ADOPTING AFRICAN TRADITIONAL RELIGIOUS STRATEGY TOWARDS FOREST CONSERVATION IN BOKI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF CROSS RIVER STATE

Abstract

This article examines the role Africa Traditional Religion (ATR) plays in the management and conservation of forest resources in some selected communities in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State Nigeria. Methodology of the study involves the use of focal group discussion, personal interviews, observations and questionnaires. The findings revealed that African Traditional Religion (ATR) contributes significantly in the conservation and management of forest resources leading to mitigation of climate hence reduction of green house gas emission. The protection of forest and ecosystem habitat such as forest grooves, sacred rivers/ponds and the protection of certain forest which are considered as abode for the gods and goddesses are means of conservation and management of forest resources. The authors recommended a synergy between Africa Traditional Religious strategy in the conservation and management of forest resources and modern method of conservation amongst others.