It’s Not Too Late: Saving the Iconic, Critically Endangered Elephant

Dedicated to reversing the decline of its critically endangered elephant population, Nigeria is working hard to protect the iconic animal’s habitat, mitigate human-elephant conflicts, and crack down on illicit ivory trafficking.

“We are dedicated to working closely with relevant stakeholders to implement the National Elephant Action Plan (NEAP), which will guarantee the survival of elephants and their habitat in Nigeria,” states Minister Balarabe Abbas Lawal.

As Nigeria’s elephant population is estimated at only 300-400 individuals and on the brink of extinction – the West African country has already lost 99% of its elephants – and threats like poaching for ivory and habitat destruction remain, the Federal Ministry of Environment is teaming up with the Elephant Protection Initiative Foundation and the Wildlife Conservation Society to launch NEAP for 2024-2034. The 10-year strategic plan is meant to ensure the long-term survival of elephants in Nigeria. The key objectives are reducing illegal elephant killing and trade, maintaining elephant habitats, increasing public awareness and community-shared economic benefits generated by tourism, enhancing scientific knowledge and understanding of elephants to inform efficient strategies better, and strengthening regional cooperation with neighbouring countries.