Community-Based Homestay as a Form of Sustainable Tourism in Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the potential for developing community-based homestays in Nigeria. Community-based homestays are a sustainable form of tourism that has the capacity to promote the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With its abundant natural and cultural resources, Nigeria has not yet fully utilized these potentials for community-based homestays, which could serve as a strategy for the sustainable development of local communities facing livelihood challenges. Stakeholder theory serves as the theoretical foundation for this study, particularly in its application to a nascent concept. We proposed a framework for effective tourism development in Nigeria, focusing on acceptability, feasibility, and potential outcomes. Qualitative research was conducted through focus group discussions (FDGs) with purposively selected tourism stakeholders, including academia, tour operators, NGOs, and local communities, and further analyzed thematically. The study emphasizes that embracing stakeholder theory rather than relying on a top-down approach is crucial for effectively addressing the varied concerns of key participants before launching community-based homestay tourism. This approach seeks to maximize benefits while minimizing challenges. The result shows that developing community-based homestay tourism in Nigeria is achievable if all stakeholders work together to create supportive tourism policies and agree on a collaborative management framework for the initiative. Furthermore, it is essential to consider the needs of residents by including them in the homestay management committee. Local communities should receive sufficient funding, and effective marketing strategies must be put in place to promote the initiative. To ensure acceptance of homestay tourism among local communities, it is vital to communicate its benefits to potential operators, respect local cultures, and guarantee that economic gains are shared fairly.

1. Introduction

Discussions about the need to expand Nigeria’s economy have become more prevalent after the global oil price fell in 2014. The idea of broadening the economic base for revenue and productivity is currently under consideration. Economic diversification may entail leveraging the relatively untapped tourism sector for a developing nation like Nigeria, which is highly dependent on oil and has significant tourism potential. Ajogbeje et al. [1] state that tourism is a viable industry that should be included in the diversification plan. Furthermore, Trang et al. [2] demonstrated that tourism fosters global economic growth in nations. The potential of tourism is promising, but it also comes with risks and challenges.

The tourism sector in Nigeria has significant economic potential, with its unique natural and cultural tourist attractions scattered across the country. Apart from the natural tourist attractions, various traditional and cultural events attract many visitors to Nigerian communities [3], although in an unstructured manner. By 2024, the projected revenue of the sector was estimated to be USD 3312 million, and the market is expected to grow annually at a rate of 11.23%, resulting in a projected market volume of USD 5639 million by 2029. It appears to be somewhat challenging for Nigeria to achieve this feat due to the structure of the tourism administration and the neglect of the national tourism policy [4]. In Nigeria, the tourism sector is managed using a top-down approach, often leading the government to overlook the inclusion of relevant stakeholders, especially local communities. These communities are crucial stakeholders in the national tourism policy, as highlighted by Oloidi [4], and should play an active role in driving tourism development plans within rural areas [5].

Due to the top-down approach and the overlook of locals’ inclusion, the tourism industry in Nigeria faces challenges in contributing to local economic growth [6]. Despite its potential to enhance socio-economic and cultural values, poverty and unemployment remain high [7] at the community level. The UNWTO [8] highlights the role of small, micro, and medium-sized tourism enterprises (SMMEs) in reducing poverty, particularly at the local level. The government and private sector should invest in local economic development and community-based tourism (CBT) to stimulate business activity, create jobs, and promote growth [9]. This focus on local investment is a significant aspect of the Nigerian national tourism policy draft [4]. However, little follow-up has been performed to operationalize this mandate.

Community-based homestay tourism is a prominent example of local economic development and CBT initiatives. It has gained traction as a solution to the shortcomings of conventional mass tourism in positively affecting local communities in emerging economies [10,11,12]. The primary objective of homestay tourism, particularly in rural areas, is to preserve local lifestyles, culture, and heritage, maintain the ecological integrity of various flora and fauna, and generate revenue that contributes to the development of local infrastructure [13,14]. Globally, policymakers promote homestays to stimulate local economies [12]. While homestays serve as a tool for economic growth, their impacts go beyond financial gains [10]. However, the success of these initiatives relies on the active involvement of local communities in the planning process. A holistic approach to development emphasizes the importance of culture and democratic participation in enhancing the quality of life [15], making it crucial to understand community empowerment and the perceptions of stakeholders.

An excerpt from the Nigerian Tourism Development Plan [16] highlights that local communities have not been fully integrated into tourism operations. There is a need to transition from a top-down approach to more participatory management at the local level, as highlighted in the national tourism policy draft [4]. Research [17] noted that community-based homestay tourism demand is rising, yet substantial studies supporting its development in Nigeria remain lacking [18]. A literature search revealed only four credible articles on this topic in Africa, with none originating from Nigeria [19]. This study highlights the significance of stakeholder involvement in tourism development [20], particularly among community constituents. Hence, this study explored the viability of developing community-based homestay tourism as a strategy for addressing the socio-cultural, economic, and environmental challenges within local communities in Nigeria by examining the viewpoints of key stakeholders, including tour operators, NGOs, academics, and local communities. The study specifically sought to elucidate stakeholders’ perspectives on the current state of Nigeria’s tourism industry. It explored the acceptability and applicability of community-based homestay tourism, evaluated the implications of its operational feasibility, and assessed the potential outcomes that could stem from its implementation.

2. Conceptual Background

2.1. Overview of Tourism Development in Nigeria

The government introduced Nigeria’s tourism planning framework in 1990 and republished it in 2005. In 1992, the Local Government Tourism Committee (LGTC) was established to oversee community-level affairs related to tourism development in Nigeria. The Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) Act was also implemented at the federal, state, and local levels [21]. In 2006, the government incorporated tourism into its development goals in response to the need for economic diversification, which several African countries adopted [22]. Additionally, the National Tourism Development Master Plan was developed at the time, focusing on the sustainable growth of the nation’s tourism sector [23], a sector with significant potential due to Nigeria’s rich natural and cultural resources [24].

Adeleke [23] claims that, although the master plan appeared promising, it could not address issues regarding the fair distribution of tourism profits in practice due to policy ambiguity, financial constraints, and inadequate legal frameworks. Additionally, several factors hindered tourism growth, including local poverty in areas that serve as tourist attractions and instances of terrorism and instability [1]. The tourism development plan failed to implement the pivot areas of the national tourism policy, including policy stability, the unpredictability of political and tribal conflict [4], and insufficient information regarding the professionalism and operations of the tourism industry.

2.2. Community-Based Homestay Tourism, Rural Development, and Local Participation

CBT is often promoted as an alternative to mass tourism in developing countries, emphasizing local community support and engagement [10]. CBT focuses on strengthening local areas, fostering connections between guests and hosts, and ensuring local control over development [11]. CBT is designed to cater to tourists sensitive to local socio-cultural and environmental resources [25,26]. It reinforces cultural customs [27], empowers rural populations [11], promotes intercultural dialogue [28], and helps preserve natural ecosystems [10,28]. Additionally, CBT positively impacts local economies, contributing to growth and poverty alleviation [29]. Therefore, CBT is considered an approach to promote sustainable tourism.

Homestay initiatives like CBT provide tourists with authentic experiences [10]. Lynch [30] describes homestays as lodging where tourists pay local homeowners, interact with the household, and access common areas. The primary goal is to create sustainable community benefits while providing operators with advantages [31]. Effective management of homestays can stimulate economic growth, generate income for families, and enhance educational prospects [10]. Homestays promote healthier living environments by supporting waste disposal systems [28].

Homestays offer numerous benefits for operators and communities, but they also face challenges [32]. Kunjuraman and Hussin [33] noted that Sabah, Malaysia, struggled with unskilled tourist guides. Additionally, Bhutia et al. [34] noted that ineffective marketing strategies hinder global awareness of these destinations in India. Kunjuraman and Hussin [33] also noted that ineffective organizational structures hinder homestay initiatives in Malaysia, primarily due to the absence of clear guiding legal frameworks. Furthermore, Jamal et al. [35] found that the local community from Malaysia lacked support for homestays, primarily due to insufficient awareness of the potential benefits.

To address these issues, Augustyn [36] stated that empowering tourism stakeholders and rural residents is key to fostering sustainable tourism. Residents should be actively involved in tourism decision-making to reap the benefits. Adebayo and Butcher [5] emphasize the importance of community involvement in tourism planning, a perspective also supported by Murphy [37] and Tosun [38]. Murphy’s work notably promoted local engagement in tourism development, while insufficient community involvement has been linked to unsustainable tourism [37]. Community involvement is crucial to developing integrated rural tourism effectively [39]. Tourism decision-making in Nigeria is often characterized by a top-down approach, resulting in limited participation in local communities [40]. This lack of engagement hinders sustainable tourism planning in Africa, underscoring the need to prioritize local input [5].

2.3. Stakeholder Theory and Stakeholders’ Perspectives for a New Concept

The key to implementing sustainable tourism in any community is the support of relevant stakeholders, including residents, business owners, and community leaders, particularly during the early stages [41]. According to Wondirad et al. [42], stakeholders in tourism encompass local communities, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), planners, legislators, private tourism enterprises, and destination management organizations. Furthermore, Amoako et al. [43] classified stakeholders into five distinct groups: residents, government officials, visitors, business owners, and NGO representatives. Unlike other studies within the realm of tourism, this research also incorporates the perspectives of academic scholars and NGOs to enrich the findings within the specific context of community-based homestay tourism.

Sripun et al. [44] highlighted that employing a stakeholder approach in CBT is linked to a continuous process that produces outcomes shaped by various stakeholders involved in CBT. The elements involving stakeholders are interconnected due to the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the tourism process. It is up to stakeholders to express the demands they consider significant and urgent. Their interests, which drive these demands, are influenced by the perceived benefits related to the values associated with the development of CBT, including both intangible aspects (such as quality, appropriateness, suitability for purpose, or well-being) and tangible ones (like financial and material resources). Each stakeholder component plays a unique role at different stages and affects the management process in various ways.

Multiple stakeholders encounter challenges in managing sustainable CBT development and growth, particularly in aligning shared objectives and persuading all parties to adhere to fundamental sustainability principles [45]. Tosun [38] noted that when the growth of CBT does not meet stakeholder expectations, intergroup conflict may arise. Tosun [38] emphasized the importance of acknowledging various stakeholders’ diverse perspectives and concerns while advocating for decisive actions to reach an agreement that establishes the necessary guidelines for achieving the initiative’s objectives. Furthermore, Tosun [38] highlighted the critical role of the government in genuinely considering these viewpoints to ensure the success of CBT. Achieving sustainable tourism development is nearly impossible without collaborating with all relevant stakeholders [46].

Ali et al. [47] explored the perspectives of various stakeholders regarding tourism development in a Malaysian beach resort area. Their findings suggested that involving the community in decision-making can effectively resolve internal conflicts. While this research has significantly contributed to the broader field of tourism, further specific studies are necessary to gain a comprehensive understanding of the viewpoints of different stakeholders concerning the sustainable development of community-based homestay tourism. This is particularly pertinent in Nigeria, where the government often implements tourism initiatives through a top-down approach, neglecting the fact that different stakeholder groups may be affected in various ways by the complexities related to resource ownership and access. This study aims to address this gap by examining stakeholder perspectives on potentially establishing a homestay program. Such a program represents a non-consumptive utilization strategy that can yield mixed effects on tourism stakeholders, especially if not developed and managed properly. Thus, it is crucial for all parties involved to collaborate to maximize benefits while minimizing costs. Consequently, the effectiveness and sustainability of CBT, for instance, in the case of homestay in our study, will depend on developing a thorough grasp of how destination stakeholders view it [48].

Thus, we argue that stakeholders’ input and involvement are particularly critical for a community-based concept, especially in its early stages of adoption or conceptualization in a new region. The perspectives and direct involvement of relevant stakeholders can ensure the concept’s success, such as community-based homestay tourism in this context, by identifying potential scenarios for opportunities and challenges and allowing for preparedness and potential strategies to combat any obstacles.

3. Materials and Methods

This exploratory study utilizes a qualitative approach to gather diverse stakeholder perspectives in tourism planning and development. A qualitative research design is chosen to capture the opinions and knowledge of those involved in tourism studies, operations, business, and policymaking, to understand how reality is shaped through social interactions [49]. This study employed online focus group discussions (FGDs) with each stakeholder group, comprising a total of 15 representatives from academia (5), tour operators (4), NGOs (3), and communities (3) (

Table 1. Demographic characteristics of the participants.

Participant’s ID	Gender	Occupation	Affiliated Sector
R1	Female	Faculty	Academia
R2	Male	Faculty	Academia
R3	Female	Faculty	Academia
R4	Male	Faculty	Academia
R5	Female	Faculty	Academia
R6	Male	Travel Agent	Tour Operator
R7	Male	Travel Operator	Tour Operator
R8	Male	Travel Agent	Tour Operator
R9	Male	Tour/Hiking Guide	Tour Operator
R10	Male	Tourism Policy Expert	NGO
R11	Female	Destination Developer	NGO
R12	Male	Protected Area Expert	NGO
R13	Male	Farmer	Community
R14	Female	Artisan	Community
R15	Male	Trader	Community

). Participants engaged via the Zoom video conferencing application, known for its reliability and user-friendliness, which facilitated the establishment of rapport quickly [50].

The interview layout followed the framework by Hennink et al. [51], comprising an introduction, opening, crucial, and concluding questions. The Institutional Review Board (IRB) reviewed and approved the interview questions at a Tier 1 public research institution in the United States. In the opening section, participants shared their views on Nigeria’s tourism. Key questions central to the research explored the acceptability and applicability of homestay tourism. Participants were asked to share their opinions about the potential for community-based homestay tourism to thrive in Nigeria. Follow-up questions focused on the available resources and possible challenges. For example, participants were queried about the relevance of community-based homestay tourism in Nigeria. Probing questions included: Are there sufficient resources to support community-based homestay tourism? Can you identify any challenges related to the acceptance of the homestay concept? Additionally, participants were asked whether they believed local communities would be willing to engage in homestay tourism. Related probes included: What factors might encourage communities to participate, and what elements could lead to their reluctance to engage?

Participants offered insights into the operational feasibility of community-based homestay tourism by addressing several key questions: Could you provide a brief overview of the type and extent of support necessary for the development of homestays? [Probe: Which stakeholder groups, such as government agencies or NGOs, should play a significant role in providing this support?]. Do you anticipate any operational or management challenges related to developing community-based homestays? [Probe: What potential issues do you foresee concerning marketing and management?]. How should the revenue generated from homestays be managed? [Probe: Do you believe there will be any concerns regarding the equitable distribution of benefits?]. They further discussed potential management challenges and outcomes related to such initiatives, including their perceptions of impacts on local socio-economic livelihoods. Key questions included whether they believed these initiatives would benefit the community and if they anticipated any challenges from implementing homestay tourism in Nigeria.

This study targeted individuals with experience in sustainable tourism planning and development, including academia, tour operators, NGOs, and community representatives. The primary objective of qualitative research is to gain a deeper understanding of a phenomenon and its context [51]. To achieve this, a small group of participants was selected based on specific traits or expertise that would contribute to the study [51]. Purposive sampling was employed to identify individuals who met the criteria. The snowball sampling technique was also used to identify other relevant participants through referrals from the initially selected individuals. Since the qualitative study aims for in-depth understanding rather than generalization, a sample size of 15 participants was considered adequate [52].

The data gathered for this study were examined in accordance with the methods described by Braun and Clarke [53]. The initial step involved familiarizing oneself with the data through thorough engagement, which included repeated readings of the material to extract meanings and detect patterns. During this phase, notes were recorded, and key concepts were emphasized for later coding. Moreover, the data were transcribed to facilitate meaningful interpretations [54]. This transcription process was performed meticulously to guarantee an accurate representation of all recorded voices [55]. The second phase involved developing preliminary codes derived from the data. According to Boyatzis [56], a code serves as the fundamental unit of unprocessed data amenable to analysis regarding the phenomenon under exploration. These codes aid the researcher in identifying significant elements within the data, whether latent or thematic. A range of preliminary codes was established to encompass various potential themes comprehensively.

The third phase concentrated on identifying themes. The various codes generated were systematically organized into specific themes, consolidating all relevant coded information within these defined categories. The codes were examined during this phase to determine how they combined to create a central concept. The fourth stage focused on analyzing the themes and involved two layers of assessment and refinement. First, the coded data excerpts were scrutinized. The second layer assessed whether each candidate’s thematic representation accurately encapsulated the insights derived from the entire data set and the significance of each theme in relation to the overall data collection. The fifth stage focused on defining and recognizing the themes. During this phase, the data related to each theme was thoroughly examined, allowing for enhancement and refinement of the themes for presentation. The analysis concluded with preparing a report, which involved drafting the final document and conducting an additional round of analysis. Numerous data excerpts were included in the study to illustrate the identified themes.

4. Results

We extensively discussed four key themes (Figure 1). The Nigerian tourism industry theme demonstrates associated sub-themes, including potential for tourism development in Nigeria, lack of funding, misrepresentation, and overdependence on oil. Acceptability and applicability, as a second theme, reflect sub-themes comprising cultural conflict, problems with the verification procedure, perceived benefits, creating proper enlightenment and sensitization, and encouraging youth development. Operational feasibility covers sub-themes including co-management support by the community and government, funding support by NGOs and the private sector, policy support by the government, training support by the government, infrastructural support by stakeholders, marketing support by stakeholders, and revenue management strategies. Lastly, the outcome reflects on sub-themes, such as economic benefits, community infrastructural development, promoting culture, resolving dichotomy, improving security architecture, and environmental degradation. We provide contextualized quotations for each theme, while additional quotes are supplied in Appendix A.

4.1. Nigeria Tourism Industry

Nigeria presents an extensive array of natural and cultural assets that attract international travelers. The country has diverse tourist destinations spread across its various local government areas and states. Despite this wealth of options, many of these sites are frequently overlooked or inadequately maintained, leading to a decline in appeal. However, with a concerted focus on sustainable tourism development and infrastructure investment, Nigeria possesses the potential to evolve into a dynamic tourism hub. By enhancing visitor experiences and preserving these natural and cultural resources, the country can cultivate a unique niche of homestay tourism in the global tourism market, fostering a sustainable influx of tourists eager for authentic experiences.

When discussing tourism resources in Nigeria, it is important to recognize the tremendous potential we possess. The challenge lies in effectively harnessing these resources to transform them from potential into reality.

[Participant representing academia]

Nigeria’s tourism sector possesses substantial growth potential; however, it is currently hampered by inadequate funding and investment. This financial shortfall constrains the industry’s capacity to fully capitalize on the country’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, thereby limiting its contributions to national economic development. With strategic interventions from key stakeholders and increased capital influx, Nigeria’s tourism could emerge as a significant driver of economic expansion, leveraging its diverse offerings to attract domestic and international visitors.

The tourism sector is currently facing significant challenges due to insufficient government funding. While individuals and travel agencies are making efforts to sustain the industry through outbound and inbound tours, they lack essential support from the government.

[Participant representing tour operator]

Significant developments are transpiring within Nigeria’s tourism sector. The Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), previously functioning under the Ministry of Information and Culture, has transitioned to an independent entity under a newly established Ministry of Tourism. This strategic reorganization enables more focused governance of tourism initiatives at both state and local levels, emphasizing amplifying the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP. This shift is expected to facilitate more coherent policy implementation and foster stakeholder collaboration in the tourism value chain.

First, tourism was under the Ministry of Information and Culture, which shows how little the government thinks of the tourism industry. However, recently, the government has established a standalone ministry of tourism that will address all tourism-related endeavors, from federal to local levels.

[Participant representing NGOs]

Nigeria’s economic framework is heavily dependent on the volatility of crude oil revenue, a dependence that has become increasingly fragile as global energy dynamics shift towards sustainable alternatives. The declining interest in fossil fuels has triggered a downward trend in oil prices, leaving Nigeria to navigate significant economic instability. This mono-resource dependency has impeded the development of other viable sectors, notably tourism, which has not received adequate investment or attention. The pressing challenge now is to implement effective strategies for economic diversification, thereby fostering resilience and sustainable growth for this dynamic nation.

There is much talk but not enough action to revitalize Nigeria’s tourism sector. The government still believes that tourism is not a viable alternative to petroleum. As a result, the country has not fully taken advantage of the significant opportunities in the tourism industry.

[Participant representing the community]

4.2. Acceptability and Applicability

FGD participants emphasized that the economic benefits are the primary motivator for engaging in community-based homestay tourism. The prospect of enhanced financial stability encourages residents to participate actively in the initiative.

I believe communities will embrace homestay tourism due to its numerous benefits to community members, such as improving economic empowerment and bolstering their financial resources.

[Participant representing academia]

Effectively leveraging the potential of community-based homestay tourism necessitates a strategic approach to engaging and educating residents about the available opportunities. By implementing comprehensive training programs and supplying ongoing support, the stakeholders can enthusiastically empower residents to embrace this venture. This enhances their capacity to participate and fosters a genuine enthusiasm for integrating their unique cultural offerings into the tourism experience.

The local community may be excited to participate in homestay tourism, but it will require a lot of awareness and sensitization before we can reach a level of participation in homestay tourism.

[Participant representing the community]

Engaging the youth demographic is crucial for enhancing homestay tourism within local communities in Nigeria. Their receptiveness to novel concepts and emerging trends positions them as catalysts for inspiring older generations, facilitating a synergistic relationship between traditional practices and contemporary innovations. Furthermore, their robust influence on social media platforms is an effective conduit for attracting adventure-seekers seeking genuine homestay experiences. This dynamic amplifies local offerings’ visibility and fosters sustainable tourism practices that benefit the community.

The developers and organizers aiming to involve rural residents in homestay tourism should focus on engaging the youth and younger members of the community, as they have the potential to draw tourists through social media engagements.

[Participant representing tour operator]

Cultural identity and communal affiliations are integral to the fabric of local Nigerian societies, underscoring their profound significance. Implementing homestay tourism may face substantial obstacles, as rural inhabitants may find it challenging to assimilate this model into their established cultural frameworks. This situation underscores the intricate dynamics between integrating innovative economic opportunities and safeguarding entrenched cultural values and traditions.

The marketing and promotion of homestay tourism initiatives could be seen as disrespectful to the cultural practices in some local communities.

[Participant representing NGOs]

In the contemporary landscape, local communities frequently encounter obstacles when engaging with tourists. The complex technical requirements associated with identity verification, payment processing, and the documentation of homestay accommodations can pose significant challenges. These intricacies may complicate the user experience, leading to inefficiencies that hinder the seamless integration of local hospitality services into the broader tourism ecosystem.

Verification is a significant challenge, especially in ensuring the safety of hosting visitors. Nigeria’s verification system has flaws, such as the effectiveness of the NIN in tracking offenders. How can we guarantee people are who they claim to be?

[Participant representing NGOs]

4.3. Operational Feasibility

This study underscores the critical importance of robust management support in facilitating the success of homestay tourism. It accentuates the necessity for coordinated efforts among community stakeholders, tourism operators, academic institutions, and governmental agencies. The findings indicate that an effective governance framework that empowers local leaders can significantly enhance the dynamics of homestay tourism, thereby cultivating meaningful interactions within the community.

For successful homestay tourism, it is essential that management is made a community effort. Rather than relying on individual efforts, a collective approach fosters a more effective and sustainable model for community-based homestay tourism.

[Participant representing academia]

To enhance funding for community-based homestay tourism, stakeholders must engage in collaborative partnerships with NGOs and private sector investors. By leveraging synergies between these entities, sustainable financial mechanisms can be unlocked to support the growth of these initiatives, ultimately empowering local communities and fostering resilience in the tourism sector.

Regarding funding, there is a stark contrast in priorities from the government, leaving tour operators and travel agencies with limited power to boost community-based homestay tourism. It’s clear that the real change-makers in this scenario are private-sector individuals who have the financial means to make a difference.

[Participant representing tour operator]

The policy is instrumental in driving tourism development, with stakeholders expressing a consensus that the government must take the lead in its formulation and support. A robust governmental framework will enable other stakeholders to align effectively with this strategic vision, thereby establishing an environment conducive to a flourishing tourism sector.

The development of homestay tourism needs policy recommendations from tourism organizations to the government and local communities.

[Participant representing academia]

Robust training and support mechanisms are crucial for the sustainable development of community-based homestay tourism. When equipped with comprehensive training and expertise, communities can curate exceptional experiences for tourists, enhancing visitor satisfaction and local economic benefits. Conversely, the absence of targeted training initiatives can hinder the potential for success, resulting in underutilized resources and unfulfilled expectations within the local tourism sector.

One factor causing the tourism business to thrive is talent training, where education comes in. The question is, who are these people who want to get involved in the industry? How do you tend to educate them on industry practices?

[Participant representing tour operator]

The development of critical infrastructure such as electricity, transportation networks, and water supply systems is essential for the successful establishment of community-based homestay tourism. Government entities, NGOs, and local communities must engage in strategic partnerships to plan and implement these projects effectively. Collaborative efforts can ensure the necessary frameworks are in place to support sustainable tourism growth and enhance the overall visitor experience.

We must discuss how the government can rescue the local communities, especially where we have sites to see. There must be a provision of electricity to an extent, the road must be good enough, and there should be telecommunications in case people want to connect with others.

[Participant representing academia]

Community-based homestay tourism’s success relies heavily on innovative marketing strategies and robust support from governmental and private sector entities. Effective promotional campaigns and strategic partnerships can foster an engaging travel experience that enhances the economic landscape for local communities and enriches the overall traveler experience.

There needs to be this regional collaboration where each region or state comes up with the tourism products they are selling for people to see, and we provide NTDC (government agency) or Tour Naija (private agency) with these products for marketing and promotion.

[Participant representing NGOs]

Homestay tourism offers a significant opportunity to enhance local economic resilience, particularly by implementing a modest fee structure imposed on homestay operators. This strategy would involve aggregating these fees into a centralized association treasury, enabling stakeholders to establish a robust fund dedicated to community development initiatives. Such a financial mechanism would support local residents’ livelihood, especially during off-peak seasons when tourism activity typically diminishes.

Regarding sharing the revenue generated from tourism, the regulatory body holds a significant responsibility. Imagine the possibilities if this body took the initiative to address community challenges by allocating a portion of that revenue to maintain and develop local tourism sites.

[Participant representing the community]

4.4. Possible Outcome

Leveraging community-based homestay tourism can significantly enhance economic potential in rural regions by establishing diverse revenue streams, fostering job creation, and stimulating local enterprises. This model promotes sustainable development and encourages the retention of cultural heritage and community engagement, thereby driving comprehensive socio-economic benefits.

The concept of homestay tourism is set to bring a wave of economic benefits to the community, and it’s truly exciting! Not only will they share their customs and traditions, but they’ll also earn income by providing comfortable bedding for guests.

[Participant representing tour operator]

The emergence of homestay tourism is poised to significantly impact local communities by driving the development of critical infrastructure. This includes improvements in transportation networks, healthcare services, the reliability of utilities such as power and water, and advancements in telecommunications systems. These enhancements not only elevate the overall experience for visitors but also create a compelling incentive for repeat travel, fostering a cycle of sustainability and growth in the local economy.

By implementing a solid accounting framework and clearly disclosing revenues through taxes, the stakeholders can empower the community to establish an endowment fund. This fund, generated from the success of the homestay association, can fuel a range of exciting community development projects.

[Participant representing NGOs]

Homestay tourism presents a significant opportunity to enrich local cultural dynamics. Firstly, it provides travelers with a distinctive platform for deep cultural immersion, facilitating the formation of meaningful connections and enhancing experiential learning. Secondly, homestays function as conduits for promoting intercultural tolerance and understanding, essential for dismantling social barriers and fostering enduring relationships among diverse cultural demographics.

The idea of the knowledge of wealth that comes with interacting with people that are beyond your space through homestay tourism is one thing, and it will culminate in the collapse of these tribal and religious fences that we have built for ourselves, which are causing the bulk of the havoc that we have as a country.

[Participant representing the community]

The increasing prevalence of homestay tourism serves as a conduit for cultural exchange and a mechanism for enhancing the protection of local communities and travelers. By integrating community policing strategies, such as Nigeria’s Amotekun initiative, stakeholders can markedly improve safety and security for all participants in the tourism ecosystem. This collaborative approach fosters an environment conducive to genuine experiential engagement for visitors while ensuring residents receive support and protection. Such synergy promotes sustainable tourism practices that benefit hosts and guests.

Homestay tourism can help develop the security architecture of the local community; adequate security will be available, and, of course, lives and properties will have more protection. Community policing should be developed, such as the Amotekun security agency.

[Participant representing tour operator]

An influx of visitors to a local community can rapidly exceed the ecological and infrastructural thresholds that the area can sustainably accommodate. This adverse scenario frequently arises from a lack of awareness among residents regarding the ramifications of overpopulation on environmental systems and resource availability. It is imperative to comprehend these dynamics to maintain the intricate equilibrium of local ecosystems and safeguard the well-being of the resident population and transient visitors. Understanding carrying capacity, resource allocation, and ecosystem resilience is essential for informed decision-making that fosters environmental sustainability and community health.

If the locals are not properly educated on the issue of the sustainability of the ecosystem, homestay tourism could breed environmental issues.

[Participant representing NGOs]

5. Discussion and Conclusions

Nigeria offers diverse touristic experiences with seven national parks, showcasing vibrant flora and fauna [57]. Many forest and game reserves are also ideal for homestay tourism [58]. Notably, natural attractions are evenly distributed across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, with each local government area featuring at least one unique tourism resource [59]. However, transforming these attractions into world-class destinations faces significant hurdles due to inadequate support from federal and state governments, investors, and NGOs. These tourism assets should benefit local communities; however, state control often limits local input in decision-making. Consequently, local communities are often sidelined and miss crucial opportunities and benefits [60]. Furthermore, the funding shortfall has rendered the industry unattractive to domestic and foreign investors, hindering tourism development in rural areas [61]. To tackle this, the tourism stakeholders would need to revisit the main objectives, pivotal areas, and aspects of tourism focus, which were succinctly conveyed in the national tourism policy draft [4].

Creating the Ministry of Tourism in Nigeria is a good start to ensure tourism gets the necessary efforts required; however, boosting sustainable tourism in Nigeria would need more than just establishing a ministry for tourism. To achieve meaningful success, the new Ministry should collaborate with state tourism ministries to establish local government agencies dedicated to tourism development. This cooperative approach will help revive successful tourism initiatives and improve those struggling, especially at the local government level. Local parastatals should identify and promote regional tourism potential while developing practical strategies. Feasible proposals should be submitted to the state Ministry of Tourism for recommendation and to the Federal Ministry for ratification. This outcome aligns with the research conducted by Tolkach and King [62], which stated that the Ministry of Tourism manages the community tourism initiative in Timor-Leste. This initiative provides grant funding to existing, locally owned guesthouses, helping them enhance their facilities. Arguably, the bottom-up strategy is essential for effective tourism development in Nigeria.

It was established that community-based homestay tourism projects align with Nigeria’s development agenda and can achieve all the objectives specified under the National Tourism Policy [4] if well-structured and supported. To encourage local participation in homestay tourism, it is essential to communicate its economic benefits, including job creation and support for local businesses. This outcome is consistent with Carmin et al. [63], who contend that the first step in engaging stakeholders in tourism initiatives is to assemble a diverse group of community members and inform them about the issues and opportunities associated with tourism development in their region. Additionally, providing clear information about the project’s potential social, cultural, environmental, and religious impacts is crucial for enhancing participation. The World Bank [20] emphasizes that “communication for development” involves the strategic and collaborative use of communication tools and methods. These strategies are designed to share information and knowledge efficiently, encourage public engagement, and facilitate changes in actions and behaviors that will help stakeholders achieve their established goals.

Acceptance of community-based homestay tourism among locals would largely depend on recognizing rural people as the true guardians of tourist potential. This premise was conveyed ambiguously under the national tourism policy and needs urgent deliberation between the national government and other stakeholders involved. This involves recognizing and empowering local leaders to drive community-based tourism initiatives. Ibrahim and Razzaq [64] emphasize that community participation and local leadership are crucial to the success of programs. Additionally, transparency in financial matters and a clear profit-sharing formula are vital, as communities often worry about revenue distribution. While engaging locals in the planning phase is crucial, sustaining their long-term support is challenging. A primary reason for the potential withdrawal of local support is the lack of accountability in economic operations, which can evoke memories of past exploitative initiatives.

Youth involvement will significantly influence the sustainability of community-based homestay tourism in Nigeria. Young people are energetic, open to new experiences, and form friendships easily. With their tech-savvy nature and strong social media presence, they can effectively market destinations within Nigeria to foreign friends and contacts. To promote homestay tourism beyond Nigeria, stakeholders should utilize social media and online advertising platforms. Popular media in Nigeria include television, radio, and the internet [65]. Promoting the community’s image on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook is crucial. Marketing is a noted challenge for homestays [11,33]. Creating a standardized website can provide up-to-date information on rural homestay tourism activities.

Fears of civil unrest will significantly threaten residents’ potential acceptance of community-based homestay tourism. According to Chok et al. [66], establishing a sustainable tourism sector in a country affected by war and lacking adequate infrastructure presents considerable obstacles. Incidents of kidnapping and farmer–herdsman clashes in strategic areas may contribute to people’s reluctance. Additionally, cultural differences, particularly in conservative northern states, may complicate the implementation of homestay tourism. The national government is performing well by strengthening the security architecture in the country’s problem areas. The National Orientation Agency needs to increase awareness about the importance of trusting homestay activities among residents, essential for reducing the fear of acceptance. Developers must consider the local political climate, as some communities may resist sharing their culture with outsiders. Not every area will accept homestay tourism; some may prefer to observe the outcomes in other regions before making a decision. Positive experiences elsewhere could make resistant communities more open to the idea [10].

Technology is vital to the operational management of community-based homestay tourism within Nigeria. Tourist regions have adopted technological practices like verifying travel bookings, managing inventory, connecting agencies with suppliers, monitoring luggage, and confirming identities [67]. In the case of visitor verification, without a robust technological platform for bookings that includes two-factor authentication, trust issues may arise for hosts welcoming strangers, especially with family present. Developing a booking system that ensures visitor verification while accurately showcasing homestays to meet expectations is vital.

Community-based homestay tourism can succeed through co-management, a collaborative approach that involves partnerships among government, NGOs, and local communities. This partnership is vital for planning and managing homestay tourism effectively. Ensuring significant community involvement is crucial, as inadequate participation may jeopardize the initiative [68]. Consulting with local communities to design and implement operations and placing them in key roles on the operational committee can enhance the program’s effectiveness. Co-management is often considered suitable for complex situations or when existing governance structures fail to establish social ties among stakeholders [69]. Improved social capital has been observed in homestay communities [70]. Tosun [38] noted its benefits in developing countries with weak governance and limited local empowerment. This approach promotes equity for marginalized groups by involving a broader range of stakeholders in decision-making [71].

Monetary support is crucial for establishing homestay tourism in Nigeria, as it necessitates substantial financial investment at all project stages. Local communities must collaborate with the government and NGOs to create compelling proposals to attract funding from regional and foreign donors whose agendas align with the sustainability mandate. According to the State Council [72], financial resources for promoting rural tourism are derived from national grants and federal budget allocations. Innovative financing schemes often involve public–private partnerships among the government, agricultural producers, and rural residents [72]. Multinationals and foreign-managed organizations operating in Nigeria should be encouraged to invest in local infrastructure as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. This would aid in developing homestays in underserved areas that lack essential infrastructure, such as electricity, water supply, roads, and telecommunications. Public–private partnerships effectively collaborate on long-term public services and create new physical assets, as noted by Kim et al. [73].

Operating homestay tourism may seem technical, especially for rural individuals with limited formal education; academia and NGOs should collaborate to train those interested in homestay operations. State governments can partner with local universities to offer short training for local people in hospitality management, housekeeping, food service, nutrition, tour guiding, and first aid. This training will help locals operate at a level that justifies visitor prices. Developing community-based homestay tourism in Nigeria will significantly benefit rural economies by providing income for hosting households. It will create jobs, as homestay owners may employ locals [74] and drive sociocultural and economic growth [75]. This tourism model can increase income levels, alleviate financial hardship, and provide direct employment opportunities, thereby contributing to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) [76,77]. Some revenue can be diverted into supporting community infrastructure and local agricultural production [10].

The developers and stakeholders may overlook integrating sustainable practices as part of the community-based homestay mandate, leading to environmental degradation and negatively impacting socioeconomic prospects. Assessing a community’s physical, economic, and ecological carrying capacities is crucial to preventing the overexploitation of local resources. Pusiran and Xiao [78] emphasize that without comprehensive planning considering environmental, social, and economic factors, tourist destinations may suffer a tarnished reputation, reduced revenue, and negative visitor experiences. Respecting local culture is crucial for enhancing homestay operations, yet unregulated tourism can commodify and disrupt it [32].

It is essential to acknowledge that the Nigerian tourism industry and its operations will impact the acceptability, operational feasibility, and potential outcomes of community-based homestays (Figure 1). Therefore, the ongoing challenges of the industry and future directions will determine the implementation and success of community-based homestays. According to Statista [79], Nigeria is projected to generate USD 3769 million in travel and tourism earnings by 2025, increasing to USD 5639 million by 2029, primarily driven by the hotel industry. However, this projection may not fully account for the contributions of CBT, as mentioned in the National Tourism Policy [4]. The policy draft emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the community and public partners to promote small-scale tourism initiatives focusing on local arts and crafts. To diversify the experiences for tourists while supporting the equitable distribution of tourism benefits to residents [80], in support of Nigeria’s national tourism policy [4], it is essential to develop community-based homestays, in addition to traditional hotels, catering to tourists looking for rural experiences.

5.1. Theoretical Implications

This study confirms that developing community-based homestay tourism in Nigeria must involve a thorough analysis of all stakeholders’ perspectives. This approach challenges the previously dominant top-down model that characterized tourism development in Nigeria over the years. Adopting stakeholder theory is essential for assessing the potential outcomes of tourism-related projects before they begin, as it helps predict the varied effects such projects may have. Stakeholder theory broadens the focus to include all contributing parties throughout the project lifecycle before, during, and after development [81]. This is specifically critical for projects before adoption or early adoption. In contrast to existing research, which extensively employs stakeholder theory in evaluating ongoing tourism efforts [82], the paper’s novelty lies in exploring the value of community-based homestays in Nigeria, an area with considerable yet unrealized potential. This adds a unique theoretical contribution. Methodologically, while comprehending the impact of community-based homestay tourism through the perspectives of local communities is prevalent due to their direct involvement in the management of homestays [10,11], we establish the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement and their perspectives in examining community-based homestay tourism, especially considering that it is in the idea phase. In addition, CBT is a growing phenomenon worldwide, especially in developing economies [10]. However, they might operate with different challenges and benefits depending on contextual differences. Our study adds context-specific findings to community-based homestay tourism as a potential development in Nigeria, allowing for the contribution to theory-building in CBT and community-based homestay tourism.

5.2. Practical Implications

The National Tourism Policy outlines the roles of various stakeholders in tourism development, including government parastatals, the private sector, and voluntary organizations, focusing on policy formulation [4]. Similarly, the local government has been assigned a direct role in operating within the regulations established by state governments. Their responsibilities include promoting hospitality for visitors, encouraging cultural activities, and implementing sanitation measures in the local environment [4], key attributes of community-based homestays. Hence, to reignite the objectives of the National Tourism Policy, developing homestay tourism at the rural level needs to be approached through our conceptual framework (Figure 1), which involves considering the acceptability and applicability of the initiatives, understanding the dynamics of operational complexity, and evaluating the potential outcomes. Our study and the proposed framework on community-based homestays emphasize the importance of community involvement in effectively organizing, planning, and managing tourism initiatives that contribute to residents’ sustainable development and welfare [83].

5.3. Limitations and Future Research Directions

The general awareness of homestay tourism in Nigeria is believed to be quite limited, as this concept is rarely addressed in the country’s tourism research. The individuals participating in this study, who are experts in tourism from academia, the industry, NGOs, and community representatives, were likely to hold a variety of perspectives on homestays. The researchers anticipated that participants would offer limited insights into homestay tourism, unlike their greater familiarity with ecotourism, Nigeria’s predominant form of sustainable tourism. Therefore, the researchers deemed it essential to clarify the concept during the interview to enhance understanding. Additionally, since the case study was conducted in Nigeria, data collection was performed virtually due to the researchers’ limited resources, which prevented any travel for in-person interactions. It also prevented a wide selection of participants due to limited digital literacy and lack of technology (i.e., computer and internet service), especially participants representing community members. However, the purposive selection of participants helped mitigate this limitation to some extent. Indeed, the findings have limited geographical scope due to their focus on Nigeria. Still, regions with comparable contexts (e.g., social, cultural, economic, political, etc.) and facing similar challenges could relate to these findings. While the relevant stakeholders can utilize the study’s findings to plan community-based homestay development in Nigeria, understanding tourists’ [84] and the broader local communities’ perspectives could be another avenue for research, specifically to assess their willingness to participate in community-based homestays.