The Federal Government has upgraded 10 forest reserves across Nigeria to national parks, marking a significant milestone in conservation efforts.

This move aims to preserve the country’s natural heritage and protect biodiversity.

At a handing-over ceremony in Osogbo, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke transferred the Oba Hill Forest Reserve to the federal government, paving the way for its upgrade to a national park.

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Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas, represented by National Park Service Conservator-General Dr. Ibrahim Musa, emphasized the necessity of preserving Nigeria’s natural resources.

The upgraded forest reserves include:
Oba Hills National Park in Osun State
Hadejia Wetland National Park in Jigawa State
Allawa National Park in Niger State
Apoi National Park in Bayelsa State
Edumanom National Park in Bayelsa State
Falgore National Park in Kano State
Kogo National Park in Katsina State
Kampe National Park in Kwara State
Marhai National Park in Nasarawa State
Pandam National Park in Plateau State

Governor Adeleke highlighted the urgent need for conservation, citing the endangered status of the Oba Hill Forest Reserve due to logging, hunting, and human activities. The reserve spans 4,225 hectares across three local government areas and hosts diverse ecological values.

In a related development, Governor Adeleke launched the State Agropreneur model project in Imesi-Ile, allocating 1,000 hectares of land for mechanized farming and training programs for youth and women. This initiative aims to empower beneficiaries through financial stability and contribution to society.