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THE Bauchi State government is to spend over N384 million for translocation of more than 300 species of wild animals from Namibia to Sumu forest in the state. The exercise is part of programme aimed at boosting the state's tourism potential.
BAUCHI - THE Bauchi State government is to spend over N384 million for translocation of more than 300 species of wild animals from Namibia to Sumu forest in the state. The exercise is part of programme aimed at boosting the state's tourism potential.
The state Commissioner for Information, Alhaji Ibrahim Zailani, told reporters in Bauchi that most of the animals were donated to the state by the former president of Namibian, Mr Sam Nujoma, during his visit to Bauchi in 2003.
He said that the translocation of the animals, scheduled to commence in September, would involve chartering a 747 aircraft, provision of roads and fences in the forest as well as recruitment of veterinary staff and rangers to protect the animals.
Zailani said that the Sumu forest, situated in Ganjuwa local government area of the state, was identified by experts who certified its terrain, vegetation and climate as suitable for the animals.
He said the animals are mostly herbivores like the giraffe, impalas and zebras.
Zailani noted that the Sumu forest would be transformed into a public view park alongside the existing Yankari National Park.
According to him, there was no plan to transfer the animals to Yankari national Park even if the state government succeeded in its bid to take it over from the federal government.
Zailani said another decision taken by the state executive council included a N88 million contract for the installation of 300 units of solar-powered traffic light in Bauchi town.
He said that the council also awarded a N74 million contract for general renovation of the official residence of the state governor.
Zailani said the council approved the purchase of a structure along Gombe road at the cost of N112 million to serve as office accommodation for the newly created Ministry of Higher Education and some departments.