Bala Mohammed, Governor of Bauchi State has expressed strong determination to prevent bandits from taking control of the Yankari Game Reserve, a prominent wildlife conservation area and tourist attraction in the state.
HeraldNG reports that Bala Mohammed made the vow at the launching of the 2023 Tree Planting Campaign held on Thursday at the Dungal Housing Estate, Bauchi.
Governor Bala Mohammed’s strong stance underscores the broader challenge faced by various regions in Nigeria, where criminal groups such as bandits, kidnappers, and insurgents have posed threats to security and stability.
The commitment to safeguarding significant cultural and natural assets, like the Yankari Game Reserve, plays a vital role in maintaining tourism, economic growth, and overall well-being in the region.
Speaking at the event, Bala said, “Today, we are happy, we’re being recognised by the international community. Bauchi has become the next investment destination. Our biodiversity, which is Yankari, has attracted British investors that came here, discussed with us seriously and they are ready to take over Yankari to save our Fauna and Flora, to save our animals with an initial investment of $18 million of their own money and to bring security.
“We have been battling with bandits inside Yankari. I will never allow them to take over Yankari from me, under my time, no, no way! I will either die or they die. They will not be there. I am assuring you, the people of Bauchi.
“So, we will have to work, we don’t have to sleep because so many things are going on against us,”.
Yankari Game Reserve is known for its diverse wildlife and natural beauty, drawing tourists and visitors from within Nigeria and beyond.