Tinubu’s Minister Adopts Elephant As Part Of His Family

Dr. Iziak Salako, the Minister of State for Environment, has embraced the adoption of an orphaned elephant as a manifestation of his unwavering commitment to the conservation of Nigeria’s critically endangered elephant population.

This significant declaration was made during the inauguration of the Nigeria Elephant Action Plan (NEAP) in Abuja on Tuesday.

Salako elucidated that his choice to adopt an elephant epitomizes his steadfast dedication to safeguarding the nation’s dwindling population of approximately 300-400 elephants.

He accentuated the indispensable role that elephants fulfill within Nigeria’s ecological framework, significantly contributing to the enhancement of biodiversity and the proliferation of various flora and fauna.

“Elephants are integral to our community and heritage,” Salako stated. “They support the growth of flora and fauna and are vital for maintaining biodiversity.”

The population of elephants in Nigeria has experienced a catastrophic decline, primarily attributed to habitat degradation, poaching activities, and conflicts between humans and wildlife.

The nation has witnessed a staggering loss of 99 percent of its elephant population, categorizing the species as critically endangered.

Salako underscored the government’s partnership with the Elephant Protection Initiative Foundation (EPIF) and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) to effectively execute the NEAP.

This strategic framework is designed to intensify efforts aimed at conserving Nigeria’s diminishing elephant population and safeguarding the nation’s biodiversity.

Andrew Dunn, the WCS Nigeria Country Director, who played a pivotal role in the formulation of the NEAP, emphasized the necessity for a transformation in attitudes and policies to ensure the survival of Nigeria’s elephants.

“Saving Nigeria’s last elephants will require more than just funds; it will require a significant change in attitude at all levels and a paradigm shift by federal and state governments towards a realization that human wellbeing and global health are inextricably linked to biodiversity loss and climate change,” Dunn said.

John Scanlon AO, the CEO of EPIF, resonated with this perspective, asserting that although the plight of Nigeria’s elephants is alarming, the NEAP represents a critical opportunity for their preservation.

“The situation of Nigeria’s elephants is desperate but not hopeless. This plan offers us a last chance to conserve these magnificent animals,” he remarked.

The NEAP constitutes a thorough 10-year strategy (2024-2034) meticulously crafted to secure the long-term viability of elephants within Nigeria.

Fundamental components of the plan encompass the enhancement of law enforcement, the implementation of anti-poaching initiatives, the utilization of modern technology for monitoring and intelligence sharing, and the engagement of local communities to foster coexistence between humans and elephants.

Salako’s personal engagement in elephant conservation through adoption signifies the imperative need for collective action to safeguard these majestic creatures and their natural habitats in Nigeria.