Potentials and Challenges of Ecotourism: A Study of Okrika, Oyigbo and Choba Communities in Rivers State

This study examined the potententials and challenges of ecotourism in Okrika, Oyigbo and Choba in Rivers State.The aim of the study was to identify the potentials of ecotourism in the three study locations. The study covered the Okrika Town coastline, Imo River in Oyigbo and New Calabar River in Choba community. Data was collected using structured questionanaires and oral interviews with fisherfolks/hunters/farmers and as well as visual observation of study areas. The data gathered was analyzed for biodiversity (terrestrial and aquatic animals) and ecotourism features distribution in percentage, and suitability of each study location for ecotourism was rated. Okrika was rated highest with 78.6% and 100% percentage distribution for biodiversity and ecotourism features, respectively while Oyigbo and Choba were rated medium with (57.1% and 50%), and (57.1% and 66.7%) percentage distribution for biodiversity and ecotourism features, respectively. Aquatic animals and fishes found in Okrika study location include whales, sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, periwinkles, sardine, golden fish. While some freshwater fishes and animals common in the New Calabar (Choba) and Imo Rivers (Oyigbo) include African catfish, crocodile, alligator, water snail, prawn, grabs, tilapia, pythons, water antelope etc. Some common ecotourism features identified in the study area include sea, river, beaches, mangrove forests, cool breeze and cultural activities. Based on the findings, the various study locations have a potential for the establishment of coastal ecotourism. Therefore, government at both the local and state levels in collaboration with the communities are encouraged to invest in coastal ecotourism as a means of diversifying the economy and creating employment for the youths, and as well as conserving the bioresources in these locations.