July 04, (THEWILL) – The Jigawa State Government has announced its intention to transfer the management of the Baturiya Game Reserve, also known as the Hadejia Wetland, to the National Park Service.
A press statement issued by the Special Assistant, Media Affairs, to the State Governor, Hajiya Zainab Rabo Ringim, explained that the move was adopted to enhance tourism-related activities and improve the well-being of the local community.
Baturiya Game Reserve is a natural habitat for numerous indigenous and migratory species of birds and supports a wide variety of wildlife resources, particularly water game birds of both migratory and resident origins.
Hajiya Ringim explained that the reserve is a sanctuary for wildlife to blossom and roam freely without fear of capture, and It attracts tourists from all over the world, generating income for the State Government and the local community.
She revealed in the statement that Governor Umar Namadi announced the possible change when he received the Conservator-General of the National Park Service.
The Governor, she said, expressed his administration’s commitment to supporting the development of tourism in the state.
According to the statement, Namadi emphasised his administration’s dedication to initiatives that benefit the citizens and pledged continued support for the National Park Service’s activities.
Namadi affirmed that the State Government is prepared for the formal handover of the Hadejia Wetland to the Federal Government, which would pave the way for improved economic opportunities and enhanced livelihoods for the local communities.
Earlier, the Assistant Conservator-General, Mohammed Kabir, commended the Governor for providing a conducive environment for the project, which began in 2011.
Kabir stressed the need for an urgent handover and appealed for government support to fully utilise the Hadejia Wetland’s potential.
Once fully utilised, the Hadejia Wetland Game Reserve is expected to attract tourists from within and outside the state, contributing to the state’s GDP and solidifying its position as one of Nigeria’s 20 national parks.
This development marks a significant step forward in Jigawa State’s efforts to harness its natural resources for sustainable economic growth and community development.
About the Author
Abdullahi Yusuf is a seasoned journalist, communicator and was previously the Deputy Editor-In-Chief and Zonal Manager, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Jos, where he retired on December 15, 2021
