Assessment of Ecotourism Infrastructure in Ngel Nyaki Forest Reserve, Taraba State

Ngel Nyaki Forest Reserve in Taraba State, within Nigeria's North East geopolitical zone, is a montane forest fragment of significant biodiversity importance, known for its populations of Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzees and endemic plants. The reserve has attracted growing conservation and ecotourism interest, yet its physical and organizational infrastructure remains underdeveloped relative to its ecological value. This study assesses the current state of ecotourism infrastructure at the reserve, examining trail systems, visitor reception facilities, accommodation options, guide availability, and interpretive resources. Data were collected through direct site observation, interviews with reserve management staff, local guides, and a sample of 45 visitors. A checklist-based infrastructure audit tool adapted from IUCN ecotourism standards was used to score facility conditions. Results indicate that while trail routes are generally passable during the dry season, signage is absent, visitor reception capacity is minimal, and no formal guide training program exists. Visitors expressed high intrinsic interest in chimpanzee tracking and forest hiking but reported dissatisfaction with access and logistics. The study recommends a phased infrastructure development plan prioritizing guide certification, visitor center construction, and trail marking. Partnership with university research stations and international conservation organizations is suggested as a financing and capacity-building strategy. These findings are relevant to efforts by the A.P. Leventis Ornithological Research Institute and Taraba State government to promote responsible ecotourism at the site. Keywords: ecotourism infrastructure, Ngel Nyaki, chimpanzee tourism, North East Nigeria, nature-based tourism