Cross River National Park Returns Rescued Giant Pangolin to Natural Habitat
Oru Leonard
The Cross River National Park has successfully reintroduced a rescued giant pangolin into its natural habitat as part of efforts to protect endangered wildlife and preserve Nigeria’s biodiversity.
The exercise, conducted on October 26, 2026, was led by the Conservator of Parks, Cross River National Park, CP Joseph Assam Ntui, following the rescue of the animal from a woman identified as Ms. Oscarline at Ekpiri Ikang, Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The Conservator considered it necessary to return the animal to the wild, where it could survive and thrive in its natural environment.
The intervention highlights the commitment of the National Park Service to wildlife conservation, environmental protection and the preservation of threatened species across the country.
Giant pangolins are among the mammals threatened by illegal hunting and wildlife trafficking, which have continued to pose significant challenges to their survival. The animals also play an important ecological role by helping to control ant and termite populations, thereby contributing to the balance of forest ecosystems.
The successful reintroduction reinforces the importance of protecting wildlife and ensuring that rescued animals are returned to suitable natural habitats whenever possible.
It also serves as a call for greater public participation in wildlife conservation, particularly through reporting suspected wildlife crimes and discouraging the illegal possession and trade of endangered species.
The Cross River National Park urged members of the public to support conservation initiatives aimed at protecting wildlife, preserving forest resources and promoting peaceful coexistence between humans and nature.
The initiative further underscores the need for collective action to safeguard Nigeria’s rich biodiversity and ensure that future generations continue to benefit from the country’s natural heritage.
(FB)
