The Nigerian authority has made a significant move to preserve elephants and related ecosystems.
This move blows forward as the nation grapples with the illicit trade of African wildlife parts. Law enforcement and wildlife experts reveal Nigeria’s unfortunate status as a hub for gangs funneling illegal commodities, such as tusks and pangolin scales, to Asia.
Disrupting Trafficking
Nigeria has embarked on intensified counter-smuggling efforts in collaboration with global partners. Joining forces with British, US, and German officials, as well as international organizations, The country achieved a milestone in August 2021 with its largest seizure of illegal wildlife parts.
However, a recent incident ignited public outrage and renewed the nation’s focus on wildlife protection. A viral video on social media captured a soldier shooting two elephants that had wandered into farmlands.
The incident triggered a swift investigation, emphasizing the urgency of addressing human-wildlife conflicts.
In a significant move to safeguard its dwindling elephant population, the Nigerian government caught up with a staggering 2.5 tonnes of seized elephant tusks, valued at over 9.9 billion naira ($11.2 million), and destroyed it. This marked a powerful stance against wildlife trafficking, signaling the government’s commitment to curbing the illegal trade that threatens the country’s natural heritage.
The Minister of State for Environment, Iziaq Salako while providing more information on the decision said the powder resulting from this process will be repurposed to construct a symbolic national park monument.
According to him, this monument stands not only as a tangible deterrent to poachers but also as a poignant reminder of the intrinsic value elephants hold within the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
The challenges posed by wildlife trafficking are enormous, undoubtedly, this proactive approach signals a determination to protect both endangered species and the biodiversity that defines the nation’s natural wealth.
Preserving Nigeria’s wildlife is imperative for maintaining biodiversity, ensuring ecosystem stability, and safeguarding the country’s economic and cultural heritage.
Nigeria’s rich flora and fauna contributes to ecological balance, with species like elephants playing crucial roles in shaping habitats.
Written by Lois Agada
