The Conservator General of the National Park Service, Dr. Ibrahim Musa Goni, has announced that the Service has expanded its reach with the takeover of three Forest Reserves as National Parks in Jigawa, Osun, and Nasarawa States.
The newly designated National Parks are Hadejia Wetlands, Oba-Hills, and Marhai National Parks, which will be managed by the National Park Service to conserve and protect Nigeria’s natural heritage.
Dr. Goni made the declaration at the Service Headquarters in Abuja while presenting the agency’s scorecard for 2024.
He highlighted the Service’s commitment to conservation, protection, and community engagement, which has led to significant achievements in 2024.
The Service has enhanced its anti-poaching efforts through the deployment of high-tech equipment, resulting in 621 arrests, 466 prosecutions, 61 compoundments, and 94 warnings issued.
The CG expressed elation over partnerships with governmental, non-profit, and international organizations, which have facilitated donations and support for the Service’s anti-poaching efforts.
The Service has also prioritized training and capacity building, with 100 Park Rangers receiving tactical operations and counterterrorism training in collaboration with the Nigeria Army.
Also 30 Forest Guards from the Federal Capital Territory Forestry Department were trained in forest resources conservation and protection by the Service.
Research is another area of focus for the Service, with a recent PhD research conducted in Cross River National Park highlighting the impact of low-intensity human activities on tree species assemblages in tropical forests. Other research projects are ongoing in various fields at unit parks.
The Service has also achieved international recognition, with Assistant Conservator of Park (ACP) Mohammed Dikko Bala elected as Africa’s regional representative in the International Rangers Federation (IRF) executive.
Despite these achievements, the Service faces challenges such as insecurity, inadequate antipoaching patrol equipment, and vulnerability of protected areas.
To address these challenges, the Service will work to review the National Park Service Act and Regulations, as well as the management plan of all National Parks, and seek technical support and donor partnerships.
Dr. Goni expressed deep appreciation for the support the Service enjoys from the media and hopes that the robust relationship will be strengthened and sustained going forward.
