritual of atonement, in which a tree plays a vital role. This tree symbolizes a giver of life, a harbinger of death, or a guarantor of the hero's survival. It becomes a powerful mediator in situations where human resolution fails, particularly in conflicts stemming from the violation of traditional societal norms and rules. Trees often serve as mediators and decision-makers in judicial disputes due to their consistency in reflecting significant symbolic images.
* A secured location for events: Forests are often seen as a place of refuge and protection, providing shelter from danger and harm. Finally, forests provide the venue for religious, social, and healing ceremonies. It is also seen as places to connect with nature and the divine. While some of these products are rarely used on a day-to-day basis, they still form essential parts of the vast cultural traditions. Forest foods are intentionally featured in many cultural ceremonies such as marriages, funerals, initiations, installation of chiefs, and birth celebrations. Palm wine and cola nuts are important symbolic foods throughout humid West Africa. In Nigeria, palm wine is of paramount importance at most social functions. It is used in activities such as pouring libations, offering prayers, and heralding events. Cola nuts are regarded as important symbols of welcome and hospitality. For Muslims of the region, cola nuts are sacred as it is something given to them by the prophet. It's a symbol of friendship and feature in all festive occasions. Among the Igbo of Southern Nigeria, all discussions, prayers, and ceremonies begin with the breaking of cola nuts(Orji). Without cola, these occasions are not regarded as serious (Okigbo 1980).
Economic significance
* Distributor of resources: Forests is believed to play a huge role in making each community in southern Nigeria special by providing them with a unique raw material or commodity that distinguishes their identity and sustains their way of life. These distinct resources not only contribute to the local economy but also shape the cultural heritage of these communities. For example:
:* The Ibibio and Annang people of Akwa Ibom State are known for their raffia palm products. Raffia palm is a versatile material that can be used to make mats, baskets, hats, and other items.
:* The Ijaw people of Bayelsa State are known for their fishing. The forests of the Niger Delta provide the Ijaw people with a rich source of fish, which is a major source of food and income for the community.
:* The Efik people of Cross River State are known for their palm oil production. Palm oil is a popular cooking oil in Nigeria, and it is also used to make a variety of other products, such as soap and cosmetics.
* Source of medicinal materials: The mystical properties of certain forest resources often play a significant role in traditional healing practices. For example, in many cultures, it is believed that certain plants and animals have magical properties that can be used to heal the sick. Certain places in the forest may also be considered sacred, and it is believed that spending time in these places can promote healing. The symbolism of forest elements, such as trees, rivers, and mountains, is also thought to have therapeutic value. Forests are seen as places to connect with nature and the divine. They are also seen as a source of nourishment and sustenance for humans and other beings.
Traditional Methods of forest Conservation
In pre-modern Nigeria, traditional techniques of forest conservation were crucial for maintaining the nation's unique biodiversity and supplying local populations with supplies. These techniques frequently drew on indigenous knowledge and traditions that had been passed down through the years.
Dedication and Branding of forests
* Private forests: Before the enactment of the 1978 Land Use Decree, which transferred all land-management authorities from traditional institutions to state and district government, land in southern Nigeria was owned by lineages or large families. On such family land, people only have the right to utilize it. The only land that was available to the governor was that which had specifically been purchased as Crown land for public use. The sole restriction placed by law on the lineages and other local landowners was a requirement to get government approval before transferring rights to foreigners. On this note forest lands are allocated to rulers and chiefs, sometimes they are given as gifts as such its prohibits any form of public activity without the owners permission.
* Sacred groves: Sacred forests have a special status and have been preserved for many years by local people, mostly because of their spiritual significance. They are also essential for controlling the microclimate. When it comes to sacred forests, conservation may not be in conflict with human usage of the land, but rather is required to maintain the socioeconomic worth of the forest. Taboos are social rules or restraints that prevent people from exploiting biological resources individually, as a family, or as a community. They are based on collaboratively reached agreements between members of land-holding communities to promote biodiversity protection. Taboos controls the accessibility of biodiversity and how it is used, harvested, and protected. Also, they entail preserving certain terrestrial ecosystems and the water surface, including wetlands, rivers, and lakes. Young, old, males, and females are all subject to taboos.
* Traditional agricultural practices: the southern Nigerians have a long history of applying traditional agricultural practices that positively supports forest conservation. These practices have evolved over generations and are deeply rooted in the people's cultural and ecological perspective. Some of these activities include:
:* The practice of intercropping. This involves planting different crops together in the same field. This is beneficial for both the crops and the forest. For example, intercropping can help to reduce soil erosion and improve soil fertility. It can also help to control pests and diseases.
:* The practice of fallowing. This involves allowing a piece of land to rest for a period of time after it has been cultivated. This allows the soil to recover and the forest to regenerate.
* The seasonal communal practices: In southern part of Nigeria, there are several seasonal communal practices and traditions like their involvement in various festivals and ceremonies that serve as reminders of the importance of preserving the natural environment. These include:
:* The new yam festival which promotes sustainable forest management practices, such as planting and harvesting yams in a way that does not damage the forest ecosystem. It links the forest to cultural and religious beliefs, which helps to ensure that it is respected and protected by the community.
:* Likewise is the establishment of forest Guards as some communities appoint individuals or groups to be responsible for monitoring and protecting the forest from illegal activities such as logging, poaching, and encroachment.
Spreading the legacy of historic folklores
Many forests in the southern part of Nigeria are associated with ancient tales which has greatly played an important role in their preservation. The preservation of the Osun-Osogbo grove is one of many which is deeply intertwined with traditional folklore, this played a significant role in both cultural and ecological conservation. Folklore and mythological beliefs have established the grove as a sacred place, leading to reverence for the deity Osun and fear of divine retribution for its desecration. These beliefs have created a strong cultural bond, ensuring the grove's protection. Additionally, traditional narratives pass down the grove's history, rituals, and taboos, serving as a means of cultural preservation and community engagement. The Osun-Osogbo grove showcases the power of folklore in safeguarding natural and cultural heritage.
The Benefits of Pre-modern Conservation methods
In pre-modern Nigeria, traditional techniques of forest conservation played an indispensable role in safeguarding the nation's unparalleled biodiversity while simultaneously providing essential resources to sustain local populations. These time-honored methods were deeply rooted in indigenous knowledge and cultural traditions that had been meticulously preserved and transmitted across generations. Some of its benefits include:
* Ecosystem Preservation: Traditional forest conservation methods were instrumental in preserving the intricate ecosystems of Nigeria's diverse landscapes. These ecosystems encompassed a wide array of flora and fauna, including unique plant species, rare animals, and countless microorganisms. By protecting their forests, indigenous communities inadvertently safeguarded these ecosystems and the delicate balance of species within them.
* Resource Sustainability: The utilization of these traditional techniques was not an outright rejection of resource extraction from the forests but rather a sustainable approach to it. Local communities relies on forests for a myriad of resources, such as timber, medicinal plants, food, and materials for crafting tools and shelter. The conservation practices ensured that these resources remained abundant for future generations.
* Cultural Significance: Forests held profound cultural significance in pre-modern Nigeria. They were often regarded as sacred spaces, housing spirits or deities that were revered by the communities.
* Community Cohesion: Traditional forest conservation practices fostered a strong sense of community cohesion and responsibility. Decision-making regarding resource use was typically a collective effort, involving elders and community leaders. This collective responsibility ensured that no single individual or group could exploit the forests to the detriment of others.
* Biodiversity Hotspot: Nigeria's forests were not just nationally significant but also globally important for biodiversity. The nation's forests were home to a plethora of endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. By preserving these habitats, traditional techniques inadvertently contributed to the conservation of globally rare and endangered species.
* Interconnectedness of Resources: Indigenous knowledge emphasized the interconnectedness of resources within the forest ecosystem. For instance, certain plant species might be crucial for the survival of particular animal species. This holistic perspective guided conservation practices, ensuring that no resource was depleted to the detriment of others.
* Sustainable Agriculture: Forest conservation methods extended beyond the forest boundaries. Communities often practiced sustainable agriculture that integrated forest resources, such as using nutrient-rich leaf litter for soil fertility or relying on specific tree species for shade and protection of crops.
Decline in Traditional Conservation Practices
The fading away of traditional methods of forest conservation practices in Nigeria is a complex and multifaceted issue with significant environmental, cultural, and socio-economic implications. However, over the years, various factors have contributed to the decline of these traditional methods. Here is an introduction to this important issue:
Exposure to new knowledge
* Education and civilization: exposure to new knowledge through education and civilization contributed to the decline in traditional methods of forest conservation practices in Southern Nigeria through the following ways:
# Introduction of Modern Agricultural Practices: As people in Southern Nigeria gained access to education and were exposed to modern agricultural techniques, they began to adopt practices that prioritized higher crop yields and economic development. These modern methods often involved clearing large areas of forests for agriculture, which led to deforestation and a decline in traditional forest conservation practices.
# Shift in Values and Priorities: Education and exposure to civilization often bring about a change in people's values and beliefs. Traditional forest conservation practices in many cultures are rooted in spiritual or cultural beliefs that emphasize the sacredness of nature and the need to protect it. Education and exposure to modern ideas may lead people to question or abandon these traditional beliefs in favor of more secular or economic values, which may prioritize short-term gains over long-term sustainability.
* The emergence of Christianity: The impact Christianity on traditional forest conservation practices in Nigeria primarily centers around sacred forests due to the perception within Christianity that certain practices might be considered idolatrous or pagan. In some instances, the sacred forests, which hold profound significance in numerous indigenous belief systems and religions, might have been regarded as having pagan or idolatrous associations by certain individuals who converted to Christianity. Consequently, this perception could potentially result in a decrease in the upkeep and veneration of these revered sites. For example:
# In the southeastern region of Nigeria, some Christian have actively discouraged the practice of sacred forests. They have argued that sacred forests are pagan and should be destroyed. This has led to the loss of many sacred forests in this region.
# In the Niger Delta region, some Christian communities have converted their sacred forests into farmland. This has been done to meet the growing demand for food and to generate income.
Meeting-up with development trend
* The emergence of Industrialization: The growth of industries has increased the demand for timber products, this have led to commercial logging operations. These operations are often profit-driven and may not adhere to sustainable forest management practices. Traditional conservation methods, which prioritize long-term forest health, may be disregarded in favor of short-term economic gains.
* Global Market Demands: Southern Nigeria, like many regions, is influenced by global market demands. Exports of agricultural products, timber, and other natural resources can drive deforestation as producers seek to meet international market demands, most times at the expense of traditional conservation practices.
The increasing human population
* The need for more income: Commercial Logging and Exploitation are modern economic opportunities that has led to increased logging and exploitation of forest resources for profit. This economic incentive often outweighs the traditional values of forest conservation. People may prioritize short-term economic gain over long-term sustainability.
* The expansion of infrastructures and settlements: As southern Nigeria experiences infrastructure development, such as road construction and urbanization due to the increasing population, it often requires the clearing of land, including forests. This process can directly lead to deforestation and the destruction of ecosystems that were previously protected by traditional conservation practices.
* Agricultural Expansion: Meeting the food demands of a growing population has led to the expansion of agriculture. In southern Nigeria, this has often involved clearing forests for crop cultivation and livestock grazing. Traditional methods of sustainable land use and rotational farming may be abandoned in favor of more intensive and less environmentally friendly practices.
The Emerging Forest Conservation Practices in Southern Nigeria
The emerging forest conservation practices are of paramount importance in the region due to the demise of the old traditional practices and the need for sustainable environmental management. Southeastern Nigeria being a home to diverse range of ecosystems, faced significant threats, such as deforestation, illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development. In response to these challenges, the traditional conservation practices have undergone transitioning and emerged in the region.

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