Conservationists Sound Alarm as Nigeria's Sea Turtles Face Threat from Pollution and Poaching
Naija247news - Lagos, Sept. 15, 2025 - Nigeria's endangered sea turtles are under increasing threat from plastic pollution, discarded fishing nets, coastal development, and poaching, conservationists warn, as efforts to protect the creatures struggle with limited resources and growing human pressures.
Founder of the Greenfingers Wildlife Conservation Initiative, Chinedu Mogbo, said the population of sea turtles in Nigeria has drastically declined over the last five years. His organisation has rescued and rehabilitated more than 70 turtles, releasing them back into the Atlantic after treatment at its Lagos sanctuary.
"At least five endangered or threatened species inhabit Nigerian waters, including Olive Ridley, Hawksbill, and Leatherback turtles, but exact numbers remain unknown due to inadequate monitoring," Mogbo said.
Mostly self-funded, Mogbo's initiative works closely with local fishermen to protect turtles. The organisation provides net repair kits in exchange for rescued turtles or protected nests, creating a model that balances conservation with local livelihoods.
"Fishers need income. By offering alternatives, we incentivise them to protect turtles instead of selling them or their eggs," Mogbo explained.
Nigeria's coastline, with no marine protected areas and shrinking nesting grounds, has become increasingly dangerous for sea turtles. An added challenge comes from the demand for turtle meat, shells, and eggs, which are consumed locally or used in traditional rituals.
"Sometimes the eggs are eaten, sometimes given to village elders for voodoo purposes," said Morifat Hassan, a fish seller in Folu, Lagos. Each turtle can fetch up to ₦90,000 ($60), making them a lucrative target for poachers.
In July, rescuers intervened to save a green turtle named Moruf in the Folu area, tangled in a fishing net. Negotiating with locals, Mogbo's team prevented the injured animal from being sold or butchered, ensuring it was safely returned to the sea.
Mogbo urged state authorities to take stronger measures to protect sea turtles, stressing that shrinking habitats and unregulated fishing practices are accelerating the decline of the species along Nigeria's southern coast.
"The coastline has become a trap for turtles. Without government intervention, we risk losing these species entirely," he said.
With climate change, plastic pollution, and human exploitation converging, conservationists call for marine protected areas, stricter enforcement of wildlife laws, and community education programs to ensure Nigeria's sea turtles survive for future generations.
"Protecting turtles is not just about wildlife; it's about preserving ecosystems, fisheries, and Nigeria's natural heritage," Mogbo said.
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Quick Facts: Nigeria's Sea Turtles
* Species: Olive Ridley, Hawksbill, Leatherback, and at least two others.
* Threats: Plastic pollution, fishing nets, poaching, coastal development.
* Community solutions: Net repair incentives, turtle sanctuary rehabilitation programs.
* Market value: Up to ₦90,000 per turtle, creating poaching pressure.
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This story highlights both environmental and socio-economic challenges, framing the narrative for Naija247news readers interested in conservation, wildlife protection, and local community impact.