This article was originally published as: TOURISM AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC WELLBEING OF PEOPLE IN CALABAR MUNICIPALITY, CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA
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Abstract
This research aims to explore the connection between tourism and the socio-economic well-being of the residents of Calabar Municipality in Cross River State, Nigeria. To achieve this objective, three research questions and corresponding hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. The study involved a sample size of four hundred respondents (400), employing a descriptive survey research approach. The primary data collection tool utilized was a research questionnaire, and data analysis involved chi-square, simple percentages, and tables. The study’s findings indicate a significant correlation between tourism activities in Calabar Municipality and family income. This suggests that the income of many families in the area experiences a notable increase during peak tourism events, such as the renowned Calabar Carnival. The research underscores the substantial impact of these business potentials on the residents of Calabar Municipality, particularly during festive periods and the height of carnival activities. Additionally, it was observed that the income-generating capacity of residents receives a significant boost during peak tourism periods. Based on these findings, several recommendations are proposed. Firstly, the government should promptly initiate awareness campaigns and expose the community to the opportunities presented by the tourism industry through channels such as community mobilization, engagement with local chiefs, and collaboration with youth and faith-based organizations. Furthermore, there is a need to highlight the role of non-governmental organizations in contributing to the enhancement of the socio-economic well-being of the residents.
Authors
- OKOI OFEM NNANA (UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR, CALABAR, NIGERIA)
- BLESSING UPEH UGAL (UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR, CALABAR, NIGERIA)
- UBI UBI OMINI (UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR, CALABAR, NIGERIA)
- KINGSLEY TIKU NSAN (UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR, CALABAR, NIGERIA)
Keywords
Tourism, Socio-economic wellbeing, Family income, Tourism activities, Business potentials, Income generation capacity
References
References not available for this article.
