Eco-tourism gets boosts as conservation efforts yield results

By Ngozi Nwoke

The Executive Director of ANI Foundation, Tunde Morakinyo, has expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria’s eco-tourism sector.

Morakinyo, in a statement made available to thesun.ng, said that after years of neglect, Nigeria’s eco-tourism industry is finally getting a new lease of life as a result of the tireless efforts of the foundation.

He explained that the foundation has been working to reposition two national parks – the Gashaka Gumti National Park and Okomu National Park – as viable eco-tourism centers.

He also stated that in the last four years, the foundation has invested heavily in recruiting, training, and equipping new rangers at both national parks, resulting in a significant decline in illegal logging, poaching, and mining activities.

“We are determined to demonstrate that eco-tourism in Nigeria’s national parks is possible and will generate jobs and income, benefiting the economy,” he said.

According to Morakinyo, the foundation plans to launch Nigeria’s first commercial eco-tourism lodge within the next few years, which would contribute to the country’s economy and create jobs. However, despite the progress made, the conservation sector in Nigeria is still plagued by habitat destruction, low public awareness, and the impacts of climate change.

“We are optimistic about the future, and with ongoing efforts, we believe that Nigeria’s eco-tourism sector can become a major contributor to the country’s economy.

“The development is expected to boost Nigeria’s tourism industry, which has been struggling in recent years. With the ANI Foundation’s efforts, Nigeria’s national parks are set to become a major tourist destination, generating revenue and creating jobs for Nigerians,” Morakinyo assured.