Vegetation Resources in Nigeria - SS1 Geography Lesson Note

Vegetation refers to the variety of plants that grow in a particular region or area. It includes all the plants, from trees and shrubs to grasses and herbs, that make up the natural landscape of a place.

Source:(blogspot.net)

 

Types of Vegetation in Nigeria:

Nigeria is a large and diverse country with a wide range of vegetation types. The major vegetation zones in Nigeria are:

 

Rainforest Zone:

This zone is found in the southern part of Nigeria, particularly in states like Cross River, Ondo, and Edo.

It is characterized by dense, lush, and evergreen forests with a variety of tree species.

Valuable timber and non-timber forest products are abundant in this region.

 

Savanna Zone:

This zone covers a significant portion of Nigeria, including states in the central and northern regions.

It consists of grasslands with scattered trees and shrubs.

The savanna is important for agriculture and supports livestock grazing.

 

Sahel and Sudan Savannah Zone:

Located in the northernmost parts of Nigeria, including states like Borno and Yobe.

Characterized by sparse vegetation, thorny shrubs, and drought-resistant grasses.

It is an arid region with limited agricultural potential.

 

Mangrove Zone:

This zone is along the coastal areas of the Niger Delta, with states like Bayelsa and Delta.

It is characterized by brackish water swamps and mangrove forests.

Mangroves are important for fisheries and provide protection against coastal erosion.

 

Highland Zone:

Found in the Jos Plateau and Mambilla Plateau areas.

Features cooler temperatures and is suitable for the cultivation of temperate crops like potatoes and vegetables.

 

Desert Zone:

The northeastern part of Nigeria, particularly in the region around Lake Chad.

It is a true desert with very limited vegetation and harsh environmental conditions.

 

These different vegetation zones in Nigeria provide various resources and ecological services. They play a crucial role in the country's economy, agriculture, biodiversity, and climate regulation. Managing and conserving these vegetation resources is vital for sustainable development in Nigeria.