Conservation Efforts for Sea Turtles in Lagos
On a segment of the Lagos coastline, efforts to rescue and rehabilitate endangered sea turtles are being conducted by the Greenfingers Wildlife Conservation Initiative, led by Nigerian conservationist Chinedu Mogbo. The organization has successfully rescued over 70 turtles in the past five years, releasing them back into the ocean after rehabilitation.
Challenges Faced by Sea Turtles
Sea turtles, which serve as a key indicator species for ocean health, face significant threats from plastic pollution, discarded fishing nets, poaching, and coastal development. These factors contribute to the endangerment of at least five species of turtles in Nigerian waters.
Community Engagement and Education
The organization emphasizes the importance of educating local communities about the role of sea turtles in maintaining ecological balance. By teaching fishers the benefits of conserving sea turtles, they aim to prevent the overabundance of jellyfish, which can adversely affect local fishing activities. To support these efforts, the organization provides net repair kits in exchange for rescued turtles or protected nests.
Impact of Pollution
Lagos’ coastline is significantly impacted by pollution, exacerbated by inadequate waste management and rapid urbanization. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, more than 11 million tonnes of plastic waste are introduced into the world’s oceans annually. This contributes to the rapid degradation of West Africa’s coastal biodiversity, which is among the fastest worldwide.
