Rugu National Park, Nigeria evaluation of its benefits using protected area benefit assessment tool. (PA-BAT)

Abstract

Nowadays protected areas are increasingly expected to deliver so many benefits ranging from social, economic and environmental benefits in addition to conserving biodiversity. However, in most developing nations, local people who reside at the vicinity of the protected areas expect that it should also contribute to the social and economic well being of the people. Assurances that protected areas will supply these benefits are fundamental to attracting the support needed for their creation. Unless we comprehend and broadcast the full range of benefits from protected areas we risk not only reducing the possibility of new protected areas being but even of seeing some existing protected areas being degazetted and their values lost. This research evaluate the various contribution of Rugu National Park, Nigeria to the provision of various types of benefits and values ranging from economic, social and environmental benefits using the Protected Area Benefits Assessment Tool (PA-BAT). Personal interviews were conducted with 92 respondents in seven settlements within and around the Rugu National Park. The study shows that the park has contributed immensely in the provision of economic, social and environmental benefits to the local population, national population and the global community at large. Finally the project suggested a series of recommendations.