Rachel Ikemeh is a highly respected Nigerian conservationist and field ecologist, celebrated for her pioneering work in primate conservation and tropical forest protection in West Africa. She is the Director of the South-West/Niger Delta Forest Project, where she has led groundbreaking efforts to preserve biodiversity in some of Nigeria’s most threatened ecosystems, including the last remaining habitats of critically endangered species.

With over 15 years of hands-on experience in wildlife conservation, Rachel is internationally recognized for her work on the Niger Delta red colobus monkey (Piliocolobus epieni), a species endemic to Nigeria and listed among the world’s 25 most endangered primates. Her efforts have contributed significantly to the scientific understanding, population monitoring, and habitat protection strategies for this and other threatened species in the region.

Rachel’s work is deeply rooted in community-based conservation. She has established long-standing partnerships with local forest-edge communities, integrating traditional knowledge and local stewardship into conservation strategies. Her programs prioritize not only species survival but also community resilience—addressing issues such as alternative livelihoods, environmental education, and sustainable land use.

Under her leadership, the South-West/Niger Delta Forest Project has expanded to include ecological research, habitat restoration, law enforcement collaboration, and protected area advocacy. Rachel’s efforts led to the formal recognition of critical conservation areas such as the Niger Delta biodiversity hotspot, and she has played a central role in lobbying for the creation and strengthening of protected reserves in Nigeria.

Her conservation leadership and commitment to field-based science have earned her numerous accolades. In 2020, she received the Whitley Award—one of the most prestigious international honors for grassroots conservation leaders. She has also been featured in global publications and environmental platforms that spotlight the work of women in conservation.

Rachel is an alumna of the Tropical Biology Association and has participated in several international training and research collaborations. As an advocate for inclusive conservation, she is passionate about mentoring young scientists, especially African women, to pursue careers in ecology, wildlife protection, and environmental science.

Through her tireless efforts, Rachel Ikemeh continues to raise awareness about the importance of preserving Nigeria’s unique forest ecosystems and the species that depend on them. Her work exemplifies how local leadership, scientific rigor, and community collaboration can produce powerful outcomes for both people and nature.