Gashaka Gumti National Park

This study, conducted by Mike Bawden and Paul Tuley, highlighted the urgent need to protect the watersheds of the forested mountains that supplied the River Taraba.

Simultaneously, the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) proposed to the Federal Government that Gashaka Gumti be designated a national park.

Managed by the NCF in partnership with the Gongola State Government's Wildlife Unit, the project aimed to address various conservation challenges.

Faith Ananze, an experienced manager, led the initiative, assembling a dedicated team of workers to embark on the revitalization of the park.

[5] In November 2002 an isolated population of the red sunbird bush, an ornate species of the acanthus family,[6] was discovered in the 8 km2 Leinde Fadale forest in the uplands adjacent to the park.

At Northern Gumti sector, there are tall trees such as Acacia spp, Afzelia Africana, Khaya Seneglensis, Daniella Oliverii, Isober linadoka and Vitellaria paradoxa.

The dominant tree species in the area include Triplochyton schleroxylon and Aubrvillea kerstingii Africana, Symphonia globulifera and Mallettia spp.

[4] The Gashaka Gumti National Park, situated in a local steppe climate, is characterized by minimal precipitation throughout the year.

This drop is attributed to insecurity threats in the northeastern part of the country, primarily caused by insurgent activities and conflicts between cattle rearers and crop farmers in the region.

Gashaka Gumti National Park boasts a rich tapestry of ecotourism resources, making it a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts.

Some key attractions include: The park management has made efforts to enhance visitor experiences by providing facilities such as accommodation, conference centers, and viewing vehicles.

With a variety of lodging options, including suites, luxury rooms, and VIP accommodations, GGNP aims to cater to diverse preferences.

The conflicts have primarily arisen due to the increased desperation for illegal logging of Rosewood (pterocarpus erinaceous), locally known as Madrid.

The discovery of Rosewood in the region has led to sleepless nights for park managers and Rangers as they strive to protect the forest resources from desperate loggers.

Traditional leaders, such as the Lamdo Gashaka, Dr Zubairu Hammangabdo, emphasized the collective responsibility of conserving the national park.

The leaders warned against illegal logging and poaching, stressing that the park is not only a pride for the people of Gashaka but for the entire Taraba State and Nigeria.

This day serves to honor the selfless service rendered by Rangers who have been killed or injured in the line of duty, highlighting the critical work they do in protecting the natural resources of the Gashaka Gumti National Park.