Our conservation efforts in the Niger Delta marks significant milestone as Bayelsa State Government imposes a total ban on logging operations that will end massive deforestation in the Niger Delta

Unregulated and indiscriminate logging activities in the region have not only depleted the state’s natural resources but also driven many families into extreme poverty. For us, as a conservation organization working closely with both local communities and state authorities, this is not only a positive development, but also evidence that our efforts are having the desired outcomes. Throughout 2024, we worked on increasing our reach across the state. In addition to establishing two new community-based conservation areas, we sought to strengthen the state government’s and communities’ knowledgebases and capabilities in wildlife and forest management. Along with carrying out one-on-one consultations and stakeholder engagements, at the beginning of September 2024, we launched an interactive weekly radio show on Radio Bayelsa called Kekere Ife (translated as CONSERVATION TIME). See the information poster below.

On the 30th of September 2024, we organized a Roundtable Discussion on the Legal Framework for Wildlife Protection in Bayelsa State with relevant stakeholders. We published our first edition in a policy brief series titled ‘Building policies that support community-based conservation’, among other things.

The journey to this remarkable milestone was not without its challenges. For years, artisanal logging which was largely unregulated threatened the rich biodiversity of Bayelsa State, putting enormous pressure on the natural environment and on local communities that rely on forests for their livelihoods. However, through public education and advocacy, SW/Niger Delta Forest Project effectively engaged stakeholders and highlighted the urgent need for conservation measures. Our dedication has inspired local leaders and residents alike, uniting them in the fight to protect their natural heritage by establishing community-based conservation areas. This community-driven approach has been instrumental in changing perceptions and building support for the logging ban. This exciting success demonstrates the importance and effectiveness of public education, grassroots advocacy, and political engagement in conservation efforts, as well as an optimistic path forward for the protection of habitat, species, and communities in the highly threatened Niger Delta forests. The state government’s momentous announcement of an immediate total ban on logging activities is not just a triumph for forest ecosystems, but an inspiration for similar actions globally. This remarkable development illustrates how local initiatives can ripple across global networks, influencing policies and inspiring movements that transcend boundaries. This shift in political readiness to pursue conservation goals is critical because it shows that when people understand the ecological and economic benefits of protecting their forests, they are more inclined to support sustainable practices.

This is truly a happy new year for the people of Bayelsa and we are proud partners with the people in the work to conserve and restore the ecological integrity of the State.

See also – Bayelsa moves to preserve forests, bans logging activities – Vanguard News

Thanks to our partners who have supported us to expand our work in the region Biodiversity Challenge Funds Rainforest Trust Rainforest Trust UK Re:wild The Forest Collective

Coming up for us in this landscape in Q1 2025, organize a Public Forum as part of a broader effort to design strategies that will ensure the sustainable management of wildlife and forests in Bayelsa State. Inauguration Ceremonies of the Gbanraun Kingdom (Community) Conservation Area and Kokolgbene Community Conservation Area; Inauguration of the long-term biodiversity research program in SILGA coastal forests and marine zones. Negotiating three (3) new conservation agreements that will establish 3 community-based conservation Areas.

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