A review of the hotel industry in Nigeria: size, structure and issues

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the dynamics that define, govern and shape the tourism and hospitality sector in Nigeria, in particular, the hotel industry with respect to its size, structure and salient issues that impact on it. Design/methodology/approach To explain the dynamics within the hotel sector, primary survey data from STR Global were used. In addition, content analysis of secondary data from government, education and industry sources were used to identify the issues within the industry. Findings The findings show positive indicators for employment and further expansion within the hotel sector in Nigeria. However, the lack of supporting institutions, legal frameworks and industry representation makes the management of human resources an area of concern. Research limitations/implications The findings of this research are limited due to the sample size and to the lack of publicly available data from government, education and industry. However, the implications suggest the need for a research agenda for the tourism and hospitality industry in Nigeria. This will create the framework to understand and improve best practices particularly with institutional frameworks, employment and human capital development. Originality/value The gap in the literature concerning any systematic review of the hotel industry in Nigeria makes this research timely, as it synthesises widely different sources into a coherent whole. This will help to form a reference point for future research in the field.