Protecting Nigeria’s Natural Resources: FG’s ACReSAL Project Supports National Parks with 11 Vehicles

The Federal Government has assured Nigerians of security in the country’s forests. Malam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, Minister of Environment, made this statement during the presentation of 11 Safari Hilux vehicles to the National Park Service (NPS). The vehicles were donated by the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project.

Lawal assured that President Bola Tinubu is deeply interested in the National Park Service’s operations to address the menace within Nigeria’s forests. The minister expressed worry that some forests have become hideouts for bandits and kidnappers. “The handover of these vehicles to the National Park Service demonstrates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to enhancing our National Park Service capacity,” Lawal noted. This gesture aims to provide transportation for park ranger guards, National Park personnel, tourists, and researchers.

Lawal emphasized that the deployment of these vehicles will significantly improve the Service’s effectiveness in combating poaching and preserving wildlife. He described the event as a milestone in protecting Nigeria’s natural resources. “The ACReSAL Project aligns with our ministry’s vision for environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation,” Lawal said. The project has made strides in building community resilience and sustainable landscape management practices.

Notable ACReSAL achievements include developing six Strategic Watershed Management Plans. The project has restored 77,271 hectares of degraded landscapes and planted 1,698,694 trees across 19 states and the FCT. The project has improved conservation and park management in Yankari Game Reserve, Jos Wildlife Park, Gombe State Department of Forestry, and the National Park Service. These efforts demonstrate the government’s dedication to environmental protection.

Abdulhamid Umar, National Project Coordinator for ACReSAL, explained that the project addresses land degradation through integrated catchment approaches. “ICT equipment earlier provided to NPC will improves operational efficiency,” Umar said. ACReSAL aims to support biodiversity, revive ecosystems, and provide succour for fauna and flora. The project has delivered 11 Hilux vehicles to fast-track activities at 11 national parks.

Additionally, ACReSAL constructed seven modern ranger guard posts and provided solar panels to address power challenges in selected parks. Responding, Dr. Ibrahim Goni, Conservator-General of NPS, commended ACReSAL for its support. He assured the equipment would be utilized effectively. Goni revealed ACReSAL provided a 20KVA solar project addressing the service’s power challenges. National parks are vital for forest regeneration.

The Conservator-General appealed for reviews and development of management plans and systems for the 11 national parks. He requested for the restoration of 400 hectares of degraded lands of these national parks to alleviate food insecurity and a capacity training of NPS officials. ACReSAL’s contributions significantly boost Nigeria’s environmental conservation efforts. The project showcases collaboration between government agencies and international organizations.

The National Park Service plays a critical role in preserving Nigeria’s biodiversity. These efforts ensure ecological balance and sustainable development. Environmental sustainability remains a top priority for the federal government. Initiatives like ACReSAL demonstrate its commitment. The government continues to explore innovative solutions for environmental challenges. Collaboration and support from organizations like ACReSAL are invaluable.

The 11 Safari Hilux vehicles and supporting infrastructure enhance the National Park Service’s operational capacity. Effective utilization of donated equipment ensures Nigeria’s forests remain safe and protected. Sustained efforts guarantee preservation of Nigeria’s natural heritage for future generations.

ACReSAL…”greening the environment, saving lives”