Biodiversity Conservation in the Old Oyo National Park Protected Area of South-Western Nigeria: Achievements and Challenges

Abstract

Biodiversity conservation has become a critical global environmental priority amid accelerating ecosystem degradation and species loss driven by human activities. Protected areas play a fundamental role in safeguarding biodiversity and maintaining ecological integrity. In Nigeria, national parks are a primary institutional mechanism for biodiversity protection; however, many of these protected areas face mounting ecological and governance challenges. This study examines the achievements and challenges of biodiversity conservation in Old Oyo National Park, a major protected area in South-Western Nigeria. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, integrating field observations, policy document analysis, stakeholder interviews, and secondary ecological data. The findings indicate that the park has made significant contributions to wildlife protection, ecosystem preservation, and environmental education through institutional efforts coordinated by the Nigeria National Park Service and other environmental agencies. Despite these achievements, biodiversity conservation in the park faces persistent challenges, including poaching, illegal logging, agricultural encroachment, inadequate funding, weak enforcement capacity, and conflicts between conservation authorities and surrounding communities. Institutional fragmentation and limited policy implementation further constrain conservation outcomes. The study concludes that strengthening environmental governance, improving community participation, and increasing institutional funding are essential for sustainable biodiversity conservation in Nigeria's protected areas. Policy recommendations include integrated conservation strategies, improved law enforcement, community-based conservation initiatives, and stronger coordination among environmental institutions. The study contributes to broader discussions on protected area governance and biodiversity conservation in developing countries.