Minister urges stronger collaboration to protect Gashaka Gumti National Park

By Godwin Agia

The Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has called for renewed collaboration and strict environmental protection to safeguard Nigeria’s largest national park, Gashaka Gumti National Park, and other protected areas across the country.

He made this appeal at the 7th Stakeholders’ Meeting of the Southern Sector of the Gashaka Gumti National Park, organized by the Africa Nature Investors (ANI) Foundation.

The minister emphasized that Gashaka Gumti National Park is not only the largest park in Nigeria but also one of the richest in biodiversity, providing critical ecosystem services such as wildlife protection, watershed conservation, and ecological tourism. However, illegal activities like poaching, grazing, and mining continue to undermine conservation efforts.

He further commended the collaboration between ANI Foundation and NPS, as well as the support of Taraba and Adamawa State Governments, traditional councils, and security agencies. He referenced recent policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable development.

Also speaking,Conservator General of the National Park Service, Dr. Ibrahim Musa Goni, described Gashaka Gumti National Park as Nigeria’s most diverse protected area, surrounded by about 55 support-zone communities and six enclave communities.

He stressed that stakeholder engagement is essential for effective park management and urged dialogue, mutual understanding, and respect for the rule of law.

“What we are doing is not about assigning blame but about identifying solutions and opportunities for sustainable conservation,”.

Justice Ibrahim Buba, a retired Federal High Court judge, emphasized the need for balance between heritage and preservation.

“This is a question of balance of convenience. While pastoralists’ immediate needs are important, they must be weighed against the long-term survival of the ecosystem that supports farmers, herders, and surrounding communities,” he said.

ANI Foundation’s Senior Strategic Adviser, Dr. George Okeyoyin, highlighted the foundation’s initiatives, including cattle vaccination, livelihood support for women, and savings groups for women and youths, which boost productivity and conservation awareness.