Women take action against illegal loggers in Nigeria's forests

In 2018, a dedicated group of women in the village of Olum, located in Nigeria's Cross River state, decided to take a stand against illegal logging in their forests. Recognizing the importance of the forest to their community's survival, these women formed an informal forest policing squad to protect their vital natural resource. Their actions were driven by a personal connection to the land, understanding that the loss of forest could jeopardize their livelihoods and community wellbeing. The women began their efforts by investigating felled trees and documenting the activities of loggers, reporting their findings to local authorities to raise awareness of the environmental impact and illegal activities occurring in their region. This initiative represents a grassroots movement aimed at conserving the forest that their community has relied upon for generations, showcasing their determination and resilience in the face of environmental threats. In one notable incident in May 2020, a member of the group, Ms. Ofre, confronted a local man illegally cutting down trees, leading to the successful recovery of his chainsaw and his accountability for his actions. Their persistence has not only helped protect their forest but has also emphasized the critical role that women play in environmental conservation.