Evaluation of Hotel Star Rating Compliance Among Hotels in Calabar, Cross River State, South South Nigeria

This study evaluates the degree of compliance with national hotel star rating standards among registered hotels in Calabar, Cross River State, South South Nigeria. Hotel star ratings serve as a critical quality assurance mechanism guiding consumer choices and underpinning industry competitiveness, yet compliance with criteria set by the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation is widely considered uneven across hotel categories. The study adopts a descriptive survey design using structured observation checklists and questionnaires administered to hotel managers and operations supervisors in 16 registered hotels. Assessment dimensions include physical facilities, service standards, staff qualifications, safety features, and amenity provision. Findings reveal that 44 percent of sampled hotels operate facilities below the minimum standards for their declared star rating, with the most common deficiencies noted in lift provision, fire safety equipment, and staff-to-guest ratios. Higher-rated hotels show greater compliance overall, though even four-star properties record gaps in sustainability-related criteria. The study recommends that the NTDC conduct more frequent compliance inspections, establish a graduated sanctions framework for non-compliance, and assist smaller hotels with technical advisory support to meet minimum standards. Consumer-facing star rating transparency through a verified public database is also proposed to protect guest expectations and encourage hotel quality improvement. Keywords: hotel star rating, compliance, NTDC standards, Calabar, hospitality regulation