Environment minister leads Nigeria’s World Ranger Day, unveils Forest Guard Initiative

By Kunle Sanni –

Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s forests and wildlife, using this year’s World Ranger Day commemoration to announce a major security and conservation programme — the Forest Guard Initiative.

Speaking at the National Park Service Headquarters in Abuja, Lawal led tributes to rangers who have paid the ultimate price defending the country’s natural heritage. He noted that six of the 67 ranger deaths recorded in Africa this year occurred in Nigeria, underscoring the dangers they face from poachers, bandits, insurgents, and other organised criminal groups.

“Today we honour brave men and women who stand as guardians of our ecosystems,” Lawal said. “They are not only protectors of wildlife but catalysts for positive change within our communities.”

The minister called for a moment of silence for fallen rangers and challenged security agencies to intensify efforts to protect those still in the field. He urged rangers to remain vigilant against illegal activities including logging, grazing, mining, and fishing, stressing that their role is central to safeguarding endangered species and combating climate threats.

Unveiling the Forest Guard Initiative, Lawal explained that the programme — domiciled in the National Park Service and supported by the Office of the National Security Adviser — will deploy drones, satellite monitoring, and advanced tracking tools to improve surveillance and efficiency. He described the initiative as a demonstration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s resolve to fight forest and wildlife crimes.

Lawal also commended the Conservator-General and park authorities for embracing modern, IT-driven approaches to conservation, aligning Nigeria with global best practices. He further celebrated the election of DCP Dikko Mohammed Bala as African Regional Representative of the International Ranger Federation, describing it as proof of Nigeria’s growing leadership in environmental protection.

The minister also expressed gratitude to partners including ANI, NCF, WCS, UNODC, SEEPCO, and SCERA for supporting conservation efforts. “Our gratitude goes to all Rangers, Forest and Game Guards in Nigeria for your unwavering dedication and resilience,” Lawal said. “Your sacrifices will never be forgotten.”