Abia State Governor Alex Otti supports establishment of first South-East national park in Abia

Governor Otti conveyed his support during a meeting with a delegation from the National Park Service, led by the Chairman of its Governing Council, Dr. Kingsley Ononogbu. The Governor assured the delegation of the state government’s full support for the initiative, describing it as timely and aligning with ongoing efforts to conserve forest reserves. He noted that Abia has 19 forest reserves, 18 of which are available for consideration, offering an opportunity for a conservation area in each of the state’s 17 Local Government Areas.

Governor Otti directed the Commissioner for Environment to collaborate with the National Park Service and experts to identify a suitable location and announced the formation of a team, led by the Commissioner for Environment, to ensure the park's successful establishment. Dr. Ononogbu highlighted the absence of a National Park in the South-East, stating that establishing one in Abia would correct this omission, create inclusion and career opportunities, and provide socio-economic benefits such as job creation, revenue generation, and enhanced security. He requested the Abia State Government to identify a suitable reserve, form a committee, and submit a formal proposal for the park's establishment.