About CHAPPAL WADDI (GANGIRWAL)
The Fascinating Story of Nigeria's Highest Mountain.
At the Eastern corner of Gashaka Gumti National Park in Taraba State, Nigeria lies a majestic spectacle, straddling the Cameroonian border with Nigeria. Chappal Waddi (also called Gangirwal) translates to 'Mountain of Death' in Fulfulde, because of an insurmountable gully that exists in the Southern corner of the Nigerian side of the range.
Despite the name, Chappal Waddi is a gorgeous mountain and has been explored by climbers, researchers and conservation specialists. It is also a crucial part of the communities surrounding the mountain, majority of whom are herders who depend on the landscape to feed their livestock.
Chappal Waddi is 2,419 m above sea level and the highest in Nigeria and West Africa. It is a relatively easy mountain to climb, compared to neighboring Mount Cameroon. The summit of Chappal Waddi is located in Nigeria and was marked by a wooden signpost in 2020 by a group of climbers who visited the mountain with TVP Adventures.
The Many Custodians of Chappal Waddi
There are many groups that come together to protect the legacy of the National Park and Chappal Waddi mountain. Every group plays an important role and it is important to acknowledge the synergy that brings every climbing experience to life!
The groups:
- Gashaka Gumti National Park and the Nigeria Park Services
- Africa Nature Investors (ANI)
- Amansale Community
- Serti Community
- Nguroje Community
- Tour Operators (TVP Adventures and Nature Connects)