Alaafin hails National Park Service on conservation efforts

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has commended the National Park Service for its role in protecting Nigeria’s environment and wildlife.

This was contained in a statement issued by Bode Durojaiye, Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, following the visit of the Governing Council and Management of the National Park Service to the Alaafin’s palace on Tuesday.

Speaking during the visit, the monarch said environmental conservation had become more urgent in today’s world, where climate change, deforestation, and pollution pose global threats.

Oba Owoade praised the Service for safeguarding endangered species and maintaining ecological balance through protected areas, conservation programmes, and wildlife management initiatives.

He assured the council, led by the Conservator-General, Dr. Ibrahim Musa Goni, of his support for future projects.

Chairman of the Governing Board, Dr. Kingsley Ononogbu, described Old Oyo National Park as a blend of cultural heritage and natural preservation, noting that it showcases both wildlife and relics of the Oyo Kingdom. He added that the board deliberately held its inaugural meeting in Oyo to honour the Alaafin and strengthen collaboration on heritage tourism.

Dr. Goni, in his remarks, urged Nigerians to visit national parks across the country to learn about wildlife and appreciate the ecological and cultural values of nature.