Gashaka Gumti National Park | Benue

Gashaka Gumti National Park is the largest national park in Nigeria and one of the most ecologically significant protected areas in the country. It spans the states of Taraba and Adamawa in northeastern Nigeria and borders Cameroon to the east. The park is renowned for its biodiversity, natural beauty, and the diversity of wildlife it supports. Here's a detailed overview of Gashaka Gumti National Park:

1. General Information

Location: The park lies in northeastern Nigeria, with its primary expanse covering the states of Taraba and Adamawa, and extending to the Cameroon border in the east. The park is situated along the Benue River and is part of the Gashaka Gumti forest reserves.

Size: Spanning an area of approximately 6,402 km², Gashaka Gumti is Nigeria's largest national park. Its extensive size includes a diverse array of ecosystems, ranging from savannahs to montane forests, making it a vital area for both wildlife and conservation efforts.

2. Biodiversity and Wildlife

Gashaka Gumti National Park is one of the country's richest ecological zones, offering sanctuary to numerous species of flora and fauna, many of which are rare or endangered. It is known as a biodiversity hotspot.

Wildlife:

The park is home to the largest population of chimpanzees in Nigeria. These primates are one of the park's key attractions, along with other primates such as monkeys and baboon species.

Other notable species found in the park include forest elephants, African buffalo, antelope, leopards, lions, hyenas, crocodiles, and a wide variety of bird species.

The park is also home to unique reptiles and amphibians, including various species of snakes and frogs.

Flora: Gashaka Gumti features diverse vegetation, ranging from dense tropical rainforests in the southern and central parts to savannah grasslands in the northern sections. The park is rich in timber species and also hosts a variety of medicinal plants, herbs, and shrubs that are important to local communities.

3. Landscape and Topography

Terrain: The park's landscape is remarkably diverse. It includes tropical rainforests, wooded savannah, mountainous regions, river valleys, and wetlands. These varied landscapes provide different habitats for the wildlife that inhabit the park.

Gashaka Mountains: The Gashaka mountains are located in the southern part of the park and are the highest point in the park. The mountainous terrain provides spectacular views and is home to several species adapted to higher altitudes.

Benue River: The park is situated near the Benue River, which provides water and serves as a natural habitat for aquatic species.

Climate: Gashaka Gumti National Park is characterized by a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season generally lasts from April to October, while the dry season spans from November to March. The wet season leads to lush vegetation growth, while the dry season can see higher temperatures, particularly in the savannah regions.

4. Conservation Efforts

Gashaka Gumti National Park plays a critical role in wildlife conservation in Nigeria, as it is home to endangered species such as chimpanzees and forest elephants.

The park is part of Nigeria's larger effort to protect biodiversity and preserve endangered species. It is managed by the National Park Service and supported by various conservation organizations, including local and international partners.

Anti-poaching initiatives are regularly carried out to protect wildlife from illegal hunting and human encroachment.

Efforts are also made to preserve the park’s unique ecosystems by maintaining the integrity of the vegetation and natural habitats. There are also programs aimed at educating local communities about the importance of conservation and sustainable resource use.

5. Tourism and Activities

Gashaka Gumti National Park is an exciting destination for tourists, especially those interested in eco-tourism and wildlife viewing. However, due to its remote location and the challenges associated with access, the park sees fewer visitors compared to other national parks in Nigeria. That said, the park is still an important site for adventure tourism.

Wildlife Viewing: Visitors can embark on safaris or guided treks to observe the diverse wildlife, including the rare chimpanzees, elephants, and other animal species in their natural habitats.

Bird Watching: The park is home to more than 300 bird species, making it a haven for bird watchers. Some of the bird species found in the park are hornbills, eagles, and bustards.

Trekking and Hiking: The park's varied terrain provides opportunities for hiking, especially in the mountainous regions where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

River Activities: The Benue River offers the opportunity for canoeing and fishing. The river is also home to various fish species, making it a popular spot for anglers.

6. Local Communities and Culture

The local communities surrounding the park, such as the Chamba, Mumuye, and Fulani peoples, rely on the park’s natural resources for their livelihoods. These communities traditionally engage in activities like farming, fishing, and hunting.

Cultural Heritage: Some local communities have a deep cultural connection with the park. They see the park as part of their heritage and are involved in its protection. These communities also engage in eco-tourism ventures that provide them with sustainable income while promoting conservation.

Ecotourism Impact: The park has become a focal point for eco-tourism initiatives that benefit both the environment and the local communities. Visitors’ participation in ecotourism contributes to the local economy and helps to fund conservation activities.

7. Accessibility

Despite being one of the largest and most significant national parks in Nigeria, Gashaka Gumti remains relatively remote. To reach the park, travelers typically need to travel to Jalingo (the capital of Taraba State) or Yola (the capital of Adamawa State), and from there, embark on long road trips or local transport to the park’s entrance.

Road Access: The park is accessible by road from major towns in Taraba and Adamawa states. However, the park’s remote location means that infrastructure is limited in some areas. It is advised to travel with a knowledgeable guide or as part of an organized tour.

Accommodation: There are few accommodations within the park itself, so visitors may need to stay in nearby towns like Jalingo or Yola, where more extensive facilities are available. For a more immersive experience, some local communities offer homestays for tourists.

8. Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite its importance, Gashaka Gumti National Park faces several challenges, including:

Poaching: Illegal hunting of wildlife, especially elephants and primates, remains a threat to the park’s biodiversity.

Deforestation: There are concerns over the encroachment of human activities, such as logging and farming, which threaten the park’s natural habitats.

Infrastructure Development: Improved road networks and facilities are necessary to enhance visitor access and improve the park’s infrastructure for conservation and tourism.

However, efforts are being made to address these challenges, and there is hope that Gashaka Gumti will continue to thrive as a critical ecological and tourism site in Nigeria.

Conclusion

Gashaka Gumti National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and biodiversity, offering a rich experience for wildlife enthusiasts, hikers, and those interested in eco-tourism. As Nigeria’s largest national park, it is an important conservation area that plays a critical role in the protection of endangered species and the preservation of diverse ecosystems. Although access to the park can be challenging due to its remote location, the rewards of exploring its rich landscapes and observing its wildlife make it a unique and valuable destination.