George George Idowu
The National Park Service will take over management of the disputed land at the border of Jigawa and Bauchi States.
This was revealed on Wednesday during the official hand over of the management of Hadejia Wetlands Game Reserve by Kigawa State Government to Nigeria’s National Park Service (NPS) under the Federal Ministry of Environment.
The event which took place at the Government House in Dutse, mark a major milestone in environmental conservation efforts in the country.
Part of what was handed over includes several assets like two office spaces, two rangers’ quarters, 142 staff members, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, nine motorcycles, and the management of water bodies and enclave communities.
Governor Umar Namadi, speaking during the event, celebrated the transfer as the culmination of over a decade of efforts to upgrade the Hadejia Wetlands into a national park.
He emphasized the significance of this development for the protection of the region’s rich biodiversity, which includes a diverse range of wildlife, such as migratory birds, fish, and amphibians.
The wetlands, which cover an extensive Sahelian landscape, serve as a vital ecosystem and international bird sanctuary, home to nearly 400 species of migratory birds from Europe and Australia.
“This handover is a testament to our commitment to preserving the environment for future generations,” said the governor.
“The Hadejia Wetlands is not just a state treasure; it is a global heritage that will now benefit from the resources and expertise of the National Park Service.”
Governor Namadi highlighted the steps his administration had taken to prepare for the handover, including providing vehicles and motorcycles for rangers, creating temporary armouries for arms and ammunition, and launching community advocacy programs.
He stressed the importance of involving local communities in the park’s management and affirmed Jigawa’s continued support for the sustainable preservation of the wetlands.
The handover was accepted on behalf of the Federal Government by Dr. Ibrahim Musa Goni, the Conservator General of the Federation, representing the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal.
Dr. Goni praised the state government for its leadership in finalizing the process, which began in 2011, and pledged that the National Park Service would prioritize the long-term conservation of the wetlands.
Goni also underscored the potential for the Hadejia Wetlands to become a major eco-tourism destination, attracting both local and international visitors.
He pointed out the economic benefits this could bring, including job creation, revenue generation, and community development. Adding that the National Park Service will take over management of the disputed land at the border of Jigawa and Bauchi states.
Governor Namadi expressed optimism that the federal government would use cutting-edge resources and technology to ensure the conservation of the Hadejia Wetlands for generations to come.