Channels Academy, in partnership with Wild Africa, Environmental Investigation Agency, and Africa Nature Investors, held a media briefing and sensitisation programme on the under-reported area of wildlife crime and its impacts, as well as the Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill 2024.
This briefing which took place at the American Corner in Ikeja, Lagos, was aimed at driving public awareness on the extent of wildlife crime and the importance of updating existing wildlife legislation to align with global standards.
The 2024 Bill which scaled its second reading at the House of Representatives, looks to ensure that Nigeria complies with international conventions such as CITES.CMS, UNTOC, UNCAC ; strengthen investigative powers; Increase penalties to deter wildlife crimes and enable courts to expedite wildlife crime cases.
General Manager of Channels Academy, Kingsley Uranta, in his opening remarks, emphasised the need for journalists to play a more active role in wildlife crime reporting and impactful coverage that will force the government to take action in saving endangered species.
Renowned veterinarian, wildlife rescuer and advocate, Mark Ofua, drew attention to the looming threat of deforestation and poaching of wildlife to the ecosystem and how community sensitisation might be a proactive measure in sfaeguarding endangered species.
Head of Programmes, Channels Television, Ayoola Kassim, gave her position on the media’s role in environmental advocacy and how to tell compelling stories that will evoke emotions and actions.
Wildlife Policy Coordinator, Wilson Ogoke, ANI Foundation, examined the legal implications of the Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill 2024, while agreeing that the bill is an improvement on previous legislation set to safeguard endangered species, he, however, noted that the bill has grey areas that need to be looked at to make it a functional bill.
Co-facilitator, Linus Unah of WildAfrica, finalised the sessions with how journalists can craft compelling stories that resonate with the public.
The media briefing ended with certificates being awarded to participants
