United States Deputy Chief of Mission David Young
Young, at an event jointly organised by the U.S. Consulate General Lagos and the Lekki Conservation Centre, in commemoration of World Wildlife Day in Lagos, lauded Nigerian government’s actions to adopt legislative framework against trafficking of endangered animals.
He explained that if necessary actions are not enforced, the economic benefits of sustainable ecotourism with the potential socio-economic impact could be lost.
“Sustainable ecotourism is important to many nations of Africa, creating numerous tourism sector jobs. Conserving natural resources is vital. If Nigeria loses its precious large apes and other mammals, ecotourism revenue and jobs disappear with these animals,” he said.
“Communities and consumers can refuse to do business with illicit traders and poachers. In the social media age, everybody has an ability to hold people accountable for what is happening – documenting the dangers, and joining together for action. So I urge you to take up the challenge to preserve your forests, and the wildlife that depend on the remaining forests to survive,” he said.
The United Nations General Assembly in December 20, 2013, proclaimed March 3 as UN World Wildlife Day to celebrate and raise awareness on the world’s wild animals and plants.
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