EXAMINE THE STRATEGIC APPROACH FOR OPTIMAL DEVELOPMENT OF SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN PLATEAU STATE

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1. Background of the study

As the comprehension of sustainable development's influence on the future of the globe improves, every sector is urged to discover a sustainability solution specific to its own domain. Sustainability focuses on a specific set of moral ideals and principles that direct responsible and balanced activity, taking into account the environmental and social impacts of activities, as well as economic objectives [Font & Mccabe, 2017]. The term 'sustainable' is now used in several domains, including tourism, architecture, agriculture, and community development. Therefore, sustainability has emerged as a critical strategic concern for several businesses [Font & Mccabe, 2017]. As an example, the tourist sector, known for its rapid growth, is now striving to adopt sustainable and responsible practices. In addition, tourism, which is considered an essential sector for both economic and social progress, may have a positive impact on employment, total income, and output. Conversely, it might potentially have adverse impacts on the ecosystem [Butcher, 2017]. Inadequate planning and management of tourism may result in enduring harm to the physical, social, cultural, and economic aspects of a tourist destination. Hence, it is crucial to prioritise sustainable tourism as a prominent concern. The requirement of sustainable tourism arises from several factors, including the disturbance of the ecological balance caused by global warming, the erosion of societal values, and the inability to protect natural, historical, social, and cultural resources [Butcher, 2017].

According to Patterson (2016), the tourism industry is perhaps the only services sector that offers tangible and well-defined trade prospects for all countries, irrespective of their degree of development. He asserts that the sector's gains are distributed unevenly, posing a danger to the social, economic, and environmental sustainability of tourism in some emerging nations. The source cited is Goodwin (2017). Tourism has emerged as a significant catalyst for economic growth and diversification in several developing nations. Nigeria has not yet fully used tourism as a means of creating jobs, generating income, and mobilising money, despite having a population of over 170 million people. Developed nations dominate the global tourist industry, but an increasing number of developing countries are starting to capitalise on the significant potential presented by tourism. The reference is Milano (2017). However, this is only feasible among nations that possess all the necessary resources to foster tourism. The significant benefits in tourism may be attained via the presence of natural, artificial, cultural, and improved infrastructure that promotes the expansion and progress of tourism in the nation. Many developing nations, such as Nigeria, rely heavily on a monoeconomy, where the majority of their foreign income is generated by a single economic commodity, in this case, crude oil. Nevertheless, a growing number of these nations are recognising the significance of tourism and the need for economic diversification. Nigeria has always been recognised as a nation that exports petroleum, and it ranks among the top producers of this natural resource. The primary economic pillar of the nation is crude oil. Nevertheless, the nation has opted to participate in the experiment in order to broaden its economic base beyond crude oil production, with the aim of fostering more job creation and generating additional foreign revenue (Milano, 2017).

Nigeria has abundant tourism potential due to its possession of all the necessary attributes to be considered a prime destination for visitors. The nation has a diverse array of tourist opportunities, including natural, artificial, and cultural sites. However, there is a deficiency in the management, improvement, and supporting infrastructure around these attractions, hindering simple access and growth. Nevertheless, this region now has the highest commercial prospects in the nation. Patterson (2016) have outlined several advantages for both domestic and international investors who have faith in the business. The notion of sustainable tourism aims to achieve a balance and resolution between concerns of intergenerational fairness, economic development objectives, environmental preservation, and social justice. The statement acknowledges the need of ensuring equity among local persons and organisations, as well as between hosts and visitors (Patterson, 2016). Therefore, the study seeks examine the strategic approach for optimal development of sustainable tourism in Plateau state.

1. 1. Statement of the problem

Nigeria have the capacity to cultivate sustainable tourism; nonetheless, it encounters several obstacles that impede the optimum advancement of this sector. Insufficient transportation infrastructure, including highways, airports, and public transit, is a significant obstacle to the seamless movement of tourists throughout the nation (Patterson, 2016). The lack of access to essential amenities such as clean water, electricity, and healthcare in certain tourist destinations can have a negative impact on the overall tourist experience. Persistent security issues, including terrorism, insurgency, and general crime, can discourage potential tourists and investors from participating in the tourism sector. Insufficient marketing and promotional efforts, both domestically and internationally, can result in low visibility and awareness of Nigeria's tourist attractions. Inadequate environmental management and conservation practices can cause degradation of natural attractions, which can harm the long-term sustainability of tourism (Butcher, 2017). The rapid urbanisation and modernization can also lead to the erosion of traditional cultures and heritage, thereby diminishing the unique appeal of certain destinations. The absence of strategies to safeguard and advance cultural heritage may lead to the erosion of genuineness and distinctiveness in tourist attractions. Ultimately, the industry's growth may be hindered by the scarcity of financial resources allocated to the development of tourist infrastructure, marketing, and promotional endeavours (Butcher, 2017). To tackle these difficulties, it is necessary for the government, local communities, corporate sector, and other stakeholders to collaborate in a thorough and coordinated manner. This collaboration aims to provide a favourable climate that promotes sustainable tourism development in Nigeria. Hence, the need to examine the strategic approach for optimal development of sustainable tourism in Plateau State.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to examine the strategic approach for optimal development of sustainable tourism in Plateau state. The specific objectives is as follows

1. To examine the factors affectors affecting the sustainable development of tourism in Plateau State.

2. To find out if there is a significant relationship between strategic planning and sustainable development of tourism in Plateau State.

3. To identify the startegic approach required for the optimal development of sustainable tourism in Plateau State.

1.4 Research Questions

The following questions have been prepared to guide the study

1. What are the factors affectors affecting the sustainable development of tourism in Plateau State?

2. Is there a significant relationship between strategic planning and sustainable development of tourism in Plateau State?

3. What are the startegic approach required for the optimal development of sustainable tourism in Plateau State?

1.5 Significance of the study

The findings of the study will help in providing necessary information needed for the development and sustainability of tourism industry in Nigeria. It will be of benefit to the investors, the organized private sector, public sector and academic environment.

The findings of the study will be significant to the academic community as it will contribute to the existing literature.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on examine the strategic approach for optimal development of sustainable tourism in Plateau state. Hence, the study will examine the factors affectors affecting the sustainable development of tourism in Plateau State, find out if there is a significant relationship between strategic planning and sustainable development of tourism in Plateau State and identify the startegic approach required for the optimal development of sustainable tourism in Plateau State. Hence, the study is delimited to Plateau State.

1.7 Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. Insufficient funds tend to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire, and interview), which is why the researcher resorted to a moderate choice of sample size. More so, the researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. As a result, the amount of time spent on research will be reduced.

1.8 Definition of terms

Tourism: a social, cultural and economic phenomenon which entails the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes.