Tourist Perception of the Unity Park Enugu & the Ngwo Pine Forest and Cave

Kelechi Destiny Agwu, Moses Madubueze Okonkwo, Onyeka Oraefo, Kelechi John Okpala, Habu Amina Chiroma and Sylvia Oluchukwu Nwabuko
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Kelechi Destiny Agwu: Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka;
Moses Madubueze Okonkwo: Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka;
Onyeka Oraefo: Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka;
Kelechi John Okpala: Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka;
Habu Amina Chiroma: Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi
Sylvia Oluchukwu Nwabuko: Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2025, vol. 9, issue 3, 2539-2557

Abstract: This study explores tourist perceptions of Unity Park Enugu, Ngwo Pine Forest, and Ngwo Cave to enhance tourism development in Enugu State, Nigeria. These sites—representing urban recreation, natural serenity, and geological adventure—offer a diverse tourism cluster, yet their visitor experiences remain underexplored. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were gathered through surveys and semi-structured interviews with tourists visiting between January and March 2025. Findings reveal Unity Park is prized for its accessibility and aesthetic appeal, scoring highly in visitor satisfaction, though limited facilities temper enthusiasm. Ngwo Pine Forest excels in natural beauty and tranquility, attracting ecotourists, but safety concerns and sparse amenities detract from its potential. Ngwo Cave captivates with its adventurous allure and cultural significance, yet poor accessibility and upkeep hinder broader appeal. Concerns from the interviews highlight cultural significance and infrastructure deficiencies as major factors influencing perception at every location. When taken as a whole, these attractions present Enugu as a diverse travel destination that combines urban and rural experiences. But problems like poor facilities, safety hazards, and access issues draw attention to areas that need work. By presenting empirical insights into site-specific views, this study closes a significant gap and lays the groundwork for focused tourism efforts. The amenities of Unity Park should be improved, Ngwo Pine Forest’s safety precautions should be strengthened, and Ngwo Cave’s accessibility should be improved. With ramifications for policy and future studies on seasonal and demographic fluctuations, these findings help to comprehend Enugu’s tourist potential and offer strategies for sustainable expansion.

Date: 2025
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