Game Reserves & National Parks | Biology for JAMB PDF Download

Introduction

Game reserves and national parks are vital components of biodiversity conservation and ecotourism in Nigeria. They play a crucial role in preserving the country's rich natural heritage, protecting endangered species, and promoting sustainable tourism. This article aims to provide detailed information on the location and importance of game reserves and national parks in Nigeria.

Yankari National Park

• Location: Bauchi State, northeastern Nigeria.
• Importance:
  • It is the largest and most popular national park in Nigeria, covering an area of about 2,244 square kilometers.
  • Yankari National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, hippos, baboons, and over 350 species of birds.
  • It offers opportunities for game drives, bird watching, nature walks, and visits to natural springs and caves.
  • The park contributes significantly to ecotourism, attracting both local and international visitors, thus promoting economic growth and development in the region.

Gashaka Gumti National Park

• Location: Taraba and Adamawa States, northeastern Nigeria.
• Importance:
  • It is the largest national park in Nigeria, covering an area of about 6,402 square kilometers.
  • Gashaka Gumti National Park is known for its exceptional biodiversity, including rare and endangered species such as the African elephant, chimpanzee, giant eland, and Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee.
  • The park protects a significant portion of Nigeria's montane forests, which are vital for watershed protection and climate regulation.
  • It offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, trekking, and bird watching, attracting eco-tourists and researchers from around the world.

Cross River National Park

• Location: Cross River State, southeastern Nigeria.
• Importance:
  • It is one of Nigeria's most important biodiversity hotspots and consists of two sections: Oban and Okwangwo.
  • Cross River National Park is home to several endangered species, including the critically endangered Cross River gorilla, Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee, drill monkey, and the grey-necked picathartes.
  • The park protects the remaining fragments of the Cross River rainforest, which is one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in Africa.
  • It offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, bird watching, and nature walks, contributing to local economies through ecotourism.

Kainji Lake National Park

• Location: Niger and Kwara States, western Nigeria.
• Importance:
  • It is Nigeria's oldest national park, established in 1979, covering an area of about 5,341 square kilometers.
  • Kainji Lake National Park is known for its diverse habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, floodplains, and the Kainji Lake, which was formed by the construction of Kainji Dam.
  • The park provides sanctuary to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, antelopes, crocodiles, and hippos.
  • It offers opportunities for game drives, boating, fishing, and bird watching, attracting tourists and nature enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Game reserves and national parks in Nigeria are essential for biodiversity conservation, habitat protection, and sustainable tourism. They provide a haven for endangered species, contribute to local economies through ecotourism, and offer recreational opportunities for visitors. It is crucial to continue supporting and preserving these protected areas to ensure the long-term survival of Nigeria's unique flora and fauna.