Why It Matters

Bats are vital to our ecosystems, serving as pollinators, seed dispersers, and natural pest controllers. However, human interactions with bats, including hunting and consumption, can pose risks of zoonotic disease transmission. Our mission is to bridge the gap between conservation and public health, ensuring that communities and ecosystems thrive together.

Our Objectives

1. Raise Awareness: Educate communities about the ecological importance of bats and their role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

2. Promote Safe Practices: Inform the public about the potential health risks associated with bat handling and consumption, while advocating for safer alternatives.

3. Empower Local Communities: Provide resources, materials, and engagement opportunities to foster appreciation and sustainable coexistence with bats.

4. Drive Change Nationally: Lay the groundwork for a nationwide effort to replicate successful strategies across Nigeria.

Our Approach

1. Community Outreach

We are piloting a targeted outreach program in Makurdi, focusing on schools, community centres, and markets. Through engaging workshops, storytelling, and hands-on activities, we aim to inspire appreciation for bats while promoting safe practices.

2. Educational Resources

Our initiative provides accessible, locally tailored educational materials, from posters and leaflets to interactive tools, ensuring that every audience can connect with our message.

3. Dedicated Website

This platform serves as a hub for information, updates, and resources. Stay informed, download educational content, and learn about upcoming events and activities.

4. National Conference

We are organising a groundbreaking conference in Abuja, bringing together experts, policymakers, and community leaders to share findings, exchange ideas, and plan for the future.

Funding and Support

This project is proudly funded through the University of Essex’s Impact Accelerator Fund programme. The programme is a strategic initiative designed to increase and accelerate the beneficial social, economic, policy, and environmental impacts of the University’s research worldwide. With this support, we aim to deliver tangible, positive change through evidence-based interventions and collaboration.

How You Can Get Involved

• Join Our Events: Participate in workshops, school programs, or community gatherings.

• Spread the Word: Share our initiative on social media and encourage others to learn about bat conservation.

• Collaborate with Us: Partner with us to amplify our impact and expand our reach.

• Support Our Mission: Whether through volunteering, funding, or sharing resources, your contribution makes a difference.

Our Partners

This initiative is made possible by the collaboration of leading experts and organisations, including:

• SMACON (Small Mammal Conservation Organisation)

• University of Essex

• UK Bat Conservation Trust

• War Against Rabies Foundation

• And many more dedicated professionals and volunteers.

Join Us Today

Together, we can protect human health, conserve our environment, and create a brighter future. Explore our resources, attend our events, and become part of the Safe Humans, Safe Bats Nigeria movement.

Let’s make a difference—one community, one conversation, one bat at a time.

For more information, contact us at:
📧 e.giotis@essex.ac.uk
🌐 [Website TBA]
📱 Follow us on X @stathisgiotis

Safe Humans. Safe Bats. A Safer Future.