UNESCO Eyes Would Heritage Status For Nigeria's Gashaka Gumti, Promising Major Tourism Boost

The United Nations, Educational, scientific and cultural organisation is preparing to designate Gashaka Gumti National Park in Taraba State as a World Heritage Site. Spanning over 6,000 square kilometers, the park, established in 1991, is the largest and most ecologically diverse wildlife reserve in West Africa. UNESCO officials will finalize the upgrade following an assessment during their visit on September 20.

Park Conservator Joseph Ntui emphasized the park’s rich biodiversity, home to 1,000 plant species, 102 mammal species, 60 fish species, 477 bird species, and 300 butterfly species. Despite its diversity, the park has suffered losses, with species like lions, cheetahs, and hippopotamuses now extinct.

Beyond its wildlife, the park is known for significant landmarks such as Chappal Waddi, the highest peak in Nigeria, as well as hot springs and historical sites. The cheetah, once native to the area, remains honored as the mascot of the Nigerian Army’s 20 Battalion.

Alhaji Zubeiru Hamman Gabdo, the Lamido of Gashaka, commended African Nature Investors for enhancing park security and improving the livelihoods of nearby communities since 2021. He urged further collaboration from organizations to continue advancing the park’s development.

Other sites in Nigeria that needs prime focus are the Amahor Waterside in Igueben local government area in Edo state and Andoni Elephant colony in Rivers State, Nigeria .

Catégorie:

Tourisme 

Organisation:

EPraiz Concepts

Emplacement:

Nigeria