Nestled in Edo State’s Ovia South-West Local Government Area, Okomu National Park stands as one of Nigeria’s largest surviving rainforests, home to endangered elephants, white-throated monkeys, and over 150 bird species. The park once faced rampant illegal logging, poaching, and encroachment by local farmers.
Ranger Kowei Kingsley, once a logger and hunter, transformed into a forest protector through community-driven conservation empowering locals with alternative livelihoods. Today, he and 37 other rangers patrol the park, using GPS-enabled SMART technology to monitor wildlife and stop illegal activities.
The Africa Nature Investors (ANI) Foundation and National Park Service’s innovative conservation model has cut illegal logging drastically and boosted forest elephant populations. Six community savings and loan groups offer financial independence, reducing reliance on destructive practices. Residents, like entrepreneur Rita Jerome and farmer Sikiru Azeez, are thriving with support in sustainable farming and business.
Okomu represents the “lungs of Edo State” and plays a key role in Nigeria’s climate resilience strategy. Yet challenges remain: rangers need more vehicles and communication tools; park boundaries need clearer mapping to prevent encroachment.
Experts emphasize that conservation success depends on community participation and consistent support. Expanding Okomu’s model could safeguard Nigeria’s forests, biodiversity, and climate for generations to come.
Leave a comment