Title: The Impact Of Globalization On Local Cultures: A Case Study Of Tourism Development In Bayelsa State.
Authors: EBIYEFA NAPOLEON
Volume: 10
Issue: 2
Pages: 56-64
Publication Date: 2026/02/28
Abstract:
This study investigated the dualistic impact of globalization on the local cultures of Bayelsa State, Nigeria, with a specific focus on its interplay with tourism development. Utilizing a secondary data research methodology, the analysis synthesized existing literature, reports, and documents to uncover the complex dynamics at play. The findings reveal that globalization acts as a double-edged sword: it presents significant threats of cultural homogenization, evident in the erosion of Ijaw dialects, cuisine, and traditions, while simultaneously creating opportunities for cultural reinvention through global platforms, hybridization, and a reinforced sense of identity. Crucially, the study identifies strategic tourism development as the pivotal mediator in this relationship. The research concludes that the future of Ijaw cultural heritage is not predetermined by global forces but is contingent upon deliberate, community-centric tourism planning. By adopting a triple-bottom-line framework that balances economic, social, and environmental sustainability, Bayelsa State can harness globalization to empower local communities, preserve its unique cultural identity, and ensure its heritage is dynamically sustained for future generations.