An agreement has been signed between Nigeria and the Government of the Republic of Cameroon to collaborate on the conservation of transboundary ecosystems and the sustainable management of forestry and wildlife resources. The agreement was signed by the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, and the Minister of Forestry and Wildlife of Cameroon, Jules Ndongo, in Abuja on Friday.
This cooperation framework aims to supervise and coordinate identified areas of collaboration, ensure protocols are consistent, collaborate on transboundary programs, and develop institutions and funds for implementation.
The 2023 wildlife chapter of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime’s Organised Crime Threat Assessment for Nigeria highlighted the country’s role as a transit hub and consolidation point for illegal wildlife and forest product trade, such as pangolins, ivory, and rosewood, sourced from Nigeria and neighboring countries like Cameroon, Gabon, and the Central African Republic.
In his address, Lawal emphasized the shared vision of Nigeria and Cameroon in protecting and sustainably utilizing natural resources. He acknowledged the impact of environmental challenges and transboundary criminal activities on these resources, referencing the threat of species extinction as highlighted in the 2019 Global Assessment Report.
The agreement signifies a milestone in establishing a joint transboundary management framework to enhance cooperation on conservation and sustainable resource use. Lawal praised partnerships with national and international organizations in this endeavor and assured Nigeria’s commitment to the agreement’s implementation.
Ndongo emphasized the need for legal trade practices in the exploitation and trade of forestry resources across the common border between the two countries. He recognized the threats posed by over-exploitation and poaching to natural resource management and climate change, pledging Cameroon’s efforts in agreement implementation.
Koffi from the Economic Community of West African States applauded the agreement, foreseeing positive effects and encouraging further cooperation between Nigeria and Cameroon.