Constraints and Challenges of Event Tourism Development in Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

In developed countries, events are regarded as viable strategies for tourism development. But, in many emerging economies, such as Nigeria, the nonchalant attitude of government and poor implementation of policies have affected the sustainable development of event tourism. This paper discusses the constraints and challenges facing event tourism in Abia State, Nigeria using Ekpe cultural festival. Adopting ethnographic research approaches, the perception of community members drawn from two communities– Umunkpeyi and Isingwu were investigated. Staff of tourism agencies were also interviewed. Analysis of results identified themes. The paper argues that these themes must be addressed for event tourism development in the study area.