Ecotourism in Nigeria

Ecotourism represents a gradually growing sub-sector within the tourism industry of Nigeria.[1] Ecotourism is widely regarded as an optimal approach for achieving economic prosperity while concurrently promoting ecological sustainability.[2] Various agents of change, encompassing economic development, alterations in land use and climate patterns, as well as population growth, continue to pose significant threats to global biodiversity. Consequently, these factors have contributed to a profoundly concerning and precipitous decline in biodiversity on a global scale..[2] The escalating concerns regarding this decline in recent years have played a pivotal role in fostering increased awareness of the paramount importance of biodiversity in upholding ecosystem stability and the fundamental functions it provides.[2]

ecotourism
People on Ecotourism in Nigeria

The development of sustainable tourism necessitates the active engagement of all relevant stakeholders and the presence of a reliable political framework capable of promoting comprehensive participation and fostering a more substantial consensus. Sustainable tourism development is a strategy that ensures present satisfaction does not jeopardize future needs, thereby benefiting both tourists and host communities. This approach is characterized by the preservation of cultural and environmental resources while simultaneously creating opportunities for future generations. Ecotourism, as a distinct subset of the global tourism industry, has witnessed significant growth, with a particular emphasis on expanding markets in developing nations.[3] Ecotourism is widely recognized as the fastest-growing sector within the broader tourism industry.[3]

Ecotourism is acknowledged as a significant instrument for both conservation and local development, providing alternatives to traditional conservation approaches characterized by isolation and strict protection measures.[4] In the preceding decade, the volume of international tourists arriving in Nigeria displayed fluctuations, encompassing figures that ranged from 6.11 million in 2010 to 6.01 million in 2015. Notably, during this period, there was a marginal increase of 0.99% observed between 2009 and 2010, followed by a substantial upsurge of 25.28% from 2014 to 2015.[1] Nigeria boasts a wealth of ecotourism opportunities; however, regrettably, these have not been fully harnessed to create employment opportunities and generate foreign currency.

Amid the pressing need for Nigeria to diversify its revenue sources, especially in light of the recent decline in oil income, ecotourism emerges as a tourism sector with substantial potential for generating significant foreign exchange through inbound visits, provided it is strategically and sustainably developed.[1] In Nigeria, the potential for ecotourism can be bolstered through the utilization of protected areas. These include national parks, which are funded and managed by the federal government, as well as game reserves, which receive funding and management from state governments.[5] Furthermore, ecotourism is commonly understood as a form of tourism that involves traveling to relatively pristine natural environments with the intention of appreciating, researching, and enjoying the landscape, its wildlife, flora, and any associated cultural elements.[5]

Principles

The fundamental principles of ecotourism are centered on essential considerations, including the implementation of effective waste management practices, the reduction of energy consumption, minimizing disruptions to the site, mitigating adverse effects on wildlife, addressing social and environmental impacts on both visitors and local communities, and enhancing the interpretation to enrich visitors' interactions and understanding of the natural environment.[6] Two pivotal factors within ecotourism encompass the delivery of meaningful interpretive experiences that deepen visitors' understanding of a destination's political, environmental, and social contexts, and the recognition of the rights and beliefs of indigenous peoples, along with collaborative efforts to empower them in the ecotourism process.[1] The acquisition of knowledge about cultural distinctions serves as a foundational element in fostering mutual understanding and respect among diverse cultures.[1] Local residents often anticipate that the activities of visiting tourists will bolster socio-economic initiatives and contribute to conservation endeavors within the destination during their stay. Conversely, tourists typically expect interactions that provide opportunities to engage with the values, traditions, customs, and norms of diverse cultures.[1] These interactions play a pivotal role in determining how tourism influences the local population and shapes tourists' perceptions of the destination. They encompass a range of factors and dynamics that contribute to the overall tourism experience:[7]

  • Cultural Sustainability: Cultural sustainability pertains to the preservation and perpetuation of a culture over time, and it can be realized through traditional means such as safeguarding language and customs, as well as through modern approaches like utilizing technology to document and disseminate cultural heritage. This facet contributes to making the destination both captivating and distinctive.[1] The world comprises a diverse tapestry of cultures, and the process of globalization has facilitated the coexistence of individuals in multicultural environments, thereby fostering opportunities for meaningful intercultural interactions and exchanges.[8] Nonetheless, these cultural melting pots also carry the potential risk of diminishing cultural diversity, as individuals from various backgrounds converge and potentially contribute to the emergence of a new, more homogenous culture.[8]
  • Ecological Sustainability: Ecological sustainability encompasses the harmonious functioning of Earth's interrelated systems, which collectively regulate and maintain the planet's ecological balance.[9] These systems encompass a wide array of elements, including climate, air quality, water quality and availability, land use and management, soil health, biodiversity (in terms of both species diversity and habitat preservation), as well as critical ecosystem services such as pollination and photosynthesis.[9] Ecological sustainability within the context of tourism development involves the judicious and efficient utilization of environmental resources, which are integral to the tourism industry. It accomplishes this goal by adhering to both fundamental and non-essential ecological practices, thereby contributing to the preservation of natural heritage and the safeguarding of biodiversity.[1]
  • Conservation Element: The conservation aspect of ecological sustainability aims to protect and preserve the natural assets within a region. This includes a wide range of elements such as air quality, water quality, water recharge zones, wetlands, wells, estuarine marshes, soils, coastlines, shores, floodplains, rivers, bays, lakes, harbors, forests, fisheries, wildlife, marine habitats, minerals, and various other environmental resources. Additionally, it encompasses resources linked to energy conservation.[10]An essential step in the promotion of ecotourism and economic development in a given region is the identification and analysis of local natural resources. This evaluation should encompass an understanding of existing recreational and conservation uses to assess the potential for expanding ecotourism activities and fostering economic growth within those areas.[10] Furthermore, this evaluation process entails assessing the quality of distinctive natural features such as springs, rivers, lakes, bays, and estuarine marshes. Additionally, identifying and addressing pollution issues, including the potential for hazardous waste concerns, is of paramount importance to the preservation and protection of recreational and natural resources in the area.[10] The conservation component of ecological sustainability places a primary emphasis on the preservation and safeguarding of a diverse range of plant and animal life, which includes the protection of specific species that may be found within a given attraction or ecosystem.[1]
  • Local Participation Element: Achieving sustainable tourism development necessitates active involvement and participation of local communities in the decision-making process. Local residents should take an active role in identifying and promoting tourist resources and attractions that form the basis for community tourism development. This approach ensures that sustainable outcomes are achieved through their active participation rather than passive observation.[11] Enhanced direct participation of the local community in decision-making processes, such as allocating a dedicated portion of tax revenue generated from tourism for community development and the preservation of tourism resources, can empower residents to take a more active role in shaping the outcomes of tourism in their area.[11] In theory, the degree and character of local community involvement in tourism development, particularly in terms of policy and decision-making, are contingent upon the specific participatory approach adopted within a tourist destination. The level of influence local communities can exert on decision-making and policy development will therefore depend on the extent to which a participatory approach is implemented in a particular destination. Examples from Nigeria illustrate that the decision-making and policy formulation process often adheres to a hierarchical structure, wherein government entities, private sector organizations, and non-governmental organizations typically assume dominant roles.
  • Educational Element: This hierarchical structure facilitates the cultural orientation of new tourists, helping them become acquainted with the customs and traditions of the destination they are visiting.[1]

Potentials

Nigeria indeed possesses a wealth of ecotourism potential, characterized by its diverse cultures, abundant biodiversity, and breathtaking landscapes. Virtually every community across Nigeria harbors distinctive ecotourism attractions, including unique cultural practices and cuisines, as well as captivating natural environments.[12] As an illustration, the cultural cuisine of various tribes in states such as Akwa Ibom and Cross River stands out for its significance. Tourists often commend the hospitable presentation of these dishes, adding to the appeal of these regions as ecotourism destinations.[12]

In Agulu, Anambra State, the local chief priest, referred to as the 'Ezemmuo,' employs a captivating ritual in which he entices approximately 10 crocodiles from a nearby river using a chicken as bait. This unique interaction with a specific species of crocodile serves as a remarkable attraction, drawing tourists to the community.[12] In Awka, Anambra State, the presence of freely roaming monkeys, easily observable by visitors, adds to the region's allure as a unique ecotourism destination. Meanwhile, Akwa Ibom State is renowned for its notable whale sightings and thriving colonies of crabs, further enhancing its appeal for ecotourists.[12]

The indigenous people of Itu held a belief that any interaction with the Manatee would result in the animal inducing uncontrollable laughter in the individual, ultimately leading to their demise. This cultural belief adds a unique and intriguing dimension to the local folklore and ecological heritage of the region.[12] Consequently, due to this belief, the Manatee species remained undisturbed during that period. In several regions of Bayelsa State, various species of pythons can be found, and these snakes are considered sacred, making them readily observable by tourists.[12]

Components

The successful implementation of ecotourism relies significantly on the availability of suitable lodging options, essential facilities, captivating attractions, and convenient access to and from the primary ecotourism sites. These elements serve as crucial indicators of a destination's tourism success and its ability to attract and accommodate visitors effectively.[13] Attractions within the context of ecotourism are not limited to natural features alone but can also encompass both natural and artificial elements or features. This broadens the range of experiences that can be offered to tourists in ecotourism destinations.[13]

  • Available Amenities: In numerous cases, the amenities provided, including accommodation options, can become an integral part of the overall attraction, especially when they are thoughtfully designed with aesthetic considerations in mind. These amenities can enhance the overall experience for ecotourists and contribute to the destination's appeal.[14] Amenities encompass essential facilities and services designed to enhance a visitor's comfort, convenience, and sense of security while at a destination. These amenities contribute significantly to the overall quality of the visitor experience.[15] Often described as the "pleasantness" of a place, these amenities play a pivotal role in shaping the overall visitor experience. They encompass a wide range of features and services, including but not limited to public restrooms, clear signage, connectivity (such as internet and mobile networks), access to emergency services, postal facilities, well-maintained roads and sidewalks, access to safe drinking water, and various other elements that contribute to the comfort and convenience of visitors.[15] Despite their potential to be overlooked, the easy accessibility and quality of these elements play a pivotal role in influencing visitors' decisions regarding whether to consider a return visit or recommend the destination to others.[15] These amenities contribute significantly to the overall impression visitors have of a destination and can impact their overall satisfaction with their experience.[15] While it is not the sole responsibility of Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) to provide all visitor amenities, the collaborative effort between DMOs, local service providers, city authorities, stakeholders, and support personnel to ensure that these amenities meet or exceed visitor expectations falls well within the purview of contemporary DMOs. This collaborative approach is crucial for enhancing the overall visitor experience and bolstering the destination's appeal.[15]
  • Accessibility: Access to the attraction is of paramount importance and serves as a critical factor influencing the choice of a destination for inbound tourism.[16] This accessibility is fundamental for enhancing and safeguarding the overall tourism experience, as visitors must feel both comfortable and secure while exploring and enjoying the attractions.[16] This constitutes a noteworthy and essential aspect to be taken into consideration within the context of tourism and destination management.[17] Accessible tourism is a comprehensive approach that seeks to empower individuals with diverse access needs, encompassing mobility, vision, hearing, and cognitive abilities, to independently, equitably, and with dignity navigate a city or destination during their entire stay.[17] This inclusive approach strives to remove barriers and enhance the travel experience for all individuals, regardless of their physical or cognitive capabilities.[17] While it may not be always practical to customize every experience to cater to every specific requirement, there are proactive measures that should be implemented to enhance the appeal of ecotourist destinations.[17] Enhancing accessibility often involves the incorporation of Braille signage on attraction markers, menus, and within visitor guides.[17] This approach serves to make information and navigation more inclusive for individuals with vision impairments.[17] By actively striving to meet accessibility requirements to the best extent possible, ecotourism destinations not only leave a favorable impression on their target audience but also open doors to additional markets that may not have previously considered the location as their next travel destination. This commitment to inclusivity can broaden the appeal and reach of the ecotourism site.[17]
  • Security: Security is of equal importance in the successful implementation of ecotourism initiatives. Safety constitutes a paramount concern for both business and leisure travelers when exploring a new destination, as individuals are unlikely to compromise their well-being when away from their familiar surroundings. Ensuring a secure environment is essential to attracting and retaining visitors.[18] Additionally, the presence of knowledgeable tour guides is crucial for effectively directing visiting tourists to ecotourism sites. These guides serve as valuable resources for enhancing the visitor experience by providing insights, information, and context related to the ecological and cultural aspects of the destination.[18] To be considered an appealing tourism destination, a city must prioritize and ensure the safety of its visitors. Visitor safety is a foundational element that underpins the overall attractiveness and desirability of a destination for tourists.[19] Tourists, often due to their limited cultural understanding and language skills within a destination, can be particularly vulnerable to certain forms of crime. It is essential for destinations to address these vulnerabilities by implementing measures that enhance visitor safety and security.[19] Conversely, tourists can sometimes inadvertently contribute to various issues, in part because they may adopt a more carefree and less accountable attitude while vacationing in a foreign location. This behavior can lead to unintended consequences or misunderstandings with the local community or environment.[19] Given this context, local authorities are ideally positioned to take the lead in developing and implementing prevention strategies aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence between tourists and local residents. Their role is crucial in addressing potential challenges and promoting responsible tourism practices within the destination.[19]
  • Tour Guide: Tour guides play an indispensable role in the ecotourism experience by offering experiential knowledge that extends beyond the history and attributes of the site. They enrich the social and cultural aspects of the visit, effectively managing tourists' curiosity, and enhancing the overall value of the tourism activity. Their expertise adds depth and context to the ecological and cultural elements of the destination, contributing significantly to the visitor's understanding and enjoyment.[1] Furthermore, the existence of tourist-related services represents another influential factor in the promotion of sustainable tourism.[1] Tour guides assume a pivotal role as the essential intermediaries between visitors and destinations, functioning as both observers and communicators. They play a crucial role in facilitating visitors' interactions and enhancing their understanding of the locations they explore.[20] The influence of tour guides on the overall travel experience is of profound significance, as they possess the capacity to craft enduring impressions in the minds of tourists.[20] The behavioral qualities, in-depth destination knowledge, and adept communication skills exhibited by tour guides substantially elevate tourist satisfaction and enhance the value-added aspects of their experiences.[20] Tour guides establish meaningful connections with local communities, thereby contributing to economic and social development. Additionally, the diverse array of tours they offer allows a single destination to provide a multitude of experiences to visitors. This multifaceted approach enriches the tourism offerings and broadens the appeal of the destination.[20]
  • Accommodation: In certain situations, subpar accommodation standards can significantly influence tourists' choices regarding products and services and subsequently shape their overall perception of the destination.[1]Understanding both the quantity and quality of available accommodation choices within a destination represents a fundamental expectation for a Destination Management Organization (DMO). This knowledge is essential for effective destination planning and management.[21] In contemporary times, visitors increasingly seek a sense of integration into the local community when they visit a destination, and accommodations play a significant role in nurturing this feeling of belonging.[21] Travelers who are in pursuit of unique and distinctive experiences frequently exhibit a willingness to invest more in their accommodations, attracted by the prospect of encountering novel and extraordinary experiences during their stay.[21] Even if your destination doesn't feature accommodations on the same scale, it likely boasts a vibrant downtown area, shopping districts, or entertainment hubs that offer a variety of overnight options for visitors.[21] To cater to diverse types of travelers, it is advisable to categorize accommodations by location and emphasize options that go beyond the typical mainstream choices. This approach allows for a more customized and inclusive experience for visitors with varied preferences and needs.[21]
  • Activities: The importance of this element is so pronounced that, in the absence of such activities in a destination, the destination is likely to attract minimal or even no tourists. This principle also holds true for ecotourism, where the availability of engaging activities and experiences is essential for drawing visitors to ecological and natural attractions.[22] The degree to which tourism contributes to a destination's economy is heavily contingent upon various factors, with the diversity and abundance of activities offered at the destination playing a pivotal role.[23] A destination centered around the concept of nature should ideally provide activities that align with the expected conditions and the surrounding environment. For instance, nature-based attractions such as national parks should offer activities that immerse visitors in the natural surroundings, as these align with the expectations of ecotourists. This alignment enhances the authenticity and appeal of the destination.[24]Many activities such as walking, hiking, and cycling are often freely accessible and do not individually represent a distinct market segment.[25] Nonetheless, these activities significantly enrich the visitor experience and can create additional opportunities for visitors to spend money, particularly on food, beverages, and lodging. While they may not be individual market segments, they contribute to the overall economic impact of tourism in the destination.[25]
  • Attraction: The attraction serves as the central component, acting as the primary motivator and influencer in a tourist's decision to choose a particular destination. It is the core factor that captures the interest and imagination of potential visitors.[26] Tourist attractions can be viewed as the driving force that entices tourists to choose a destination, and without these attractions, the tourism industry would not exist. They are widely recognized as fundamental elements crucial for the successful development of a tourism destination.[26] Attractions can be broadly categorized into two primary types: natural attractions, which have evolved naturally without human intervention, such as waterfalls; and man-made attractions, which are intentionally created by humans to attract visitors, such as theme parks.[26] These diverse categories of attractions collectively contribute to the overall allure and appeal of a destination to tourists.[26]Attractions can vary significantly from one destination to another, and the initial step in establishing a destination as an appealing travel choice for specific target markets is the identification of its primary drawcards.[26] This process involves recognizing and emphasizing the unique features and attractions that set the destination apart and make it appealing to a particular audience of travelers.[27] Comprehending the appeal of these attractions and recognizing their target audience is paramount for the successful marketing of what renders the destination attractive to the appropriate demographics. It's essential to emphasize that this list of potential attractions is not exhaustive.[27] When identifying a city's distinctive offerings, careful consideration should be given to how well they align with the preferences of travelers who visit the destination regularly.[27] This alignment ensures that the destination's marketing efforts effectively resonate with its intended audience.[27]
  • Ancillary Services: Ancillary services encompass a wide range of amenities and services that tourists utilize when departing from their home locations, during their stay at their travel destinations, and upon their return home.[28] Indeed, these ancillary services are supplementary in nature and make significant contributions to enhancing the overall travel experience for tourists.[28] They encompass a variety of offerings that facilitate and complement various aspects of the traveler's journey.[28] These services primarily refer to the supplementary offerings beyond the core products related to travel and tourism services.[28] These services, although not directly related to tourism, are considered secondary to the primary needs of tourists within a destination. They play a supporting role in enhancing the overall travel experience, offering convenience, comfort, and various amenities that contribute to the well-being and satisfaction of travelers.[22] Ancillary services, in the context of travel and tourism, refer to any supplementary service offered by travel and tourism providers in addition to their primary product or service.[29] These services are designed to enhance the overall travel experience and often include options such as transportation, accommodation upgrades, travel insurance, guided tours, airport transfers, and more.[29] Ancillary services are aimed at providing added value and convenience to travelers during their journeys.[29] These facilities encompass a diverse range of elements and services, including banking services, telecommunications, medical facilities and hygiene, restaurants, water resources, security services, as well as sewerage and wastewater management.[30] These diverse components collectively contribute to the overall infrastructure and amenities available to tourists, significantly enhancing their travel experience and overall well-being during their stay in a destination.[30] They play a crucial role in providing comfort, convenience, and essential services that contribute to a positive and enjoyable travel experience.[30] These services, when provided collectively, serve to enhance the overall customer experience. They not only have the potential to boost a destination's revenue but also enable the destination to offer a more competitive and tailored experience to consumers.[31] By focusing on the provision of a comprehensive set of services and amenities, destinations can effectively meet the diverse needs and preferences of travelers, ultimately making the destination more attractive and appealing.[31] The importance of paying attention to ancillary services becomes particularly relevant in the case of CRNP (Cross River National Park) due to its remote location.[31] In such remote and isolated areas, access to supplementary services becomes crucial for the comfort, safety, and overall satisfaction of visitors.[31] Adequate ancillary services can help overcome logistical challenges and provide travelers with a more seamless and enjoyable experience in this remote natural environment.[31]
  • Appeal: Appeal, in the context of tourism and travel, refers to the overall image, perception, and preferences associated with a destination.[22] It encompasses the factors and characteristics that make a destination attractive and desirable to tourists, including its natural beauty, cultural heritage, activities, amenities, and the overall experience it offers to visitors.[22] A destination's appeal plays a significant role in influencing travelers' choices and decisions when selecting a place to visit.[22] The choice of destination by tourists is determined by their perception and preferences regarding the destination or the products it offers.[32] The destination image is a composite of perceptual beliefs, knowledge, emotional feelings, and the overall impression that a visitor has of a destination. It significantly influences a customer's decision-making process when choosing a destination and contributes to its overall appeal.[33] An external image is formed based on the destination's attributes and information received about it, while an internal image is shaped by one's desires, state of mind, and previous experiences.[22] Perception refers to the process by which an individual selects, organizes, and interprets stimuli to form a coherent and consistent mental image of the visited place.[34]

Benefits of Eco Tourism

The advantages of ecotourism can be categorized into several key areas, including economic, socio-cultural, and physical benefits.[12] One of the most immediate economic benefits of ecotourism is the creation of enhanced employment opportunities and an increase in income within the destination.[12] Ecotourism operates within a framework that encompasses four primary sectors: tourists, host communities, the environment, and the tourism industry. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) such as WWF, the Ecotourism Society, and IUCN play a crucial role by having the capacity to develop codes of conduct.[12] These codes are designed to facilitate and enhance efforts aimed at promoting environmentally responsible tourism practices within the industry.[12]

Ecotourism presents a range of economic incentives, including the fostering of natural area conservation, the generation of revenue for park management, and the provision of crucial income opportunities for rural communities.[12] These benefits underscore the value of ecotourism as a sustainable and responsible approach to tourism that aligns with conservation efforts and supports local livelihoods.[12] Ecotourism promotes conservation efforts, minimizes adverse impacts on visitors, and encourages the active and beneficial socio-economic participation of local communities.[35] The Argungu Fishing Festival has gained popularity as an attraction for tourists, and the Kebbi State government is resolute in its efforts to elevate this event to the status of a world-class festival.[12]

The presence of appealing natural attributes is an indicator of the potential for successfully utilizing ecotourism for national development.[12] While many countries with well-developed tourism sectors have greatly benefited in terms of infrastructure maintenance, national development, and economic empowerment, Nigeria has not experienced significant advantages from tourism. Nevertheless, some communities can point to ecotourism benefits.[12] For example, communities around Farin Ruwa Waterfall enjoy free electricity, leading to various events being hosted at the destination without financial cost.[12] A similar situation occurred in Assopfall of Hawankibo, where residents receive free electricity. The establishment of a police post and primary schools in the host community, along with the construction of 12 culverts, was prompted by the Farin Ruwa Waterfall destination during the tenure of the Abdulahi Adamu-led government of Nasarawa State.[12]

The livelihoods of numerous individuals rely on souvenir production and sales, as demonstrated by the Naraguta souvenir center in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria.[36] In the Niger Delta area of Nigeria, where shells of periwinkle and oyster are abundant and are typically discarded, they can be collected, shaped, and sold as souvenirs by households when tourism flourishes in the area, benefiting host communities.[12] An individual was able to generate two million naira (#2,000,000) with an initial investment of sixty-five thousand naira (#65,000) at the Argungu fishing festival.[12] Furthermore, the livelihoods of many boat operators and fish sellers in the Oguta community are sustained by the market created by tourism at the Oguta Lake destination.[12]

In 2017, the Rivers State government paved the road leading to Port Harcourt Beach to establish accessibility to the eco-destination.[36] The Argungu festival has attracted numerous foreign visitors to Nigeria, elevating the profile of the host state.[12] These tourism activities have generated informal employment opportunities for various individuals, particularly those in the hospitality, transportation, and souvenir sectors. National parks, forest reserves, and game reserves have also served as sources of livelihood for many.[12] In Oguta, numerous restaurants thrive due to the influx of visitors to Oguta Lake destination.[12]

Challenges of ecotourism in Nigeria

Nigeria missed an opportunity to enhance its appeal to foreign tourists, a setback attributed to a combination of multifaceted factors.[37] Initially, the impact of the civil war that occurred between 1967 and 1970 left a lasting mark on the nation.[37] Subsequently, the era of favorable oil prices after 1973 spurred a transformation of the Nigerian economy, characterized by rapid urbanization, industrialization, and a decline in rural investment.[37] During this period, widespread corruption became prevalent. Additionally, the high value of the Nigerian naira as a currency at the time did not favor tourism, as it translated to higher costs for tourists compared to other African destinations.[37]

Furthermore, the frequent military takeovers of the government that persisted from the 1970s to the 1990s cast a negative image abroad and deterred tourists from considering Nigeria as a viable travel destination.[37] These historical factors collectively contributed to Nigeria missing an opportunity to become more appealing to foreign tourists during that period.[37] The economic challenges and the demand for bush meat have exerted a profound impact on the biodiversity of Nigeria's national parks, game reserves, and forest reserves, resulting in extensive poaching activities.[37] Additionally, local communities have made significant contributions to the depletion of flora through involvement in logging activities to procure fuel and timber, consequently disrupting the delicate ecological balance of the ecosystem.[37] These factors collectively pose considerable threats to the conservation efforts within these protected areas, jeopardizing the rich biodiversity of Nigeria.[38]

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