Nigeria’s Untapped Treasures: The Story of Gashaka Gumti and Beyond

By Okoi Obono-Obla 

Nigeria’s Untapped Treasures: The Story of Gashaka Gumti and Beyond-

A Captivating Natural Heritage-
I extend my sincere appreciation to Dr. Baba Adam for producing this captivating video that highlights the rich fauna and flora of Gashaka Gumti National Park—an environmental treasure that remains largely unexplored. I had the privilege of visiting the Park in 2005, when, as members of the Governing Board, we resolved to tour all the National Parks under the National Park Service of Nigeria.

Touring Nigeria’s National Parks-
Our visits included the Cross River National Park, which also straddles the boundary with the Republic of Cameroon in the southeastern corner; the Old Oyo National Park; the Lake Chad National Park; the Okomu National Park; the Kamuku National Park; the Kainji National Park; and the Yankari National Park, which has since been returned to the Bauchi State Government.

Unfulfilled Plans for Expansion-
Before leaving the Board, we had finalized plans to establish both a Mangrove Forest and Marine National Park, as well as the Abuja National Park. Regrettably, since our tenure ended, no legislation has been enacted to bring these proposed parks into existence. Nigeria is a nation of immense potential, blessed with abundant natural resources, human capital, and the energy of its people. What is required is patriotic and visionary leadership—one capable of harnessing these assets to transform the country.

The Untapped Potential of Obudu-
I must also mention the Obudu Cattle Ranch in Cross River State, which boasts 32 plateaus. At present, only one has been developed for habitation, yet all possess vast tourism potential. The Ranch lies within the mountain ranges that form part of the Gashaka Gumti National Park, stretching along the boundary between Nigeria and Cameroon from the South to the northeastern corner of Nigeria.