Yobe Zoo Abandoned Years After Bukar Ibrahim’s Administration

Yobe State Zoo, established during the administration of the late Bukar Abba Ibrahim, has been left to deteriorate, with poor maintenance and dwindling public awareness raising questions about its current status and potential for revenue generation.

The zoo was established to provide recreational services and generate revenue for the state, but its present condition has left some residents unaware of its existence, while calls grow for the rehabilitation and productive use of the facility.

An official who work with the zoo, spoke on condition of anonymity, said animals, including Elephants, Lions, hyenas, crocodiles, and ostriches among others, were brought to the facility during the administration of the late governor.

He attributed the zoo’s deterioration to a lack of maintenance, noting that the structures previously used to house the animals had become overgrown with grasses.

The official also dismissed rumours about the existence of a painted crocodile statue at the zoo, explaining that the facility had structures built to accommodate animals but that many had been overtaken by vegetation.

He said the absence of sustained maintenance had undermined the facility’s usefulness, stressing the need for a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.

The official disclosed that the site had been allocated to Yobe State University, Faculty of Agriculture, which proposed using part of the area for agricultural activities and developing another section into a recreation centre.

He said the university farm currently supports practical training in collaboration with the Faculty of Agriculture and the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), particularly in agriculture, poultry farming and livestock production.

According to him, the proposed recreation centre could accommodate social events, including weddings, and provide opportunities for businesses such as food and refreshment outlets.

He added that the initiative could generate revenue, create business opportunities and provide funds for the maintenance of the facility.

However, the official said the university’s management had no detailed information about the zoo’s current operations and had not received the relevant contact details concerning its management.

He emphasised the need for proper planning, clearly defined management responsibilities and regular maintenance to prevent further deterioration and ensure the sustainable use of the site.

Meanwhile, some residents of Damaturu expressed limited awareness of the zoo and its activities.

Malam Usman Mohammed Nasoro said he had not visited the facility since it was established during the administration of the late Bukar Abba Ibrahim.

“I have never visited the place since its creation during the administration of the late Bukar Abba Ibrahim, and I have never heard people talking about it. I know there used to be animals in the zoo, but I do not know what is happening there now,” he said.

Similarly, Hajiya A’isha Sa’id, who said she had lived in Yobe for 11 years, expressed surprise at learning about the zoo.

“I have been to many places in Yobe, especially Damaturu, but I have never heard of the zoo,” she said.

The residents’ accounts highlight concerns about the facility’s visibility and public engagement, reinforcing calls for the authorities to clarify its current status and consider measures to restore its recreational and revenue-generating potential.