Museums as contributors to the promotion of cultural tourism in Lagos State, Nigeria: Case of National Museum Lagos

Abstract

This study explored the role of museums in cultural tourism promotion in Lagos state, using the National Museum, Lagos as a case study. The objectives of this research include; analyzing the contributions of the museum to cultural tourism promotion and identifying the challenges confronting the museum. Both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods were adopted. For the qualitative data collection, a Survey Monkey calculation table was used to determine the sample size of two hundred and fifteen (215) respondents (museum visitors) for questionnaire administration, out of which only one hundred & ninety-three (193) questionnaires were properly filled and returned. For the qualitative data, a total number of twenty (20) respondents (museum staff) were selected through the purposive sampling technique, data was gathered through Key Informant Interviews with six (6) administrative staff and Focus Group Discussions with fourteen (14) technical staff. Findings revealed that the National Museum, Lagos performs a significant role in conserving cultural heritage collections, consequently attracting tourists to the museum, thereby, promoting cultural tourism. The study also identified some of the challenges hindering the smooth operations of the museum as; paucity of funds, lack of sufficient skilled personnel, poor awareness, and many more. The study concludes that in other for the museum to sustain its significant role in the promotion of cultural tourism, the challenges confronting it has to be resolved. It was recommended that the government prioritize funding for museum operations, staff development, and create awareness.