The Member representing Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency, Hon. Terseer Ugbor, has proposed the establishment of a national park in the mountainous forest regions of Kwande, Benue State. The move aims to address environmental degradation and improve security in the area.
Hon. Ugbor made this known while presenting the Bill for the repeal and reenactment of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act, the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) Act, and the National Park Service Act.
As the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Ugbor explained that the proposed Kwande National Park would encompass the hilly expanse of Turan/Ikyurav-Ya, extending into the highland areas of Shangev-Ya. He noted that the project would help revive the region’s depleted forests while promoting sustainable forest agriculture and conservation efforts in partnership with local communities.
Beyond environmental benefits, the lawmaker emphasized the security advantages of the national park. He stated that rangers from the National Park Service would be stationed in the park to provide an additional layer of security for the forests and border communities, which have been plagued by persistent attacks from armed herdsmen.
Hon. Ugbor further highlighted the economic potential of the initiative, particularly the revitalization of the long-abandoned Ikyogen Cattle Ranch. According to him, the establishment of the park would attract tourism, create job opportunities, and stimulate economic activities within the constituency.
The proposal has been met with optimism from environmentalists and local stakeholders, who see it as a significant step toward preserving Benue’s natural heritage while tackling the security and economic challenges facing the region.
