Sacred Groves and Natural Sites Conservation for Tourism in Local Communities in Nigeria

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the potential of the sacred groves and natural sites for tourism in local communities in Nigeria. Three communities in Inyi town were chosen as case studies: Umuome, Enugwu-Inyi, and Alum, using a purposive sampling technique. An ethnographic data collection method was adopted, using in-depth interviews and direct observation. Grove locations were located and mapped using a geographic information system (GIS) throughout the research area. The secondary data was obtained from scholarly journals. The findings showed that the sacred groves and natural sites had exceptional value for cultural and eco-tourism. There are not many works that have studied the tourism dimension of the sacred groves in the study domain. The implication of the study is that tourism aids in the preservation of the sites' integrity. The research helps the government and policymakers to adopt a policy that promotes tourism in the sacred groves. This research is important to researchers at the universities and research institutions that are seeking to carry out a related research. Conclusively, utilizing the area for tourism is a superior conservation alternative.

Strength-weakness-opportunities-threats (SWOT) analysis of Cross River monolith sites for strategic tourism management

“…The study focuses on monolithic sites in Cross River State, distributed among the six main clans in the Ikom Local Government Area (Ejikeme et al, 2020;Ejikeme, 2020Ejikeme, , 2016. These include Nta, Nselle, Abanjom, Nde, Ekajuk and Nnam.…”

“…The ten monolith sites investigated were Alok, Emaghabe, Nlun, Ntolshi, Edankono, Agba, Nkirigom, Ntol, Njemitop, and Nebrokpa. The monoliths are called according to the names of the communities (Ejikeme, 2016).…”

“…They are located between latitude 6 0 30 1 North and longitudes 8 0 20 11 and 8 0 40 11 East. Cross River State lies within latitude 5°45′N, 8°30′E, and longitude 5.75°N, 8.5°E (Ejikeme et al, 2020;Ejikeme, 2020Ejikeme, , 2016. The capital city of Cross River State is Calabar with population of 93,092 male and 90,589 female (CRSG, 2007).…”

“…Sustainable development aims to enhance people's quality of life while preserving natural resources by establishing laws and procedures that balance the needs of the environment, society, and economy (Abdel-moneim, 2010: 70). Monolith sites are recognized as heritage sites due to their significance in cultural identity and creativity, and their preservation is crucial for current and future generations (Ejikeme, 2016). Heritage resources offer continuity to communities, encompassing diverse natural and cultural places, lifestyles, traditions, objects, history, and values passed down through generations.…”

Evaluating the influence of ecotourism attributes of Osun Osogbo sacred grove on tourists’ motivations for visiting

“…This religious and socio-cultural practice has enabled sacred groves to harbour a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna and has played a significant role in the conservation of biodiversity . Ejikeme and Okonkwo (2022) found that Sacred Groves form an attraction, both for the community and the area surrounding the community. The essence of tourists' decision in choosing a destination is of much significance in determining the best places to go that links them to the critical aspects that may influence the decision-making (Ortaleza and Mangali, 2021).…”