Bill Tackling Wildlife Protection passes first reading
The Bill aimed at tackling wildlife trafficking, protecting endangered species, and ensuring Nigerian compliance with global conservation treaties has passed through first reading in the House of Representatives.
The Bill which was sponsored by Hon. Terseer Ugbor, Deputy Chairman, of the House Committee on Environment noted that the passing of the Bill signifies an improvement in wildlife protection law.
In a statement signed by Festus Iyara of Wild African Fund, WAF, the first reading of this Bill in the House would disrupt and deter illegal wildlife trade within the country by enhancing law enforcement capabilities, increasing investigative powers to include financial enquiries and intelligence-led operations, as well as expands courts’ ability to expedite wildlife cases and recover assets.
According to him, “This will also create corporate liability, support international cooperation, and impose stringent penalties for traffickers and poachers.
Wildlife trafficking is not just a crime against nature, it is a threat to our planet’s delicate balance. This Bill ensures that we act decisively to protect and preserve these irreplaceable components of our natural heritage, recognizing our responsibility to future generations.
“This legislation is not just about what happens within these legislative walls; it’s about a collective effort. In the face of escalating environmental challenges, this bill is a beacon of hope. It reflects our commitment to a sustainable future, where humans and wildlife coexist harmoniously. This Bill should be passed for the sake of our planet, for the generations to come, and for the preservation of Nigeria’s natural heritage.
Iyara noted: “If the Bill is enacted, the legislation would bring Nigeria in line with international standards and agreements. By aligning domestic legislation with global treaties and conventions, Nigeria demonstrates its commitment to being a responsible and active participant in the global effort to tackle wildlife trafficking and protect endangered species such as lions, elephants, gorillas, pangolins, chimpanzees and many more.”
Africa Nature Investors Foundation (ANI), the London-based Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA), and Wild Africa Fund (WAF) have been actively supporting the Nigerian Government’s efforts to fight illegal wildlife trafficking, with support from the UK Illegal Wildlife Trade Challenge Fund and the US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.
