Development of Zuma Rock as Tourism Destination and the Prospect for National Economic Growth

Abstract

Numerous tourist destinations in Nigeria with a variety of attractions have failed to achieve their tourism capacities due to lack of  strategic development to stimulate economic growth in the host communities and the nation at large. This study therefore evaluates the  potential of developing Zuma Rock as a tourism Destination and the prospects for national economic growth of Nigeria. The data for this  study was generated from primary and secondary sources. Observation and interview techniques were employed in which 35  respondents comprising head district, hotel employees and community residents were interviewed. Responses articulated were analyzed  using Destination Competitive Tourism Model. The finding reveals that Zuma Rock qualifies to be a Tourism destination; therefore if it is  fully developed it will contribute significantly to the economic growth of Nigeria through job creation, income generation by the host  community, foreign exchange earnings and revenue to government. It has been recommended that government should intensified  efforts in providing social amenities, tight security surveillance to curtail the menace of kidnapping and armed robbery in the area. Private participation in the areas of investment and destination promotion should be encouraged to fully harness the potentialities of  Zuma Rock as a viable tourism destination.