Tourism Policy of a Sub-Region of the Niger Delta of Nigeria: An Evaluation

Abstract

This study evaluates the tourism policy of a sub-region of the Niger Delta of Nigeria on the basis of international standards for tourism development.  Attempt was made to highlight the tourism potentials and activities in the region.  The findings have revealed omissions of crucial issues in the available “tourism charter” of the region to include; role of the private sector, incentives to private participation, guidelines for investors and environmental conservation among others.  The paper recommends specialized institutional participation such as universities in the process of developing complete tourism policy for the region in order to ensure effective and sustainable tourism development.

Key words: Tourism policy, Tourism development, Niger Delta Region,  Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.