Nigeria’s travel and tourism sector is on track to create 2.6 million new jobs and generate nearly N12.3 trillion ($8.2 billion) by 2032, according to Wild Africa, a leading wildlife conservation organization. But while the economic potential is massive, conservationists warn that urgent action is needed to protect Nigeria’s rapidly declining wildlife populations.

During the World Wildlife Day 2025 event in Lagos, Festus Iyorah, Nigeria’s representative at Wild Africa, highlighted the critical role of wildlife conservation in economic growth. With Africa’s wildlife populations declining by 76% over the past 50 years, Nigeria faces an alarming situation—its elephant population has dropped by 99%, with only 300–400 remaining in the wild. Iconic species such as lions, gorillas, and chimpanzees are also at risk of extinction.

Across Africa, 80% of tourists visit the continent for its wildlife, supporting a $12.4 billion ecotourism industry. Countries like Kenya, where wildlife tourism contributes 10.4% to GDP, showcase how conservation and tourism can drive economic prosperity. If Nigeria invests in wildlife corridors, protected areas, and conservation funding, it could harness this potential to strengthen local economies, create jobs, and boost sustainable tourism.

To raise awareness, Wild Africa has launched a nationwide conservation campaign featuring influential Nigerian ambassadors such as 2Baba and Nela Duke Ekpenyong. The campaign leverages radio, TV, billboards, and newspaper publications to highlight the importance of protecting Nigeria’s wildlife.

Businesses Must Step Up

Conservation is not just the responsibility of governments and NGOs—businesses must also play a role. According to Mark Ofua, Wild Africa’s West Africa Spokesperson, conservation requires a collaborative effort. He calls on businesses to embrace conservation as a corporate social responsibility, working with conservation organizations to mobilize resources and protect biodiversity.

Similarly, Peter Knights, CEO of Wild Africa, stresses that investing in conservation is not charity but a necessity. He warns that failing to protect Africa’s wildlife will not only cause ecological collapse but also economic devastation, impacting tourism, jobs, and sustainable industries.

A Call to Action

On World Wildlife Day 2025, Wild Africa urges the Nigerian public to:

✔️ Support sustainable ecotourism by visiting national parks.
✔️ Donate to conservation organizations.
✔️ Volunteer to help protect Nigeria’s rich biodiversity.

Nigeria’s wildlife is on the brink, but with the right investment, it can become a powerful economic engine. Conservation is not just about saving animals—it’s about securing the future of Nigeria’s tourism, economy, and natural heritage.

Join the movement. Protect wildlife. Support sustainable tourism.