Lagos:The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has honored Chief Semiu Jejelaiye, the traditional ruler of Okun Igando, Lagos, for his decisive action in preventing the killing of a rescued leatherback sea turtle. The recognition also extended to the Green Fingers Wildlife Conservation Initiative for their role in safely returning the turtle to its natural habitat.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, fishermen caught the turtle, but Chief Jejelaiye intervened to stop community members from harming it while waiting for the arrival of the conservation organization. This species of turtle is protected under Nigeria’s National Environmental regulations and is listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
NESREA’s Director-General, Prof. Innocent Barikor, presented the awards and praised the traditional ruler and the community for their swift response and commitment to wildlife conservation. He acknowledged Jejelaiye’s efforts in mobilizing the community, safeguarding the turtle from exploitation, and contacting the appropriate environmental authorities for its safe release.
Prof. Barikor also commended the Green Fingers Wildlife Conservation Initiative for their public awareness efforts and technical expertise in handling the turtle. He emphasized the importance of NESREA’s mandate to protect biodiversity and prevent species extinction, while applauding the collective action taken in support of these goals.