By Abdullahi Lukman
The International Ocean Institute (IOI) Nigeria Center is calling for a more stringent enforcement of wildlife protection laws to prevent the rapid extinction of exotic species that are crucial to the nation’s marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
In a statement issued on the occasion of the 2025 World Reverse the Red Day, Dr. Akanbi Williams, Director of the Center, emphasized the critical importance of taking immediate and decisive action to protect the diverse wildlife species in Nigeria.
This includes raising public awareness about the significant benefits these species provide and promoting best practices for their sustainable management.
Dr. Williams pointed out that the loss of wildlife species is not just an environmental issue it is an economic and cultural one as well.
He highlighted that if protected and preserved sustainably, Nigeria’s rich biodiversity could significantly contribute to the national economy.
Furthermore, Dr. Williams explained that the benefits of conserving these species extend beyond the environment, impacting sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and fisheries, which are integral to the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians.
However, the ongoing threats of habitat loss, pollution, overfishing, and climate change are putting immense pressure on these vital resources.
This year’s theme for Reverse the Red Day, “Reversing the Red: Moving from Ideas to Actions for Threatened Species,” calls for a shift in focus from discussions and ideas to concrete, actionable measures that can protect at-risk species and ecosystems.
Dr. Williams underscored that it is now time for governments, organizations, and individuals to transition from theoretical conservation talks to real-world strategies that ensure the survival of endangered species, both on land and in the oceans.
As part of IOI-Nigeria Center’s efforts to address these pressing challenges, Dr. Williams highlighted several key initiatives the center is undertaking.
These include community-based conservation programs, policy advocacy, and public awareness campaigns. IOI Nigeria is also focused on training and mentoring the next generation of conservation leaders, as well as implementing ecosystem restoration and protection projects.
These efforts include sustainable fisheries management, reforestation, and habitat restoration initiatives, all aimed at maintaining and restoring critical ecosystems like mangroves and wetlands, which are essential for biodiversity conservation.
Dr. Williams urged all sectors of society to work together to protect Nigeria’s wildlife and biodiversity, emphasizing that the responsibility to safeguard the planet falls on individuals, organizations, and governments alike.
He stressed that only through collective action can significant, long-term changes be made to protect species at risk of extinction.
The Center also condemned recent incidents of wildlife destruction, including the killing of endangered Leatherback turtles and dolphins in various states like Lagos, Ondo, Bayelsa, and Rivers.
These acts of cruelty serve as stark reminders of the fragility of marine species and the urgent need for stronger wildlife protection laws and enforcement.
The killing of these creatures, some of which are critically endangered, highlights the vulnerability of marine life in Nigeria and underscores the need for more immediate action to prevent further harm.
Dr. Williams concluded by calling on policymakers, conservationists, and the public to take bold and decisive steps to reverse biodiversity loss.
He emphasized that the challenge is not just about discussing solutions but about implementing them in practical, tangible ways.
Whether through policy development, scientific research, community based efforts, or individual actions, every effort contributes to the broader goal of conserving the planet’s rich biodiversity.
IOI-Nigeria’s message is clear: the time for action is now, and through united efforts, we can “Reverse the Red” and protect a sustainable future for all species.
