New Rangers Trained to Protect Okomu National Park

The National Park Service, in partnership with the ANI Foundation, has successfully trained 38 new ranger corps to bolster security and protect biodiversity within Okomu National Park, Edo State. The training program lasted six weeks and was led by Ibrahim Goni, who emphasized the crucial responsibilities of the rangers as protectors of Nigeria's natural heritage.

The training included rigorous physical preparation, wildlife law enforcement, patrol operations, intelligence gathering, survival skills, and community engagement. Goni noted that the newly trained rangers will play an increasingly important role in safeguarding the park, which faces threats from poaching, illegal logging, and unsustainable activities.

The Okomu National Park is recognized as a valuable ecological asset in Nigeria, essential for biodiversity conservation and supporting research and tourism. Geoffrey Ani from the ANI Foundation highlighted the importance of a people-centered approach in conservation efforts, involving local communities.

Tund Morakinyo, the executive director of the ANI Foundation, and Brig Gen Olajid Laley congratulated the new rangers and urged them to remain dedicated to their responsibilities.