Communities` attitudes towards conservation in Gashakagumti National Park Nigeria

This study assessed the attitudes of communities around GashakaGumti National Park towards conservation. It also investigated factors that influence these conservation attitudes. Data were obtained through structured questionnaire which covered demographic characteristics, perceived benefits and challenges derived from the park and responses to attitudinal statements. Data were subjected to descriptive and inferential analysis. The result indicated that 79.3% of the respondents had a positive attitude towards conservation on GashakaGumti National Park. Perceived benefits derived from the Park included construction of classrooms, roads, medical centre, employment opportunity, improved economy through tourist inflow while perceived challenges included destruction of farm produce by wild animals and lack of access to fodder for livestock. 78.9% of the respondents were willing to be involved in community based projects planning and execution. 94.7% accepted and supported community development projects. 100% supported the continued existence of the park. The positive conservation attitude of the respondents might be attributed to the perceived economic benefits derived from the park and the communities` willingness to be involved in community based projects. Result of the chi square and correlation analysis indicated gender, occupation, level of education, perceived benefits and distance from the park had significant relationship with attitude towards conservation in GashakaGumti National Park. The authorities of the park should not relent in their effort in maintaining their peaceful co existence with the surrounding communities but ensure consolidation of this feat. The park management should look into the issues considered as challenges by communities to avert conflict, animosity and breeding of negative conservation attitudes. It is also recommended that attitudinal studies should be conducted periodically and incorporated into National Park Service Management Plan.Key words: Attitudes, Conservation, Benefits, GashakaGumti National Par