By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
In a bid to revitalize the Yankari Game Reserve, renowned for its unique ecosystem, the State Project Management Unit (SPMU) of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape (ACReSAL) Project and the Consulting Firm held a key stakeholders engagement meeting towards strategizing on ways to conduct a baseline study for the development of Yankari Game Reserve Management Plan under ACReSAL project.
The State Project Coordinator, Dr. Ibrahim Kabir stated that the study aims to develop a Ten-year Development Plan (2024-2034) which is expected to help Yankari Game Reserve achieve its renewed vision and mission, focusing on its environmental and economic potential.
The SPC, represented by Nasiru Abdu Umar, the Project’s Forestry Officer, highlighted that the baseline study reflects the state government’s commitment to establishing a sustainable management system for the reserve by adopting global best practices, towards increasing tourism, and boosting revenue for the state.
The Yankari Game Reserve falls under Component A sub component 3 of ACReSAL project “special ecosystem” saying this approach emphasizes inclusivity by involving all stakeholders, a shift from previous practices that excluded vital contributions, urged participants to actively support the exercise, which is crucial for the long-term benefit of the state.
The Commissioner for Environment and Housing, who doubles as the Chairman, State Steering Committee of ACReSAL, Rt Hon Hon. Danlami Ahmed Kawule praised the initiative as a significant achievement for the State and the Yankari Game Reserve.
He encouraged all stakeholders to collaborate and ensure the success of the proposed development plan, expressing confidence that the consultants would develop an effective strategy for the reserve’s restoration.
The engagement was aimed at gathering data, fostering interaction with local communities and stakeholders, and restoring the reserve’s natural glory, particularly its rich fauna and flora.
The Director General of the Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency (BASEPA), Dr Mahmud Muhammed Bose highlighted the intervention of ACReSAL so far at the Reserve and the need for the survey which is to be conducted by a consulting firm ( Frames and Forms) comprised of academics and other experts/ practitioners.
During his presentation, the Lead consultant, Professor Isah Mohammed of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement in project management and pointed out that such involvement enhances decision-making, accountability, communication, collaboration, and overall project outcomes.
He assured that the study would be thorough, leaving no stone unturned, and reaffirmed his team’s commitment to delivering a comprehensive plan that would restore the reserve to its former glory.
Professor Nura Kura, another member of the consulting team, added that the development plan would ensure inclusivity by addressing the needs of women and people with disabilities. He reassured the Commissioner that the plan would be both robust and comprehensive.
The study aims to provide insights into the current state of Yankari Game Reserve, comparing it to its past, and formulating strategies for its full restoration.
Additionally, it seeks to address the socio-economic needs of communities surrounding the reserve, promoting their involvement in conservation efforts, decision-making, and sustainability.
Alhaji Garba Mohammed Sambo, District Head of Pali, who commended ACReSAL for involving the traditional institutions in this crucial initiative, raised concerns over the extinction of certain birds and animals species and urged the consulting team to consider this in their study.
In his vote of thanks, the SSA to the Governor on ACReSAL, Alhaji Adamu Abubukar Barde (Bunun Duguri) extended profound appreciation to the world Bank ACReSAL project, Bauchi state government, the consultanting firm and all other stakeholders for the foresight in rejuvenating and reviving the lost glory of Yankari Game Reserve.
The engagement gathered dignitaries included Commissioner of Environment, Permanent Secretaries, the Executive Chairman, Alkaleri Local Government, Directors, ES PWDs, DG BASEPA, GM Yankari and other key stakeholders from relevant MDAs, traditional institutions, the consultants and Bauchi ACReSAL and it’s focal NGO, all working together towards the successful revitalization of the Yankari Game Reserve.
