What We Do
West African Conservation Network works to secure, restore, and sustainably manage priority wildlife landscapes in Nigeria and West Africa through a practical, long-term conservation model grounded in security, ecological recovery, and community partnership.
Our work focuses on rebuilding functional ecosystems, not just protecting isolated species.
1. Protected Area Security & Ranger Support
Effective conservation begins with safety.
WACN supports protected area authorities to strengthen on-the-ground security through ranger support, patrol operations, equipment provision, training, and operational coordination. By improving safety for rangers and surrounding communities, we create the conditions necessary for wildlife recovery and responsible land stewardship.
Security is treated not as a side issue, but as the foundation of conservation success.
2. Wildlife & Habitat Restoration
We work to restore degraded savanna, woodland, and wetland ecosystems so they can once again support healthy wildlife populations.
This includes:
- Reducing illegal hunting and encroachment
- Supporting natural vegetation recovery
- Rebuilding prey bases and ecological processes
- Monitoring wildlife presence and habitat condition over time
Our approach prioritises ecosystem function, not short-term visibility.
3. Species Recovery & Reintroductions
WACN supports the recovery of species that are:
- Critically endangered
- Locally extinct
- Ecologically decisive for ecosystem stability
Where conditions allow, we pursue science-led reintroductions of historically native species, including both herbivores and carnivores. Reintroductions are phased, cautious, and dependent on security, habitat readiness, and long-term management capacity.
Predators are recognised as essential components of healthy ecosystems and are included in our long-term restoration vision.
4. Community & Livelihood Engagement
Lasting conservation depends on people.
WACN works with communities neighbouring protected areas to:
- Build trust and dialogue
- Support alternative livelihoods
- Improve access to basic services where possible
- Reduce conflict between people and wildlife
Community engagement is treated as a core conservation tool, not an afterthought.
5. Ecotourism & Long-Term Sustainability
Once safety and ecological recovery are established, WACN supports the gradual development of conservation-led ecotourism.
This includes:
- Rehabilitation of existing infrastructure
- Improving visitor safety and experience
- Creating conservation-linked jobs
- Reinvesting tourism revenue back into protected areas
Ecotourism is approached carefully and responsibly, ensuring it supports — rather than undermines — conservation goals.
Our Long-Term Vision
WACN’s work is guided by a long-term commitment to transforming under-resourced protected areas into secure, biodiverse, and economically viable landscapes that benefit wildlife, communities, and future generations.