Rural Electrification and Food Security Programmes in Tourism-Oriented Rural Development and Environmental Sustainability in Cross River State, Nigeria

The study is on Rural Electrification and Food Security Programmes in Tourism-Oriented Rural Development and Environmental Sustainability in Cross River State, Nigeria. The study examined Rural Electrification and Food Security Programmes with particular emphasis on their relevance to tourism development and environmental conservation. The population of the study comprised residents of selected communities across the three education zones of Cross River State, while a sample was drawn using stratified and accidental sampling techniques to ensure adequate representation of respondents. A survey research design was adopted, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled “Environmental Sustainability through Rural Electrification and Food Security Programmes Questionnaire (ESREFSPQ)”. Data obtained were analyzed using simple regression at 0.05 level of significance. Findings from the study revealed that all the rural development programme variables exhibited relatively high mean values, indicating widespread implementation and perceived relevance within the study area. Hypothesis testing results revealed that there is a significant relationship between tourism-oriented rural development programmes such as Rural Electrification and Food Security Programmes and environmental sustainability in Cross River State. These findings imply that effective implementation of rural development programmes can enhance environmental quality, preserve natural attractions, and support sustainable tourism development in the study area. The study concluded that tourism-oriented rural development programmes such as Rural Electrification and Food Security Programmes afford important role in promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing the viability of tourism resources in Cross River State, Nigeria. Based on the findings, the study recommended among other that Rural electrification initiatives should prioritize renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate environmental degradation. This can help ensure sustainable energy access for rural communities