Ecotourism Revenue Management and Distribution in Nigerian Protected Areas: A Policy Analysis

The sustainable financing of protected areas in Nigeria requires transparent and equitable systems for generating, managing, and distributing ecotourism revenue. Despite the theoretical importance of revenue sharing as an incentive for community conservation support, empirical documentation of how ecotourism revenues are managed in Nigerian protected areas is sparse. This study conducts a policy analysis of ecotourism revenue management systems across four protected areas in different geopolitical zones: Yankari Game Reserve (North East), Okomu National Park (South South), Idanre Hills (South West), and Gashaka-Gumti National Park (North East). Using policy document analysis, semi-structured interviews with park revenue officers, and review of state government financial records, the study maps revenue generation mechanisms, reporting structures, and community distribution pathways. Results indicate that revenue retention at the protected area level is inconsistent, with large proportions of gate fees and concession revenues absorbed into state consolidated accounts rather than reinvested in park management. Community benefit-sharing mechanisms are poorly formalized in all four study sites. Gate fee structures have not been revised in several years despite rising operational costs. The study recommends the adoption of protected area trust fund models, statutory mandates for minimum community benefit-sharing proportions, and independent financial auditing of park revenues. These policy recommendations are intended to inform the National Park Service of Nigeria and respective state forestry authorities. Keywords: ecotourism revenue, protected area finance, revenue sharing, Nigeria, conservation policy