Kwara hands over Kampe Game Reserve to FG

In a landmark move to bolster environmental conservation, the Kwara State government has inaugurated a steering committee for the transfer of the Kampe Game Reserve to the Federal Government, where it will be upgraded to a national park. The reserve, situated in the Patigi Local Government Area, was officially handed over on Tuesday, following a presidential declaration in November 2020 and subsequent legislative approval by the National Assembly.

Represented by Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described the development as a significant stride towards enhancing the state’s natural resources and environmental sustainability. “Today marks a crucial moment in our collective efforts. The inauguration of the Steering Committee is a fulfillment of the Federal Government’s roadmap for the transformation of the Kampe Game Reserve into a National Park,” Alabi said during the ceremony in Ilorin.

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The newly formed committee, comprising cabinet members, traditional leaders, and senior community figures, has been tasked with overseeing the transition process. Their combined experience is expected to guide the initiative effectively, ensuring that the reserve—named after the Kampe River—remains a natural treasure for future generations. “Our commitment to this initiative stems from our desire to offer Kwara State greater opportunities for growth and to position our state on the global map for biodiversity conservation,” Alabi added.

Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawal, represented by Ibrahim Goni, Conservator General of the National Park Service, noted that the upgrade of Kampe Game Reserve is part of a broader federal initiative endorsed by former President Muhammadu Buhari. This move increases the number of national parks in Nigeria to 17, aligning with global biodiversity conservation targets under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and enhancing national security.

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Nafisat Musa Buge, Chairperson of the newly formed committee and Commissioner for Environment, emphasised the manifold benefits of the development. “As a state, we acknowledge that the new status of Kampe will be immensely beneficial to us, neighbouring communities, and adjacent states. This transformation offers opportunities for environmental restoration, biodiversity regeneration, and the creation of a new tourist attraction,” she said.

Governor AbdulRazaq congratulated the committee members, urging them to actively participate in the process to ensure the successful conservation of the park. With the handover complete, Kwara State takes another decisive step in its journey towards sustainable development and environmental stewardship.