ABSTRACT

The research study was designed Lu examine the impact of the tourism on the socio-economic development of the eastern Nigeria. The objective of the study were to know the impact of the industry to the socio-economic development, the performance of tourism, determine the role of public-private sector partnership in tourism development and out those problems militating against tourism development and also how best to alleviate them. 300 Respondents (staff, tourists and students) were selected from Obudu Cattle Ranch, Tourism Bureau Calabar, Oguta lake in Imo state and Hotel management and Tourism department in Abia state. Data were collected from these mentioned places using structured questionnaire. Simple statistical tools such as frequencies, percentages and mean scores were used in the data analysis. The findings from the research study indicated that 89.0% representing 267 persons agreed that tourism has contributed to the up-liftmen of the standard of living iii tile study area. 79.0% shows the riced for public-private sector partnership in finding tourism. The quality of service rendered and facility standard measured below average mean standard of 2.25 which remains that something has to be done to improve quality service and the facilities In order to meet up with the international standard. It is recommended that Government and Private Sectors should sponsor research and manpower development programmes to meet current tourism demand and also Banks and al1ie.financial institutions should be encouraged to see tourism as a booming industry with bright prospects and extend credit lines to private entrepreneurs wishing to embark n viable tourism project.