The Sacred <i>Veranus niloticus</i> in Orogun Community, Delta State, Nigeria

This study investigates the cultural significance of the Nile Monitor Lizard (<i>Veranus niloticus</i>) in Orogun community, Delta State, Nigeria. A mixed-methods approach was employed, using questionnaires and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) to gather data. The questionnaire were administered to 200 adults from the total population of the people in the community. Chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis to determine significant associations. The results show that the presence of the Nile Monitor Lizard in Orogun community is not significant (χ2 = 2.418, p > 0.05) based on questionnaire responses. However, observations and KIIs confirmed the species' presence and cultural importance. The abundance of the Nile Monitor Lizard was significant (χ2 = 6.520, p < 0.05), with 60% of respondents affirming its presence. The species holds cultural significance (χ2 = 7.370, p < 0.05), with the community revering it as a deity. Interaction with the lizard is predominantly reverential (χ2 = 0.421, p > 0.05), with minimal disturbance. Conservation efforts are lacking (χ2 = 6.520, p < 0.05), with more respondents indicating a lack of support. Contrary to expectations, the Nile Monitor Lizard is not commonly used as a source of food and medicine (χ2 = 25.240, p < 0.001). The study highlights the importance of cultural conservation and traditional belief systems in protecting umbrella species like the Nile Monitor Lizard. The findings contribute to the understanding of human-reptile interactions and inform conservation strategies that respect cultural significance. Some of the recommendations made includes: Integrate cultural conservation into biodiversity protection efforts, promote education and awareness on the importance of conservation, support community-led conservation initiatives, investigate the impact of cultural beliefs on species conservation.