Evaluation of Deforestation and Its Effects on Biodiversity in Cross River National Park

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction

Forests play a critical role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity across the globe. They provide essential ecosystem services such as climate regulation, soil protection, and habitat for wildlife. However, deforestation — the large-scale removal of forest cover — poses a major threat to biodiversity and environmental sustainability. In Nigeria, forest depletion has reached alarming levels due to agricultural expansion, logging, and infrastructure development.

Cross River National Park, located in southeastern Nigeria, is one of the country’s richest biodiversity zones. It harbors a wide range of plant and animal species, some of which are rare and endangered. Despite its protected status, human activities such as illegal logging, farming, and bush burning continue to degrade the forest ecosystem. These activities have led to significant habitat loss, reduction in wildlife populations, and alteration of ecological processes. This study therefore evaluates deforestation and its effects on biodiversity in Cross River National Park, with the goal of identifying causes, impacts, and potential solutions.

1.1 Background to the Study

Deforestation is recognized as one of the major environmental challenges of the 21st century. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO, 2021), tropical forests are disappearing at an estimated rate of 10 million hectares per year, largely driven by human activities. In Nigeria, forest cover has declined drastically from about 17% in 1960 to less than 6% today (Adebayo & Effiong, 2020). The decline threatens biodiversity and contributes to global climate change.

Cross River National Park, established in 1991, covers approximately 4,000 square kilometers and consists of two main divisions: Oban and Okwangwo. The park represents one of the last remaining rainforests in West Africa and supports species such as the Cross River gorilla, chimpanzee, and forest elephant. However, pressure from surrounding communities has increased deforestation within and around the park. Encroachment for subsistence farming, illegal timber extraction, and poaching have caused significant ecosystem degradation.

Biodiversity loss resulting from deforestation affects not only wildlife but also the livelihoods of local people who depend on forest resources for survival. Sustainable management and conservation strategies are therefore needed to protect this unique ecological heritage.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite being a designated conservation area, Cross River National Park continues to face threats from deforestation. Local communities rely heavily on the forest for timber, farmland, and non-timber products. The absence of effective monitoring, weak enforcement of conservation laws, and poverty have intensified the rate of forest clearance.

As trees are cut down, wildlife habitats are destroyed, leading to the migration and extinction of several species. Furthermore, soil erosion, reduced rainfall, and loss of genetic diversity are becoming increasingly evident. Although several studies have been conducted on deforestation in Nigeria, few have specifically examined its ecological impact within Cross River National Park. This study therefore investigates the extent of deforestation and evaluates its effects on biodiversity in the park.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The main aim of this study is to evaluate deforestation and its effects on biodiversity in Cross River National Park.

The specific objectives are to:

1. Identify the major causes of deforestation in Cross River National Park.

2. Assess the extent and rate of forest depletion in the park.

3. Examine the impact of deforestation on biodiversity and ecosystem functions.

4. Suggest strategies for sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What are the major causes of deforestation in Cross River National Park?

2. To what extent has forest cover been depleted in the park?

3. How has deforestation affected biodiversity and ecosystem balance?

4. What measures can help conserve biodiversity and reduce deforestation?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is important because it highlights the ongoing threat of deforestation and its implications for biodiversity conservation in Cross River National Park. The findings will provide data that can guide environmental policymakers, forest managers, and conservation organizations in designing effective strategies to protect the park.

Moreover, the research supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 13 and 15, which promote climate action and the protection of terrestrial ecosystems. The study also contributes to scientific knowledge on the relationship between forest degradation and biodiversity loss in tropical ecosystems. It will serve as a useful reference for researchers, students, and environmental practitioners working in the field of conservation and forest management.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on Cross River National Park, particularly the Oban and Okwangwo divisions. It examines the extent of deforestation, its causes, and its effects on plant and animal species diversity. The study does not cover other forest reserves in Nigeria. Field observations, secondary data, and interviews with local residents and park officials form the primary sources of information for this research.

1.7 Definition of Key Terms

• Deforestation: The permanent removal of forest cover for agriculture, settlement, or industrial purposes.

• Biodiversity: The variety of plant and animal species within a particular habitat or ecosystem.

• Ecosystem: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

• Conservation: The sustainable management of natural resources to prevent depletion or extinction.

• Habitat Loss: The destruction or alteration of natural environments where species live and reproduce.

References

Adebayo, T. O., & Effiong, C. I. (2020). Deforestation and biodiversity loss in southern Nigeria. Journal of Environmental Management, 14(3), 75–89.
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). (2021). Global Forest Resources Assessment 2020. Rome: FAO Publications.
Iwara, A. I., & Ekanem, E. J. (2022). Forest conservation challenges and biodiversity decline in Cross River National Park. African Journal of Ecology, 9(2), 102–118.