Management of Human-Wildlife Conflict in Farming Communities Adjacent to Kainji Lake National Park, Niger State

This study assesses the nature, scale, and management options for human-wildlife conflict (HWC) in farming communities bordering Kainji Lake National Park in Niger State, located in Nigeria's North Central geopolitical zone. Human-wildlife conflict is a persistent challenge at protected area boundaries in Nigeria and represents a major impediment to conservation acceptance by rural communities. A cross-sectional survey design was used, combining structured household questionnaire interviews with 200 farming households, field verification of damage reports, and focus group discussions with community leaders and park rangers. Wildlife species responsible for crop raiding, livestock predation, and physical injury were documented and economic damages estimated. Results indicated that 78 percent of surveyed households had experienced crop damage by wildlife in the preceding twelve months. Baboons and hippopotami were the primary crop raiders, while lions and hyenas were responsible for 95 percent of livestock predation incidents. Annual per-household losses averaged 42,000 naira. Community tolerance was positively correlated with the availability of compensation mechanisms and negatively with previous direct conflict incidents. Existing deterrent practices including fire and noise were of limited effectiveness. The study proposes a conflict management strategy combining community-based early warning systems, chili pepper barrier planting, a fast-track compensation fund, and joint community-ranger patrols as a practical and affordable intervention package for adoption by the Kainji Lake National Park Authority. Keywords: human-wildlife conflict, Kainji Lake National Park, crop raiding, Niger State, conservation.