Dr. Iziak Salako, the Minister of State for Environment, has adopted an orphaned elephant as part of his commitment to conserve Nigeria’s endangered elephant population. Announcing this at the launch of the Nigeria Elephant Action Plan (NEAP) in Abuja on August 13, 2024, Salako described the gesture as a personal contribution to the conservation of the critically endangered species.
Salako emphasized the crucial role elephants play in Nigerian society and heritage, highlighting their importance in supporting flora and fauna growth and maintaining biodiversity. The adoption aims to draw attention to the plight of Nigeria’s elephant population, which has suffered an 86% decline over the past 30 years, leaving an estimated 400 elephants remaining as of 2021.
The NEAP, which Salako pledged to support, is part of a broader strategy involving partnerships with the Elephant Protection Initiative Foundation (EPIF) and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). The plan seeks to address challenges such as habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts, and to promote a shift in attitudes towards conservation.
Salako’s adoption of the elephant symbolizes a commitment to not only raise awareness but also to drive a change in policy and attitude towards protecting Nigeria’s wildlife.