World Report

Leopards are among more than 50 species of wild animals in the national park.

ne of Nigeria’s premier visitor attractions, Yankari National Park places Bauchi State at the centre of the country’s ambitions to build a national tourism industry.

Situated to the south of Bauchi town, the park covers an area of more than 800 square miles and is host to more than 50 species of wild animals, including elephants, baboons, lions, buffalo, waterbucks and antelopes. Endangered species such as leopard, cheetah, rhino, giraffe and ostrich are to be found there, as well as a variety of species of birds and fish.

Lush vegetation at Wikki Warm Springs

Another of the park’s attractions is Wiki Warm Springs, which provides cool, clear natural swimming facilities and is visited by baboons and elephants, who often come down to the water.

Bauchi State has pursued a vigorous campaign to take over the running of the park from the federal government in order to rehabilitate and transform it and earlier this year President Obasanjo directed the Federal Ministry of Environment to formally hand it over – a move awaiting the passing of a bill in the National Senate at the time of writing.

The state authorities have drawn up a masterplan to develop the park that includes a 5-star hotel and other facilities, and improving the general ecological condition of the park and the welfare of the animals.

Much of this development will involve the private sector, both domestic and foreign investors. The cost of upgrading the park is put at more than N12 billion (£50 million).