The Conservator General, National Park Service, Dr Ibrahim Goni has said the service will continue to improve on its surveillance to protect the parks and it’s visitors especially during this yuletide.

Goni who gave the assurance in his Christmas message encouraged members of the public to visit any of the parks to celebrate their Christmas and new year.

He said the park will continue to take steps to keep the national parks safe and free of criminals.

“This year alone, the service has made 646 arrests across the country”.

Goni, however, expressed sadness that in-spite of the plethora of resources, unique features and the enormous potential that abound in the park, activities of criminals are hindering the harnessing of such potentials for national development.

“The Park possesses great potential to enhance the country’s GDP through tourism, but it is sad that the park like many other aspects of our national life are faced with the annoying challenges of these criminals”.

He called on all Nigerians to be vigilant, even as they celebrate, and also help the security agencies in their efforts to keep our country safe.

“The service cannot tackle this menace alone, hence, the need to collaborate with well meaning Nigerians in protecting our parks.

“As we celebrate this Christmas, if you see something suspicious please say something, talk to the nearest security agent near you.

“We must stem the tide of insecurity in our National Parks and guarantee the protection and preservation of our natural heritage,” he said.