STUDY ON THE MEDICINAL VALUE OF SOME SELECTED WILDLIFE SPECIES IN GASHAKA GUMTI NATIONAL PARK TARABA STATE

ABSTRACT This study investigates the medicinal value of selected wildlife species in Gashaka Gumti National Park, with the aim of assessing their conservation status, exploring their medicinal uses, and understanding local perceptions regarding their use for medical purposes. The primary objectives were to evaluate the conservation status of specific wildlife species, determine their medicinal value, and analyze local attitudes towards their medicinal use. A multistage random sampling method was used, selecting three villages from each of the three subdivisions in the Gashaka sector and two subdivisions in the Gumti sector, totaling fifteen villages. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered in various community settings and supplemented with interviews. Additionally, the status of species was verified through direct sightings and information from local informants, including game rangers and hunters. Findings reveal that 80.95% of respondents support the use of animal products for medicinal purposes, primarily due to their natural origins, while 80.95% do not support wild animal products due to the lack of scientific evidence. The study highlights that 62.87% of respondents believe wildlife products have medicinal impacts. The significance of this research lies in its contribution to understanding the role of wildlife in traditional medicine and the implications for conservation efforts. Recommendations include enhancing awareness about the importance of scientific validation of traditional remedies and developing conservation strategies to protect wildlife species with significant medicinal value. This will help ensure the sustainability of these resources and support informed decision-making regarding their