– Ephraim, Idongesit Emmanuel
Abstract
The main aim of this study was to investigate the role of Cross River National Park (CRNP) on the conservation of natural ecosystems. To achieve this, three null hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. Descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. A sample of two hundred (200) respondents was randomly selected through simple random sampling technique. Questionnaire was used for data collection after subjection to construct validity by experts in test and measurement and environmental education departments. The reliability of the instrument was established through test-re-test method. Chi-square (x2) statistical technique was used to test the hypotheses directing the study at 0.05 level of significance. The result of analysis revealed that community participation, wildlife conservation activities and recreational activities significantly relate with conservation of natural ecosystems. Based on the results the findings, it was recommended among others that efforts in sensitizing and mobilizing community members for active participation in all activities of the Cross River National Park should be stepped up so as to give the people a sense of belonging and enable them to be involved in the conservation of natural resources rather than attempt to encroach and destroy the park area.