Socio-Cultural Practices During Indigenous Festivals and Community Economic Development in Ogoja Local Government Area Cross River State, Nigeria 0 0
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.60787/jete.vol9no1.57Keywords:
Socio-Cultural Practices, Indigenous Festivals, Community Economic Development.Abstract
This study examined Socio-Cultural Practices During Indigenous Festivals and Community Economic Development in Ogoja Local Government Area Cross River State, Nigeria. The study also assessed the challenges associated with organizing these festivals and the socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and both primary and secondary data sources were utilized. Primary data were obtained through structured questionnaires administered to residents and stakeholders in the two communities, while secondary data were sourced from relevant literature. A total of 310 respondents were sampled, comprising 199 respondents from Ishi-Aleke and 111 from Atong-Ibil communities. Data collected were analyzed using simple frequencies and percentages, and results were presented in tables for clarity. Findings revealed that indigenous festivals play a significant role in preserving cultural heritage through traditional dances, music, rituals, costume displays, and communal celebrations, thereby strengthening community identity and intergenerational transmission of cultural values. The festivals also contribute meaningfully to local economic development by creating temporary employment opportunities and stimulating the growth of emerging tourism support services such as food vending, local transportation, temporary accommodation, security services, craft and souvenir sales, and photography services. The study concludes that indigenous festivals remain valuable instruments for cultural preservation and rural development in the study area. The researchrs recommended among other that the local government authorities, cultural organizations, and community leaders should promote and adequately supportindigenous socio-cultural festival activities through funding, publicity, and infrastructure development in order to enhance the economic benefits of festivals on host communities, such as tourism promotion, local business growth, and employment opportunities.
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