Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq yesterday inaugurated a steering committee to reverse the transfer of the Kampe Game Reserve, located in the Patigi Local Government Area, to the Federal Government (FG) for its upgrade to a National Park.
The handover marks a significant step in environmental conservation and sustainable resource management in the state.
At the ceremony held in Ilorin, Governor Abdulrazaq emphasised the strategic importance of the initiative.
“Today marks a crucial moment in our collective efforts. The inauguration of the Steering Committee is a fulfilment of the Federal Government’s roadmap for the transformation of the Kampe Game Reserve into a National Park.”
The newly formed committee, comprising cabinet members, traditional leaders, and senior citizens, will guide the entire process, leveraging their extensive experience to ensure a successful transition.
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“Our commitment to this initiative stems from our desire to offer Kwara State greater growth opportunities,” the Governor noted through Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi.
“We aim to position our state on the global map for biodiversity conservation, environmental sustainability, and the effective management of our human and natural resources.”
The decision to upgrade the Kampe Game Reserve followed the presidential declaration in November 2020 and subsequent passage by the National Assembly.
Minister of Environment Abbas Lawal, represented by Ibrahim Goni, Conservator General of the National Park Service, reiterated that former President Muhammadu Buhari approved the upgrade of 10 Forest and Game Reserves to National Parks.
This initiative now increases the total number of National Parks in Nigeria to 17, aligning with the country’s efforts to meet global biodiversity conservation targets outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and to bolster internal security.
Chairperson of the Committee and Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Musa Buge, highlighted the potential benefits of the park’s new status.
“This development offers opportunities for environmental restoration, biodiversity regeneration, and an additional tourist site in the state. As a state, we acknowledge that this new status of Kampe will be of immense benefits to us, the neighbouring communities, and indeed adjoining states,” she said.
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Emir of Patigi Ibrahim Bologi II also expressed his support, thanking the Governor for taking this bold step.
“We pledge the full support of the Emirate for the Federal Government towards the realization of this project,” he affirmed.
Governor Abdulrazaq congratulated the committee members and called on them to actively contribute to conserving the park, ensuring that this natural treasure is preserved and enhanced for future generations.
