National Parks Service Reports Successes in 2023
In an effort to uphold safety and security in the national parks, the National Park Service has reported a total of 646 arrests nationwide in 2023.
During a press briefing over the weekend, Dr. Ibrahim Goni, the Conservator General of the National Park Service, outlined the breakdown of these arrests, which included 44 hunters, 222 grazers, 131 loggers, and 249 individuals involved in other illegal activities. Dr. Goni underscored that these arrests were made across all national parks, with Gashaka-Gumti recording the highest number.
Regarding incidents of banditry, Dr. Goni disclosed that 37 suspects were apprehended in connection with mining/banditry in Old Oyo National Park, and Kainji Lake National Park detained three suspected bandits while neutralizing five others. He also reported the rescue of four victims during these operations and the recovery of various items such as motorcycles, phones, and machetes.
Moreover, the National Park Service initiated a total of 646 cases during the year, resulting in 161 convictions, 215 fines, 119 warnings and discharges, and 151 pending cases. The highest number of convictions were recorded in Cross River and Gashaka-Gumti National Parks.
In terms of revenue, the Service generated N83.2 million from various sources including ecotourism, compensation, and others, which was remitted to the federal government’s coffers. Additionally, the National Park Service entered into several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with different organizations to enhance their capacities in addressing conservation challenges.
Dr. Goni also mentioned that the National Park Service collaborated with relevant stakeholders to combat wildlife trafficking in Nigeria, highlighting seizures made and efforts to release live animals back into the wild. For example, the Nigerian Customs Service confiscated 81 parrots and other bird species, as well as galagos (bush babies), which were handed over to the National Park Service for rehabilitation and reintroduction to the wild.
Furthermore, a policy document on combating wildlife and forest crime in Nigeria was developed in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime.
The achievements of the National Park Service in 2023 demonstrate their dedication to ensuring the safety and preservation of the country’s natural heritage. Through partnerships, law enforcement endeavors, and conservation initiatives, the National Park Service continues to make significant progress in addressing conservation challenges and safeguarding the wildlife within the national parks.
