AN INVESTIGATIVE STUDY OF RELIGIOUS TOURISM AS A CATALYST FOR DEVELOPMENT IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study focused on religious tourism and Development in Nigeria’s tourism: A study of Lagos State. Specifically, this study examined the major religious tourism activities, the social benefits of religious tourism, the economic benefits of religious tourism, and the challenges hindering the development of religious tourism in Lagos. The study employed the survey research method to collect primary data by administering a questionnaire. Secondary data were collected from relevant materials such as textbooks, journal articles, seminar papers, and periodicals. The study used the entire population of 110 respondents selected from a major religious tourism destination in Lagos. A simple percentage was used as an analytical technique. The theoretical literature adopted for the study is the theory of modernization, collaboration theory, and the theory of planned behavior. The study framework is based on a systems approach. The study found that religious tourism improves social well-being and quality of life and promotes morality in tourism communities. It was also discovered that religious tourism increases job opportunities and contributes to income and standard of living. The study therefore recommends the development of infrastructure by building world-class accommodation and efficient transport systems that connect with religious sites to develop religious tourism products and services. Religious administrators should also enhance safety and security measures to make visitors comfortable and protect them during their stay in tourism sites.