JIGAWA State might not be as popular as some of its counterparts. Notwithstanding, it is endowed with one of nature’s blessings that attract tourists all the way from Europe.
One of these is the Baturiya Birds’ Sanctuary, which harbours different bird species. But while it continues to draw tourists to the state, more could be done to tap into its full potentials.
It is on record in the sanctuary’s visitors’ book that the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, once traced his birds to Baturiya, some years ago.
Fun-seeking owners in Europe tag some of the birds, like the one shown in the picture. And when eventually they come to the sanctuary, they are able to easily identify them.
This link between Africa and Europe holds significance for research, tourism, climate change, human health and biological conservation.
The birds migrate from Europe at the onset of winter and come to Baturiya at about October. And when the weather begins to get too hot for comfort, they fly back, around January.
The chief game ranger of Baturiya, who conducted our reporter round, said the centre once had animals, like monkeys, jackals and hyenas, but they are now extinct. He also said that many medicinal plant species abound.
Mallam Hassan, who was proud to show to The Guardian the visitors’ book that has dignitaries, like Prince Philip and one time British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Philip Thomas, among others, said the centre plays host to tourists, researchers, conservationists and students from Europe, America and other places.
He, however, said poaching constitutes a major threat to the animals.
Conservationist and Principal Wildlife Superintendent, Mallam Ibrahim Muhammed, said Baturiya stands unique with its Savannah vegetation.
Muhammed also listed a number of bird species that are resident and others that are migratory. He described the inhabitants of the area as predominantly fishermen, farmers and herdsmen.
In a bid to take advantage of this endowment, the Jigawa State government has commenced the construction of a major road, known as the Eastern Bypass, which will make the tourist centre accessible.
Located in KiriKasmma Local Government Area, Baturiya covers an area of 320 sq km, with a buffer zone of a half kilometre, which provides natural habitat for 378 species of migratory birds from regions as far as Europe and Australia.
Director General, Nasir Haruna Roni, said: “
“A lot of foreigners come. So, the government has embarked on what we call ‘sustainable tourism
development’. This means that the state government is all out to ensure balanced
development of the area.”
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