The National Park Service has taken over Kampe Games Reserve as a National Park in another historic event held in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, today, February 4, 2025. The handing-over ceremony was conducted by the Executive Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq, with all key stakeholders in attendance.
Inaugurating the Steering Committee, Governor Abdulrahaman, represented by the Deputy Governor, Elder Kayode Alabi, said it was a significant step taken to improve the environment and advance the sustainability of natural resources.
He added that 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.