Wildlife Society of Nigeria Reaffirms Conservation Drive at FUTA Conference

The Wildlife Society of Nigeria (WISON) has reiterated its commitment to tackling the threats of poaching and illegal wildlife trade, declaring that no loophole will be left for traffickers exploiting globalization for illicit gains.

This resolve was part of the key outcomes of the Society’s 7th Annual Conference, held at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) from September 18 to 20, 2025.

Declaring the event open, the Vice Chancellor of FUTA, Professor Adenike Oladiji, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Taiwo Amos, described the conference theme — “Globalization and Trade: Trends and Impacts on Conservation” — as timely. She stressed that the depletion of natural habitats and the ongoing conflict between consumption, exportation, and conservation demands urgent scholarly and policy interventions. She challenged academics and conservationists to confront the negative side of globalization and work to safeguard biodiversity for a balanced ecosystem.

Delivering the keynote lecture, the Director General of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Professor Innocent Barikor, represented by Assistant Director Dr. (Mrs.) Omoseebi Taiwo, explained that globalization has created both opportunities and risks for conservation. While technology such as drones and satellite imagery has improved monitoring, he warned that enhanced connectivity and global trade networks have simultaneously opened doors for the illegal trafficking of endangered species. He emphasized the need for stronger penalties, deliberate political will, and collaborative action to combat wildlife crimes.

Barikor urged government to invest in alternative livelihoods, support community-driven conservation, empower young people with innovative skills, and strengthen international cooperation. According to him, wildlife trafficking is a multifaceted problem that requires modern enforcement strategies and sustainable solutions.

In his remarks, WISON National President, Professor Augustine Ogogo, highlighted the vital role of wildlife in ecological balance, from pollination to serving as a food source. He noted that the Society’s annual conference has become a vital forum for mentoring and knowledge-sharing on conservation. Ogogo acknowledged financial constraints as a major challenge and appealed for stronger institutional and organizational support to sustain the relatively young association.

The Director General of the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), Professor Zechariah Yaduna, represented by Professor Gbolagbade Lameed, called for the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Wildlife, arguing that the sector should not remain subordinate to forestry. He also encouraged universities to make membership of WISON compulsory for students to build a strong conservation culture.

In a communiqué signed by WISON National Vice President Professor Jaiyeola Omotola and Secretary Dr. Jacob Orimaye, the Society expressed gratitude to FUTA for championing biodiversity conservation amidst growing globalization challenges. The communiqué reaffirmed WISON’s pledge to protect Nigeria’s natural heritage and urged government agencies, NGOs, and civil society to intensify efforts against illegal trade in endangered species while prioritizing community-centered conservation.

The conference also featured award presentations to Sir Chief Segun Odusanya, Permanent Secretary of Ondo State Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry; Mr. Tunde Morakinyo, Executive Director of the African Nature Investor Foundation (ANI); and Mrs. Emem Umoh, Executive Director of Women in Nature Conservation (WINCO). Six academics — Dr. Jacob Orimaye, Professor Anthony Ogunjimi, Dr. Mohammed Kabir, Professor Victor Ojo, Professor Daniel Edet, and Dr. Adebayo Adewumi — were also conferred as Fellows of WISON.

In his closing remarks, Dean of the School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Professor Olabode Adebayo, commended all participants, FUTA management, and the Local Organizing Committee for ensuring the success of the conference. Earlier, LOC Chair Professor Anthony Ogunjimi welcomed guests, appreciated partners and sponsors, and acknowledged the keynote speaker and session chairs for their valuable contributions to the deliberations.