TRADITIONAL CULTURAL EXPRESSIONS AS ASSET FOR TOURISM PROMOTION IN PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Traditional cultural expressions (TCEs) are the ways in which indigenous knowledge, beliefs and tradition of a people are expressed and passed down from generation to generation. These include folklores, folksongs, rites and rituals, myths and legends, arts, dances and other cultural practices. In many parts of the world, TCEs have been tapped to promote tourism. This paper explores how the traditional cultural expressions of the indigenous people of Plateau State, Nigeria, centred on the volcanic features around them can be harnessed to promote tourism in the state. The study suggests that some of the interesting folklores, myths and legends that the people have woven about the origin, causes and significance of the volcanic features in their communities can become important assets and tools to promote the sites as tourist destinations, introduce new tour regiments and activities, increase local content in the promotion of tourism and engage the communities in tourism development.