Crime Rate and Tourism in Nigeria

Blessing Odunayo Omole

Bachelor's thesis

Abstract:

This study investigates the impact of crime rates on tourism in Nigeria, focusing on the period from 2003 to 2022. Utilizing time series data from the Nigerian Police Force and the National Bureau of Statistics, the research examines the correlation between various crime categories and tourism trends. The analysis reveals significant fluctuations in crime rates, including murder, armed robbery, assault, abduction/kidnapping, bribery and corruption, and burglary. These crimes have shown distinct trends, reflecting the dynamic nature of criminal activities in Nigeria. The study highlights that high crime rates, particularly armed robbery and kidnapping, have a substantial negative impact on tourism arrivals. The regression analysis indicates that crime rates, alongside the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly influence tourism trends, with armed robbery contributing an additional 11.5% to the variation in tourism arrivals beyond the effects of COVID-19. The findings underscore the critical role of security in shaping the tourism sector's performance. The study also identifies key tourism indicators such as tourism arrivals, the number of establishments, bed spaces, and total expenditures, which have experienced significant fluctuations due to both internal and external factors. The research concludes that addressing security challenges is crucial for revitalizing tourism and achieving long-term growth. By addressing these challenges, Nigeria can unlock the full potential of its tourism industry and contribute to economic growth and development.

Keywords

Crime rates, Regression analysis, Tourism, Nigeria, Kidnapping, Armed robbery

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 26. 3. 2025

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: Ing. Zuzana Pacáková, Ph.D.
• Reader: Karel Tomšík, Ing.

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Economics and Management

Bachelor programme:
Business Administration