SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT OF LEKKI CONSERVATION CENTRE ON ITS HOST COMMUNITIES IN LAGOS STATE

Abstract

Conservation, the prudent use of natural resources and a close variant of ecotourism has been established as one of the newest opportunities for income generation and means of contributing to the economic wellbeing of the host communities from the natural environment surrounding them. At the same time, ecotourism minimises negative impacts on the environment and protects valued resource. To this end, the study examines the economic and social impact of Lekki Conservation Centre on its host community in Lagos State and suggests policy statements towards promoting ecotourism. Furthermore, the study adopted a survey design and obtained data through primary and secondary data sources for the methodology. Primary data on socio-economic characteristics of the residents, nature of LCC and the perceived impacts of LCC on the milieu were obtained through the reconnaissance survey, personal observation questionnaire administration and interview guide. Also, spatial data regarding the geographic location of facilities were collected using remote sensing techniques and handheld GPS. To this end, 1% (183 households) sampling size was taken from the zones under investigation. The staff working in the conservation centre also form part of the sample population for this research. However, quantitative data collected were analysed with Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 22.0 using univariate and multivariate analyses, while spatial data were analysed using ARCMAP version 10.5. Spatial analysis revealed that LCC covers a total area of 80hectares and contains different recreational spaces, including a large gazebo, nature walk area, canopy walk, treehouse, and family park. Quantitative analysis also revealed that the conservation centre had instituted many positive impacts on the lives of the residents living in the locale and improved social life in the area. The result of the regression analysis also revealed that income is a principal factor influencing the level of patronage to tourist centres and that a 100% improvement in patron’s income would increase the level of patronage of LCC by 31.5%. Conclusively, this study recommended an open penetrative campaign, review of resort plan and programs, upgrading of specific infrastructure, and adequate parking facilities to improve the social and economic benefit derived from the conservation centre.