Economic Trees as Nature-Based Solutions for Climate-Resilient Urbanism: Insights from Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

African cities are at the frontline of climate change, facing rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, flooding, and worsening environmental quality. In Nigeria, rapid urban expansion frequently outpaces infrastructure provision, exacerbating climate vulnerabilities and deepening social inequalities. This paper advances the argument that economic tree species cultivated for both ecological services and economic value offer a cost-effective, culturally embedded form of nature-based solutions (NbS) for climate-resilient urbanism. Drawing on insights from Benue State, Nigeria, the study synthesizes empirical evidence and theoretical perspectives to demonstrate how trees such as mango (Mangifera indica), cashew (Anacardium occidentale), moringa (Moringa oleifera), neem (Azadirachta indica), and oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) contribute to urban adaptation. The findings highlight that economic trees simultaneously mitigate urban heat islands, sequester carbon, regulate stormwater, and enhance biodiversity while providing food, medicine, raw materials, and income opportunities. Their multifunctionality situates them at the intersection of ecological modernization, resilience theory, and sustainable urbanism, offering a practical model for integrating green infrastructure into rapidly urbanizing contexts. However, weak policy frameworks, inadequate maintenance, and competing land-use priorities currently undermine their potential. The paper argues for embedding economic trees into urban planning frameworks, supported by community participation, livelihood-oriented incentives, and species-appropriate technical guidelines. By foregrounding a Global South perspective, the study contributes to global debates on NbS and sustainable urbanism, demonstrating that resilience can be pursued not only through imported models but also through locally grounded ecological practices that are socially equitable and economically viable.