The United States Deputy Chief of
Mission Mr. David Young has urged Nigerians to help stop the
trafficking and habitat destruction of Nigeria’s many endangered
native species, including the Cross River gorilla and
Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee.
At an event jointly organized by the
U.S. Consulate General Lagos and the Lekki Conservation Centre on
March 3 in commemoration of World Wildlife Day, Mr. Young welcomed
actions by Nigeria's government to adopt legislation against
trafficking of endangered animals. He also contrasted the economic
benefits of sustainable ecotourism with the potential socio-economic
impact continued wildlife trafficking could have on the country.
“Sustainable ecotourism is important
to many nations of Africa, creating numerous tourism sector jobs.
Conserving natural resources is vital. If Nigeria loses its precious
large apes and other mammals, ecotourism revenue and jobs disappear
with these animals,” Mr. Young noted.
“Communities and individuals have the
most important role to play. Communities and consumers can refuse to
do business with illicit traders and poachers. In the social media
age, everybody has an ability to hold people accountable for what is
happening – documenting the dangers, and joining together for
action. So I urge you take up the challenge to preserve your
forests, and the wildlife that depend on the remaining forests to
survive,” he added.
The United Nations General Assembly on
20 December 2013 proclaimed March 3 as UN World Wildlife Day to
celebrate and raise awareness of the world’s wild animals and
plants.
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