Andoni Island

Andoni Island is regarded as the most biodiverse island in Nigeria. Located at eastern fringe of the oil-rich Niger Delta in Rivers State, it is a picturesque barrier island carefully crafted by nature in resemblance of the shape of a Shark. The island measures about 124 km2 is known for housing the endangered African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis), pygmy hippopotamus and many other mammals. Andoni island, perhaps the only island in Nigeria where forest elephant is found, is also a nesting ground for different species of sea turtles. Apart from Andoni island, there are many other islands in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State. Also, migratory dolphin species usually visit the Atlantic shores of the island during summer. According to a local conservationist on the Island, Gogo Abel Ujile, says that the Island is a Key Biodiversity Area suitable for the creation of Andoni Elephant Sanctuary and Marine national park to help preserve the much threatened ecosystem.