Wild Africa, conservationist partner to save Nigeria’s endangered species

Wild Africa, a conservation communication organisation, has partnered with Nela Duke Ekpenyong, an award-winning conservationist, to promote and save endangered species in Nigeria.

Ekpenyong joins a list of influential Nigerian ambassadors, including Davido, 2Baba, Mayorkun, Stephanie Linus, and footballer Alex Iwobi, to help shift public attitudes towards wildlife and the environment.

Wild Africa recently raised the alarm over the declining elephant population in Nigeria, warning that the species faces extinction due to poaching, habitat destruction, and human-wildlife conflict.

It noted that the elephant population in Nigeria has dwindled from an estimated 1,200 to 1,500 individuals two decades ago to a mere 300 to 400 today.

Wild Africa, through its Nigeria Representative, Festus Iyorah, disclosed on Tuesday that Ekpenyong’s partnership will help increase awareness about Nigeria’s remaining biodiversity and contribute to ongoing efforts to protect iconic species from extinction.

“Ekpenyong has over a decade of experience in entrepreneurship, collaborating with prominent institutions dedicated to large-scale growth and development initiatives in Africa. She is the co-founder and CEO at LEGA.C Capital, a multi-family office committed to supporting the wealth and advancement of innovators, entrepreneurs, and affluent families. Additionally, she oversees the operations of Obudu Capital, the family office’s climate technology fund and capacity-building program. Through Obudu, she channels investments into climate technology projects to support climate adaptation across Africa,” Iyorah said.

“We are excited to have Nela on board as our latest Nigeria ambassador. She is a passionate conservationist who deeply understands the issues facing Nigeria’s wildlife and forests. She has a proven track record of addressing conservation issues. Her voice, expertise, and experience will contribute massively to protecting Nigeria’s biodiversity for future generations.”

Speaking about her appointment, Ekpenyong said, “Caring for nature has been part of my life’s purpose, and it is an honour to join Wild Africa to continue this shared vision to protect, preserve, and increase awareness of our wildlife and wild lands in Africa.”