CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Tourism is a significant factor in every country around the world; it is one of the most important sectors of the economy. Tourism helps to boost the economies of third-world countries and has an effect on the host society in this world of globalization where change is constant.Tourism is the world's biggest and fastest-growing sector. Tourism is supported by international institutions because of its contribution to world peace, poverty alleviation, and the mixing of people and cultures.Nigeria, a third-world nation in Africa, is endowed with a rich cultural heritage and tourism potential, as well as a diverse range of opportunities. Nigeria is endowed with abundant natural resources, which can support the host nation and raise the population's quality of living. By income raised from game reserves and inflow, tourism generates employment and provides a source of internal revenue for host communities.Coastal lines envelop African countries, making them more appealing to tourists, such as the beaches in Lagos, Nigeria, the world's highest sand dunes in South Africa, and the wild life journey in Tanzania's safari. With these tourism potentials, tourism becomes increasingly important in developed countries, particularly given the abundance of untapped natural resources within the shores of these African countries.Tourism is drawing more regional and foreign investment, and the returns are rising.The sector's investments are also among the largest in the country. There are many international hotel chains.expanding across Africa, seeing investment opportunities and investing millions of dollars in new ventures over the next few years to satisfy increased demand from foreign visitors as well as the continent's own fast-growing middle class..( Cooper,C. et al 2008, 31.)
Nigeria is an African nation located along the continent's western coast. Long blue beaches, rivers and streams, trees, spectacular views of waterfalls, and a tranquil atmosphere abound in this region. The natural beauty of Nigeria is a major factor in the country's tourism growth. Nigeria is a West African country with a population of more than 150 million inhabitants.(Lagos live, 2006.)Nigeria has a diverse selection of tourist attractions. It is a coastal nation, and the long beaches and marine activities are the key draws for visitors. Other attractions include ancient landmarks, thrilling journeys through tropical forests, wildlife exploration, art and music, and the country's way of life.The country's traditions and culture represent the simplicity of the people's way of life. Nigerian markets show handicrafts and sculptures, hotels and other lodging facilities reflect warm hospitality and local traditions, and the country's natural beauty is enhanced by the quiet and peaceful climate. These elements ensure that the memories of the Nigeria tour can last a lifetime. (Khuoje 2013.).
Lagos state is a port city and Nigeria's most populous city. It is Africa's second-fastest-growing city and the world's seventh-fastest-growing city. According to the Lagos State Government, the population of Lagos was 17.5 million. The Nigerian government, on the other hand, disputes these numbers, which the National Population Commission of Nigeria has deemed inaccurate. According to the most recent estimates, the population is estimated to be 21 million people.making Lagos the largest city in Africa (Khuoje 2013.).
Nigeria's tourism potential is closely related to the quality of life because it allows tourists to take a break from the challenges and pressures of daily life in their native environment by providing a relaxing environment and opportunities to do something new and less frustrating (Page 2009, 4)
Kidnapping has been recorded in Nigeria for different causes over the last few decades, but it has not been a big concern. However, kidnapping has become more common in Nigeria in recent years, and it is now a major concern, especially for international tourists who are often targeted by brutal kidnappers (Bakare, 2020) .Kidnapping is one of the societal vices that Nigeria is currently dealing with, and based on all reports, the kidnappers seem to have the upper hand over the law enforcement agencies tasked with ensuring the country's protection, stability, and tranquility (Maxwell, 2011).According to the Nigerian Constitution, abduction is a violation of the basic rights to freedom of travel and association, and it is illegal under Nigerian penal codes and laws. Kidnappers, on the other hand, have not been deterred by this (Ofo, 2010).On a regular basis, all national and local media houses publish and electronically focus on how innocent civilians have been abducted, as well as how the government and law enforcement authorities are incapable of combating the violence (Ukandu, 2011).Furthermore, it is having a negative effect on tourism, as foreign visitors are gradually fearful of being victims of kidnappings in Nigeria, and therefore want to travel to safer countries.This is having a negative impact on Nigeria's tourism foreign exchange earnings and revenues, growth, and development, particularly on the lodging and hospitality industries, which have the "potential to generate substantial foreign exchange earnings, jobs, and investment toward economic development" (Adora, 2010).
1.3 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY
i. To investigate if crime is the primary impediment to the growth of tourism.
ii. To examine the impacts of politics and power struggles between stakeholder groups on tourism planning and development.
1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS
I. Is crime the primary impediment to the growth of tourism in Nigerian communities?
iii. What impact does politics and power struggles between various stakeholder groups have on tourism planning and development?
1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
It is imperative to consider this topic as observance for research purposes being that the gains from tourism is enormous and cut across the entire globe.
1.6 SCOPE OF THE STUDY
The scope of this study is basically centered on the tourism industry of Lagos, Nigeria
1.7 LIMITATION OF STUDY
The researcher's research material was inadequate, restricting the study; additionally, time constrains.
1.8 DEFINITION OF TERMS
CRIME: A crime is a wrongdoing that is punishable by the government or any jurisdiction.
TOURISM:The transfer of people from their usual place of residence to another place (with the intention of returning) for a minimum of twenty-four hours to a maximum of six months for the sole purpose of leisure and pleasure can be described as tourism.
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