By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Executive Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, has officially handed over the Hadejia Wetland Game Reserve to the Honorable Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, designating it as a National Park. This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Green Initiative.
The Minister was represented by the Conservator-General of the National Park Service, Dr Ibrahim Musa Goni, during the event held on Tuesday at the Council Chamber of the State Government House in Dutse, the state capital.
“This monumental event marks a significant step forward in the protection and preservation of one of Nigeria’s most vital ecosystems,” Dr. Goni said.
He emphasized that the Hadejia Wetlands, renowned for their rich biodiversity and environmental significance, will now benefit from enhanced conservation efforts and resources as part of the National Park network.
“This handover symbolizes a commitment to sustainable development, wildlife protection, and the enhancement of eco-tourism opportunities for the people of Jigawa and beyond. We commend the leadership of Governor Umar Namadi and Minister Balarabe Abbas Lawal for their dedication to preserving our natural heritage. Together, we are shaping a greener future for Nigeria.”
Minister Lawal described the occasion as a significant milestone in the federal government’s collective efforts to preserve and protect the nation’s natural heritage for future generations.
“I extend the gratitude of the Federal Government of Nigeria to His Excellency, Governor Umar Namadi, and the people of Jigawa State for this enlightened decision to hand over this invaluable asset. This act demonstrates a shared commitment to conservation that transcends political boundaries, underscoring our dedication to safeguarding the environment and improving living conditions for all.”
He highlighted the ecological importance of the Hadejia Wetlands, stating, “The reserve sustains life and provides crucial ecosystem services, serving as a sanctuary for numerous wildlife species, including birds, amphibians, and fish, while safeguarding biodiversity.”
Lawal expressed optimism that the newly designated National Park would become an eco-tourism hotspot, attracting visitors and showcasing Nigeria’s natural beauty and cultural diversity, thereby generating economic opportunities for local communities.
“The potential for sustainable job creation, increased revenue, and community development should not be underestimated,” he added. He noted that the journey to upgrade the Hadejia Wetlands Game Reserve to a National Park began in 2011 when the Jigawa State government first expressed interest in the upgrade.
“In November 2020, former President Muhammadu Buhari approved the upgrade of ten Forest and Game Reserves to National Parks, including Hadejia Wetlands, bringing the total number of National Parks in Nigeria to seventeen. This establishment aligns with our efforts to meet global biodiversity conservation targets outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) and improve internal security.”
Lawal acknowledged the challenges associated with managing the reserve and outlined steps being taken to address them.
“We are collaborating with the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project to assist in constructing a five-room Rangers’ barracks and designing management plans.”
He also indicated that the Ministry is working with the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and other security agencies to enhance the capacity of Rangers and Forest and Game Guards through training, additional resources, and technology-based patrol equipment.
“These efforts aim to improve internal security within and around our forest areas. Rest assured, we will utilize the best available technologies, scientific expertise, and community involvement to protect this invaluable natural asset for future generations.”
Lawal expressed gratitude to Governor Namadi for his commitment to seeing the previous administration’s plans come to fruition. “Your dedication to safeguarding our planet is commendable, and your role in the sustainable development of our nation cannot be understated.”
To the Indigenous Peoples and local communities residing near the Park, he assured them that their voices would be heard and their interests considered. “We are committed to promoting community-led conservation approaches that foster a sense of ownership and enable equitable benefits from the Park’s resources.”
“Our goal is to forge a strong partnership between the federal government, state authorities, and local communities to ensure the success of the National Park project,” he added.
