Economic Impacts of Curfew Imposition on the Nightclub Industry in Calabar Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

The nightclub industry in Nigeria is a lucrative part (subset) of the larger music, drinks and entertainment industry that operates from dusk to dawn. The nightclub industry is an economy that is growing, robust and competitive in comparison to other economies. Conversely, the imposition of a dusk to dawn curfew in Calabar as a proactive strategy to curb security challenges in Calabar Metropolis affects the nightclub economy. The study investigates the economic impact of curfew imposition on the nightclub industry in Calabar. The research employed the qualitative approach and adopted a purposive sampling technique for data collection, targeting nightclub operators of Fifteen (15) nightclubs. The study revealed that the curfew imposition resulted in the decline of business patronage, job and income losses to nightclubs due to the curfew imposition amongst other contending factors. The study concludes with recommendations on ways to salvage the negative impact of curfew imposition on the industry and return nightclubs in Calabar to business growth, profitability and resurgence.