Hauwa Ali
Wild Africa, a leading organization dedicated to the fight against illegal wildlife trade, has appointed NelaEkpenyong, a dynamic Nigerian businesswoman and conservationist, as its newest ambassador. Ekpenyong, the chief executive officer of LEGA.C Capital, a wealth management firm, joins a notable roster of ambassadors, including popular figures such as Davido, 2Baba, Mayorkun, actress Stephanie Linus, and football star Alex Iwobi. These ambassadors are part of a growing movement in Nigeria to raise awareness and inspire action to protect wildlife and the environment.
Ekpenyong’s appointment is a recognition of her deep commitment to conservation and her extensive experience in advocating for sustainable environmental practices. In a statement released on Tuesday, Festus Iyorah, Wild Africa’s representative in Nigeria, expressed confidence in her ability to influence public opinion and contribute to the organization’s efforts to protect wildlife and combat illegal wildlife trade in the country.
“We are excited to have Nela on board as our latest Nigeria ambassador. She is a passionate conservationist who deeply understands the issues facing Nigeria’s wildlife and forests,” said Iyorah. “Her voice, expertise, and experience will contribute massively to protecting Nigeria’s biodiversity for future generations.”
As a country with vast natural resources and wildlife diversity, Nigeria faces immense challenges in safeguarding its flora and fauna. From poaching to illegal wildlife trade, the nation’s ecosystems are under constant threat. The appointment of Ekpenyong is a strategic move by Wild Africa to leverage her passion and influence in addressing these critical issues.
Ekpenyong is no stranger to the conservation world. As an environmental advocate, she has consistently used her platform to speak out about the need for sustainable practices, wildlife protection, and climate action. “Caring for nature has been part of my life’s purpose, and it is an honour to join Wild Africa to continue this shared vision to protect, preserve, and increase awareness of our wildlife and wild lands in Africa,” Ekpenyong remarked upon her appointment. Her leadership role at LEGA.C Capital, while seemingly disconnected from conservation, has given her a broad understanding of the intersection between economic growth and environmental sustainability.
NelaEkpenyong’s rise to prominence did not begin in conservation, but her career path has uniquely positioned her to make a significant impact. A graduate of economics, she initially pursued a career in finance, where she gained considerable success. As the CEO of LEGA.C Capital, she has overseen the growth and management of wealth for high-net-worth individuals and organizations, helping them to invest wisely and sustainably.
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While her business acumen has earned her respect in the financial world, it is her passion for nature that has defined her broader mission. Ekpenyong’s love for conservation was sparked during her travels across Africa, where she witnessed firsthand the beauty and vulnerability of the continent’s wildlife. “I realized that beyond the numbers and wealth, there is something far more important—our natural world. It sustains us, and we have to protect it,” she often says.
This realization led her to become a vocal advocate for environmental sustainability, wildlife preservation, and responsible tourism. She has worked on various initiatives that promote eco-friendly business practices and has partnered with environmental organizations to address issues like deforestation, endangered species protection, and illegal wildlife trade. Her work is rooted in the belief that conservation and economic growth are not mutually exclusive but can be harmonized for the benefit of both people and the planet.
As an ambassador for Wild Africa, Ekpenyong joins a growing network of influential voices committed to shifting public attitudes towards wildlife conservation in Nigeria. Illegal wildlife trade has devastating effects on ecosystems and contributes to the decline of species such as elephants, pangolins, and rhinos. The trade is also linked to organized crime and other illegal activities, making it not only an environmental issue but a national security concern as well.
In recent years, Nigeria has made strides in addressing these challenges. In August 2024, the federal government unveiled a powerful symbol of its commitment to fighting illegal wildlife trade: an elephant sculpture created from confiscated wildlife stockpiles. This symbolic gesture underscores the country’s resolve to raise awareness and enforce stricter regulations against wildlife trafficking.
Ekpenyong’s new role will involve raising public awareness and influencing policy to protect Nigeria’s rich biodiversity. As a well-respected figure in both the business and environmental communities, she brings a unique perspective to the conversation. Her ability to connect with different audiences—whether it’s government officials, business leaders, or everyday citizens—will be crucial in mobilizing support for Wild Africa’s initiative.
Ekpenyong’s appointment as a Wild Africa ambassador is not just about lending her name to a cause; it’s about advancing a shared vision of a sustainable future. For her, the fight to protect wildlife is deeply personal and tied to her broader advocacy for environmental justice. “We must act now if we want to leave behind a world that future generations can thrive in,” she said in a recent interview. “Conservation isn’t just about saving animals—it’s about preserving our natural heritage, our livelihoods, and the health of our planet.”
Her new role will see her working closely with Wild Africa and other stakeholders to promote education, advocacy, and policy change. By leveraging her platform and expertise, Ekpenyong hopes to inspire a new generation of Nigerians to take up the cause of conservation and recognize the critical importance of protecting wildlife.
As global awareness of environmental issues grows, Ekpenyong’s involvement with Wild Africa signals a positive step forward for conservation efforts in Nigeria and beyond. With her leadership, experience, and passion, she is poised to make a lasting impact in the fight against illegal wildlife trade, ensuring that Africa’s wild lands and species are protected for generations to come.
In a world where the balance between nature and development is increasingly precarious, NelaEkpenyong stands as a powerful advocate for a more sustainable and harmonious future.
