December 02, (THEWILL) – The killing of an endangered Atlantic humpback dolphin by a local fisherman at Andoni Beach in Rivers State has drawn widespread condemnation, with environmentalists and conservation advocates demanding immediate action.
Dr. Piriye Kiyaramo, Chairman of the BRACED Tourism Promotion & Development Initiative representing Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Edo, and Delta States, decried the incident during a media briefing in Port Harcourt.
The conservationist, who is also the National Publicity Secretary of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria, described the incident as a setback for marine conservation efforts in the region.
Kiyaramo attributed the killing to a lack of awareness among local fishermen about the ecological and economic importance of the Atlantic humpback dolphin, an endemic species along the West African coast.
“This unfortunate incident underscores the urgent need for sensitization programs targeted at local communities to educate them on the value of protecting endangered species,” he stated.
The BTPDI chairman urged the Executive Chairman of Andoni Local Government Area, Hon. Lazarus Nteogwile, and relevant government agencies to introduce and enforce legislation to safeguard the Atlantic humpback dolphin and other vulnerable marine wildlife.
“The Atlantic humpback dolphin is not just a vital part of marine biodiversity but also a potential driver of economic growth. Its role in whale-watching tourism generates substantial revenue for local communities. Conservation measures are essential to protect this species and ensure the sustainability of marine ecosystems,” Kiyaramo emphasised.
He also commended Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara for his commitment to advancing the state’s blue economy, citing the Governor’s proposed mangrove conservation initiative.
He called on the Rivers State House of Assembly to draft laws to curb the poaching of marine wildlife, including dolphins, elephants, and manatees.
Kiyaramo highlighted the pivotal role of Atlantic humpback dolphins in maintaining healthy fish populations, which support both commercial and artisanal fisheries.
“The conservation of these dolphins fosters marine biodiversity, strengthens food security, and creates economic opportunities through eco-tourism. Efforts to protect them can drive sustainable economic growth and foster cultural preservation in coastal communities,” he added.
Gogo Abel Ujile, Executive Director of the Save Andoni Forest Elephant and Ecosystem Initiative, also lent his voice to the call for action.
He urged the Rivers State Government to designate Andoni as a National Marine Park to protect its diverse wildlife, which includes elephants, hippos, manatees, and sea turtles.
“These species are internationally recognized and integral to the region’s biodiversity. Protecting them through a National Marine Park designation will preserve their habitats while fostering sustainable tourism,” Ujile said.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
