Amid rising concerns over illegal mining and other forms of forest encroachment in Cross River State, authorities have intensified efforts to protect the Cross River National Park, with rangers and forest guards undergoing targeted training to strengthen enforcement and prevent further invasions of protected areas.

The refresher training, held at the Erokut Base Camp in the Akamkpa axis of the park, was organised to boost the capacity of frontline officers operating within and around the park’s buffer zones, which conservation groups say are increasingly under pressure from illegal mining, farming and wildlife-related crimes.

The programme was facilitated by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), with funding support from the European Union, and focused on enhancing operational effectiveness, officer safety and community engagement among rangers.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Cross River Landscape Director of WCS, Anthony Atah, said the training was designed to address emerging threats facing the park, particularly illegal extraction activities that degrade forest ecosystems.

“We are seeing increasing pressure on protected forests, not only from poaching and illegal farming but also from unregulated mining activities. This training is part of deliberate measures to ensure that rangers are better prepared, safer in the field and more effective in preventing further encroachment,” Atah said.

He noted that strengthening ranger capacity remains critical to safeguarding the park’s biodiversity, adding that enforcement efforts must go hand in hand with collaboration with host communities.

Also speaking, the State Conservator of Parks, Joseph Ntui, said the programme had improved the tactical readiness of rangers operating in difficult terrain. According to him, the forest is facing new and complex threats that require not just commitment, but specialised skills.

“This programme has equipped our rangers with tactical patrol techniques, communication skills and self-preservation strategies that are essential in confronting illegal activities without escalating conflict,” Ntui explained.

The Parade Commander and trainer, Kopona Abang, said the week-long refresher course covered tactical patrols, intelligence gathering, communication, personal safety in forest environments and community relations. He noted that the training was aimed at reducing threats from illegal mining, poaching, wildlife trafficking and unauthorised farm establishments.

One of the participants, a ranger attached to the Akamkpa sector, Ayangane Eyam, said the training boosted morale and preparedness among field officers. “We face many risks in the forest, especially when dealing with people involved in illegal activities. The training has helped us patrol smarter, protect ourselves and work better with communities to prevent crimes before they happen,” Eyam said.

Community leaders and traditional rulers from surrounding areas also attended the event, commending WCS and the National Park Service for sustaining ranger development efforts and pledging to support initiatives aimed at discouraging forest-related offences within their communities.