Constraints of tourism development in Port Harcourt tourism beach, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examines constraints of tourism development in Port Harcourt Tourist Beach, Rivers State, Nigeria and makes appropriate recommendations for the improvement of tourism performance at the beach using personal observation, in-depth interview and structured questionnaires. Two sets of questionnaires were used for the study. The first setwas administered to all the 4 staff of the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach. The second set was randomly administered to 80 tourist respondents, although only 70 were retrieved and used for the study. Data obtained was analyzed using descriptive statistics in form of percentages, frequencies, tables, and charts, while Chi-square was used to test for significance of  relationships. Results revealed that constraints of tourism development in Port Harcourt Tourist beach were inadequate funding (100%), lack of adequate personnel (100%), insecurity (100%), shortage of tourist facilities (100%), dilapidated facilities (100%), lack of tourist accommodation (100%), lack of conveniences for tourists (100%), inadequate attractions (75%),lack of support from state  government (100%) andpoor advertisement (75%). Chi square test showed no significant association between the tourist age, gender, and  satisfaction (p>0.05). However, there is a significant association between tourist occupation and satisfaction (x2 = 9.492) at (p< 0.05).Most tourist respondents were not satisfied with the attractions available in the destination and the management of the site because the few attractions in the beach are not in good condition. Most visitors to Port Harcourt beach can hardly repeat visits.With improved funding, well trained personnel, provision of diverse tourist attractions and facilities, this destination could be a major tourist attraction for both local and foreign visitors.

Key words: Attractions, facilities, Port Harcourt Tourist Beach, tourist, tourism development