The Biodiversity Preservation Centre (BPC) was established in 1996 in Calabar, Cross River State. At the time, it majored in biological research.
Prof Edem (then Mr), lived more in mountains with animals than with humans whilst he gave reports to the world.
His phenomenal works took a pivotal leap in 2002 when Prof Edem was recognized and given the Africa’s first conservation award.
This award was presented by President Nelson Mandela of South Africa who was represented by Thembi Mongoai.
In 2010, the wildlife sanctuary was established in Afaha-Idoro, Akwa Ibom State. This was a beautiful idea for a State which did not, and which still doesn’t have a wildlife conservation Centre.
The Sanctuary is a home for 26 species of birds, free-ranging animals, Snakes, Toads, Squirrels, Frogs, Snails, Crocodiles, Dwarf crocodiles, Senegal parrots, Monkeys, Rabbits, Turtles, and Bush babies which are the natives of the host community.
The BPC is aimed at promoting a safe and healthy world through sustainable biodiversity conservation.
These animals are gotten from voluntary donations, animal rescue and confiscation from pets’ traders. (Rustlers, poachers)
Growing up, Professor Edem was a hunter skilled in the killing of animals and he was very passionate about hunting; however, his passion for hunting made a dynamic and drastic switch from killing to preservation when he made a visit to the Jos Zoo in Plateau State, Nigeria.
Young Edem was so motivated by the life-changing experience that he decided to study wildlife which made him the pioneer student of the Department of Wildlife in the Prestigious University of Uyo, where he presently lectures as a Professor of Wildlife.
The BPC wildlife sanctuary/mini-Zoo is accessible to all for a token and is equipped with environmental and wildlife books to aid research purposes, including accommodation for researchers and animals.
The BPC has over the years had to release its animals into the wild for several reasons including:
The inadequacy of land and space – The land and space for suitable accommodation of the animals, some of which are of rare species is grossly small. Larger acreage will be well appreciated for the safety and preservation of the animals in the Centre.
Politics – Unfortunately, the BPC has been at the receiving end of political bickering. So far, there has been no support from the Akwa-Ibom State Government; the maintenance and funding of the BPC has been borne by well-meaning individuals and supporters.
Lack of Veterinary Doctors within the State who can treat wild animals – the BPC was established for the preservation of wildlife; consequently, the unavailability of designated competent Veterinary Doctors to attend to the health requirements of the animals vitiates the very purpose for which the BPC is in existence.
Feeding – One of the major challenges (if not the apex) of rearing animals in enclosure is that the Centre is responsible for feeding the wild animals. This is a daunting responsibility as it is very expensive to undertake and unfortunately, cannot be negotiated. Without external support, the BPC is faced with the difficult decision to continue to strive to ensure the welfare of its animals or release them into the wild.
Shortage of Personnel – Getting passionate staff to work with and care for the animals is another difficult challenge, not minding if they studied wildlife and the environment. It is of utmost importance to have competent and concerned staff who care enough about the well-being of these animals.
PS: Despite these challenges, the Biodiversity Preservation Centre is not relenting on creating conservation awareness. It continues to draw from all available resources to ensure the sustenance and realization of its wildlife conservation goals.
Story Source – FONDCUP Team Edo state
Photo Credit – Grinde Spotlight Photography
