Challenges of Rural Industrialization in Edo State

Abstract

Rural industrialization has been identified a potent ingredient for sustainable nation building. This is particularly relevant in Nigeria, given its high unemployment rate and prevailing crisis in its oil sector. This study examines industrialization in a Nigerian rural area, Ebelle community of Edo state. It specifically looks into the existing extent of involvement in industrial activities, the viability of the industrial activities, the challenges and the improvements needed. This is with a view to proffering recommendations on viable approach to revitalizing rural industrialization in Nigeria. It sampled 97 industrialists purposively selected in the study area. The data collected was analyzed using frequency counts and mean values. It is revealed from the study that agricultural activities are more predominant in the study area and it is perceived as most viable by the respondents. However, like in most other industrial activities in the area, inadequate capital, use of primitive methods, and low support on industrial activities has inhibited optimum performance in the agricultural sector. Provision of credit facilities, government policies that support consumption of local goods and supply of equipment at subsidized process were adjudged the immediate need to improve on the status quo. The study concluded that ample opportunities abound in rural industrialization in Nigeria, provided that tackling the challenges are given utmost priority.