Elephants on the Edge: Nigeria Has Just 400 Left in the Wild
Nigeria’s wild elephant population has fallen to about 400, conservationists have warned, as habitat loss, illegal ivory trade, human-wildlife conflict and insecurity threaten the survival of the species.
The warning was issued during a media engagement organised by Wild Africa and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) ahead of World Elephant Day, marked annually on August 12.
Wildlife veterinarian and conservationist, Dr Mark Ofua, said the remaining population comprises about 300 forest elephants and 100 savannah elephants, describing the figure as dangerously low.
He warned that continued habitat fragmentation and hunting could reduce genetic diversity and eventually push the animals into extinction.
Ofua described elephants as “tenders of the forest” and an “umbrella species”, explaining that their disappearance would have wider consequences for biodiversity, forest health and ecosystems that support human communities.
NCF biodiversity programme lead, Dr Stella Egbe, said forest elephants are found in areas including Omo Forest Reserve and Cross River National Park, while savannah elephants are mainly found in Yankari Game Reserve, Bauchi State.
She identified habitat fragmentation as a major driver of human-elephant conflicts, which can lead to crop destruction and retaliatory killings.
The conservationists called for stronger protection of elephant habitats, tougher action against wildlife trafficking, improved public awareness and greater funding for conservation.
They also urged increased investment in ecotourism, saying Nigeria’s wildlife and natural attractions could generate jobs, revenue and sustainable funding for conservation.
Credit: NAN
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