NESREA DESTROYS OVER N9B WORTH OF ELEPHANT TUSKS. (PHOTOS).

NESREA destroys over N9b worth of elephant tusks

The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has destroyed 2.5 tons of confiscated elephant tusks worth about 9.9 billion naira in Abuja.

The Agency collaborated with the Elephant Protection Initiative Foundation to carry out the crushing of tusks.

The Minister of State for Environment, Dr Iziaq Salako said the destruction of the items was a resolve to protect the environment, conserve wildlife, and combat the illegal trade.

“ln compliance with CITES Resolution Conf. 9.10 (Rev. CoP15) and Conf, 10.7 (Rev. Cop 15) on disposal of seized and confiscated live and dead wildlife specimens, Nigeria has opted for the outright destruction of these stockpiles through pulverisation of elephant tusks and ivories, The option of outright destruction is aimed at showing the entire world that Nigeria is zero tolerant to illegal wildlife trade at any level and to serve as a deterrent to the illicit wildlife traffickers who use Nigeria as their transit route.” he said.

Dr Salako said the ashes of the crushed tusks would be used to construct a monument in remembrance of the elephants that were killed.

The Director General, of NESREA, Professor Aliyu Jauro who said illegal wildlife trade is a serious threat to the nation’s natural heritage and global biodiversity, explained that the destruction of the elephant tusks was a strong warning to wildlife criminals that illegal wildlife trafficking will not be tolerated.

“the destruction of the confiscated ivory is a tangible step towards stamping out wildlife trafficking. We stand united against the illegal trade and our actions today are not only crucial in preserving the majestic elephants for future generations but also in sending a clear message that Nigeria will do whatever it takes to protect our elephants and other endangered wildlife “

One more photo below.