Nwosu, Belinda. (2016).

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

and issues. Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes. 8. 117-133. 10.1108/WHATT-10-
2015-0042. 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.