Dr. Iziak Salako, the Minister of State for Environment, has adopted an orphaned elephant as part of his commitment to conserving Nigeria’s endangered elephant population.
The announcement was made during the launch of the Nigeria Elephant Action Plan (NEAP) in Abuja on Tuesday.
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Salako explained that his decision to adopt an elephant underscores his dedication to protecting the country’s remaining 300-400 elephants.
He emphasized the critical role elephants play in Nigeria’s ecosystem, contributing to biodiversity and the growth of flora and fauna.
“Elephants are integral to our community and heritage,” Salako stated. “They support the growth of flora and fauna and are vital for maintaining biodiversity.”
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Nigeria’s elephant population has drastically declined due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts.
The country has lost 99 percent of its elephants, making the species critically endangered.
Salako highlighted the government’s collaboration with the Elephant Protection Initiative Foundation (EPIF) and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) to implement the NEAP.
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This strategic plan aims to bolster efforts to conserve Nigeria’s dwindling elephant population and preserve the country’s biodiversity.
Andrew Dunn, WCS Nigeria Country Director, who coordinated the development of the NEAP, stressed the importance of a shift in attitudes and policies to save Nigeria’s elephants.
“Saving Nigeria’s last elephants will require more than just funds; it will require a significant change in attitude at all levels and a paradigm shift by federal and state governments towards a realization that human wellbeing and global health are inextricably linked to biodiversity loss and climate change,” Dunn said.
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John Scanlon AO, CEO of EPIF, echoed this sentiment, noting that while the situation for Nigeria’s elephants is dire, the NEAP offers a last chance for their conservation.
“The situation of Nigeria’s elephants is desperate but not hopeless. This plan offers us a last chance to conserve these magnificent animals,” he remarked.
The NEAP is a comprehensive 10-year strategy (2024-2034) designed to ensure the long-term survival of elephants in Nigeria.
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Key elements of the plan include strengthened law enforcement, anti-poaching measures, modern technology for monitoring and intelligence sharing, and community engagement to promote coexistence between humans and elephants.
Salako’s personal involvement in elephant conservation through adoption symbolizes the urgent need for collective action to protect these majestic animals and their habitats in Nigeria.
