Nigeria has been called upon to view wildlife trafficking and illegal exploitation of biodiversity as a serious national security concern with significant implications for economic stability and sustainable development.
Speaking in Abuja during World Wildlife Day, Cheikh Touré, Country Representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), warned that wildlife crime is not merely an environmental issue but a sophisticated transnational network.
He noted that illegal trade in wildlife and plant species undermines ecosystems, fuels illicit financial flows, and diminishes the economic potential of biodiversity-rich countries like Nigeria.
Touré highlighted increasing threats to Nigeria’s biodiversity, including medicinal and aromatic plants, due to illegal trade, habitat destruction, climate change, and unsustainable harvesting.
While praising Nigeria for legislative efforts, especially the Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill, he stressed the need for stronger enforcement, enhanced institutional capacity, and greater public awareness to combat wildlife crime effectively.
He called for coordinated action involving government agencies, civil society, international partners, and local communities, and highlighted youth engagement through the #BeWildForNature campaign, which trains young advocates in conservation, digital advocacy, and community mobilisation.
Representing the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed, speaking on behalf of Mohamed Fall, emphasised that protecting biodiversity is closely linked to human health, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability.
He warned that biodiversity loss and climate change threaten critical natural resources, including medicinal plants used in primary healthcare.
Onah Bisong of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development urged that young people be empowered to lead conservation efforts, noting that such initiatives can also create green jobs and stimulate economic growth.
The call underscores the growing recognition that wildlife crime and biodiversity loss are strategic challenges requiring urgent, coordinated national and international responses.
