SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT OF CULTURAL TOURISM SITES IN BENIN CITY, EDO STATE, NIGERIA

This study examined the socio-economic impact of cultural tourism sites in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the relationship between Benin culture and the tourism sites in Benin City, investigated the contributions of the tourism sites and attractions to tourism development in Benin City, the study identified the contribution of these tourism sites to the welfare and economic development of the residents of Benin City and the study examined the factors responsible for preference of cultural heritage destination in Benin City. The population of this study comprised of all residents of Benin City in Edo State. The sample of the study consisted of 100 respondents which comprised male and female residing within Benin City Metropolis. Random sampling technique was used to administered the questionnaire. Data collected were presented in tables with simple percentage and were analyzed. The result of the analysis and testing shows that there is strong relationship between Benin culture and the historic sites. That historic sites and attractions in Benin City contribute tremendously to tourism development. Also, tourism creates opportunities to develop new amenities and recreation facilities that would not otherwise be viable in a community. Based on the findings the study therefore recommended that people should value and promote cultural tourism sites, community/town should develop good attitudes toward promoting cultural tourism sites.