Effectiveness and Challenges of Protection Activities in Old Oyo National Park, Nigeria

Resumo

Protection activities in Old Oyo National Park was studied through interview and questionnaire administration in Tede, Marguba, Oyo-ile and Sepeteri ranges. The statistical population was the rangers in the four ranges out of which twelve rangers were selected in each of the range. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Result showed that the protection staff carried out diverse protection activities ranging from anti-poaching patrol to boundary monitoring, and conservation education. The area covered by a ranger is 17.6km2 which is far beyond the IUCN recommendation of 5km2. The protection staff undergo training at least once in a year to increase their knowledge on how to effectively protect and manage the wildlife resources. The major challenges facing the effectiveness of protection activities were inadequate staff, lack of equipment and insufficient funding. Recommendations were made on the need to increase protection staff strength for effective policing of the park as well as enlightening the local residents on conservation.