ASSESSMENT OF GEOSPATIAL FACTORS INFLUENCING RURAL

DEVELOPMENT: A CASE STUDY OF OGUN STATE

OPAPEJU LUKMAN ADEWALE

20170225

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURAL MANAGEMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE, ABEOKUTA.

 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Rural development is a multidimensional concept encompassing economic, social, and

environmental aspects that aim to improve the quality of life in rural areas (UNDP, 2019). It

plays a vital role in achieving sustainable development goals and reducing regional disparities

(Sylvester U.A., Danjuma N.H., 2021). Rural development is a critical aspect of achieving

sustainable and inclusive growth in many countries worldwide (Sylvester U.A., Danjuma N.H.,

2021). It involves improving the economic, social, and environmental conditions of rural areas

to enhance the quality of life for their inhabitants. Understanding the factors that influence rural

development is essential for formulating effective policies and strategies to address the unique

challenges faced by rural communities.

Geospatial factors, which encompass the physical and spatial characteristics of an area, play a

significant role in shaping rural development outcomes. Geospatial factors refer to the spatial

and physical attributes of an area, including land use patterns, topography, natural resource

availability, transportation infrastructure, climate, and proximity to markets and services (Jia

et al, 2023). These factors collectively influence various aspects of rural development, such as

agricultural productivity, accessibility, service provision, and natural resource management.

Understanding the interrelationships between these geospatial factors and their impact on rural

development outcomes is crucial for designing context-specific interventions that foster

sustainable development.

Numerous studies, in the distant past, have highlighted the significance of geospatial factors in

shaping rural development outcomes. For instance, the availability and quality of land

resources have been identified as essential determinants of agricultural productivity and rural

livelihoods. The work of Boserup (1965) emphasized the relationship between land quality and
agricultural intensification, demonstrating that fertile land is a critical asset for rural

development. Similarly, Turner et al. (1990) found that land degradation negatively affects

agricultural productivity and rural economies.

Transportation infrastructure is a crucial geospatial factor that influences rural development

(Kaiser, N., & Barstow, C. K., 2022). Improved road networks, for example, enhance market

accessibility and reduce transaction costs for rural communities. Past studies by Banerjee and

Duflo (2011) and Deininger et al. (2011) have demonstrated the positive impact of transport

connectivity on rural development, illustrating that better access to markets, education,

healthcare, and other essential services can enhance overall rural well-being.

Climate and environmental factors also play a significant role in rural development outcomes

(Fadairo, O. et al., 2021). The effects of climate change, such as changing rainfall patterns,

temperature fluctuations, and increased frequency of extreme weather events, pose challenges

to agricultural productivity and natural resource management in rural areas. Nelson et al. (2010)

highlighted the need for adaptive strategies that account for climate variability to ensure

sustainable rural development. Similarly, Thornton et al. (2018) emphasized the importance of

climate-smart agricultural practices in mitigating climate risks and enhancing rural resilience.

In recent years, the availability of geospatial data and advancements in technology have

facilitated a more in-depth understanding of the geospatial factors influencing rural

development (Ahasan, R., 2022). Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing

techniques have provided valuable tools for analyzing spatial data, mapping land use patterns,

monitoring natural resources, and assessing transportation networks. These tools enable

policymakers and researchers to make informed decisions and identify priority areas for

intervention.
However, despite the growing recognition of geospatial factors' importance in rural

development, there is still a need for further research to explore their interactions and impacts

on different contexts.

By conducting this assessment, the study aims to provide valuable insights and

recommendations for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers involved in rural

development initiatives. The findings will inform evidence-based decision-making processes,

allowing for the design and implementation of targeted interventions that address the specific

geospatial challenges faced by rural communities.

1.1 PROBLEM STATEMENT

Despite the recognized importance of geospatial factors in influencing rural development, there

remains a lack of comprehensive assessment and understanding of their specific impacts on

rural communities (Ignatius, 2007). This knowledge gap hinders effective policy formulation

and targeted interventions to promote sustainable rural development.

Furthermore, the majority of the available literature on geospatial factors influencing rural

development lacks recent empirical evidence, with many studies conducted before 2020. As

the global context, including technological advancements and changing environmental

conditions, continues to evolve, there is a need for up-to-date research that incorporates the

latest data and methodologies.

Each rural area possesses unique characteristics, challenges, and development potentials,

requiring localized studies to inform context-specific policies and interventions (FAO, 2018).

Therefore, a focused investigation on the geospatial factors influencing rural development in

Ogun state is required to fill these gaps and provide policymakers and researchers with

actionable insights.
This study aims to address these research gaps by conducting a comprehensive assessment of

geospatial factors influencing rural development in Ogun state. By focusing on the interplay

between land quality, transportation infrastructure, climate, and natural resources, this study

will provide a nuanced understanding of the complex relationships and interactions among

these factors.

1.2 RESEARCH QUESTION

Answers are sort to the following research questions:

1. What are the socio-economic characteristics of farmers in Ogun state?

2. What are the geospatial factors that affect the development of rural livelihood of the

farmers?

3. What are the effects of these geospatial factors on the livelihood of the farmers?

1.3 BROAD OBJECTIVES

The general objective of this research is to assess the Geospatial Factors Influencing Rural

Development: A Case Study of Ogun State

1.4 SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES

The specific objectives of the study are:

 to identify the socio-economic characteristics farmers in Ogun state

 to determine the geospatial factors that affect the development of rural livelihood of the

farmers

 to determine the effects of these geospatial factors on the livelihood of the farmers
1.5 HYPOTHESIS OF STUDY

H0: The effect of the identified geospatial factors on the rural development livelihood is not

significant

1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDY

The following are the key aspects highlighting the significance of this study:

1. Policy Informing and Decision-Making: The findings of this study will provide policymakers

with valuable insights into the specific geospatial factors that significantly influence rural

development. Understanding the dynamics and interactions of these factors will enable

policymakers to design targeted interventions and formulate evidence-based policies that

promote sustainable rural transformation. This study will contribute to effective decision-

making by providing a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and nuances

associated with geospatial factors.

2. Sustainable Rural Development: Achieving sustainable rural development is a global

priority. By assessing the geospatial factors influencing rural development, this study will

contribute to the identification of opportunities and challenges in different rural contexts. The

insights gained from this research will aid in the formulation of strategies and interventions

that prioritize sustainable practices, including land management, transportation planning, and

climate resilience. Ultimately, this study will contribute to the long-term well-being and

prosperity of rural communities.

3. Community Development and Empowerment: Rural communities are at the core of rural

development efforts. This study will empower communities by providing a better

understanding of the geospatial factors that shape their development opportunities. By

engaging with local stakeholders and incorporating their perspectives, the research will

enhance community participation, ownership, and capacity-building. Empowering

communities with knowledge about geospatial factors will enable them to make informed

decisions, leverage local resources, and actively contribute to their own development.

4. Knowledge Advancement: This study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on

geospatial factors and their influence on rural development. By incorporating up-to-date

literature and data, the research will provide fresh insights into the contemporary understanding

of geospatial dynamics. It will help fill the existing knowledge gap by offering comprehensive

assessments that consider the multidimensional aspects of geospatial factors. The study's

findings will stimulate further research and dialogue on rural development, encouraging

scholars and practitioners to delve deeper into the complexities of geospatial factors.

5. Replicability and Generalizability: While this study focuses on a specific case, the

assessment of geospatial factors influencing rural development has broader implications. The

findings and recommendations can serve as a reference for other regions facing similar

challenges. The methodologies and analytical approaches employed in this study can be

adapted and replicated in different rural contexts, providing valuable insights and guidance for

policymakers and researchers worldwide.

 CHAPTER THREE

3.0 METHODOLOGY

3.1 STUDY AREA

Ogun State, situated in the south-western region of Nigeria, is characterized by a mix of urban

and rural landscapes. The state's economy is predominantly agrarian (World Bank, 2020), with

agriculture serving as a major source of employment and income generation. Rural areas in

Ogun State play a crucial role in agricultural production, providing food not only for the state

but also for neighbouring regions.

3.2 POPULATION OF STUDY

The people to be included in this study are farmers in Ogun State, especially those in rural areas

or those that farm in the rural areas. They are the ones that have the knowledge of these

geospatial factors influencing the development of rural areas and these knowledge is valuable

for this study.

3.3 SAMPLING PROCEDURE AND SAMPLE SIZE

The sample size will be calculated using Cochran’s formula. It is used to calculate the sample

size (n) given the population size with a particular proportion of interest (p) and a margin of

error (e). The formula is used under the assumption that the population of interest shares

common property and it is computed as:

𝑍 2 𝑝𝑞
𝑛= 2
𝑒

Where:

n = no. of samples
 Z = Confidence Level

e = error margin/margin of error

A 93% confidence level was used to calculate the sample size of this study. This will give a

7% margin of error.

𝑍 2 𝑝𝑞
𝑛=
𝑒2

𝑍 2 𝑝𝑞
𝑛=
𝑒2

Z= 1.64 (90% confidence)

P= 55% = 0.55. The majority of Ogun population, about 55 percent, is rural (World bank,

2020).

Q= 0.45

e= 0.1

1.642 ∗ 0.55 ∗ 0.45

𝑛=
0.12

1.642 ∗ 0.55 ∗ 0.45

𝑛=
0.12

𝑛 = 67

Taking account of non-responders and incomplete surveys, about 50% oversize was taken into

account, giving a total of 101 samples.

For the sake of simplicity, convenience sampling will be used in this survey. Some selected

farmers in reachable rural area in Ogun State will be included in this study.
3.4 METHOD OF DATA COLLECTION

Primary data will collected for the survey. Primary data is selected because of the flexibility of

choosing specific questions of interest to the study rather than making use of secondary data

with might not directly measure the variables of interest to the study. Questionnaire and/or

interview schedule will be used to get information from the respondents.

3.5 MEASUREMENT OF VARIABLES

The socio-economic variables will be measured as follows:

 Age: in years at intervals

 Marital Status: single=1, married=2, divorced=3, widow=4

 Level of Education: primary= 1, secondary=2, Tertiary=3

 Religion: Christian = 1, Muslim = 2, others= 3

 Involved in Other Non-Agric Related Occupations: Yes=1, No=2

 Access to Manual Labour in Farming Activities: Yes=1, No=2

 Family Size: numbers of individual in family

The geospatial factors and it effects on the rural development livelihood will be measured at

the ordinal level. A 5-point Likert scale will be used. Questions will be asked targeting the

geospatial factors and it effects and the respondent will provide answers as to whether they

strongly Agree, Somewhat Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Somewhat Disagree, or

Strongly Disagree with the claims. They will be measured on a scale of 1 to 5.

3.6 ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES

The data collected from the survey will be analysed using Statistical Package for Social

Sciences (SPSS). The objectives of the study will be subjected to descriptive statistics.

Percentages, frequencies, mean and standard deviation of the results will be recorded from the

questions responded to in the objective of the study. Inferential statistics will be also used such

as factor analysis and regression analysis.

The hypothesis will be tested using logit regression.

3.7 VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY

The survey questions will be subjected to face validity by the supervisors to ensure it

encompasses the interest of the study. The questions will also be subjected to content validity.

The reliability of the survey will be measured using Cronbach’s measure of internal

consistency. The reason is that each of the questions in each of the objectives is consistent

within themselves. This means they have the tendency to generate closely related answers on

the Likert scale. Therefore Cronbach’s measure of internal consistency was used to measure

the consistency of the questions. These values will be tested against the Chronbach alpha level

of internal consistency as shown below:

Figure 1: Cronbach's alpha Table of Internal Consistency

 Source: [Link]/probability-and-statistics/statistics-definitions/cronbachs-alpha-spss

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