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Abstract

Cross River State is endowed with natural and cultural resources. Most of these resources are yet to be developed for tourist appreciation. The study aimed to assess the prospects of community-based ecotourism (CBE) and stakeholder's involvement in ecotourism development in Iko Esai Community, Cross River State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling method was adopted for the study. Using 5.57% sampling intensity, 150 structured questionnaires were administered to two randomly sampled wards for data collection. Data were analyzed using frequency tables and charts, while t-test and Fisher's exact analysis in STATVIEW version 5.0.1 was employed to test for significance at 5% probability level. Results from the study revealed significant (P < 0.05) presence of harnessed ecotourism assets developed with the assistance of some organizations. Furthermore, there was significant (P < 0.05) presence of unharnessed ecotourism assets in the area. The level of education and significant (P < 0.05) participation of both male and female indigenes in local organization further highlighted potential success of CBE development in the area. Therefore, proper documentation, development and marketing of ecotourism assets should be conducted. Stakeholders should increase their commitment towards CBE development in the area while encouraging the continued protection of these assets.

Impact of human foraging on tree diversity, composition, and abundance in a tropical rainforest

“…The Oban forest is also part of the "Gulf of Guinea biodiversity hotspots of conservation concerns" in West Africa (Agaldo et al, 2016). It is known to house a large number of endemic flora and fauna species (Oates et al, 2004), including most of the 935 tree species identified in Nigeria (Lock & Keay, 1991), other herbaceous plant species, and a rich diversity of butterflies, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and a wide range of mammal species including ungulates, cats, buffalo, elephants, and primates, including the world's rarest lowland gorillas and others plant and animal species (Asuk et al, 2018).…”