Threats to Nigeria’s Biodiversity: Challenges and Responses

The preservation of Nigeria’s vast biodiversity is currently under threat from a range of factors, many of which involve environmental crimes, as outlined by Dr. Ibrahim Goni, the Conservator General of the National Parks Service. During his recent end of year address to the press in Abuja, Goni emphasised the urgent issues of banditry, grazing, wildlife trafficking, and illegal mining in and around the country’s seven national parks.

The national parks in question include Chad Basin National Park, Cross River National Park, Gashaka Gumti National Park, Kainji Lake National Park, Kamuku National Park, Okomu National Park, and Old Oyo National Park. Goni reported a total of 646 arrests made across the national parks, with individuals apprehended for activities such as illegal grazing, logging, hunting, and other offences against the environment.

The conservator general also provided details on the actions taken by park authorities to address these threats. Numerous suspects have been prosecuted, with a significant number of convictions and fines imposed. Despite the challenges, the service remains committed to protecting the country’s natural resources, especially in the face of increasingly extreme climate change impacts.

Goni also highlighted the economic value of the national parks, reporting a total revenue generation of N83,233,397.00 from January to November. In addition, he announced new initiatives aimed at strengthening the capacities of the National Park Service, including the signing of Memoranda of Understanding with various organisations and the establishment of 10 new national parks approved by the former President, Muhammadu Buhari, in November 2020.

In response to recent illegal killings of elephants and other wildlife species, the Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziak Salako, condemned these acts and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting wildlife. He emphasised that Nigeria is a signatory to international conventions, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and therefore, the government will not condone any dastardly acts against wildlife.

The minister assured the public that the ministry has launched a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding these tragic events to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.

In conclusion, it is evident that the conservation of Nigeria’s rich and diverse biodiversity is facing significant challenges. However, with the efforts of the National Parks Service and the Ministry of Environment, there is hope for the protection and preservation of the country’s natural heritage. As the public celebrates Christmas and New Year, Goni encouraged Nigerians to visit the national parks and experience the wonders of nature, in an effort to promote conservation efforts and safeguard the country’s natural resources from criminal activities.