Tag Archives: Economic Development

THE EFFECTS OF ETHNO-RELIGIOUS CONFLICTS ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF NIGERIA

THE EFFECTS OF ETHNO-RELIGIOUS CONFLICTS ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF NIGERIA: A CASE STUDY OF LANGTANG NORTH L.G.A – PLATEAU STATE

ABSTRACT

The study investigated the Effects of Ethno-Religious Conflicts on Economic Development of Nigeria: A Case Study of Langtang North LGA of Plateau State. Descriptive survey research design was adopted. Questionnaires were administered to147 respondents which include 80 Christians, 33 Muslims and 34 Traditionalists, who were selected using the quota sampling technique. Out of 147 questionnaires administered, 142 were returned, out of which 2 were wrongly filled and thus rejected. At the end, only 140 questionnaires were used. Simple percentage was used to analyse the data collected. Chi-square test was used in testing the research hypothesis. The table value was 9.49 while the calculated value was 72.2. The null hypothesis was therefore rejected. The work revealed that the effects of ethno-religious conflicts on economic development of Nigeria are enormous among which are: destruction of human and material resources, unstable educational system, diversion of government resources to security for maintenance of peace, retardation of economic development, weakened of patriotism, disinvestment of local and foreign companies with continuous capital flight and loss of confidence in the economy etc. Therefore, it was established that ethno-religious conflicts do significantly negatively affect economic development of Nigeria and is capable of disintegrating the country. The researcher however, to avert this, went ahead to make some useful recommendations on how to control if not prevent ethno-religious conflicts in the country, if the country must remain as an entity and also to developed.

 

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1  BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

Nigeria is the most populated black nation in the world. It has a population of about one hundred and sixty million (160,000,000). According to Salawa B. (2010), Nigeria has over four hundred (400) ethnic groups, belonging to several religious sects. Since independence Nigeria has remained a multi-ethnic nation state, which has been grappling and trying to cope with the problem of ethnicity on the one hand, and the problem of ethno-religious conflicts on the other. This is because over the years the phenomena of ethnicity and religious intolerance have led to incessant recurrence of ethno-religious conflicts, which have given birth to many ethnic militia groups like the O’ dua People Congress (OPC); the Bakassi Boys; the Egbesu Boys; the Ijaw Youth Congress (IYC); and the Igbo People Congress (IPC). Others include the Arewa Poeple Congress (APC) the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB); and the Ohanaeze N’digbo (Daily Trust; 20/8/2002). With the emergence of these ethnic militias and the deep divides between the various ethnic groups, religious intolerance has become more violent and bloody with more devastating results using the ethnic militias as the executors of ethno-religious agenda.

While it is true that it is not possible to know the exact number of ethno-religious conflicts due to lack of adequate statistical data on this issue, it is interesting to note that about forty percent (40%) of ethno-religion based conflicts in Nigeria are credited to the fourth Republic. The fact that there is a recent increase in the number of ethno-religious conflicts in the country makes it a relevant issue of research. Also because of the violent nature of ethno-religious conflicts, which often take the form of riots, sabotage, assassination, armed struggles, guerilla warfare, crisis and secession in Nigeria, they no doubt have implications on economic development of the country and thus making it an important issue for research. Ethno-religious conflicts in whatever context even becomes more necessary given the fact that there is a phenomenal recurrence of ethno­religious conflict across the nation thereby increasing the level of general insecurity particularly in the areas where such conflicts had ever occurred.

By ethno-religious conflict, it means a situation in which the relationship between members of one ethnic or religious group and another of such group in a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society is characterized by lack of cordiality, mutual suspicion and fear, and a tendency towards violent confrontation. Lamenting on this, a former military Head of State and later a civilian President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, was said to have highlighted this “Fear, suspicion, intolerance, and greed have been constant in every crisis and confrontation in Nigeria. It is the psychological fear of discrimination and domination. It is fear of deprivation or not getting one’s fair share. It is variously described; at the political level, it is constitutional imbalance; at economic level as uneven distribution of national cake; and at the educational development level as inequality of opportunity” (Daily Times, 1984).

In Nigeria, it is interesting to note that ethnicity and religious bigotry have become a fulcrum of various forms of nationalism ranging from assertion of language, cultural autonomy and religious superiority to demands for local political autonomy and self-determination. All these sometimes lead to some forms of contextual discrimination of members of one ethnic or religious group against another on the basis of differentiated systems of socio-cultural symbols and religion. Therefore, in a multi-ethnic and religiously diverse society like Nigeria, with some forms of contextual discrimination, relationships between people may be characterized by lack of cordiality, mutual suspicion and fear as it is the case among the ethnic and religious groups in Nigeria.

The history of ethno-religious conflicts in Nigeria can be traced back to the early 1980s. Thus, before the present democratic dispensation in Nigeria, there were ethno-religious conflicts that claimed so many lives and property (Mohammed, 2005). Notable among such crises are the Maitatsine religious disturbances in parts of Kano and Maiduguri in 1982; Jimeta-Yola religious disturbances (1984), and Zango Kataf crises in Kaduna State (1992). Others are Kafanchan College of Education Muslim Christian riots; Kaduna Polytechnic Muslim-Christian skirmishes (1981-1982); and the Cross vs the Crescent conflict at the University of lbadan (1981-1985). Yet other early ethno-religious conflicts include the Bulumkutu Christian-Muslim riots (1982); Usman Danfodio University Sokoto (1982); and the Muslim-Christian Clash during a Christian procession at Easter in Ilorin, Kwara State (1986).

In 1990, the invitation of Reinhard Bonnke, a German Christian preacher to Kano, was met with bitter opposition by the Muslims, who felt cheated for previously denying Ahmed Deedat, a Muslim preacher from South Africa, to come to the country for the same purpose (evangelism). The crises took place between 11 and 14, October 1990 and left behind a casualty of over 500 lives and million-worth property.

The October 1991 Tiv-Jukun ethnic crisis is a conflict over land ownership and political domination. The crisis was said to have claimed not less than 5,000 lives with dozens of villages burnt, while up to 150,000 residents fled the war zone in the exodus that followed (Newswatch, 1991).

With the birth of the fourth Republic, Nigeria and Nigerians have no-known peace. In October, 1999, Governor Ahmed Yerima of Zamfara State introduced Islamic law known as Sharia and was greeted with pockets of unserious protest. However, the hitherto subdue fire was ignited when Governor Mohammed Makarfi of Kaduna State tried to introduce the Islamic code in February 2000. Because of the deep seated animosities or ill feelings between the Muslims and Christians in Kaduna State in general and the state capital in particular, coupled with the fact that both Christians and Muslims are almost at par in population, the two went for their swords and many were slained in cold blood.

In the Kaduna riots, the Igbo tribe who are predominantly Christian ethnic group were mostly affected. As it should be expected of Nigerians, Enugu and other Igbo cities erupted in violence when many Igbo returned dead and those who were lucky to escape had tales of woe to tell, as they too were targets of attack by the Hausa/Fulani in Kaduna. It is important to note here that the Kaduna/Enugu ethno-religious riots had some features that look like the prelude to the 1967-1970 Nigeria civil war.

In October, 2000, another ethno-religious conflict occurred. This was the Lagos-(Idi-Araba/Oko- Oba) Kano mayhems. The cause of this was the misunderstanding between the Hausa residents and the Yoruba in Idi Araba in Lagos over the use of a convenience by a Hausa resident; as a result of this misunderstanding, each group went for their swords and many lives and property were destroyed.

In October, 2001, there was another mayhem in Kano. This was, however, caused by an international event when some terrorists attacked the twin towers of the World Trade Centre in the United State of America. Shortly after, the United States launched an offensive attack against the Taliban government in Afghanistan and because of this; Kano erupted with another round of ethno-religious conflict. In this case, some Islamic fundamentalists who felt that the United States of America had no reason to bombard Afghanistan decided to set the city of Kano on fire. Like the most crises in the city, Christians were the target.

In February 18, 2006, it is disheartening to observe that over 700 lives were lost in crisis which erupted consequent upon certain cartoons against Prophet Muhammad published in Denmark. As if the ‘loyalists’ of the said Prophet were watching and waiting-by in Nigeria, they took to the street of Maiduguri in demonstration destroying properties worth billions of naira and burning Christian places of worship this act later turned to an ethnic crisis where several Igbo were killed. A revengeful attack on the Hausa communities in Enugu, Abia, Anambra, and Delta states therefore took place. The Hausa had their own share of the Igbo aggression where many Hausa Muslims were killed and mosques destroyed and burnt.

Jos -Plateau which was once referred to as the “Home of Peace and Tourism” at the time of conducting this research the city is being mockingly referred to as the “Home of Pieces and Terrorism” (Jeadayibe and Kudu, 2010), due to the activities of “Boko Haram” in the state of recent.

There were conflicts or crises between Hausa/Fulani and the Berom, Anaguta and Afizare in Jos North Local Government in 2001, 2002, 2004, 2008, and 2010. The Tarok Vs Hausa/Fulani 2004 in Langtang North LGA had their share. In 2010 there was another dispute over reconstruction of a house destroyed by clashes of 2008 crisis in Jos North which claimed thousands lives and property worth millions.

In 2011 there was dispute between farmers and herdsmen over farmland in Barkin- Ladi leading to wanton destruction of lives and property.

In February, 2012 a suicide bomber ran into the headquarters of Church Of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Jos, instantly killing three, injuring 38 and damaging 30 vehicles.

Gunmen attack over 10 villages, killed over 300, including a serving Senator Gyang Dantong, and the majority leader of Plateau House of Assembly, Hon. Gyang Fulani in July, 2012 at Barkin Ladi (Kwaja, 2012).

Langtang North which is the case study of this work is not spared in the ethno-religious conflicts. Between 2000 to date there have been series of ethno-religious conflicts in the area.

Consensus in the literature on ethno-religious conflict is that ethno- religious conflict is a permanent feature of the Nigeria state (Salawu, 2010; Akinrinade; 2000; Irobi, 2010; and Adeyemi, 2007). What could be responsible for the country’s deepening ethno-religious contradiction?

The reason for all these turmoils witnessed across the country is attributed to the country colonial masters. The British had laid the foundation for the present ethno-religious crises by their 1914 amalgamation policy. Upon arriving, the British simply adopted their rules to the existing hegemonies in the North, East and West, thereby putting different ethnic and religious people together without any consultation with the various indigenous communities and ethnic groups which they met on ground on how best to co-exist and manage human and material resources. Regretting the action of British to merge diverse ethnic groups into one in Nigeria, the former Secretary of State at the British Colonial Office (1952-1959), Sir Peter Smitters, was reported to have lamented in an interview, thus: “During the debate for independence of Nigeria, the view of the Secretary of State at that time, was that in Nigeria we should attempt to put together a large and powerful state with ample material resources. This was attractive but it involved forcing several different ethnic and cultural groups into a single political structure. In exculpation, it must be said that we did not then have the examples of the collapse of Yugoslavia. It should now be clear for all but the willfully blind to see that it is extremely dangerous to force diverse radical and social entities into a single political structure” (Ali, 2004).

As stated earlier, Langtang North Local Government Area is not immune from ethno-religious conflicts. Langtang North came into existence as a result of the splitting of then Langtang Local Government Area. Langtang North Local Government is one of the seventeen LGAs of Plateau State. It was created on 27th August, 1991 during the administration of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida . It is situated 194 kilometers south east of Jos the state capital. It has four (4) districts, namely: Gazum, Kuffen, Pil-Gani and Bwarat. Langtang is the headquarters of Langtang North. The main ethnic group of the area is Taroh. Its population, by 2006 census figures, is 140, 643. It has fourteen (14) electoral wards.

Langtang North is greatly endowed with resources that make it an industrial haven yet to be appreciated. These include Clays, Feldspars and Granites.

The main economic activity of the people of the area is agriculture which for now is solely on subsistence scale asides business activities. Major crops grown include: Maize, Rice, Cotton, Guinea Corn, Millet, Cassava, Pepper etc. Taroh people also engage in livestock and poultry farming.

There are a lots of planned annual festivities in the area, prominent among them are: Ilum Otaroh (Taroh day), Ilum oga Gbak(Gbak day), Ibyari, Imalkan, Nche Orim etc. there is also one major mystery rock which is a tourist attraction that is worth mentioning called Dung Laka hill, named after a famous hunter whose footmarks, and that of his dog, horse and grave remain indelible on the rock. In terms of resorts and social activities, Langtang North has Tim Tali Motel, Zanzat Motel, Gaya Hotel, Club 7, Havilla Garden, Tim Tali Club etc. Langtang North is often referred to as the “Home of Generals” as the likes of General Nanven Joe Garba, Nimmyel Joshua

Dogonyaro, Domkat Bali, Jeremiah Timbut Useni, John Nanzip Shagaya etc hail from there. Despite the caliber of these prominent Army Generals being sons of the soil, it is not immune from ethno-religious conflict.

1.2  STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Religious or ethno-religious conflicts have occurred in many parts of Nigeria, with consequent destruction of lives and property. Phrases such as “un-Islamic” or un-Christian” have been used to describe the violent and criminal acts committed in the name of religion. A civilized religion should be concerned about peace, spiritual and social security and how to inspire adherents to relate to the Supreme Being as well as to fellow human being in love despite historical, cultural, ethnic or social differences. Whether the Supreme Being is referred to as “Allah’ or “God\ both Islam and Christianity are referring to a ‘Being’ that is Almighty, the creator and the ultimate judge of all human being. Unfortunately, some religious extremists or fundamentalists or fanatics as variously described go about their propagation in such a militant manner that one would think that God or Allah as variably called is incapable of helping to advance His own cause or He is so weak that He needs someone to defend Him and His teachings. For Muslim, Allah is transcendent. Quran 6:103 states that, “No vision can grasp Him, but His grasp is over all vision. He is above all comprehension, yet, is acquainted with all things” Christian theology assert too that God is incomprehensible because He is the creator of all that is and outside the order of all being. While both Muslims and Christians confess inability to comprehend God, some from both camps sometimes think they know exactly what God wants. Hence, interpreting the holy books in such manners that create tension in relationship.

This tension lead to crisis and crisis led to massive lost of shops, business premises, lives and other property. The consequences of these crises have led to low economic development of

Langtang North Local Government Area. In another word, how can remarkable development take place in an atmosphere of conflicts, chaos and disturbances? Can investors invest where ethno­religious conflicts have become the order of the day? Are those killed in the crises not relevant in the scheme of development of the nation?

A cursory look at the situation above shows that there is need for tolerance and respect for all religion and ethnic groups in order to avoid misunderstanding and crisis among the people of both ethnic and religion in the society.

One therefore is worry by the rate at which ethno-religious conflicts wreck our economic development; the researcher therefore attempts to state the following problems:

  1. Conflicts arise from the pursuit of divergent interests, goals and aspirations by individuals or groups to gain political and economic power in the society.
  2. Government apparent inability in resolving the thorny issues of ethno-religious conflict.
  3. Fruitless efforts of the government at all levels in resolving the issues of the ethno­religious conflict.

1.3  HYPOTHESIS/RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1.3.1  HYPOTHESIS

Hypothesis is a mere intelligent quest by the researcher which may or may not be confirmed at the end of the research work. Thus, the hypotheses of this work are:

H0, Ethno-religious conflicts do not significantly affect economic development of Nigeria.

Hi, Ethno-religious conflicts do significantly affects economic development of Nigeria.

1.3.2  RESEARCH QUESTIONS

  1. What are the causes of ethno-religious conflicts?
  2. How do ethno-religious conflicts affect the economic development of Nigeria?
  3. What are the natures of ethno-religious conflicts in Nigeria?
  4. What are the possible solutions to ethno-religious conflicts in Nigeria?

1.4  PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

Considering the background to the study of this work, there is need to bear in mind that ethno­religious conflict is a social threat which has almost ruined the society through its various wicked agents such as: Boko Haram, OPC, IYC, APC, MASSOB etc. Hence, there is need to cope this ugly situation so as to ensure economic progress and development in the locality. This study seeks to:

  1. Examine the causes of ethno-religious conflicts in Nigeria
  2. Find out how ethno-religious conflicts affects the economic development of the country
  3. Proffer possible solutions to the ethno-religious conflicts in the country

1.5  SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The findings of this research work shall not only be useful to the people and government of Langtang North but also to the religious leaders, traditional rulers and government at both state and federal levels.

To the people of Langtang North LGA, the result of the findings will enable them to identify the possible causes and effects of ethno-religious conflicts in the area with a view to finding lasting solutions for economic development.

To the religious leaders, it will help them to realize that they are role models to their adherents and congregations hence, the need for upright living and proper interpretation of the holy books. To the traditional rulers, it will enable them to lead and advice their people aright, knowing very well that they are the custodian of their rich cultural heritage.

To the government at all levels, it serves as source of information to them. It will inform them for the need to inculcate peace education in our post primary schools and Peace and conflict resolution at all higher institutions of learning as one of the GSTs course as been currently done by the researcher’s university. The result will also enable the government to implement the result of any inquiry on previous crisis, if any that has not been implement to avoid re-occurrence.

The findings of this research will also add to available literature in the area of conflict. Besides, it will also provide recent information on conflict and crisis management in Nigeria.

1.6  SCOPE OF THE STUDY

The study attempt to look into the effects of ethno-religious conflicts on the economic development of Nigeria: A case study of Langtang North LGA of Plateau State.

1.7  RESEARCH METHOD

The researcher do not used one method of data collection, but sourced or gathered information through various avenues that ensure reliability and validity such as textbooks, questionnaire, oral interview, internet, journals magazine, paper presentation etc.

However, for the purpose of data analysis, only data collected through questionnaires were used. 147 questionnaires were printed and administered to respondents drawn randomly from the four districts of Langtang North Local Government Area, comprising of 80 Christians, 33 Muslims and 34 Traditionalists as the study area is dominated by Christians. The researcher involved both genders in the sample population for both religions.

Out of 147 questionnaires printed and administered only 142 were returned out of which 2 were wrongly filled and therefore rejected. At the end, 140 questionnaires were analyzed.

1.8  OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS

Effects: – Something that inevitably follows an action. A change or changed state as a direct result of an action.

Ethnicity:- According to (Otite, 1990) in (Uhunmwuangho, 2011), defined ethnicity as categories of people characterized by cultural criteria of symbols including language, value systems and normative behavious and whose members are anchored in a particular part of a state.

Religion: – People’s beliefs and opinions concerning the existence, nature and worship of a deity or deities, and divine involvement in the universe and human life (Microsoft Encarta, 2009). Conflict: – Is a state of dispute, disagreement or physical fighting among individuals and groups resulting in massive destructions of lives and property.

Economic: – It is the business activities of a country.

Development: – This entails the enthronement of positive change, economic growth, full employment, liberation, progress and social justice in a given society.

Crisis: – Crisis is referred to tension, fear and insecurity within a state, group or organization. Fanatic: – According to Archbishop Kaigama (2006), a fanatic is said to be someone who has forgotten his goal or mission yet redouble his efforts.

Boko Haram: – Western education is forbidden. It is said to be an Islamic sect fighting for the cause of Islamic religion, looking at it origin.

Ibyari: – This is a Taroh festival that holds at the end of every year in memory of some prominent family members whose skulls are exhume from the grave and are worshipped.

Imalkan: – This is a period in Taroh land when males’ traditional worshippers, particularly those initiated go to the hills to invites masquerades to a given “holy forest”, which is found in every community in Taroh land.

Holy Forest: – Is a shrine dedicated or reserved for the masquerades (juju) and only males who are initiated are allowed to enter the forest. Younger children and women are not allowed to enter the forest. The holy forest is known as “ashe OrimT

Nche Orim: – it is a period in Taroh land where local beer is brewed or prepared for the masquerades. They (masquerades) come out of their forest to sing and dance from house to house of traditionalists and village to village for a specific days, but must not been seen by minors and women.

 

Click to: DOWNLOAD @ NGN5,000/USD20

 

Loading

THE IMPACTS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION ON ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

THE IMPACTS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION ON ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

In this research work, the researcher intended to have a general discussion with local government as my background.  But lack of space may not allow me for detailed discussion and analysis. However, all essentials part of the impacts of local government administration on economic and social development in Nigeria are discussed. In chapter one, I discussed the background, the problem, purpose of the study, scope, hypothesis, significance and some definition terms.  In chapter two, contains literature review and review of related empirical research  Furthermore, chapter three contains research design, population and sample selection for study, sampling technique, method of data collection, validation of data instrument, reliability of data instrument and method of data presentation and analysis. And chapter four, contains data presentation, data analysis and discussion of results. Finally chapter five, contains summary of findings, conclusion and recommendations.

 

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1     BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

This study is a modest attempt at a lucid explication of the impact of local government in Nigeria.

Nigerian local government system has witnessed tremendous transformation since the introduction of the 1988 civil service reforms and its application at the local government administrations one of the changes introduced to strengthen the local government is the direct payment of their statutory allocations which was increased from 15% to 20%.  In addition, local government auditor was established in each state government to ensure proper utilization of financial resources at the local level to check any misappropriation of public funds.  Also all local government now has a common structure which distinguishes them from service department.

Local government at any level has some stand and roles such as the maintenance of law and order, the promotion of economic and social development.  They are left with considerable freedom to act as they see fit for the interest of the local community.

From the point of view the governments as agent of development are well placed to help the rural areas to develop.  These can be done by investing in social and economic infrastructure such as roads, bridges, hospitals, schools, electrification and telecommunication.  The other essential duties inherited from the Native Authorities include rural and urban water supplies, markets and libraries.  We generally regard the convenience list as including those extra amenities which make for a better life in the community, other than those life in the community, other than those which are concerned with fighting discuss e.g. bus and lorry parks.  The regulation of handcarts on the streets, community and recreation centers, parks and open spaces, grazing areas and fuel plantations, the naming of streets and the numbering of buildings.  These are recognized as automatically the responsibility of the local government.  They also help in the service of park control and supply of water, electricity and gas, the provision of road and water transport, and any other trading undertaking that the state government specifically authorizes.

The local government also, take care for a specifically health orientation and supplying of drugs, a midwifery service, to arrange for health visiting and home nursing to provide facilities for vaccination and immunization.

1.2     STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Local government is expected to become more meaningful in facilitating social and economic development at the grassroots level.  Central to the achievement of these objectives is the financial viability of this tier of government.  This point has been subtly underscored by “Dasuki panel” on local government administration, when it observed inter alia that a good number of local government roles could not be performed at all, due to a variety of reasons principal among which are:

(i) Inadequate financial capacity

(ii) Lack of necessary technical manpower and erosion of functions particularly in the revenue yielding areas by state government – thus reducing the revenue base of the local government.

This demonstrates that success or failure of local government depends among other things, on their revenue base, the fiscal resources available and the way these resources are utilized.  However, central to the above is the ability of the local government to generate substantial financial resources which is one of the tripartite goals of every local government in Nigeria more importantly, one is inclined to think that this is the point that can give an impact in breaking the vicious cycle of poverty of  Idemili local government.  The researcher wants to identify the reasons for the vicarious cycle, and proffer a solution to the above problems.

1.3     OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

This study seeks to look at the contribution of local government development of rural areas in Nigeria using Idemili local government area of Anambra state.

This research also aimed at identifying different factors militating the effectiveness of local government and solutions to those problems identified and it will be offered at the completion of the research work.

Finally, the study makes a modest attempt to fulfill this purpose in the social and economic development of the effective delivery of service to the respective local populations scattered all over the country.  It also make  recommendations on making local government an effective third tier of government, the development and management of the human resources of local governments and the development of the financial resources of local government.  The overall thrust of the recommendation is on how to ensure faithful implementation of local government.

1.4     HYPOTHESIS

The research hypothesis for work will be based on the following:

  • Do local governments have any role to play in the economic development of rural area?
  • To what extent has local government administration played its roles in rural area?
  • Does low morale among the staffs of local government militate development of rural areas?
  • Is there any constraints that militate against the success of development process of local government?
  • Does weak financial base hinder the goals of meeting up rural development?

1.5     SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The need and importance of the research is obvious.  At a time when local government has come to assume an overwhelming influence on the process of political and economic development.

It becomes more relevant to examine much more closely, the characters and dynamics of this third tier of government and to clarify the major contradictions that have landed to impede its capacity to promote development at local level.

However, a scientific study of this kind becomes necessary especially at this time when the past and present civilian administrations are particularly concern about rural development.

Finally, this study will generally add to the growing numbers of literature on local government affairs, more particularly on the impacts of local government administration on economic and social development in Nigeria and pragmatic solutions offered towards making them more efficient and responsive to the needs of rural Nigerians, its also, to policy makers and researchers alike. 

1.6     SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This research area and dimension of coverage is based on only the impacts of local government administration on economic and social development in Nigeria and to the staffs, teachers, businessmen and farmers in Idemili local government area of Anambra state.

1.7    LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

The researcher is also affected by the usual constraints and problems prominent in similar researchers in Nigeria.

These constraints were summarized below

  • Finance: This created a lot of problem to the researcher in the cause of carrying out proper investigation of this research, but this was not enough because of other uses in which it is been put to.
  • Time Constraints: The time available for the research work was very limited with other assignment and preparation for examination has caused a barrier to the researcher findings.
  • Dearth of Statistical Data and Information: as a result of lack of documental data the research work appears to be some how written for easy understanding.

1.8     DEFINITIONS OF TERMS

The following terms have been defined for the purpose of this study:

  • Local government: This is government at a local level exercised through representative councils established by laws toe exercise specific functions with in a defined area.
  • Development: Development is a multi – dimensional process involving a re-organizational and reorientation of the entire economic and social system, in addition to improve income and outcome. Its typically involves radical changes in institutional, social as well popular attitude and sometimes even customs and belief.
  • Council: This refers to the organ that constitute representation of people either elected or nominated.
  • Social Economic Development: This is a combination of social and economic development.  It embraces improvement in not only standard of living and per-capital income, but also high level of employment, reducing inflation, adequate food, high infrastructures, stressing values rather than achievement.
  • Objectives: These are end results to which an organization or government activity directed objective are hierarchical in nature are determined or formulated by top management of an organization after economic, social and political forces affecting the organization have been apprised.
  • Programmes; This consists of essentially integrated series of development projects that spans over a length of time.
Click to: DOWNLOAD @ NGN5,000/USD20

Loading

THE IMPACT OF MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM SCALE ENTERPRISES ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

THE IMPACT OF MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM SCALE ENTERPRISES ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ABSTRACT

This research work examines and analyses the nature of small and medium scale enterprises as a bases for economic development of Nigeria using Benin City as a case study. The first part of the research work is theoretical back ground of the study where the research problem and the research aims and objectives are stated. Also included in this part is the research hypothesis, being that, small scale enterprises form the basis for economic development of Nigeria. The second part of this research which is the literature review tackles the operational definitions and characteristics of small scale enterprises. It also examines the various sources of fund available for small scale enterprises which include equity and debt. The research further explains the importance of small scale enterprises and their contributions to economic development of Nigeria, ranging from employment generation, revenue to the government and so on. The problems faced by small scale enterprises were also highlighted. In the empirical study, the researcher sampled and selected table water enterprises in Benin City with the aim of testing the hypothesis earlier stated. Based on the empirical results and findings, small scale enterprises are recognized as an important reservoir for economic development of Nigeria. The last aspect of this research work draws up the summary, conclusion and recommendations.

 

CHAPTER ONE

 1.1      INTRODUCTION

This research attempt to analyze the impact of small and medium enterprises as an industrial development strategy in Nigeria, using table water enterprises as a case study.

Small and medium scale enterprises (MSMEs) have been widely acknowledged as the spring board for sustainable economic development. In particular developing countries including Nigeria, have since 1970s shown increased interest in the promotion of small and medium scale enterprises for three main reasons, the failure of the past industrial policies to generate efficient self-sustaining reliance approach to development and recognition that dynamic and growing MSMEs can contribute substantially to a wide range of developmental objectives.

  These objectives include efficient use of resources, employment creation, mobilization of domestic savings for investment, encouragement, expansion and development of indigenous entrepreneurship and technology as well as income distribution etc.

Experience over the years as shown that small and medium scale enterprises are fundamental to the development of many nation and is  regarded as one of the most important process of attaining self- reliance, economic independence, the provision of goods and services, employment, income distribution and many other factors for the overall improvement of the welfare of the populace.

A small scale industry can be defined by the criteria of project cost, capital, cost, turn-over by the employee etc. The Nigerian Federal and State Ministry of Industry And Commerce have adopted the criterion of value of installed fixed capital to determine what a small scale industry is. In this respect, the value have varied from N 60,000.00 in 1972, N 159,000.00 in 1975, N 250,000.00 in 1979, N 500,000.00 in 1986, to a fixed investment of not more than N 2,000,000.00( Two million Naira) in 1992. This figure is exclusive of building and subject to government determination and land prevailing objective of public policy.

Small scale industries in Nigeria can be categorized into urban and rural enterprises, in a more formal way; they can be called organized and unorganized industries.  The organized industries have paid employees with a registered office while the unorganized industries (small scale) are mainly made up artisans who work in open space, operating in temporary wooden workshop or structure. The unorganized small scale industries rely mostly on apprentices or family members and mostly employ low rate or not salary paid workers. However, generally in Nigeria, the major activities involved in the small scale industrial sector include; soap and detergent, fabrics, textile and leather, local blacksmith, tinsmith, ceramic, clothing and tailoring, timber and winning, brick and cement, food processing, wood furniture, beverages, bakeries, electronic repairs, phone call centers, chemical based product and  mechanics, rental service and hairdressing.

The development of small scale industries is an essential element in the growth strategy of most economics and hold particular significance to Nigeria. Small scale industries not only contribute significantly to improve living standard, they also bring about substantial local capital formation and achieve high level of productivity and capability from the planning stand point. Small scale industries are increasingly recognized as the principal means for achieving equitable and sustainable industrial diversification and dispersal. In Nigeria, small scale industries account for well over half of the total share of employment, sales and value added.

Therefore, it has be agreed by both developed and developing countries in the world that small scale industries are significant instrument for generating economic growth, capable of promoting not only stable industrial structure but also a satisfactory balance partial distribution of industries.

With over 150 million people in Nigeria, productive farmland, rich varieties of mineral deposits, Nigeria should be a haven for small scale industries. The human and natural resources base is a significant feature that gives the country a specific status in the continent. However, just like other countries, Nigeria is witnessing a rapid population growth and this contrast with the less than average rate of development in communication, technological and social infrastructure. These problems constitute hindrance to the development of small scale industries which is a very important sector that will enhance the contribution of the private sector and provide the critical building block for industrialization and sustainable economic development.

Furthermore, with the dismantling of trade and other barriers, the world has been transferred into a global village. Consequently, the small industries in Nigeria are struggling to survive under intense and competitive environment, both domestic and international. In view of this, there is an urgent need to provide the required enabling environment for the development of small scale industries, so that they could adequately play the role expected of them in economic transformation. Such role include the mobilization of domestic savings for investment, appreciable contribution to gross domestic product, increase investment, increase harnessing of local raw materials, employment generation, significant contribution to poverty reduction effort through sustainable livelihood and enhancement in personal income, technological development and export diversification. This can be made possible through responsive industrial policy and government overall economic development strategies that will ensure the collaboration of all development partners and the effective coordination and utilization of economic resources.

1.2      STATEMENT OF THE RESEARCH PROBLEM

Small scale industries are most common form of business in Nigeria and this is very significant to the economic development of Nigeria. The aim of any economy (either industrialized or non-industrialized) depends largely on how well organized the small scale industries are. Looking at the standard and practice of small scale industries in Nigeria, taking table water factories in Edo state as a case study, they (small scale industries) seem to be stagnant, less adventurous than that of the developed countries. This study is projected towards providing answers to some of the question such as:

  1. Are small scale industries necessary and important tools for economic growth and development?
  2. To what extend has small scale industries help in enhancing self- reliance, productivity and employment generation?
  3. What are the factors negating the promotion of small scale businesses in Nigeria?

1.3       OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The main objective of the study is to examine the impact of small scale enterprises on the development of      Edo state with reference to Edo state table water enterprises. It tends to find out the following:

  1. To investigate the factor responsible for the failure of small scale enterprises in Nigeria.
  2. To find the problems associated with small scale enterprises in Nigeria.
  3. To suggest a way out and technical difficulties normally encountered by small scale industries.
  4. To enlighten or make prospective investors aware that there is a lot of assistance in form of soft loan and advice to any prospective and potential business man or woman who want to establish a small business

1.4      SCOPE OF THE STUDY

The scope  cover all aspect of small scale enterprises, the role of small scale industries in facilitating economic development of the country, the peculiar problems small scale industries face the most, being management problem and access to finance and various role of government to ensure improvement in their performance.

However, for the purpose of this research work, Edo state table water industry is used as a base for the survey.

1.5      SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The role of small scale enterprises in the economy cannot be over emphasized. It is the life blood of the economy of developing countries like Nigeria. There are more than a million of unemployed people in Nigeria, the public sector (government) alone cannot absorb these unemployed people or solve the problem of unemployment.

In views of this, this research is thus, necessary because it can be used as a means of enhancing and promoting individual participation in small scale enterprise or business in Nigeria through providing useful information about the nature of small scale industries. It may also serve as reference guide for those who want to venture into small scale business and thus be self-employed if the enabling environment is provided.

This research will also serve as a reference guide for those who want to undertake further studies on small scale industries.

Click to: DOWNLOAD @ NGN5,000/USD20

 

Loading