Background of the Study
Community-based tourism (CBT) is a model that involves local communities in the management and development of tourism activities, with a focus on ensuring that the benefits of tourism are distributed equitably and contribute to the conservation of natural resources (Ajiboye & Salami, 2023). In Nigeria, community-based tourism has gained attention as a means of engaging local populations in wildlife conservation while providing economic benefits and reducing the pressure on natural resources (Akinmoladun & Olayiwola, 2024).
Gashaka Gumti National Park, located in the northeastern region of Nigeria, is one of the country's most biodiverse protected areas, home to numerous species of flora and fauna. However, the park faces threats such as poaching, deforestation, and encroachment from local communities. Community-based tourism offers a potential solution by providing economic incentives for local people to participate in conservation efforts. This study aims to explore the role of community-based tourism in wildlife conservation in Gashaka Gumti National Park, examining the effectiveness of this approach in achieving conservation goals.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the potential benefits of community-based tourism, there is limited research on its effectiveness in wildlife conservation, particularly in Nigerian protected areas like Gashaka Gumti National Park. Local communities in the region are often at odds with conservation objectives, as they rely on the park’s resources for their livelihoods. This study seeks to examine the role of community-based tourism in mitigating these conflicts and contributing to wildlife conservation in Gashaka Gumti National Park.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the role of community-based tourism in wildlife conservation in Gashaka Gumti National Park.
2. To evaluate the socio-economic impact of community-based tourism on local communities.
3. To identify the challenges and opportunities in implementing community-based tourism for wildlife conservation in Gashaka Gumti National Park.
Research Questions
1. How does community-based tourism contribute to wildlife conservation in Gashaka Gumti National Park?
2. What are the socio-economic benefits of community-based tourism for local communities around Gashaka Gumti National Park?
3. What challenges and opportunities exist in implementing community-based tourism for wildlife conservation in Gashaka Gumti National Park?
Research Hypotheses
1. Community-based tourism plays a significant role in promoting wildlife conservation in Gashaka Gumti National Park.
2. Community-based tourism provides socio-economic benefits to local communities in the area surrounding the park.
3. There are significant challenges, such as lack of infrastructure and community awareness, in implementing effective community-based tourism for conservation in Gashaka Gumti National Park.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the role of community-based tourism in wildlife conservation in Gashaka Gumti National Park, examining both its environmental and socio-economic impacts. Limitations include difficulties in accessing local community data and the challenge of measuring the long-term effects of community-based tourism on wildlife conservation.
Definitions of Terms
• Community-Based Tourism (CBT): A model of tourism that actively involves local communities in the planning, development, and management of tourism activities, with a focus on sustainable development and conservation (Ajiboye & Salami, 2023).
• Wildlife Conservation: The protection, preservation, management, or restoration of wildlife and their habitats to prevent extinction (Akinmoladun & Olayiwola, 2024).
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