Conservation

Developing Multidisciplinary Approach towards Sustainable Conservation of the Threatened Nigerian-Cameroon Highlands

BACKGROUND

The Nigeria-Cameroonian highlands are biodiverse ecosystems, with the Mambilla Plateau (Nigeria) and Tchabal-Mbabo Mountain (Cameroon) exhibiting high species richness and endemism. However, these areas lack protection and face threats like deforestation and overgrazing. The Multidisciplinary Team for Mountain Research, Education, and Conservation (MTMREC) aims to study and conserve these regions. Through interdisciplinary research, MTMREC will assess wildlife diversity, distribution, and threats, while engaging local students through active learning. MTMREC plans to develop conservation curricula and raise awareness through community outreach. Collaboration with stakeholders will lead to conservation action plans for legal protection of these vital areas.

TEAM MEMBERS

  1. Dr. Lotanna Micah Nneji               

  2. Dr. Arnaud Marius Tchassem Fokoua            

  3. Dr Segun O. Oladipo       

  4. Dr. Tsiory Harimalala Andrianavalona

  5. Dr. Armand Richard Nzoko Fiemapong

  6. Dr. Tolotra Niaina Ramihangihajason

  7. Dr. Kudzanai Dhliwayo                                                           

  8. Dr. Adenike Akinsemolu

TEAM LEAD

Lotanna Micah Nneji

Lotanna Micah Nneji is a herpetologist and published author focused on studying amphibians and reptiles in Nigeria. He employs field surveys, morphology, and ecological and genetic data to understand their diversification, disease trends, and the impact of human activity and climate change on their diversity and distribution. Nneji also contributes to the conservation of other animal species, including freshwater fish and mammals. His scientific research informs biodiversity conservation and management guidelines. Additionally, Nneji actively engages in community-based programs within protected areas, using conservation education awareness initiatives to involve the local community and stakeholders in species conservation. He also promotes citizen science, encouraging community members to participate in scientific data collection and conservation management programs.

FUNDER

National Geographic, known for its dedication to exploration and conservation, is a significant funder of this project. Their support enables the Multidisciplinary Team for Mountain Research, Education, and Conservation (MTMREC) to study and preserve the biodiversity of the Nigeria-Cameroonian highlands. Through research, active learning with local students, and community outreach, this collaboration aims to protect these vulnerable ecosystems and raise conservation awareness.

Protecting the Critically Endangered White-bellied Pangolin

BACKGROUND

The project's primary objective is to protect the critically endangered pangolin species (Manis tricuspis) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, through research and conservation actions. The focal species, pangolins, are facing severe threats, and the project aims to contribute to their survival by enhancing knowledge and conservation efforts.

Through ecological research, the project seeks to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current status and conservation needs of the pangolin populations in the region. The collected data will serve as vital conservation-relevant datasets, which will be presented during stakeholder meetings. In collaboration with local partners at the President Olusegun Obasanjo Public Library (OOPL) Wildlife Park and community leaders, these meetings will focus on designing sustainable conservation plans tailored to protect pangolins and their habitats.

To ensure a lasting impact, the project will actively engage with the local community, particularly students aged 10-16 years, in at least three local schools. Well-tailored conservation-sensitive programs will be designed to educate and raise awareness among students about the significance of protecting pangolins. By involving the younger generation, the project aims to foster a sense of responsibility and understanding of the importance of conserving these critically endangered creatures.

Through a combination of research, stakeholder engagement, and education, the project aspires to make meaningful strides in pangolin conservation, safeguarding these unique and threatened species for future generations.

SOLUTION

  1. Ecological Research: Conduct thorough ecological research to assess the current status and conservation needs of pangolin populations in the area. The collected data will provide valuable insights to guide conservation efforts effectively.

  2. Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with local partners at the President Olusegun Obasanjo Public Library (OOPL) Wildlife Park and community leaders to hold stakeholders' meetings. These gatherings will facilitate the development of sustainable conservation plans that address the specific threats faced by pangolins.

  3. Education in Local Schools: Design conservation-sensitive programs tailored for students aged 10-16 years in at least three local schools. Through engaging and interactive activities, students will be educated about the importance of pangolin protection and their role in conserving these precious creatures.

  4. Awareness Campaigns: Conduct awareness campaigns within the local community to foster a greater understanding of the significance of pangolin conservation. This will encourage community involvement and support for the project's initiatives.

  5. Capacity Building: Provide training and capacity building for local community members and park staff to enhance their ability to protect and monitor pangolins effectively.

  6. Habitat Protection: Implement measures to protect pangolin habitats from threats such as deforestation and illegal poaching. Strengthening habitat protection will ensure the long-term survival of pangolin populations.

COLLABORATOR

The project partners with the President Olusegun Obasanjo Public Library (OOPL) Wildlife Park, leveraging their expertise in wildlife conservation. The collaboration provides crucial resources for ecological research, stakeholder engagement, and educational initiatives, enhancing the efforts to protect the critically endangered pangolin species in Abeokuta, Nigeria.

VIDEO(S)

The Green Education Illustrative Curriculum

BACKGROUND

The project "Addressing the Scarcity of Sustainability Science in Grades 7-12" successfully tackled the pressing issue of the lack of sustainability science in the curriculum for middle and high school students. The project aimed to educate, equip, and empower future generations with the principles of sustainable development, using an innovative hybrid learning approach that combined virtual and in-person modules.

The first step involved formulating the Green Illustrative Curriculum, which was achieved by seeking insights from sustainability experts worldwide through platforms like the National Geographic Society and the United Nations Sustainable Development Network. This collaboration ensured the curriculum's content was comprehensive and globally relevant.

Subsequently, Green Educators were selected and subjected to a rigorous six-week training program. The Educators Training Kit, comprising both soft and hard skills, effectively prepared the educators to deliver the curriculum effectively and engage students in sustainable teaching methods.

With the educators now equipped, the project was implemented one school at a time. This approach allowed for careful monitoring and evaluation of each implementation, leading to continuous improvement and tailoring of the curriculum and methodologies to meet specific school needs.

The project's people-centric approach, fostering partnerships and collaboration, played a pivotal role in its success. By involving experts, educators, students, and the community, the project gained widespread support, making sustainability science as popular as compulsory subjects like Mathematics and English.

As a result of this comprehensive effort, the project successfully institutionalized sustainability science principles in grades 7-12, building resilience capacity in the next generation. By addressing this global issue, the project contributed to shaping environmentally conscious and responsible citizens prepared to meet the challenges of the future.

FUNDER

National Geographic proudly supports the Green Illustrative Project as a sponsor through the COVID-19 Remote Learning Emergency Fund for Educators. This collaboration aligns with their dedication to education and environmental awareness. The fund's primary objective is to provide valuable resources and assistance to teachers and schools as they navigate the transition to remote learning during the pandemic.

Through this initiative, National Geographic aims to ensure that students continue to receive a high-quality education with a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental science, even amidst the disruptions caused by COVID-19. By offering support to educators in adapting their teaching methods to virtual platforms, the project strives to uphold the delivery of essential knowledge about our planet's ecosystems and the significance of responsible, sustainable practices.

As a renowned advocate for exploration, conservation, and education, National Geographic believes in empowering educators with the necessary tools to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. Through their sponsorship of the Green Illustrative Project, they reaffirm their commitment to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a passion for the natural world, ultimately working towards a more sustainable future.