The Bauchi State Government says it has stepped up security and upgraded major tourist sites across the state as part of efforts to boost tourism and protect wildlife.
Officials revealed that popular destinations including Yankari Game Reserve, Wikki Warm Springs, Sumu Wildlife Park, Lame Bura Forest and Maladumba Lake have received major security and infrastructure improvements.
Speaking during a press briefing in Bauchi, the Managing Director of the Bauchi State Tourism Development Corporation, Dr Muhammad Nasiru, said the government is determined to transform the state into one of Nigeria’s safest and most attractive tourism destinations.
According to him, the reserves had previously faced serious threats from poachers, illegal loggers, cattle grazers and criminal groups linked to regional insecurity.
However, he said the situation has changed significantly following stronger security collaborations and targeted investments.
Nasiru disclosed that forest rangers now work closely with the Nigerian Army, Police and local vigilante groups to patrol protected areas and flush out criminal elements hiding inside the forests.
The state also introduced modern surveillance systems, including advanced cameras, satellite tracking devices for elephants and aerial monitoring patrols supported by the Wildlife Conservation Society.
He explained that aircraft now monitor large sections of the reserve to detect illegal camps, cattle encroachment and logging activities before alerting ground security teams.
The government also upgraded facilities inside Yankari Game Reserve to improve the visitor experience.
According to Nasiru, the famous Wikki Warm Springs now has renovated changing rooms, improved restrooms and upgraded relaxation areas.
Executive lodges, chalets and restaurants within the reserve have also been renovated to meet better hospitality standards.
Solar-powered lighting systems were equally installed across the resort to reduce noise pollution and protect wildlife habitats.
The tourism corporation said the reforms are already producing results.
Monthly tourist visits to Yankari reportedly increased from around 500 visitors in previous years to more than 2,000 visitors.
Nasiru added that thousands of local business owners, tour guides, artisans and vendors are now benefiting economically from the growing tourism activities.
The state government also announced plans to introduce mandatory digital registration for hotels, transport operators and tourism businesses to improve security monitoring and revenue collection.
Officials say the system will help authorities verify operators in real time and strengthen collaboration with security agencies.
Nasiru warned criminals and environmental offenders to stay away from Bauchi’s protected areas, insisting that the state is no longer a safe haven for illegal activities.
He also disclosed that the government is preparing a long-term 10-year plan aimed at sustaining conservation, tourism development and security improvements across the state.
Source: Umar Sani
