Impact of tourism industry on poverty eradication in southern Nigeria

Abstract

This research work examined the impact of tourism industry on poverty eradication in southern Nigeria. Tourism industry refers to the economic sector that encompasses various activities related to the travel and leisure of people to destinations outside their usual environment. The objective of the study investigated the effect of restaurants establishment on job creation and effect of tourist attractions on increased health Care,  problem of study  include lack of comprehensive data, unequal distribution of benefits, inadequate infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and limited capacity building opportunities all pose significant challenges to achieving poverty reduction through tourism. The tourism industry has the potential to stimulate economic activities in various sectors such as hospitality, transportation, arts and crafts, and cultural heritage, thus providing multiple avenues for poverty reduction. The researchers made use of  survey  research  method, where  150 questionnaires  was administered to staffs and tourists  at the chosen attractions. Data was analyzed descriptively using frequency distribution tables and simple percentage in order of research question. The researchers also tested hypotheses using chi- square statistical techniques. From the researcher's findings, the study revealed that tourism  industry such as restaurants establishments , tourists attractions has significant positive impact on  poverty eradication in southern Nigeria. This research concludes that balancing economic gains with social and environmental responsibility is essential for maximizing the positive impact of tourism on poverty eradication. The researchers recommends that Governments, businesses, and communities should collaborate to create policies that prioritize social and environmental responsibility while harnessing the economic potential of tourism for poverty alleviation, and also investing in education and skills development for local communities can enhance their capacity to participate in and benefit from the tourism sector.