Community Perception of Wildlife Conservation in Benue State Forest Reserves

Community attitudes toward wildlife conservation are recognized as critical determinants of conservation outcomes, particularly in landscapes where protected areas overlap with rural livelihoods. This study examines the perceptions and attitudes of local communities toward wildlife conservation efforts in three forest reserves in Benue State, within Nigeria's North Central geopolitical zone. A total of 240 respondents drawn from farming, fishing, and artisan communities were surveyed using structured questionnaires, with additional data gathered through focus group discussions. Variables of interest included awareness of wildlife laws, perceived benefits from conservation, experience of human-wildlife conflict, and willingness to participate in community-based conservation programs. Results reveal a predominantly negative perception of conservation among communities with higher exposure to crop-raiding incidents, contrasted with more favorable attitudes in communities that have benefited from conservation-linked employment or ecotourism revenue. Awareness of wildlife legislation is low, with fewer than 20 percent of respondents able to correctly identify any applicable law. Despite this, a majority of respondents expressed conditional willingness to support conservation if compensation and alternative livelihood programs were provided. The study concludes that improving community conservation outcomes in Benue State requires a shift from enforcement-centric approaches toward benefit-sharing and participatory governance models. Recommendations target the Benue State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Keywords: community perception, wildlife conservation, Benue State, North Central Nigeria, participatory conservation