Biodiversity Conservation Awareness and Practices for Economic Growth in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, Rivers State

Abstract

The essence of biodiversity conservation to improve the quality of life of all living organisms cannot be underestimated by rational thinking people. This is apart from ensuring balanced and healthy ecosystem, the processes and outcomes of biodiversity conservation have been linked to increase in economic activities capable of engendering economic growth. Inferring from the foregoing, biodiversity conservation should be concerned to everyone. However, the question remains how aware and involved are the local people in many parts of Nigeria with biodiversity conservation? To answer this important question, this study was initiated. The researchers assessed biodiversity conservation awareness and practices among Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government areas people of Rivers state. Descriptive survey was conducted on a sample size of 399 adults drawn out of a population of 234,000 living within the study area. Data collected were analysed using mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed low extent of awareness, preservation and maintenance of land and aquatic animals either in situ or using ex situ conservation practices. The results showed that most fish species such as tilapia, cat-fish and mudfish found within the Orashi and Sombrero Rivers are exploited for foods, locals hunt wild animals and use as meat, and trees are being cut down for firewood. Based on the implications of the results, it was concluded that improving the health of the ecosystem and economic growth of the people in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni through biodiversity conservation practices is presently threatened. It was recommended among others that proactive measures should be taken by the Local Government Council and other environmentalists to sensitize people on the biodiversity practices they can adapt and the economic benefits of doing so.

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