An Examination of Indigenous Knowledge in Traditional Tourism on Biodiversity Preservation, and Sustainable Tourism Development, South-western Nigeria

Abstract

The study examines Indigenous Knowledge (IK) contribution to the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable tourism development in two UNESCO sites in South-western Nigeria: Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove, Osun State and Idanre Hills, Ondo State. The survey was conducted using a cross-sectional survey design with a sample size of 400 respondents (200 at each site) that was determined through Yamane's formula. The selections were through purposive and convenience sampling technique. Data were presented as frequencies, percentages, and Chi-square tests. Findings reveal that 84% of the respondents in Osun-Osogbo thought spiritual taboos were the most important conservation instrument, while 72% of the respondents at Idanre Hills selected traditional terrace farming and indigenous architecture as the primary conservation instrument. Community-led entrepreneurship was relatively higher in Idanre Hills (65%) compared to Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove (52%). There was a significant relationship between site and IK practice, χ² = 112.43, p < .001. The study ends with the recommendation that formal embedding of IK in UNESCO management plans, alongside the active integration of the younger generations, can lead to more cost-effective conservation based on community participation.