Joseph Ntui, Conservator of Gumpti National Park, has addressed the controversy surrounding the park’s newly acquired helicopter, clarifying its purpose and dispelling rumors.
The helicopter, donated by the Africa Nature Investors Foundation, aims to enhance security and protect the park from threats such as banditry, poaching, illegal mining, and grazing. Ntui emphasized its significance, stating it has improved surveillance and enabled rangers to quickly cover the park’s vast 6,731-square-kilometer area.
“The helicopter is used for surveillance, patrol, and deploying rangers. It is not used for lifting gold or diamonds,” Ntui clarified, addressing rumors of its involvement in illegal mining.
Alhaji Zubairu Hammangabdo, first-class traditional ruler of Gashaka Council, supported Ntui’s statements, praising the foundation’s contributions to the park. “This deployment has significantly improved security within the park and surrounding communities,” he said.
The helicopter’s primary functions include:
– Surveillance: Monitoring the park’s vast area to detect potential threats.
– Transportation: Quickly deploying rangers to remote duty posts.
– Patrol: Ensuring the park’s security and protecting its resources.
Ntui urged the public to support the foundation’s efforts and called for collective action to elevate the park, Nigeria’s largest and most diverse conservation area.
