The lawmaker representing Gashaka constituency in the Taraba State House of Assembly, Balutu Mohammed, has pledged to take action in addressing the declining state of the Gumti National Park.
Speaking during a n an exclusive interview with our reporter on Wednesday in Jalingo, the state capital, Balutu said there are plans to move a motion that will urge the state government to tackle the neglect that has led to a significant loss of wildlife and resources in the park.
Highlighting the pressing issues facing the park’s host communities which she listed to include poor infrastructure, lack of electricity and inadequate water supply, Balutu revealed that plans to seek collaboration between the state government and Africa Nature Investors (ANI), a non-governmental organization focused on conservation, are also ongoing.
“When I took office, I wrote a letter to ANI requesting a visit to understand their programs and see how I can contribute as a member of the community.
“I intend to go on a tour to assess their work and then move a motion in the House for state intervention to benefit our community,” she stated.
Balutu also suggested the need for urgent improvements in basic amenities for the park’s surrounding communities, particularly roads, electricity, and water.
“We need roads, electricity, water, and job opportunities. The current state of the roads is unacceptable, and our community deserves better.”
The lawmaker, who noted that the park is capable of reducing unemployment in the state, called on ANI to prioritize local employment opportunities.