NCF Urges Action Against Illegal Vulture Trade in Nigeria

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has raised alarms regarding the illegal trade in vulture parts, which is contributing to the rapid decline of vulture populations in Nigeria. Dr. Joseph Onoja, the Director General of NCF, stated that illegal killing and trafficking are significant threats to these birds.

He highlighted that Nigeria and Benin are identified as key hubs for cross-border vulture trading under the West African Vulture Conservation Action Plan (WAVCAP). Dr. Onoja called for the federal government to enhance the enforcement of wildlife protection laws and to monitor markets involved in this illegal trade.

He proposed the establishment of Vulture Safe Zones and measures to prevent poisoning while protecting essential feeding and breeding areas. The NCF is engaging traditional medicine practitioners to promote the ecological role of vultures and encourage plant-based alternatives.

The foundation is also involved in satellite tagging, population surveys, and community engagement to support vulture protection. Dr. Onoja urged Nigerians to reject illegally sourced vulture parts and report wildlife crimes.