EMERGING ISSUES IN TOURISM/RECREATIONAL PLANNING IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES A CASE-STUDY OF TARKWA BAY LAGOS, NIGERIA

Abstract

Recreational planning and management in developing countries have taken a downturn over the years as various issues have resulted to this.  The need to build the tourism and recreation industry in developing countries cannot be overemphasized. However, it has been perceived that one of the major issues faced with recreational planning and tourism development is lack of adequate attention from relevant stakeholders of this sector. This study sets to investigate the challenges facing recreational planning and tourism development in Lagos state; using tarkwa bay as the case study for this research. The qualitative and quantitative approach were both utilized in the course of this research work. A total of 200 questionnaires were administered, and 193 was returned. The study revealed that there are various other factors that could influence the development of recreation and tourism planning in developing countries. In order to resolve some of these constraints, it is suggested that the government should give priority to the development of open spaces. This will further improve the tourism and recreational industry of the state. Also, certain policies should be implemented by the major stakeholders in this sector; this would set a pace in the economic development of the country and ensure the general well-being.