Assessment of Ecotourism Challenges in Okwangwo Division of Cross River National Park, Nigeria

Abstract

Nigeria is endowed with rich cultural and natural resources which are potentials for ecotourism development. Unfortunately, despite all the resources, ecotourism in Nigeria has not been effectively developed to achieve its objectives. The study was undertaken to evaluate the challenges of ecotourism development in Okwangwo Division of Cross River National Park through field observation and oral interview of community members, park staff and government officials, who were purposively selected. The study shows that the major problems hindering the development of ecotourism in the area include poor funding, inadequate infrastructural facilities, increased population of park inhabitants and the inability of government to relocate enclave communities out of the park. Indiscriminate bush burning, logging, poaching and confrontation between park staff and local residents were also identified among the principal factors hampering ecotourism development in Okwangwo Division. It is therefore imperative for government to be more committed by allocating adequate funding for the project, provide the local communities with social amenities, intensify environmental education and also relocate enclave communities out of the park for effective protection of resources by park staff.