Orimaye Jacob Oluwafemi, Anifowose Oluwafemi Dele
Monkeys in Nigerian forests have frequently led to conflicts between communities and wildlife conservationists. In contrast, Malaysia's approach to wildlife conservation, which emphasises tolerance for monkeys, has proven highly effective. This paper examines the potential for entrepreneurship in wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism in Nigeria's forests by adopting Malaysia's monkey tolerance strategies. The research employed a mixed-methods approach that included a review of the relevant literature, online surveys, and interviews with key stakeholders. The findings suggest that the Malaysian approach to wildlife conservation could be adapted to the forests of Nigeria. To achieve this, there must be a shift in the perception of monkeys commonly viewed as pests and crop threats. Inadequate infrastructure, funding, and a lack of political will were obstacles to adopting Malaysia's approach to wildlife conservation in Nigeria. The study proposes that wildlife conservationists in Nigeria promote ecotourism to generate income while protecting monkeys' natural habitat. The Nigerian government, wildlife conservation sector and stakeholders collaborate to address these challenges. Adopting Malaysia's tolerance for monkeys in Nigeria's forests could offer a significant entrepreneurial opportunity in wildlife conservation and responsible tourism and will require a change in perspective about monkeys and significant investments in infrastructure, funding, and political will. This strategy could benefit the government, conservationists and local communities if successfully implemented.