In response to rapid deforestation and desert encroachment, a World Bank and Nigerian Government-funded Afforestation Project (AP) was implemented in Northern Nigeria from 1988 to 1996. Using an integrated, multi-dimensional approach, the establishment of shelterbelts, windbreaks, woodlots, orchards and nurseries was combined with social forestry, which involved awarenessraising campaigns, school forestry programmes, forestry extension services and a fuelwood conservation programme to address the environmental and socioeconomic problems in the region.

Although twelve states participated in the Project, Kano and Jigawa States were the most successful in achieving the desertification control objectives of the Project. Using lessons learned from the early years of Project implementation, the AP modified its operations to increase community participation in decisionmaking and implementation and to develop programmes to address the role of women in afforestation efforts. Afforestation activities have continued without external funding and have a high potential for sustainability.