Pokharnessing Local Festivals for Tourism Promotion in Parts of Benue State

Abstract

Local festivals are increasingly being used as instrument for promoting tourism and boosting the regional economy. This is often reflected in the level of public assistance made available to these festivals. However, it is sometimes difficult to assess the contribution of traditional festivals to the growth of local economies. This study looks at three traditional festivals that take place annually in Benue State of Nigeria (Ejalekw, Igede Agbah, Kwagh-hir). These festivals have very rich cultural heritage, cultural norms and customs. This research examined them, their tourism potentialities and how they can boost socio-economic development in Benue State.