Introduction to Nigeria’s Vegetation Zones
Nigeria is a country located in West Africa, bordered by Niger to the north, Chad to the northeast, Cameroon to the east, Benin to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. Its vast and diverse landscape is home to a wide array of vegetation zones, ranging from humid tropical rainforests to semi-arid savannahs. These vegetation zones provide habitats for various plant and animal species, as well as support the livelihoods of the Nigerian people through agriculture and other economic activities.
The Tropical Rainforest Zone
The Tropical Rainforest Zone covers the southern part of Nigeria, from the coast to the central plateau. It is characterized by high rainfall and dense vegetation, with trees reaching up to 50 meters in height. The rainforest zone is home to a variety of wildlife, including primates, elephants, and birds. The area also contains valuable timber resources, which are exploited for commercial purposes.
The Guinea Savannah Zone
The Guinea Savannah Zone covers the middle belt of Nigeria, stretching from the southern rainforest zone to the northern savannahs. It is characterized by a mixture of grassland and scattered trees, with a shorter rainy season than the rainforest zone. The Guinea Savannah Zone is home to a variety of wildlife, including antelopes, zebras, and hyenas. The area is also used for agriculture, with crops such as yams and cassava being grown.
The Sudan Savannah Zone
The Sudan Savannah Zone covers the northern part of Nigeria, from the Guinea Savannah Zone to the Sahara Desert. It is characterized by open grassland with some scattered trees and shrubs, with a shorter rainy season than the Guinea Savannah Zone. The Sudan Savannah Zone is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and giraffes. The area is also used for grazing and agriculture, with crops such as millet and sorghum being grown.
The Sahel Savannah Zone
The Sahel Savannah Zone covers the extreme northern part of Nigeria, bordering the Sahara Desert. It is characterized by sparse vegetation and low rainfall, with droughts being a common occurrence. The Sahel Savannah Zone is home to a variety of wildlife, including gazelles, jackals and desert foxes. The area is also used for grazing and agriculture, with crops such as millet and cowpea being grown.
The Mangrove Swamp Zone
The Mangrove Swamp Zone covers the coastal areas of the Niger Delta, where the Niger River meets the Atlantic Ocean. It is characterized by dense mangrove forests and brackish water, with a high level of biodiversity. The Mangrove Swamp Zone is home to a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, turtles, and otters. The area is also important for fishing and oil exploration.
The Freshwater Swamp Forest Zone
The Freshwater Swamp Forest Zone covers the Niger Delta and other freshwater areas in the southern part of Nigeria. It is characterized by dense vegetation and flooded areas, with a high level of biodiversity. The Freshwater Swamp Forest Zone is home to a variety of wildlife, including primates, birds, and fish. The area is also important for fishing and other economic activities.
The Montane Forest Zone
The Montane Forest Zone covers the highland areas of Nigeria, including the Jos Plateau and the Obudu Plateau. It is characterized by cooler temperatures and dense vegetation, with a high level of biodiversity. The Montane Forest Zone is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and butterflies. The area is also important for tourism and conservation efforts.
The Derived Savannah Zone
The Derived Savannah Zone covers the transitional area between the Guinea Savannah Zone and the Sudan Savannah Zone. It is characterized by a mixture of grassland and scattered trees, with a shorter rainy season than the Guinea Savannah Zone. The Derived Savannah Zone is home to a variety of wildlife, including antelopes, hyenas, and jackals. The area is also used for agriculture, with crops such as maize and groundnuts being grown.
The Highland or Jos Plateau Zone
The Highland or Jos Plateau Zone covers the central part of Nigeria, including the Jos Plateau. It is characterized by cooler temperatures and open grassland, with some scattered trees and shrubs. The Highland or Jos Plateau Zone is home to a variety of wildlife, including baboons, antelopes, and birds. The area is also important for agriculture and mining.
The Sahel Acacia Savannah Zone
The Sahel Acacia Savannah Zone covers the extreme northeastern part of Nigeria, bordering Chad and Niger. It is characterized by acacia trees and sparse vegetation, with a short rainy season. The Sahel Acacia Savannah Zone is home to a variety of wildlife, including camels, ostriches, and vultures. The area is also used for grazing and agriculture, with crops such as beans and onions being grown.
Conclusion: Importance of Nigeria’s Vegetation Zones
The diverse vegetation zones found in Nigeria provide important habitats for various plant and animal species, as well as support the livelihoods of the Nigerian people through agriculture and other economic activities. These zones also play a crucial role in regulating the country’s climate, preserving biodiversity, and providing recreational opportunities for tourists. As such, it is important to protect and manage these zones sustainably to ensure their continued existence for future generations.
