Assessment of the Structural Effects of Ebola Disease Outbreak on Bush Meat Enterprise in Nigeria: Implications on Biodiversity Conservation

Abstract

Aim: The paper assesses the structural effects of Ebola disease outbreak on bush meat enterprise in Nigeria and its implication on biodiversity conservation. Study Design: The study employs survey research approach. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, between January 2016 and September 2016. Methodology: Random sampling technique was used to select 100 respondents using structured questionnaires. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, multiple regression, and chow test. Results: The result showed that there was a drop in the levels of sales and consumption of bush meat during the Ebola disease outbreak which lasted for three (3) months. However, bush meat sales and consumption returned to normal immediately Nigeria was declared Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) free. The regression’s result pointed out that family size and income had significant and positive relationship with level of sales of bush meat. The chow test also showed a structural change in the level of sales as a result of the Ebola outbreak. Conclusion: It is posited that the structural change in the sales and consumption of bush meat as a result of Ebola disease outbreak presented a unique opportunity for stakeholders to formulate and implement policies that will engender forest faunal conservation in the country, through targeted investment in public education, policy implementation and awareness creation about the health and biodiversity effects of bush meat consumption.