By Abdullahi Lukman
The National Park Service (NPS) has reiterated its ongoing efforts to address climate change by focusing on carbon reduction through a variety of environmental initiatives.
Dr. Ibrahim Goni, the Conservator-General (C-G) of the NPS, made these remarks during an interview in Abuja on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. He emphasized the significant role that the establishment of new national parks will play in the country’s broader climate action strategy.
One of the key points highlighted by Dr. Goni was the approval for the establishment of 10 new national parks across Nigeria. This expansion is expected to significantly enhance the country’s carbon sequestration capacity.
Dr. Goni explained that Nigeria’s seven existing national parks already cover an impressive 20,000 square kilometers of vegetation, which helps in the absorption of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
This current landmass is estimated to sequester around 4.8 million parts of carbon. With the approval of 10 additional parks, the NPS expects a notable increase in carbon sequestration, contributing further to the reduction of greenhouse gases in the country.
Dr. Goni also underscored the importance of community involvement in the fight against climate change. He called on Nigerian residents to actively engage in afforestation and reforestation programs aimed at reclaiming lands that have been degraded due to erosion.
Erosion, particularly in many rural areas, has contributed significantly to the loss of fertile soil, which in turn affects agricultural productivity and accelerates climate-related vulnerabilities. Afforestation efforts would help in reversing the damage, restoring the environment, and further boosting carbon sequestration.
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The NPS chief also commended the federal government for its commitment to mitigating the effects of climate change. He particularly praised the government’s initiative to plant 25 million trees across the country, which is part of a larger effort to combat deforestation and reduce the impact of environmental degradation.
Dr. Goni described this as a “huge step” toward the long-term conservation of the nation’s natural resources and the protection of its biodiversity.
In 2020, the Nigerian government approved the establishment of 10 new national parks, marking a significant milestone in the country’s conservation efforts.
The new parks are spread across various states and will enhance Nigeria’s ability to preserve its unique ecosystems while contributing to global efforts in fighting climate change.
These parks include Alawa National Park in Niger State, Apoi and Edumenun National Parks in Bayelsa State, Galgore National Park in Kano State, and Hadejia Wetland National Park in Jigawa State. Other new parks include Kampe National Park in Kwara State, Kogo National Park in Katsina State, Marhi National Park in Nasarawa State, Oba Hill National Park in Osun State, and Pandam National Park in Plateau State.
These new additions to Nigeria’s protected areas will not only support the reduction of carbon dioxide but also preserve critical habitats for various species of wildlife. Dr. Goni further emphasized that the creation of these parks would contribute to a more resilient environment, supporting biodiversity conservation while mitigating climate change impacts.
The NPS, through these various initiatives, is playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s climate action plans. Dr. Goni expressed satisfaction with the federal government’s efforts, highlighting that these measures are an essential part of the country’s strategy to protect its environment and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.
The creation of additional national parks, along with the large-scale tree planting initiatives, marks an important step in Nigeria’s commitment to global environmental goals.
