OLADEJI SUNDAY OLADIPO
Publication
In this paper, it was observed that research studies have been undertaken on the fauna and flora resources composition and distribution in Old Oyo National Park prior to and since inception of the Park. Despite the findings from these studies there is dearth of information on the conservation status of these resources. This is a serious consideration for this study hinged on the need to appraise the species composition and distribution of fauna and flora resources in Old Oyo National Park over a period of thirty eight years. Multiple research techniques employed include desk review, field observation and interview conducted for the park rangers. Three of the five ranges in the park were selected using existing tracts as transects or observation trails. Four transects were selected in each range at a length of between 3-5km, the observation trails were traversed in the morning immediately after the sun rise and in the evening before the sun set for three consecutive days in a month over a period of four months in each of the study year of 2008 and 2009. The data obtained through the field observation and those that were generated through desk review were subjected to Chi-square test with the Decision rule that when range of P-value is < α = 0.05 level, Ho is rejected, if otherwise accept Ho. The result of the analysis is quite revealing as there are significant and no significant difference vis-à-vis these studies. There are indications that the fauna and flora resources in the Park are fast disappearing due to anthropogenic activities, urgent actions are therefore recommended. The Park conservation authorities, local and international conservation groups and individuals will benefit tremendously from the output in form of data generated through this study
Osse river Park is rich in biodiversity and high in species endemism recognized by many international treaties and conventions. It is surrounded by communities with rich cultural values. The potentials of the Park and its environs to support ecotourism and sustainable economic development were explored through field observation, focus group discussion and administration of questionnaires between October 2011-April, 2012. Presence of fauna species such as Potamocherus porcus, Pabio anubis, Veranus sp, Ibadanensis malimbus and flora species such as Parkia biglobosa, Diospyros spp e.t.c were established. Aquatourism potentials of river Osse, Uwesse and their tributaries were also explored. Demographic characteristic of the respondents were revealed and socio-economic needs of the communities were ranked in order of priorities. Cultural heritage resources in the adjoining communities include festivals, local music, traditional mode of dressing, sacred rivers and hills. Development of rich ecotourism resources of the Park and its environs is targeted at addressing community’s needs.
Abundant fauna and flora resources in Nigeria are being threatened due to the increasing rate ofanthropogenic activities across the protected areas in the country. This study examinedanthropogenic activities threatening the natural resources considered to be of ecotourism valuein Old Oyo National Park. Primary data were collected through administration of a set ofquestionnaire on the respondents. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics.Result of the analysis showed that human activities had negative impacts on the Park resources.Recommendations were made on the need to engage in aggressive afforestation, conservationeducation and provision of fund to support sustainable livelihood practices
