THE IMPACTS OF EVENT TOURISM ON HOST COMMUNITIES IN IDAH LOCAL GOVERNMENT OF KOGI STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

It is a well-known fact that tourism is a sector that can contribute to the economic growth of a region. Moreover, tourism produces social benefits to the region (i.e. small and medium sized enterprises’ development, creation of new jobs, improvement of infrastructure etc). Culturally, tourism is said to be an element of community enrichment also, tourism can positively contribute to the maintenance of a natural environment by protecting, creating or maintaining national parks or other protected areas. The main objective of the study was to examine the impacts of event tourism on host communities using Idah Local Government Area in Kogi State, to achieve the stated objectives the study employed qualitative and quantitative methods to elicit data from the respondents. The study used non-probability purposive sampling to select study participants; accordingly a total of 40 respondents were selected and participated in the study. The survey data revealed divers perceptions of event tourism impacts on host community (Idah Local Government Area in Kogi State, Nigeria). Majority of the respondents recognized it positive influence on local business revenue (65%), job creation (75%), the growth and sustainability of business (60%). Socially and culturally event tourism is perceived to enhance community pride (50%), promote cultural exchange (60%), and preserve cultural heritage (75%). The study recommended that the economic benefits of event tourism are distributed more evenly among local businesses; strategies must be implemented to support small and medium enterprises.