By Correspondent in Abuja.
Dr Ibrahim Goni Conservator-General of the National Park Service
The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project has donated 11 Land Cruiser vehicles to the National Park Service (NPS) to strengthen wildlife conservation operations across the country.
Dr. Ibrahim Goni, Conservator-General (C-G) of the NPS, disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja during the pull-out ceremony of retired Assistant Conservator-General (ACG), Gabriel Agba.
Goni explained that the vehicles would enhance operations at newly established national parks while supporting existing ones to stabilize their conservation activities.
“ACReSAL is doing a commendable job by donating these vehicles to us. The support is to enable the new national parks to take off and the old ones to stabilise,” he said.
The Conservator-General also revealed that ACReSAL had constructed five new barracks, facilitated the establishment of six new national parks, and renovated four existing ones. According to him, the new barracks will provide better operational support for rangers and other personnel.
Beyond infrastructure, ACReSAL has also supported the training of NPS officers in climate change mitigation, agroforestry, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT), while donating modern ICT equipment to the Service.
Highlighting the importance of the NPS, Goni noted that it is among the 15 armed-bearing organisations in Nigeria, yet continues to seek more visibility in national events such as Independence Day and other official celebrations.
He also commended the retired ACG Gabriel Agba for his dedication and versatility, describing him as a passionate officer who made remarkable contributions to the Service.
In his response, Agba expressed gratitude to God and the NPS for the opportunity to serve, noting that protecting the nation’s natural heritage had been a privilege.
He also thanked colleagues for their support throughout his career.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
