Nigeria, Cameroon sign agreement on mgnt of forestry, wildlife resources

At the signing of the agreement in Abuja on Friday, Nigerian Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Lawal, said the move would go a long way in safeguarding the exploitation and illegal marketing of non-timber forest products and bush meats as well as ensure that activities within the borders are carried out under the law.

Lawal, who described environmental crimes as very serious, explained that the agreement would further strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Cameroon towards realizing the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s led administration in the area of sustainable environmental development.

“It may interest you to know that since 1963, the two countries have had a long history of cooperation which borders on transboundary security, joint commission on transboundary conservation and this agreement would further strengthen the long-standing relations and will symbolize a milestone in providing a platform for the establishment of a joint cross-boundary management framework within which to facilitate cooperation and coordination within our countries and enhance the good use of our forest resources,” Lawal said.

“The agreement will also improve our legal system to see environmental crime as serious as other crimes. That’s why the support by the German Government on this issue is very important through the training of our judges and lawyers towards this direction.

“Our common border between Nigeria and Cameroon spans over 1,500 kilometres. So, necessary cooperation is needed towards harnessing its benefits for the two countries”.

On his part, the Cameroonian Minister of Forestry and Wildlife Resources, Mr Jules Ndongo, said the agreement is aimed at ensuring that specific protocols are consistent with already identified cooperation areas, collaborating in implementing joint border programmes, enhancing institutional funds and mobilizing funds for the implementation of joint cross border programmes.

He therefore urged all parties in the agreement to be more committed to the implementation of the instrument, pledging that the Government of Cameroon would play its part to ensure its success.

He promised his country’s continuous collaboration with Nigeria towards harnessing environmental resources for national development.