Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, officially inaugurated a steering committee on Tuesday to oversee the transfer of the Kampe Games Reserve to the Federal Government for designation as a National Park.

During the event, the Governor also formally handed over the reserve, located in Patigi Local Government Area, to the Federal Government. This move follows the presidential declaration in November 2020 and the subsequent legislative approval by the National Assembly.

Governor Abdulrazaq described the handover as a significant step towards enhancing environmental conservation and ensuring the sustainable management of natural resources.

“Today marks a crucial moment in our collective efforts. The inauguration of the Steering Committee is a fulfillment of the Federal Government's roadmap for the transformation of the Kampe Games Reserve into a National Park,” the Governor said at the inauguration ceremony in Ilorin.

The committee, which comprises cabinet members, traditional leaders, and other senior citizens, is tasked with guiding the process and bringing their invaluable experience to ensure the successful transition.

“Our commitment to this initiative stems from our desire to offer Kwara State greater opportunities for growth,” the Governor said through Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi.

“We aim to position our state on the global map for biodiversity conservation, environmental sustainability, and the effective management of our human and natural resources.

“The Kampe Games Reserve, named after the Kampe River, is one of Kwara State's natural treasures. It is a gift of nature, and our responsibility is to preserve and enhance it for the benefit of future generations.”

Abdulrazaq congratulated the committee members and tasked them to participate actively in the process to conserve the park and contribute to a sustainable future for all Nigerians.

Minister of Environment Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, who was represented by the Conservator General National Park Service, Ibrahim Goni, said former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari had approved the upgrade of 10 Forest and Game Reserves to National Parks, including Kampe Forest Reserve, increasing the total number of National Parks in Nigeria to 17.

He said the establishment aligns with the country's efforts to meet global biodiversity conservation targets outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) and to enhance internal security.

He commended the Governor's swift response to the call by the Federal Government, adding "your commitment to protecting our planet is truly commendable, and your role in the sustainable development of our Nation is invaluable".

Chairperson of the Committee and Commissioner for Environment Hon. Nafisat Musa Buge said the development offers opportunities for environmental restoration, biodiversity regeneration, and an additional tourist site in the state.

"As a state, we acknowledge that this new status of KAMPE will be of immense benefits to us, the neighbouring and adjoining communities to Kampe, and indeed neighbouring states,” she said.

Emir of Patigi Ibrahim Umar Bologi II thanked the Governor for taking a bold step to hand over the KAMPE reserve to National Park.

He pledged the support of the Emirate for the Federal Government towards the realization of the project.