Leisure Activities and Recreation Facilities in Nigeria: Implications for Wholesome Community Health

The social conditions in which people live have been identified as an important indicator of the health status of communities and a critical determinant of health inequities. Thus, health policies are meant to recognise the interdependence of community health and these social conditions. This paper aims to conceptualise leisure activities and recreation facilities as valid social determinants of health variables, being veritable factors for promoting community health. The effects of physical activities, social interactions and environmental factors on communal health indices are examined by exploring the physical, health and tourism science literature to generate relevant insights. Application and implications for Nigerian communities are also conducted. Leisure activities and recreation facilities are identified as two major variables that are relevant to the social determinants of health framework. This paper recognises that health equity in communities is enhanced by the engagement of people in fun, activities, pleasure and entertainment. It establishes the critical link between leisure activities, recreation facilities and built environment on one hand and community health on the other hand. It emphasises that investments in infrastructure are a sustainable way of promoting community health and addressing health inequities. A strong case is made for Nigerian communities.