A renowned tourism expert, Piriye Kiyaramo, has urged Bayelsa
communities to protect endangered wildlife in their forests, adding
that indigenous communities are the most effective guardians of their biodiversity.
He spoke with journalists in Yenagoa during a tourism tour as part of
activities to commemorate the 2023 World Wildlife Day.
Kiyaramo, who is also the Senior Special Assistant to Governor
Douye Diri on Tourism, regretted that the increased rate of wildlife
poaching activities in Bayelsa, especially the hunting of
gorillas/chimpanzees at the Edumenum National Park.
Poaching, he said, has become so alarming, even as he appealed to
community leaders to protect wildlife habitats to build a thriving
future for all living beings.
The governor’s aide explained that the theme of this year’s World
Wildlife Day, which is ‘Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation’
highlighted the urgent need to work across governments, civil society,
and the private sector to turn commitment into action.
He noted that the day, provides everyone the opportunity to reflect on
the collective responsibility to protect the magnificent diversity of life
in the planet.
