INDIGENOUS HANDCRAFT AND TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN WAMBA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NASARAWA STATE, 1996 – 2020

Abstract

This study investigates the interplay between indigenous handicraft and tourism development in Wamba Local Government Area of Nasarawa State between 1996 and 2020. The research was motivated by the problem of declining traditional craft practices and the underutilization of indigenous cultural industries despite the presence of significant tourism potential, particularly around the Farin Ruwa Waterfalls. The main objectives were to examine how traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery, blacksmithing, mat-making, and carving contributed to cultural preservation and local livelihoods, to analyze the extent to which tourism promoted these crafts, and to identify the challenges hindering their integration into the tourism economy. The study adopted a qualitative research methodology, relying on oral interviews, field observations, and documentary sources to gather historical and socio-economic data. Findings revealed that indigenous handicrafts in Wamba played a vital role in sustaining cultural identity and generating income for artisans, while the growth of tourism modestly improved their visibility and market opportunities. However, infrastructural deficits, insecurity, weak marketing systems, and inadequate government support hindered the full development of the handicraft–tourism nexus. The study concludes that indigenous handicrafts in Wamba remain an underexploited resource for sustainable tourism and rural development. It recommends increased government investment, improved infrastructure, and cultural promotion initiatives to enhance the contribution of local crafts to tourism growth and community empowerment.