As Nigeria grapples with rising threats to its rich biodiversity, experts are urging a more inclusive approach to wildlife protection, one that not only conserves endangered species and fragile ecosystems but also addresses the economic realities of local communities.
Experts emphasise that with many rural populations relying on forest resources for survival, conservation efforts that ignore their needs risk fuelling conflict and undermining long-term sustainability.
Sunday Fagbemi, a professor of environmental law and development, at the University of Ibadan, speaking at a virtual public lecture on 'Wildlife, Law, and Livelihoods: Strengthening Legal Frameworks for Conservation in Nigeria' organised by Pangolin Conservation Guild Nigeria (PCGN), underscored the ecological, cultural, and economic importance of wildlife.
Fagbemi emphasised that from ecological balance to food security and traditional values, wildlife remains a critical resource for both nature and communities.
However, he cautioned that unsustainable practices, including habitat destruction, poaching, and the illegal wildlife trade, are pushing many species toward extinction.
"In Nigeria, wildlife is not only a source of cultural identity but also tied to rural livelihoods, with bush-meat hunting and trade still prevalent. "This dual reality creates a tension between livelihood needs and conservation imperatives, making law an indispensable tool to reconcile the two," he said.
He reiterated that Nigeria has established a comprehensive legal and institutional framework for wildlife conservation, grounded in both domestic and international instruments.
However, Fagbemi stressed that despite these provisions, the implementation of laws remains weak.
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"Agencies face underfunding, corruption, inadequate manpower, and political interference. Penalties for offenders are often too lenient, while communities continue to depend on unsustainable exploitation of wildlife," he noted.
Pointing the way forward, he said that wildlife represents not only a natural heritage but also a moral and legal responsibility.
Hence, he emphasised that to secure Nigeria's biodiversity for future generations, the country must adopt an integrated approach that combines conservation with livelihood development.
Olajumoke Morenikeji, chair at the Pangolin Conservation Guild Nigeria, explained that Nigeria is one of Africa's richest countries in terms of biodiversity, hosting endangered species such as the Cross River gorilla, pangolins, and manatees, yet these treasures are under serious threat from deforestation, poaching, and illegal trade.
She advocates for stronger conservation laws to prevent the extinction of these species and safeguard the ecosystems that sustain human life.
"Human beings cannot exist without their environment, including wildlife, because it scientifically supports us through oxygen production, water purification, pollination, climate regulation, and nutrient cycling.
"These natural processes make life possible, while forests, rivers, and species also provide food, medicine, cultural identity, and income for millions. When biodiversity collapses, farming, fishing, tourism, and traditional ways of living also decline, thereby undermining the survival and dignity of local communities," she said.
Besides, Morenikeji emphasized that weak and outdated laws make wildlife crime profitable, fueling trafficking networks and depriving frontline communities of incentives to protect nature.
This lack of legal protection, she said, exacerbates poverty, conflict, and environmental degradation.
"By modernising and enforcing laws, Nigeria can reduce crime, empower communities, and promote sustainable, nature-based livelihoods.
"Moreover, environmental destruction worsens climate change, desertification, and food insecurity, creating risks for peace and national security. Strengthening legal frameworks is therefore not only an ecological necessity but also a socio-economic and security imperative," she noted.
She said that Nigeria as a signatory to global treaties such as CITES, has an international responsibility to lead in wildlife protection.
"Stronger domestic laws will not only enhance Nigeria's global reputation but also attract international support and investment, securing a more sustainable and prosperous future," she emphasised.
To achieve various wildlife values, Morenikeji called for an integrated management approach, stating that effective wildlife management requires an integrated approach that combines conservation efforts with sustainable livelihood development.
Besides, she said that empowering local communities through participation in decision-making, benefit sharing, and sustainable resource management is crucial.
In addition, she recommended investing in law enforcement capacity, improving monitoring and surveillance, and ensuring community participation in enforcement efforts as essential, among others.
To combat illegal wildlife trade, she said addressing the illegal trade in wildlife products is crucial for protecting endangered species and combating organised crime.
"By recognising the diverse values of wildlife and implementing effective conservation strategies, we can ensure that these important animals continue to play their vital roles in ecosystems and benefit human societies for generations to come," she said.