Wildlife Conservation Society in collaboration with National Parks Service have called on the Federal Government to intensify security around the community.
According to the Nation, this was made known in the communique signed by park’s Deputy Conservator, Ikpeme Rebecca, WCS Project Manager, Vincent Ayang, and Yangwabue community head, Vincent Akwo, among others.
Stakeholders from the academia, Cross River State and Civil Society made the call in a communique at a workshop in Calabar by Wildlife Conservation Society with National Parks Service, supported by Arcus Foundation.
They noted that security in and around National park communities should be a priority.
The stakeholders acknowledged that the National Park is a legally protected area supported by law and that wildlife and other resources therein are not just owned by government but the communities.
“Governments, civil society, and communities in and around Cross River National Park must improve the park and conditions of the communities. Prioritise wellbeing by creating infrastructure to promote growth, access to primary healthcare and basic education.
The workshop was targeted at addressing insecurity by keeping the ecological integrity of the National Park, eradicating mining, logging, farming, hunting and other illegal activities in the National Park.
It recommended, among others, that “collaboration be strengthened and sustained between National Park Service, Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), and the communities through engagements with communities and other stakeholders.’’
