Indigenous Nigerian Fruits Facing Extinction Crisis

Twelve indigenous Nigerian fruits are facing extinction as urbanization, deforestation, and changing farming habits push these species closer to disappearance. Younger Nigerians are often unfamiliar with these fruits, which include the hog plum, known for its juicy tangy flavor, and the African pear, commonly roasted and eaten.

The bush mango, valued for its seeds used in soups, is also becoming rare. Other fruits mentioned include mbemb, which is enjoyed for its sweetness, and uben, a small fruit with a unique flavor found mainly in forest areas.

The decline in these fruits is attributed to habitat loss and reduced numbers of wild trees, making them increasingly difficult to find in local markets.