The Head of the Department of Forest Resources Management, University of Ilorin, Prof. Folaranmi Dapo Babalola, has called for a better perception and understanding of forests and trees, saying they are “the lungs of the earth that play an indispensable role in sustaining life, fostering economic development, and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.”
Prof. Babalola made this call last Thursday (April 10, 2025) while delivering the 277th Inaugural Lecture of the University, titled “The Beliefs, Myths, and Facts about Forests and Connection to Humanity”, at the University Auditorium.
The don, who is the first professor produced by the Department and its first Inaugural Lecturer, said, “Despite the benefits that forests provide, the relationship between forests, trees, and humanity is frequently misunderstood, masked in misconceptions (also known as myths) that obscure the realities thereby requiring urgent needs for interventions.”
Prof. Babalola, who has research collaboration in over 40 countries, and also a consultant to renowned international organisations such as the Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the Tropical Biology Association (TBA), identified some of the myths and misconceptions, which, he said, “can influence peoples’ perceptions about nature, conservation, and human interactions with forests, sometimes leading to misguided policies or unsustainable practices”, as follows:
On the myth that forests are endless and can be exploited indefinitely, the don said, “Many people assume that forests are vast and will never run out, leading to unsustainable logging and deforestation.” He, however, posited that “forests are fragile ecosystems that require careful management.”
On the misconception that forests are dangerous and inhabited by evil spirits, Prof Babalola said, “Some traditional beliefs depict forests as mysterious and home to supernatural beings. But he pointed out that “while forests hold cultural, traditional, and spiritual significance, they are ecosystems rich in biodiversity.”
On the myth that forests are just trees, the don opined that “many people view forests as nothing more than collections of trees, ignoring their complex ecosystems.” He, however, clarified that “forests provide habitat for diverse wildlife, regulate water cycles, store carbon, and contribute to soil health.”
Demystifying another belief that forests recover quickly after deforestation, Prof. Babalola said, “Natural forest regeneration is a slow process that can take decades or even centuries, depending on the ecosystem”, pointing out that “while some trees may regrow quickly, others may take longer years. Also, the biodiversity, soil health, and ecological functions of a deforested area may never fully recover.”
Commenting on another misconception that forests are useless and should be cleared for agriculture, the Inaugural Lecturer said, “Converting forests to farmland may offer short-term benefits but often leads to soil degradation, reduced rainfall, and long-term agricultural losses. Sustainable land-use practices, including agroforestry and conservation farming, allow for both food production and forest conservation.”
Prof. Babalola, who is the Manager of UNILORIN Teak Plantation, which he described as “the largest teak plantation owned by an institution in Sub-Saharan Africa”, spanning some 500 hectares, had supervised hundreds of undergraduate and postgraduate students’ projects and theses.
Observing that “without urgent action, deforestation will worsen climate change, leading to increased desertification, loss of biodiversity, and disruptions in ecosystem services that millions depend on”, the Inaugural Lecturer canvassed for increased public awareness to highlight the vital role of forests in sustainable development and address common misconceptions about forestry as a profession, active planting and restoration of indigenous tree species and updating national forest policies to reflect current ecological, economic and social realities.
Prof. Babalola called on the University Management to constantly review the Forestry curricula and conduct “sustainable management of Unilorin Teak Plantation and implement best silvicultural practices, such as re-stocking vacant spaces, pruning trees, and long-term maintenance.”
According to him, this will enhance timber quality and plantation sustainability. He further submitted that leveraging carbon markets and securing dedicated funding will provide financial stability and contribute to global climate change mitigation.
Prof. Babalola also called for policies to enhance the University Campus Tree Management Committee (UCTMC) saying that “strengthening the committee with adequate funding, skilled personnel, and necessary resources will ensure effective management, restoration, and protection of campus trees, and creating a greener and more sustainable learning environment.”
The Inaugural Lecture was delivered under the chairmanship of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (RTI), Prof. Muhtar Etudaiye
