Rescue mission underway for malnourished lion in Kaduna zoo

A wildlife charity has begun a mission to rescue a malnourished lion and other ‘underfed’ animals in a zoo in Kaduna. 

The animals were discovered by a foreigner during a visit to Gamji Gate zoo.

“The first moment I saw the animal I felt shocked,” the man, who wishes to remain unnamed said. “I was so surprised. I felt so nervous and uneasy because it was my first time seeing a lion live.

“Like this is my first time in a zoo. I virtually saw them in movies, news and magazines. Actually, most of the animals in the zoo are not well-fed. They lack proper treatment or let me say malnutrition”.

Disturbed by the scene, the man recorded his findings and quickly contacted the animal welfare charity WildatLife.e.V to assist in the rescue of the lion.

wildlife.e.V is working alongside the Nigerian Association of Zoological parks which has assisted them in finding a wildlife vet and informing the authorities, who are investigating the matter urgently.

A spokesperson said: “The vet was sent and gave medical assistance to the lion but he will require further treatment which NGO WildatLife will pay for.

“We are awaiting the full vet diagnosis and report into how and why this has been allowed to happen.

“Zaki is now receiving medical care and it will be an ongoing case.

“If Zaki survives this ordeal, our NGO has offered to relocate him to a sanctuary that will see him thrive.

“But in his now critical condition, it is not viable to relocate him, we must work closely with the Nigerian officials to have this matter dealt with internally”.