Experts in plant ecology and environmental conservation have raised alarm over the steady decline in seafood such as crayfish, shrimp, and other marine species in the Calabar creeks. They say the destruction of rivers, wetlands, and especially mangrove forests is to blame for the drop in aquatic life.
The warning was issued during a one-day workshop held in Calabar. The event was organised by university students in partnership with a volunteer group known as the Biodiversity Rescue Club (BRC). The aim was to draw attention to the massive disappearance of mangroves and its impact on food supply, nature, and the wellbeing of people living in nearby communities.
Godwin Ogbiji, the focal person of the group, said they have already started planting 3,000 mangrove seedlings to help restore the Esierebom beach area in Calabar South.
“Our survey conducted within Calabar confirmed worrying problems that accompany the loss of mangroves. Some of these include the loss of sea species and animals resident in the wetlands, among others. These losses, as a result of man’s activities, have led to sharp shortages of seafood,” Ogbiji said.
He explained that replanting the mangroves would help bring back marine species like fish, which are not only important for the environment but also support food security and livelihoods in the area.
The group warned that many locals living near the Ikot Ewa Effiom Esierebom beach and other coastal areas have been cutting down mangrove trees for commercial purposes. They said this activity has become a major threat to aquatic animals and useful plants.
“This act is very dangerous,” one of the speakers said, adding that it has already caused displacement of marine animals and has exposed communities to flooding and erosion.
The destruction of mangrove forests, they said, has also contributed to rising prices of seafood in local markets and the killing of rare species such as crocodiles.
Dr Patrick Akwaji from the Department of Plant and Ecological Studies at the University of Calabar, and Dr Paul Oko, chairman of the Board of Trustees of BRC, also spoke at the event. They called on Nigerians to join hands in protecting and restoring mangrove forests.
“Mangroves are important for human livelihoods and existence,” they said. “We must be committed to the restoration of mangrove forests and the responsible use of their resources in order to ensure food security and combat climate change.”
The experts said urgent action is needed to stop further damage and to encourage more people to get involved in protecting the environment.
Aneozen Uba 
Peace David