International Journal of Innovative Research and Development

Abstract

The study examines the causes, age-selectivity, direction and pattern of out-migration in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State. The research data were obtained through questionnaire administered to 263 heads of household selected via systematic sampling technique. Results were presented in tables using frequencies and percentages. The finding shows that migration is ongoing and common among the age cohort 18-40 years. The major pattern of migration is rural-urban migration while movements are directed towards large towns and cities in Benue State, Nigeria and beyond. This has reduced rural population in favour of urban areas since a number of youths eludes the rural areas for white collar jobs, education and social attractions in urban destinations. The causes of migration are inadequate jobs and access to education in rural areas, rural hardship and crises, while occupation, access to education, business and transfer among others attract people to urban centres. The author recommends creation of job opportunities, provision of social amenities like schools and spreading these facilities across the length and breadth of the rural areas, establishing agro-base (cottage) industries in rural areas rather than concentrating them in urban centres, empowering the rural youths through agricultural mechanization, loans and subsidies. This will help in reducing rural-urban migration thus developing the rural areas in Otukpo L.G.A. and beyond. 

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Abstract

The study evaluates the contribution of migrants to rural infrastructural development in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State. The research data were obtained through inventory of infrastructure in rural areas, questionnaire and focused group discussion. The study used 307 respondents and 92 discussants for data collection. Research data were presented in tabular form. The chi-square was used in testing the research hypothesis. The finding shows that migrants do send remittance to their home of origin and their contribution to rural infrastructural development in Otukpo Local Government Area is significant. These infrastructures include educational facilities, roads, culverts, local bridges, water supply, power supply, health facilities and market stores. Monetary remittances were often made by the migrants through donation at public functions, while the decision on how to invest community resources is vested on the community. The challenges faced by migrants in developing infrastructures in rural areas include corruption and embezzlement of funds by community and youth leaders, lack of commitment to rural projects, lack of understanding and cooperation between migrants and home communities as well as poor implementation of public projects. The study recommend adherence to societal laws and orders, strict punishment of corrupt persons, cooperation among various facet of the society as well as encouraging Government, private individual and communities to collaborate in funding rural infrastructural projects. This will help in developing the rural areas.

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