Tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, contributing significantly to economic diversification, employment creation, and community development. Ecotourism, in particular, has emerged as a sustainable development approach that promotes environmental conservation while enhancing local livelihoods. Despite Nigeria’s abundant natural and cultural resources, many ecotourism destinations remain underdeveloped due to inadequate infrastructure, weak planning frameworks, limited community participation, and poor policy implementation. Farin Ruwa Waterfall in Wamba Local Government Area of Nasarawa State typifies this challenge, as its vast ecological and cultural assets remain largely untapped. This study assessed the ecotourism potentials of Farin Ruwa Waterfall and examined its implications for sustainable development in Wamba Local Government Area through the identification of natural and cultural tourism attractions at Farin Ruwa Fall and identification of potential tourism products that can be developed at the Waterfall. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Data were obtained through reconnaissance surveys and structured questionnaires administered to tourists and local residents, and analyzed using descriptive statistical techniques. Findings reveal that Farin Ruwa Waterfall possesses exceptional scenic, recreational, scientific, and biodiversity values, complemented by rich cultural traditions and strong community support for ecotourism development. However, poor access roads, inadequate visitor facilities, weak basic services, and limited institutional management were identified as major constraints. The study concludes that Farin Ruwa Waterfall has high ecotourism potential but requires deliberate planning, infrastructure improvement, and community-based management. It recommends integrated planning, conservation strategies, community participation, and supportive policies to promote sustainable tourism development in Nasarawa State.

Keywords: Ecotourism, Sustainable Development, Tourism Planning, Farin Ruwa Waterfall, Wamba LGA, Nasarawa State.