Since signing it’s MOU with the Federal Government of Nigeria via the Nigeria National Park Service on the 27th of October 2023 for the Kainji Lake National Park, West African Conservation Network (WACN) is gradually evolving to be a beacon of hope in the global effort to protect wildlife and wild habitats, particularly endangered species. The WACN Kainji Lake National Park Project is the organisation’s flagship project.
Founded by entrepreneur Patrick Ogbonnia Egwu, whose passion for wildlife dates back to his childhood, WACN operates as a non-profit organization headquartered in both the United Kingdom and Nigeria. Its primary focus is on securing, restoring, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of wilderness areas and the biodiversity living within such areas.
WACN’s mission is clear: to secure and restore depleted wilderness areas through collaborative agreements with relevant government authorities. By safeguarding these areas and reintroducing lost species, the organization aims to promote biodiversity and create a healthier environment for all.
Central to WACN’s conservation efforts are its carefully crafted programs aimed at restoring indigenous wildlife populations and fostering healthier ecosystems. These initiatives have far-reaching benefits, including positive impacts on climate and the socioeconomic well-being of surrounding rural communities.
Recognizing the interconnectedness of conservation and community development, WACN actively involves local communities in its wilderness preservation efforts. Through sustainable practices and inclusive engagement, the organization seeks to ensure that these communities benefit from the success of conservation projects, thereby improving their livelihoods.
Financial sustainability is crucial to the longevity of WACN’s conservation endeavors. To this end, the organization prioritizes revenue-generating activities such as ecotourism and other potential sources of income. By constantly working on perfecting its revenue generation strategies, WACN aims to perpetuate its mission of protecting wilderness areas for generations to come.
With its proactive approach and dedication to conservation, WACN is poised to create a brighter future where wildlife thrives, and communities across Africa and beyond reap the rewards of a preserved ecosystem.