FG Criticises Decline in Wildlife Population

The Federal Government of Nigeria says the decline of the wildlife population is threatening the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

Speaking during the commemoration of 2024 world wildlife day on Tuesday in Abuja, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, called on people to strive to bridge the gap between humanity and nature.

Lawal said the ministry had been in the forefront of ensuring the protection and conservation of Nigeria’s rich biodiversity of wild fauna and flora.

The theme of 2024 World Life Day is “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation.

The minister said the theme underscored the pivotal role of technology in safeguarding Nigeria’s precious wildlife.

“In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, technological advancements offer us unprecedented opportunities to enhance conservation efforts and forge deeper connections between humanity and the natural world.

“From cutting- edge monitoring systems to innovative data analytics, digital tools empower us to better understand, protect, and preserve our wildlife.

“Together, let us double our efforts and harness the transformative power of technology to forge stronger connections between people and planet and safeguard the irreplaceable treasures of our natural world,” he said.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mahmud Kambari, said it was imperative to reflect on the critical role that wildlife played in maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystems and sustaining life on earth.

“From the majestic elephants roaming the Savannahs to the colourful bird species adorning our skies, each creature contributes to the intricate web of life that sustains us all.

“However, we are deeply aware of the threats facing our wildlife such as wildlife trade, poaching, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change, among others.’’

He said these challenges have resulted in the decline of the wildlife population, thereby threatening the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

“It is pertinent that we explore the advantages derived from digital innovations as we celebrate this year’s world wild life day.

“Here in Nigeria, we have seen firsthand the transformative impact of digital innovation in wildlife conservation.

“Projects  leveraging artificial intelligence, data analytics, and citizen science have enabled us to gather vital information, engage local communities, and implement targeted conservation interventions.”

Kambari called for urgent action through partnership, investing in capacity building, and promoting sustainable practices that would ensure a brighter future for both wildlife and communities.

“Let me remind everyone present that we all have a stake in the conservation of our wildlife by sharing the knowledge we have about these animals.

“Our take home from this meeting must go beyond this celebration and translate into tangible actions,” he said.

On his part, Mr Oliver Stople, representative, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) country office, said that the theme of the celebration bore special significance for Nigeria.

He said that laws and law enforcement would not be able to deliver solutions as long as “we do not manage to re instil the love of nature in Nigerians.”

Stople said government, religious, traditional institutions, and international partners, among others, had an important role to play to change the hearts and minds of people and of the young generation.

NAN/Shakirat Sadiq