On November 24, 2024, at the prestigious Civic Center in Victoria Island, Lagos, Festus Iyorah will be celebrated as the Conservation Communicator of the Year at the Social Impact and Sustainability Award (SISA) ceremony. This accolade recognizes his extraordinary contributions to wildlife and environmental conservation in Nigeria through innovative communication and behavioral change campaigns.
As the Nigeria Country Manager for Wild Africa, the continent’s leading conservation communicator, Festus has spearheaded transformative initiatives that have amplified the voices of conservation across the nation. Through a strategic partnership with media outlets, influential celebrities, and grassroots stakeholders, Festus has inspired a national conversation about the urgent need to protect Nigeria’s wildlife and wild spaces.
A Crisis in Nigeria’s Wildlife
Nigeria’s wildlife is in peril, with populations of lions, elephants, gorillas, and chimpanzees dwindling at alarming rates. Conservationists estimate fewer than 400 elephants, fewer than 100 Cross River gorillas, and about 50 lions remain in the country. Meanwhile, Nigeria has emerged as a hub for illegal wildlife trafficking, with pangolin scales and elephant ivory smuggled to Asian countries such as Vietnam and China. Compounding the problem is a growing appetite for bushmeat, which threatens biodiversity and increases the risk of zoonotic diseases like COVID-19, Ebola, and MonkeyPox.
Recognizing these dire challenges, Festus leveraged his expertise in media and communications to address these issues head-on, building awareness campaigns that resonate with Nigerians from all walks of life.
A Trailblazer in Conservation Media
With a decade-long career in journalism and media consultancy, Festus brought invaluable skills to Wild Africa. Under his leadership, the organization launched innovative initiatives to capture public attention and shift attitudes toward wildlife conservation.
A key aspect of his strategy was fostering partnerships with over 30 leading media outlets in Nigeria, including Arise TV, Channels TV, TVC, AIT, Silverbird TV, and Arewa24. Recognizing the immense reach of television, radio, and print media in shaping public opinion, Festus ensured conservation stories were highlighted through programs, news features, and short-form content.
He also facilitated the involvement of Nigerian celebrities such as Davido, 2Baba, Mayorkun, Laycon, and Emmanuela, who lent their voices to public service announcements. These 30-second PSAs urged Nigerians to protect their wildlife heritage, airing on major TV networks and radio stations.
Festus also played a pivotal role in the production of Unsung Hero Documentaries, a series celebrating local conservationists. This initiative, airing on ShowMax, not only shone a spotlight on grassroots efforts but also inspired a sense of pride and responsibility among Nigerians.
The Success of Dr. Mark’s Animal Show
One of Festus’ crowning achievements was co-directing Dr. Mark’s Animal Show, Nigeria’s first-ever children’s program dedicated to wildlife conservation. Translated into Hausa and broadcast across five African countries, the show reached millions of children and instilled conservation values in the next generation. Its success was underscored by an endline survey, which revealed that 97% of teenagers aged 10–17 were aware of Wild Africa’s campaigns, primarily due to the show’s widespread appeal.
Measuring Impact
In 2024, Festus led a comprehensive impact assessment through Market Surveys International Limited, which surveyed 1,000 Nigerians. The results were compelling:
- 88% of respondents had seen Wild Africa’s campaigns.
- 86% reported reconsidering their stance on killing or consuming wildlife.
- 39% confirmed they had stopped consuming bushmeat entirely due to the campaigns.
These figures reflect a significant shift in public attitudes, achieved through Festus’ commitment to engaging diverse audiences with relatable and impactful messaging.
A Visionary Leader
Festus’ dedication goes beyond media engagement. By collaborating with policymakers, promoting wildlife tourism, and advocating for conservation laws, he has worked to create a sustainable future for Nigeria’s wildlife. His efforts have not only raised awareness but also inspired action among individuals, communities, and institutions.
Celebrating a Conservation Hero
As Festus steps onto the stage at the SISA awards, he will join other eminent organizations and individuals celebrated for their contributions to sustainability and social impact. His recognition as Conservation Communicator of the Year is a testament to his passion, ingenuity, and tireless work in the face of daunting challenges.
Through his leadership, Wild Africa’s vision of protecting Africa’s wildlife and wild spaces “forever” has gained new momentum in Nigeria, proving that change is possible when communication and conservation go hand in hand.
This award not only honors Festus Iyorah’s achievements but also serves as a call to action for all Nigerians to cherish and protect the natural heritage that defines their nation.
