"This is Sango's house, and that is the mosque. They are very close to each other, and if you look behind them, you'll also find a church. Since I was born, I've never heard of the Alaafin settling any religious conflict among these faiths here in Sango Koso land. We observe Jumu'ah prayers here every Friday, while Sango worshippers hold their worship on Saturdays. If you choose to listen to religious extremists on social media, that's your decision. We don't do that here. My advice to Alfas is to stop attacking other faiths if they don't want others to attack or insult Allah."
— Oyo Alfa
Most Nigerians know Dongoyaro as that bitter tree people boil for malaria, use as a chewing stick, or plant around their homes for shade.
But this same tree can make insects “forget” how to eat, naturally protect crops without chemicals, preserve wood from termites for years, and has earned a reputation as one of the most useful trees on Earth?
The best part?
Almost every part of the tree - from its leaves to its seeds and bark has a purpose.
Interesting facts about Dongoyaro( Neem Tree)
• Dongoyaro, also known as the Neem tree (Azadirachta indica), gets its popular Hausa name from dogo yaro, meaning “tall boy”, because of its fast, upright growth.
• The tree produces a natural compound called azadirachtin that disrupts the growth and reproduction of many insect pests, making it one of nature’s most famous pesticides.
• Instead of relying on a single chemical, neem contains many different bioactive compounds that help protect the tree from insects and disease.
• Long before modern toothbrushes became common, people used neem twigs as chewing sticks because they release natural antibacterial substances while you chew them.
• The tree thrives in extremely hot, dry conditions and is widely planted in parts of Northern Nigeria to help fight desertification.
• Crushed neem leaves and seeds have been used traditionally to protect stored grains and farm soils from certain pests.
• Neem wood is naturally resistant to many insects, including termites, which makes it valuable for outdoor use.
• The tree has been used in traditional medicine for centuries across Asia and Africa, earning the nickname “the village pharmacy.”
• Neem seed oil is very concentrated and should be used carefully, especially around children and animals.
• Unlike many harsh chemical pesticides, neem products are generally considered less harmful to many beneficial insects and other animals when used appropriately.
• Farmers often plant neem around homes and farms because it provides shade, improves the environment, and helps reduce pest pressure naturally.
• The United Nations once described the neem tree as one of the most promising trees of the 21st century because of its potential in agriculture, health, and environmental protection.
• A mature neem tree can survive drought, poor soils, and intense heat that would stress many other trees.
A Neem tree can live and produce fruit for up to 200 years!
Neem tree is one of the wonders of nature, when next you see Neem tree or Dogoyaro say a silent thank you bcs it's a wonderful tree beneficial for mankind.
Happy Weekend
Lanre NaijaFarmer