TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT. ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS. iv
CHAPTER ONE. 1
INTRODUCTION. 1
1.1 Background to the Study. 1
1.2` Statement of the Problem.. 3
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 4
1.4 Research Questions. 5
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 5
1.6 Significance of the Study. 6
1.7 Scope of the Study. 6
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 7
1.9 Organization of the Study. 7
1.10 Definition of Terms. 8
2.1 Introduction. 11
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 11
2.2.1 Triple Bottom Line Theory. 11
2.2.2 Carrying Capacity Theory. 12
2.2.3 Community-Based Tourism Theory. 12
2.2.4 Tourism-Led Local Economic Development Theory. 12
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 13
2.3.1 Overview.. 13
2.4 Empirical Review.. 16
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 18
CHAPTER THREE. 20
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY. 20
3.1 Research Design. 20
3.2 Study Area. 20
3.3 Population of the Study. 21
3.4 Sample Size and Sampling Techniques. 21
3.5 Data Collection Methods. 22
3.6 Research Instrumentation. 22
3.7 Data Analysis Techniques. 23
3.8 Ethical Considerations. 23
3.9 Limitations of the Study. 24
CHAPTER FOUR. 25
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION. 25
4.1 Preamble. 25
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 25
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS. 29
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one: 29
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 43
4.5 Discussion of Findings. 45
CHAPTER FIVE. 48
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 48
5.1 Summary of Findings. 48
5.2 Conclusion. 49
5.3 Recommendations. 49
REFERENCES. 52
APPENDICES. 56
APPENDIX I: RESEARCH QUESTIONNAIRE. 56
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Tourism is a broad and complex concept (Parfinenko et al., 2019; Prokopenko et al., 2019). Marine tourism encompasses a wide range of services, including marine tour operators, cruise ships, charter companies, ports, the underwater tourism industry and land-based services. These include activities such as recreational diving, snorkeling, sport fishing and wildlife viewing, all of which contribute significantly to both the economy and conservation efforts (UNWTO, 2020). Pristine beaches, rich marine ecosystems and vibrant marine life attract tourists from home and abroad and promote economic growth by creating jobs and generating revenue (Oladipo et al., 2021).
Furthermore, the role of governance, including laws, regulations, policies and the involvement of leaders from the public and scientific community, is crucial in shaping the future of marine tourism and ensuring its sustainable development. The tourists themselves, the population of the tourist regions and their level of social and economic development also play a crucial role in the growth of tourism. In addition, tourism is inextricably linked to the natural environment of the seas and oceans and coastal areas, since the goal of most tourist recreational trips is close interaction with nature.
On the other hand, sustainable development is a core principle for developing countries, industries and territories as a whole (Shvets et al., 2023; Prokopenko et al., 2021; Prokopenko & Miśkiewicz, 2020). As a socio-ecological-economic development priority, sustainable development is consistent with international cooperation frameworks, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) (United Nations, 2015). The concept of sustainable tourism is fully integrated into the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, whose implementation in member countries is managed by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
Marine tourism plays a central role in the sustainable development of Nigeria, a country blessed with such rich coastal resources that stretch over 850 kilometers along the Gulf of Guinea. The long-term ecological balance and protection of fragile marine ecosystems depend on sustainable marine tourism practices (Aluko et al. (2019). Nigerian coastal areas, including the Niger Delta and the Lagos coast, are significant marine tourism hotspots, providing opportunities for environmental education and cross-cultural Interaction (Ibe et al. 2022).
Adopting responsible tourism practices, backed by strong community involvement and efficient government policies, are crucial for reducing the harmful environmental impacts of tourism on marine ecosystems (World Bank, 2022). 2018). Marine tourism has the potential to greatly enhance Nigeria's economy while preserving its natural beauty for future generations. Supporting eco-friendly tour operators and initiatives like marine protected areas are key ways to achieve this goal (Adeniji et al., 2023).
However, to fully unlock this potential, the marine tourism industry needs significant investment in infrastructure and a focus on building the capacity of local communities (NBS, 2023). The purpose of this study is to investigate how marine tourism contributes to sustainable development in Nigeria, using Ibeno Beach as a case study.
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1.2` Statement of the Problem
The role of marine tourism in sustainable development in Nigeria presents a multifaceted challenge influenced by diverse factors. Despite Nigeria's extensive coastline and rich marine biodiversity, the sector faces significant sustainability issues rooted in inadequate infrastructure, environmental degradation, and socio-economic disparities (UNWTO, 2020). The lack of comprehensive policy frameworks tailored to sustainably manage marine tourism activities exacerbates these challenges, leading to potential overexploitation of marine resources and degradation of coastal ecosystems (Oladipo et al., 2021). Moreover, the uneven distribution of economic benefits from marine tourism among local communities often perpetuates socio-economic inequalities, undermining the sector's potential as a driver of inclusive development (Aluko et al., 2019).
The environmental impacts of marine tourism in Nigeria also pose critical concerns. Activities such as unregulated coastal development, pollution from tourist vessels, and improper waste management threaten marine habitats and biodiversity (World Bank, 2018). These issues are compounded by climate change effects, including sea level rise and ocean acidification, which further jeopardize the resilience of coastal ecosystems and the sustainability of marine tourism operations (Adeniji et al., 2023). Addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach that integrates effective policy formulation, community engagement, and sustainable tourism practices to mitigate environmental impacts and enhance socio-economic benefits equitably across Nigeria's coastal regions (NNDC, 2022).Top of Form
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1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the role of marine tourism in sustainable development in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To assess the economic potential of marine tourism in Nigeria
- To analyze the social and environmental impacts of marine tourism development in Nigeria
- To evaluate policy frameworks and stakeholder collaboration for sustainable marine tourism in Nigeria
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What are the current economic contributions of marine tourism to Nigeria's GDP and job creation, particularly in coastal communities?
- How can marine tourism development empower local communities through participation, skills training and cultural preservation?
- What existing policies and regulations are relevant to sustainable marine tourism development in Nigeria? Are there any gaps or inconsistencies that need to be addressed?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant relationship between marine tourism and sustainable development in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Marine Science sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analyzed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organizations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Ibeno Beach. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Marine Tourism
Marine tourism refers to leisure activities and travel experiences that occur in coastal and marine environments, including activities such as diving, snorkeling, fishing, and coastal cruises.
2. Sustainable Development
Sustainable development in the context of marine tourism involves meeting the needs of current tourists and host regions while preserving and enhancing opportunities for future generations. It encompasses economic, environmental, and social dimensions.
3. Ecotourism
Ecotourism focuses on responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of local people, and involves interpretation and education. In marine tourism, it emphasizes minimizing environmental impacts and promoting conservation efforts.
4. Community-Based Tourism
Community-based tourism involves local communities directly in the tourism activities and decision-making processes, ensuring they benefit economically and socially from tourism while preserving their cultural and natural heritage.
5. Marine Conservation
Marine conservation refers to the protection and preservation of ecosystems in oceans and seas. In the context of marine tourism, it involves efforts to mitigate negative impacts such as pollution, habitat destruction, and overfishing.
6. Tourism Carrying Capacity
Tourism carrying capacity refers to the maximum number of tourists that can visit a destination without causing environmental degradation or exceeding the tolerance limits of the local community.
7. Blue Economy
The blue economy refers to sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems. It encompasses various sectors including fisheries, renewable energy, marine tourism, and biotechnology.
