A surge in zoo-goers traffic is expected at Unilorin following the donation of a 25-year-old crocodile, worth millions of naira to the University of Ilorin Zoological Garden, by a philanthropist, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku.
According to the University Bulletin issued yesterday (Monday, November 18), the noble gesture highlights the philanthropic nature of the traditional leader.
Speaking on the donation, Atiku said the rearing of crocodiles holds significant cultural and symbolic value, serving as a royal heritage and a centre of attraction.
Atiku, who’s the Balogun Fulani of Ilorin, explained that the donation underscores the strong bond between the university and its host community.
The traditional leader added that his family compound has long been associated with crocodile rearing, noting that the donation was a testament to their commitment to preserving tradition, noting that the donated crocodile, which is approximately 25 years, would be a remarkable addition to the growing animal collection of the Unilorin zoo.
Receiving the crocodile, Dr Oyeyemi Jekayinfa, Chairperson, Unilorin Zoological Garden Board Management, said the gesture was a welcome development.
She acknowledged the existing relationship between the university and its host community, which has yielded positive results, expressing the university’s gratitude to Atiku for the donation, while inviting members of the public to visit the zoo for tourism and educational purposes.
Similarly, Mr Olatunji Yusuf, General Manager, Unilorin Zoo, commended Atiku’s unique contribution to the university, noting that the donation marks a significant milestone in the zoo’s history.
Yusuf highlighted the zoo’s exceptional features, which include its natural environment, suspended bridge, and experienced staff.
“The Ilorin community can take pride in its rich cultural heritage, and the University’s zoological garden will remain a cherished destination for education and recreation,” the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quoted the zoo manager as surmising.
