TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT. ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS. iv
CHAPTER ONE. 1
INTRODUCTION. 1
1.1 Background to the Study. 1
1.2 Statement of the Problem.. 3
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 5
1.4 Research Questions. 5
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 6
1.6 Significance of the Study. 6
1.7 Scope of the Study. 7
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 7
1.9 Organization of the Study. 7
1.10 Definition of Terms. 8
CHAPTER TWO.. 11
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE. 11
2.1 Introduction. 11
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 11
2.2.1 Sustainable Development Theory. 11
2.2.2 Ecological Modernization Theory. 12
2.2.3 Community-Based Conservation Theory. 13
2.2.4 Environmental Economics Theory. 13
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 14
2.3.1 Overview of Key Concepts. 14
2.3.2 Ecotourism in the Nigerian Context 14
2.3.3 Ecotourism as a Tool for Wildlife Conservation. 15
2.3.4 Economic Benefits to Local Communities. 15
2.3.5 Challenges Facing Ecotourism and Wildlife Conservation in Nigeria. 16
2.3.6 Poor Coordination Among Stakeholders. 16
2.3.7 Impact of Ecotourism on Wildlife Conservation. 17
2.3.8 Ecotourism as a Tool for Species Protection. 17
2.3.9 Awareness and Education. 18
2.3.10 Local Community Engagement and Empowerment 18
2.3.11 Ecotourism and Sustainable Development 19
2.4 Empirical Review.. 19
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 22
CHAPTER THREE. 24
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY. 24
3.1 Research Design. 24
3.2 Area of Study. 24
3.3 Population of the Study. 24
3.4 Sample Size and Sampling Technique. 25
3.5 Data Collection Methods. 25
3.6 Research Instruments. 26
3.7 Validity and Reliability of Instruments. 27
3.8 Data Analysis Techniques. 27
3.9 Ethical Considerations. 27
3.10 Limitations of the Study. 28
CHAPTER FOUR. 30
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION. 30
4.1 Preamble. 30
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 30
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one: 35
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 48
4.5 Discussion of Findings. 49
CHAPTER FIVE. 52
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 52
5.1 Summary Of Findings. 52
5.2 Conclusion. 53
5.3 Recommendations. 53
REFERENCES. 56
APPENDICES. 59
APPENDIX I: RESEARCH QUESTIONNAIRE. 59
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The world is full of natural resources that people use and value. However, it is important to use these resources in a sustainable way so that we can enjoy them and also enable our future generation to enjoy them. Ecotourism as a subject is considered a component of sustainable tourism. The potential of ecotourism is a powerful tool for sustainable development, which is why developing and third world countries are now using it and making it a tool in their conservation strategies and economic development (Brıassoulis, 2002).
In Nigeria, the country is rich in biodiversity and diverse. With growing threats to ecosystems from habitat destruction, poaching and climate change, ecotourism has become an important player in wildlife conservation. The rapid loss of biodiversity requires new conservation strategies, and ecotourism offers one way to help. Not only does it boost the economy by promoting the protection of wildlife and natural habitats, but it also supports local communities and governments. By creating jobs and raising awareness of the importance of conservation, ecotourism can be an effective way to combat environmental degradation (Honey, 2008).
Nigeria's national parks and wildlife reserves, such as Gashaka Gumti National Park and Cross River National Park, are home to unique species and play an important role in global biodiversity conservation. However, these areas face major challenges such as lack of funding, poor infrastructure and poaching. Ecotourism could be a solution by generating revenue that can be reinvested in conservation efforts, helping to protect these important ecosystems.
A study by Eguavoen and Omoyeni (2016) shows how ecotourism can support both wildlife conservation and the development of local communities in Nigeria. Ecotourism makes money but also plays an important role in educating people about the environment and supporting local communities. When tourists visit national parks and reserves, they learn why it is important to protect endangered species and preserve natural areas.
Through this training, public support for conservation is increased. Involving local communities in ecotourism also reduces their reliance on destructive activities like logging and hunting. Rather, they discover how to protect their ecosystems, understanding that tourism flourishes when the environment is intact (Nielsen et al., 2007). This creates a win-win situation for both conservation and local development.
However, despite the potential of ecotourism in Nigeria, challenges remain. These include poor infrastructure, weak policy enforcement and the need for better coordination between stakeholders. These problems make it difficult to fully realize the benefits of ecotourism. As reported by Adedayo et al. (2019), effective governance and sustainable management practices are critical to the success of ecotourism in Nigeria.
Additionally, it is critical for stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, NGOs and the private sector, to collaborate in developing policies to support sustainable tourism practices. In conclusion, while ecotourism holds great promise for wildlife conservation in Nigeria, its success depends on overcoming existing barriers and ensuring its effective integration into broader conservation strategies.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The rapid decline in Nigeria's wildlife population due to habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change has raised concerns over the future of its biodiversity. Despite the establishment of national parks and wildlife reserves, effective wildlife conservation efforts remain underfunded and inadequately managed. The integration of ecotourism into conservation strategies has been proposed as a sustainable solution, with the potential to generate revenue, create jobs, and raise awareness about the importance of protecting endangered species. However, the actual role of ecotourism in promoting wildlife conservation in Nigeria remains unclear, as there is a lack of comprehensive studies evaluating its effectiveness. The existing literature highlights both the potential and challenges associated with ecotourism in Nigeria, but more empirical research is needed to assess how well it supports conservation goals (Eguavoen & Omoyeni, 2016).
One of the main challenges faced by ecotourism in Nigeria is the inadequate infrastructure, poor management practices, and lack of coordination among stakeholders, which hinder the growth of this sector. While some ecotourism initiatives have shown promise, their success has often been limited by these structural barriers, as well as by insufficient community involvement and support. Studies such as those by Adedayo et al. (2019) have pointed out that without effective policy implementation and governance, the potential of ecotourism to contribute to wildlife conservation may not be fully realized. Therefore, evaluating the role of ecotourism in promoting wildlife conservation in Nigeria is critical to identifying the necessary interventions that will enable its successful integration into the broader conservation framework.Top of Form
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1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Evaluation of the Role of Ecotourism in Promoting Wildlife Conservation in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To assess the current state of ecotourism practices in Nigeria's wildlife conservation areas.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of ecotourism in generating revenue for wildlife conservation efforts.
- To examine the impact of ecotourism on local communities surrounding wildlife conservation areas.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What are the major ecotourism activities being undertaken in Nigeria's wildlife conservation areas, and how are they managed?
- How does revenue generated from ecotourism contribute to the funding of wildlife conservation initiatives, and what are the challenges in allocating these funds effectively?
- What are the perceived benefits and drawbacks of ecotourism on local communities, and how can these impacts be mitigated or maximized for positive outcomes?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: Ecotourism has no significant impact on promoting wildlife conservation in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Forestry and Wild Life sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organizations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Kamuku National Park. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
- 1. Ecotourism
A form of responsible travel that involves visiting natural areas to conserve the environment, support local communities, and promote sustainable development, often by minimizing environmental impact and educating travelers about conservation issues.
- 2. Wildlife Conservation
The protection and preservation of animal species, their habitats, and biodiversity through various practices, policies, and activities aimed at preventing the decline or extinction of wildlife populations.
- 3. Sustainable Development
Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, particularly in the context of balancing economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity.
- 4. Biodiversity
The variety and variability of life forms within a given ecosystem, which includes species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity, contributing to the health and resilience of natural environments.
- 5. Protected Areas
Designated regions where human activities are strictly regulated or limited to conserve biodiversity, such as national parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries, to safeguard habitats and species from exploitation or degradation.
- 6. Community-based Conservation
A conservation approach where local communities play an active role in managing and protecting wildlife and natural resources, often through participatory decision-making and the sustainable use of resources that benefit both conservation and local livelihoods.
- 7. Ecotourism Impact Assessment
A process of evaluating the social, economic, and environmental effects of ecotourism activities in a particular region, aiming to determine whether they support wildlife conservation goals and promote sustainable practices without causing negative impacts on ecosystems.