U.S. Ambassador Tours Nigeria’s Rich Tropical Rain Forests, Pledges Continued Support for Environmental Conservation Efforts

The United States Ambassador to Nigeria W. Stuart Symington toured the rich tropical rain forests of the Obudu Mountains and the Drill Ranch on the Afi Mountains of Cross River State April 22 – 23.  He sought to learn more about Nigeria’s unique natural resources.

On Monday, following the completion of the tour, Ambassador Symington spoke to an audience of senior government officials and environmental leaders from non-government organizations, including Pandrillus, Ekuri Initiative, Wildlife Conservation Society, Nigerian Conservation Foundation, and the Obudu Conservation Center, at an event held in Calabar, to commemorate the 2017 Earth Day.

Ambassador Symington said, “Today is a day to honor all those Nigerians, and every group, working to secure the natural wonders of Nigeria’s heritage. Since I arrived in Nigeria I have come to appreciate deeply Nigeria’s abundant and unique flora, fauna, and landscape.  The challenge of managing the natural beauty and diversity of Nigeria is not the test of one generation of Nigerians, but the test of all generations‎. We are working with Nigerians to support their efforts. ”

Ambassador Symington’s trip to Cross River State is aimed at further enhancing U.S.-Nigeria partnership in working to promote conservation efforts, tourism, and economic development, while also raising awareness about environmental issues facing the global community.