Natural heritage sites are historic and traditional monument that are basically the creation of nature. Many cultures in Nigeria hold natural heritage sites in absolute reverence and are therefore considered sacred. These sites have a long history of origin, associated with migration, settlement and
cultures. Notable examples of heritage sites in Nigeria are Osun Osogbo sacred groove, Ogbunike cave, Ikogosi warm spring, Argungu River to mention but a few.
One of the reasons for managing heritage sites is to ensure that the importance derived by society by virtue of their existence, is sustained and that the integrity of the sites is maintained for posterity.
Some heritage sites across Nigeria are under the threats of depletion, degradation and in some cases outright extinction.
The threat from natural disaster have been found to pose threat to the existence of sites. Among these phenomena include drought, thunderstorm, flood, landslide, etc.
Conflicts within the community and civil wars could also pose serious danger to the existence of natural sites. Due to disruption of economic activities, forced evacuation and abandonment of settlements (homes) migrants often take refuge
in these sites and ultimately desecrate the entity. Communal clashes have in most communities led to the annihilation of their natural heritage sites.
Increase in the population of the communities and the attendant population
pressure on the limited land resources has led to inevitable encroachment on
the heritage sites for cultivation. The development of towns and cities have seriously threatened the existence of heritage sites.
Education and improved standard of living leads to change in habits, attitude and beliefs. Generally the younger generation are not favourably disposed to
reverencing natural heritage sites. Most young people are no longer interested in living in tandem with the cultural requirement that were associated with the sustainability of the natural sites.
Conflict between indigenous and alien cultures are the problems often emphasized in the area of religion. For example, Christianity view natural heritage sites as societal cultures that are primitive and at variance with Christian beliefs. Consequently, the ever increasing numbers of alien religion adherents see the degradation and extinction of natural heritage sites as victory in evangelism.
The natural heritage sites and associated
festivals/ceremonies in many communities/clans have been on progressive decline and degradation due to religious invasion.
It should be stated that if care is not taken, in the next 50 years, the war on extinction of heritage sites would be an illusion, except urgent steps are taken.