Determinants of International Tourism Demand in Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract

International tourism demand in Nigeria lags behind other African countries irrespective of the potentials embedded as a tourism hotspot. There is need therefore, for Nigeria to offer demand driven tourism products that ensure visitors come to Nigeria for the purpose of her tourism offer. Motivated by this need, the study investigated the determinants of international tourism demand in Nigeria. Respondents of this study were international tourists departing Nigeria through Muritala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA). MMIA was purposively selected because it is the largest International airport in Nigeria with the highest number of tourist patronage. Secondary data were obtained across 2013 to 2016 from the statistics Department, Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria(FAAN) through the Nigeria Immigration service. Structured questionnaires were administered to tourists departing Nigeria. The data obtained were analysed using descriptive statistics and linear regression model. The result of the study revealed that across 2013 to 2016, Africans made up 30.72% of the international tourists that visited the country, while other continents shared the remaining proportion. Friends and relatives, paid holiday entitlements and colleagues were strong factors that influenced decisions to visit Nigeria. It is therefore recommended that all stakeholders and managers should implore measures that would champion Nigeria, not only for business ground, but also a tourism haven that would attract other countries with higher economy.