Nigeria and Cameroun have signed an agreement to promote transboundary ecosystem conservation and sustainable management of forestry and wildlife resources aimed at curbing illegal activities and strengthening ties between both countries.
Indications to this development emerged on Friday at the signing of the agreement between the two countries aimed to address the challenges of exploitation and illegal marketing of non-timber forest products and bush meats.
The Nigerian Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Lawal, who signed on behalf of the country, described exploitation and illegal marketing of non-timber forests products as a crime adding that the move will ensure that activities within the borders are carried out under the law.
Lawal said “ “It may interest you to know that since 1963, the two countries have had a long history of cooperation which borders on transboundary security, joint commission on transboundary conservation and this agreement would further strengthen the long-standing relations and will symbolize a milestone in providing a platform for the establishment of a joint cross-boundary management framework within which to facilitate cooperation and coordination within our countries and enhance the good use of our forest resources.
“The agreement will also improve our legal system to see environmental crime as serious as other crimes. That’s why the support by the German Government on this issue is very important through the training of our judges and lawyers towards this direction.
“Our common border between Nigeria and Cameroon spans over 1,500 kilometres. So, necessary cooperation is needed towards harnessing its benefits for the two countries”.
The Minister of Forestry and Wildlife Resources of Cameroun, Mr Jules Ndongo, who signed on behalf of his country, said the agreement will strengthen specific protocols and make them consistent in already identified cooperation areas. He noted that it will help in the cooperation and implementation of joint border programmes and to mobilize institutional funds for the implementation of joint cross border activities.
He therefore urged all parties in the agreement to be more committed to the implementation of the instrument, pledging that the Government of Cameroun would play its part to ensure its success.
He assured that his country will continue to collaborate with Nigeria towards harnessing environmental resources for development.
