By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Kwara State Governor, AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq has inaugurated the Steering Committee of the Kampe Games Reserve saying it will improve the environment and advance the sustainability of natural resources.
The Kampe Games Reserve was recently taken over by the Federal government.
The governor was represented at the handing over by his Deputy Elder Kayode Alabi at an event with all key stakeholders in attendance.
The governor said the event marked “a crucial moment in our collective efforts, and the inauguration of the Steering Committee is a fulfillment of the Federal Government’s roadmap for transforming the Kampe Games Reserve into a National Park.”
He tasked the Steering Committee to guide the process and bring their invaluable experience to ensure a successful transition.
The Honourable Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, in his speech, said the former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, had approved the upgrade of 10 Forest and Game Reserves to National Parks, increasing the total number of National Parks in Nigeria to 17.
The Honourable Minister, represented by the Conservator General, National Park Service, Dr. Ibrahim Musa Goni, stated that the establishment of additional National Parks aligns with the country’s efforts to meet global biodiversity conservation targets, as outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), and to enhance internal security.
He commended the Kwara State Governor’s swift response to the call by the Federal Government, saying his commitment to protecting the planet is truly commendable, adding that this role in the sustainable development of the Nation is invaluable.
The Etsu Patigi, Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Bologi II, thanked the Governor for taking the bold step to hand over Kampe Game Reserve to the National Park Service. The Royal father, who is the vice chairman of Kwara State traditional council, promised total cooperation of the host communities towards a seamless transition process.
The Conservator General’s entourage included Assistant Conservator General, Ecology and Resource Management, Dr. MA Kabir, and the ceremony was attended by the state’s cabinet members, including the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Muhammed Shiaba.
