Back to: ZOOLOGY 100 Level
How far, my padi? Na you I dey wait! Welcome back to another exciting class. I trust you’re doing well—maybe just finished eating some jollof rice with fried chicken, abi? Whether na chicken, fish, or even the mosquito you just chased away from your room, animals dey everywhere for our life. Today, we’re going to gist about how important these animals truly are. Oya, come close make we begin.
Importance of animals to humans and the environment
You know say for Naija, we no dey play with our meat. From suya for street corner, to goat meat in pepper soup, or even the cow for Sallah celebration—animals are a big part of our lives. But beyond food, animals help us in ways we don’t always notice. Whether you live in Lagos, Kano, or Calabar, animals impact your daily life and the environment more than you think.
They are not just here to be watched in the zoo or used for experiments in school. Animals are helpers, cleaners, pollinators, protectors, even entertainers. Without them, this world for no balance at all.
Animals play plenty roles that benefit both humans and the environment. Let’s look at some of these roles in simple, relatable ways:
- Source of Food
This one you already know. Animals like cows, chickens, goats, and fish provide us with meat, milk, eggs, and more. Even snails and grasscutters are delicacies in many Nigerian homes. These foods are rich in protein, which helps us grow strong. - Agriculture and Labour
Before tractors came, animals like donkeys and oxen were used to plough farms and carry heavy loads. In some parts of Northern Nigeria, they still help farmers today. - Clothing and Materials
Leather from cows and goats is used to make bags, shoes, belts, and traditional drums. Wool from animals like sheep gives us warm clothing in cold regions. - Medicine and Research
Scientists use animals to study diseases and develop medicines. Even the venom from snakes can be used to make medicine that treats high blood pressure. No be small thing! - Environmental Balance
Animals help keep nature balanced. For example, vultures help clean up the environment by eating dead animals. Earthworms help the soil stay healthy. Bees pollinate crops—without them, many fruits and vegetables would not grow well. - Cultural and Religious Roles
In many African communities, animals play spiritual roles. The masquerade may wear animal skin; festivals may involve animal sacrifices or dancing with animal-themed costumes. - Companionship and Security
Dogs are not just pets—they protect our homes and even help people with disabilities. Cats help chase rats. Birds can be trained to mimic human speech—how cool is that?
Think of the cow that provides your Sunday stew. That cow is not just food; its skin becomes leather for slippers, its bones used in tools, and even its dung is used in some villages as fertiliser or fuel. Or take the tiny bee. When it flies from flower to flower, it’s helping crops like tomatoes, oranges, and mangoes grow well. No bees? No fruit. Imagine that!
Even the annoying house lizard in your room helps by eating insects that carry diseases. You see how these animals dey do silent work for us?
Summary
Animals are important to humans and the environment in many ways. They give us food, materials, medicine, and help in farming. They also help maintain environmental balance, play roles in our culture, and even offer companionship and protection. Truly, without animals, human life and the ecosystem would suffer greatly.
Evaluation
- List five ways animals are useful to humans.
- How do animals help keep the environment balanced?
- Mention one animal in your local area and explain its importance.
You did well today! I’m super proud of how you’re learning and growing. Don’t forget, animals are not just background noise—they’re partners in our survival. With Afrilearn and your sharp brain, you’re well on your way to becoming a proud African zoologist. Keep it up, and I can’t wait to see you in the next lesson. Keep learning, keep shining!
School Owner? Automate operations, improve learning outcomes and increase your income with Afrilearn SMSGet more class notes, videos, homework help, exam practice on Android [DOWNLOAD]
Get more class notes, videos, homework help, exam practice on iPhone [DOWNLOAD]