Pattern of Infrastructure-induced Socio-economic Development in Rural Settlements of Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study analyses the variation in infrastructure – induced pattern of socio – economic development among some selected rural settlements in Niger state of Nigeria. To achieve this aim, twenty-two rural settlements were randomly selected and their scores on selected infrastructure were used to ascertain the pattern of socio – economic development. The relative strength of the factors was determined by factors analysis. The results revealed variation in infrastructure – induced pattern of development. Factor analysis revealed five factors that account for 85.82% of the total variance. Factor 1 which is Institutional infrastructure indicated high positive scores on four settlements namely Paiko, Agwara, Wushishi and Maikunkele. Factor 2 which is the Households’ infrastructure loaded positively high in six settlements namely Enagi, Gawu Babangida, Lemu, Sabo Wuse, Doko and Nasko. Factor 3 is Welfare infrastructure shows high positive scores on three settlements namely Kuta, Bangi and Doko. Accessibility factor is indicated in factor 4 with high positive scores on four settlements namely Gbajibo, Enagi, Paiko and Rafin Gora. Lastly, Factor 5, which has been termed Road density, shows high positive scores on three settlements. These are Tunga Magajiya, Doko and Maikunkele. The study recommends provision of rural infrastructure and their proper maintenance to improve the standard and quality of life of rural residents in the state. Key words: Rural Infrastructure, Factor scores, Variation, Pattern, Rural settlements and Socio-economic development.