TheCable

Wild Africa Fund, an international non-governmental organisation, says it has partnered with Channels Television to increase awareness about wildlife conservation in Nigeria.

In a statement on Tuesday, the environmental NGO said the partnership will expand wildlife coverage and build the capacity of local journalists.

Wild Africa Fund said the new partnership will take on the challenge of popularising the protection of Nigeria’s wildlife and forests, inspiring millions of Nigerians to learn more about the environment, and encouraging them to protect the country’s natural heritage for future generations.

“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Wild Africa Fund, a pivotal alliance that underscores our commitment to preserving Nigeria’s rich natural heritage. By harnessing Channels Television’s expansive reach and Wild Africa Fund’s conservation expertise,” John Momoh, chairman and CEO of Channels Media Group, said.

“We aim to ignite a nationwide movement towards wildlife conservation and curb the illegal wildlife trade. Together, we will bring the wonders of Nigeria’s wildlife and forests into the homes of millions, educating and inspiring action to safeguard these treasures for our future generations.”

According to the NGO, Nigeria has emerged as a major transit hub in the illicit wildlife trade in recent years, notably involving pangolin scales and ivory.

It said in the last three years, the Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted about 20,000 kilogrammes of illegal wildlife products as well as live endangered species about to be smuggled out of the country.

Wild Africa Fund noted that beyond the arrests, 12 convictions have been made at the court within three years, with many pending cases.

“Channels TV has a history of environmental coverage, and as our environment is under greater pressure than ever before. Together we can amplify this cause.” Peter Knights OBE, CEO of Wild Africa Fund, said.

Wild Africa Fund said it will work closely with Channels TV to expand the coverage of its award-winning weekly environment show, Earthfile, to include more reporting on biodiversity issues and reporting trips outside Lagos to document the pressing challenges confronting Nigeria’s wildlife and forests.