THE ROLE OF ECO-TOURISM IN PROMOTING ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION: A CASE STUDY OF OKOMU NATIONAL PARK, EDO STATE

THE ROLE OF ECO-TOURISM IN PROMOTING ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION: A CASE STUDY OF OKOMU NATIONAL PARK, EDO STATE

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Environmental conservation has become an increasingly important global concern as ecosystems face mounting threats from industrialization, deforestation, urban sprawl, and climate change. In response, eco-tourism has emerged as a sustainable alternative to conventional tourism, offering economic incentives for conservation while fostering environmental awareness among tourists and host communities (Honey, 2008). Eco-tourism is generally defined as responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of local people, and involves interpretation and education (The International Ecotourism Society, 2015). Unlike mass tourism, which often depletes natural resources, eco-tourism is rooted in ecological preservation and community participation.

In Nigeria, eco-tourism is gaining ground as a viable strategy for both environmental and economic sustainability. One of the country’s notable eco-tourism destinations is Okomu National Park, located in Edo State. Originally a forest reserve, Okomu has evolved into a protected conservation area that houses a wide variety of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the white-throated monkey and the forest elephant. The park is also rich in biodiversity and serves as a habitat for over 150 species of birds, making it a prime site for eco-tourists, conservationists, and researchers (Nigerian Conservation Foundation [NCF], 2023).

Despite its ecological significance, Okomu National Park faces threats such as illegal logging, poaching, and land encroachment. These threats underscore the need for effective conservation strategies, with eco-tourism standing out as a potentially sustainable solution. Eco-tourism can generate income for the park and local communities, create conservation-based employment opportunities, and instill a conservation ethos among tourists and residents alike (Adebayo & Olatunji, 2021). However, the real impact of eco-tourism on conservation outcomes in Okomu remains underexplored, particularly in terms of awareness creation, resource protection, and community engagement.

This study, therefore, seeks to examine the role of eco-tourism in promoting environmental conservation, with a focus on Okomu National Park. It will evaluate the extent to which eco-tourism activities contribute to environmental protection, the effectiveness of community-based participation in conservation, and the challenges that inhibit eco-tourism from realizing its full potential.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Although eco-tourism has been embraced in various countries as a tool for conservation and sustainable development, its practice in Nigeria remains underdeveloped and poorly managed. In many conservation areas, including Okomu National Park, the promise of eco-tourism as a conservation mechanism has been compromised by limited funding, inadequate infrastructure, weak enforcement of environmental regulations, and a lack of awareness among local communities and visitors (Ogunlana & Bello, 2020). As a result, the park continues to grapple with environmental degradation, despite its designation as a protected area.

In theory, eco-tourism should support conservation by generating revenue that can be reinvested into environmental protection and community development. However, in the absence of clear data and evaluations, it is difficult to determine whether the eco-tourism activities conducted in Okomu are truly advancing conservation goals or are simply being exploited as a revenue stream without environmental accountability. Additionally, the participation of local communities—who are vital stakeholders in any conservation effort—is often minimal or tokenistic, undermining the sustainability of eco-tourism projects.

Therefore, this study seeks to critically assess whether eco-tourism in Okomu National Park is fulfilling its intended role of promoting environmental conservation. It will examine the mechanisms through which eco-tourism operates in the park, the extent of local community involvement, the level of conservation awareness among visitors, and the institutional frameworks supporting the initiative. Addressing these issues is vital for formulating more effective eco-tourism strategies that align with Nigeria's broader environmental and developmental goals.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

To assess the impact of eco-tourism on environmental conservation in Okomu National Park.

To evaluate the level of local community participation in eco-tourism and conservation activities.

To identify the challenges limiting the effectiveness of eco-tourism as a conservation tool in the park.

1.4 Research Questions

How does eco-tourism contribute to environmental conservation efforts in Okomu National Park?

What is the nature and extent of community involvement in eco-tourism and conservation initiatives?

What are the key challenges hindering the effective implementation of eco-tourism in Okomu?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

H₀₁: Eco-tourism does not have a significant effect on environmental conservation in Okomu National Park.

H₀₂: Community participation does not significantly influence the effectiveness of eco-tourism in promoting conservation.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study is significant in several respects. First, it provides empirical evidence on the role of eco-tourism in environmental conservation, a subject that is relatively understudied in the Nigerian context. Second, the findings will help policymakers, park managers, and conservation NGOs to develop more effective strategies for integrating tourism and conservation. Third, the research will benefit local communities by highlighting their role in eco-tourism and advocating for more inclusive conservation practices. Lastly, the study contributes to the academic discourse on sustainable development and offers a model that can be adapted for other conservation sites in Nigeria and beyond.

1.7 Scope and Limitation of the Study

The scope of this study is limited to Okomu National Park in Edo State. It covers eco-tourism activities and their impact on conservation practices within the park, as well as community involvement and institutional support from 2015 to 2024. Limitations may include restricted access to park records, seasonal variations in tourist inflow, and potential biases in responses from stakeholders.

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

Eco-Tourism: Environmentally responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of local people, and involves education.

Environmental Conservation: Activities and policies aimed at preserving and protecting natural ecosystems, species, and resources.

Okomu National Park: A protected rainforest reserve in Edo State known for its biodiversity and significance as a conservation site.

Community Participation: Involvement of local residents in planning, implementing, and benefiting from eco-tourism and conservation projects.

Sustainable Tourism: Tourism that meets the needs of present tourists and host regions while protecting and enhancing opportunities for the future.

1.9 Structure of the Study

This research is organized into five chapters. Chapter One introduces the topic, background, and research framework. Chapter Two reviews relevant literature and theoretical foundations. Chapter Three outlines the methodology, including data collection and analysis techniques. Chapter Four presents and analyzes the research findings. Chapter Five concludes the study and offers recommendations for policy and future research.

References

Adebayo, A. O., & Olatunji, F. M. (2021). Eco-tourism and environmental protection: Opportunities and challenges in Nigeria. African Journal of Sustainable Tourism, 9(2), 67–84.

Honey, M. (2008). Ecotourism and sustainable development: Who owns paradise? (2nd ed.). Washington, DC: Island Press.

Nigerian Conservation Foundation. (2023). Annual report on Okomu National Park and biodiversity conservation. Lagos: NCF.

Ogunlana, S. A., & Bello, H. T. (2020). Community involvement in eco-tourism and environmental protection in Nigerian national parks. Journal of Environmental Management and Tourism, 11(6), 1421–1434.

The International Ecotourism Society. (2015). TIES principles of ecotourism. Retrieved from https://ecotourism.org/principles