Group Rues Decline In Elephant Population

Wildlife conservation organisation, Wild Africa, has urged Nigeria to intensify efforts to protect its dwindling elephant population by mitigating rising human-elephant conflicts, which often lead to crop raiding, injuries, and fatalities on both sides.

The group said Nigeria’s elephant population has dropped dramatically from over 1,200 three decades ago to just 300–400 currently, divided into small, isolated herds.

Speaking against the backdrop of the 2025 World Elephant Day, titled “Bringing the world together to help elephants,” the group said Nigeria’s new National Elephant Action Plan (NEAP) identifies human–elephant conflict, particularly crop raiding, as the most significant threat to the remaining elephants in the country.

The group argued that in July, there were reports of a tragic story of a farmer who an elephant in Ogun State killed.

As reports of human–elephant conflict appear more frequently in the media, conservationists warn that these encounters will likely rise.

“Habitat destruction is driving elephants into closer contact, and sometimes conflict, with people who may retaliate over damaged crops or property.”

“The recent event in Ogun state is a reminder that protecting elephants also means protecting people,” said Dr Mark Ofua, West Africa Representative for Wild Africa.

“When elephants have space, corridors, and secure habitats, they are less likely to conflict with communities. Coexistence is possible but requires planning, investment, and law enforcement,” he stated.

Speaking further, the group said the largest single herd — about 100 elephants — lives in Yankari Game Reserve in Bauchi State. At the same time, other populations survive in Cross River National Park, Okomu National Park, and other forest reserves in the South.

The key threats to their survival are deeply interconnected. Poaching for ivory remains a serious problem, like the habitat loss from logging, agriculture, and infrastructure development.