The Minister of Environment, Mrs. Hadiza Ibrahim Mailafia has said that efforts were in top gear to rehabilitate and restore the glory of the Yankari Game Reserve.

Mailafia said that the Federal Government efforts were being complemented by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Bauchi State government.

She made the remarks while receiving in-audience members of trustees, National Executive Council and Management of Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), led by Prince Adegoke Ademiluyi.

The Minister said that the state of some reserves across the country was worrisome and that government was determined to address the situation.

Mailafia added that issues of environmental sustainability have become enormous adding that government alone cannot bear, hence, the need for dialogue with relevant stakeholders such as Nigeria Conservation Foundation to ensure that the environment remain safe and habitable.

The Minister said that the ministry would continue to encourage and partner with community-based and Non-Governmental Organisations that engage in conservation and sustainable use of our forest and biodiversity resources.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Prince Adegoke Ademiluyi appealed to the Minister to do all within her power to assist in bringing back the glory of Yankari Games Reserve which was formerly reputed to be a foremost tourist attraction in Africa.

He also appealed to the Minister to take steps to enlist Nigeria in the International Union of Conservation Nations (IUCN).

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