From Bukayo Agboluaje, Ibadan Â
The Chair of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park and immediate past Dean of Faculty of Applied Sciences,the KolaDaisi University, Ibadan {KDU-I}, Professor  Olajumoke Morenikeji, has stressed the need for Nigeria must to preserve its ecosystem and wildlife to achieve sustainable development.
Prof. Morenikeji, who is a scholar in the fields of Parasitology, Ecology and Environmental Biology in the department of Zoology, University of Ibadan (UI), Ibadan, made the call in an interview with journalists.
According to her, preserving wildlife is crucial for several reasons, which include ecological balance, biodiversity, human well-being, and sustainable development. It’s important for a nation to preserve its rich wildlife for so many reasons.
The former Director of University of Ibadan Zoo said: “First, wildlife represents the rich tapestry of life on Earth. Preserving biodiversity ensures the survival of diverse species, which can have cascading effects on ecosystems.
“Wildlife plays a key role in providing ecosystem services such as pollination, seed dispersal, nutrient cycling, and pest control. These services are vital for agriculture and food security.
“Wildlife tourism and ecotourism generate revenue, create jobs, and stimulate local economies. A thriving wildlife sector can contribute significantly to a nation’s GDP.
“Again, wildlife holds the keys to understanding biology, genetics, and ecology. Studying wildlife helps advance scientific knowledge and may lead to medical and technological breakthroughs. Many cultures have deep connections to wildlife, and ethical considerations call for the protection of sentient beings and the ecosystems they inhabit.
“It’s instructive to know that a nation can preserve its rich wildlife through the protection of habitat, establishment and maintenance of protected areas, national parks, and wildlife reserves to safeguard critical habitats; enforcement of regulations, education and awareness, community involvement, scientific research, habitat restoration, support of conservation organizations, sustainable resource management, ecotourism, climate change mitigation and public and private partnerships.
“Preserving rich wildlife is not only an ethical duty but also an investment in the long-term health and prosperity of a nation. It requires a holistic and collaborative approach, involving governments, communities, scientists, and conservationists working together to protect and sustain the precious biodiversity that enriches our planet”.