CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
Rural development remains a pressing concern globally, with many rural
communities continuing to face challenges related to poverty, inequality,
and limited access to basic services. Community participation has
emerged as a crucial strategy for promoting rural development, as it
enables local community to take ownership of their development
processes and make informed decision about their needs and priorities.
Anyanwu (2000), defined community development as the process in the
life of a community, by which the people plan and act together for the
satisfaction of their felt needs. Its primary purpose is to bring about
change for better living, through the willing participation, and or
cooperation of the people.
The active participation of the people will foster success in any project
which they embark upon. It encourages self-help and utilization of human
and material resources to utmost capacity of community development.
Esenjor (2002) noted that most development centered around people, and
this is why one of the most concern in development literature is about
ways people may be utilized for given programmed or for the resolution
of given problems that impinge on development itself. Since
independence in 1960, successive Nigerian government had made
specific provisions for community development in the National
development plan because development through communal initiative and
efforts is officially recognized as a rewarding and desirable complement
to the elaborate plans for integrated development. To give a strong
expression to community development, Nigeria has witness number of
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government initiated national development programs with embedded and
inherent community development goals and objectives. Some of them
includes: The Green Revolution, Operation feed the nation(OFN), Mass
Mobilization for social justice and economic recovery (MAMSER),
directorate for food, roads and rural infrastructure (DFRRI), better life for
rural women, family support programme (FSP), among others.
Community participation must be accompanied with supportive policies,
resources, unique knowledge, skills, institutional framework and
experiences that can inform and enrich development efforts.
This study aims to explore the concept of community participation in
rural development, its benefits, challenges, and its impact for
development initiatives.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The vital role of community development as a virile instrument of social,
economic change and transformation of society cannot be
underestimated. Community development provides necessary tools for
transforming a stagnant or dormant community to be a very active one.
The traditional community development efforts involves the various
communities in Nigeria in a form of voluntary exercise in which the old
and young members of a particular community participated actively in the
traditional tasks of cleaning the community, road path and compound.
However, with the growing complexity of our society/community,
increase in population and or urbanization couples with the high task of
people for modern basic and social amenities and infrastructural facilities,
community development activity witnessed a significant change in
diversion and became more complex in process, form and scope. Thus
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bringing to the fore the recognition and acceptance of the fact that
meaningful development would only take place when the rural
communities are well mobilized for community action.
Coming down to the discourse, arguments and debates have continued on
academic, government and various circles on the persistence of instability
and on the poor or stunted growth of rural communities in Nigeria.
However, there is no denying fact that the rural communities make over
60% population in Nigeria and as such, remains a crucial sector in
shaping the country's future, which is aimed at making Nigeria to be
among the world first twenty (20) developed country.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1. To investigate the ways people participate in community development
projects in Uruan local government area.
2. To examine the relationship between community participation and rural
development.
3. To recommend strategies that can be used for effective mobilization in
the development of Uruan local government area.
1.4 Research Questions
The following research questions were formulated for the study.
1. In what way do people participate in community development project in
Uruan local government area?
2. Is there any relationship between community participation and rural
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development?
3. What are the mobilization strategies for people to participate in
community development project in Uruan local government area?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
Hypotheses one
Ho: Effective community mobilization affects community development
Hi: Mobilization does not affect community development
Hypotheses two
Ho: there is a significant relationship between community participation
and rural development
Hi: there is no significant relationship between community participation
and rural development.
1.6 Significance of the Study
Although very little efforts has been made in the past to ascertain the
impact of mobilization in community development.
This study, in addition to the scanty literature on the subject mattern will
advance the following
Shade more light on impact of people’s mobilization in community
development.
Provide enough literature on mobilization as a tool of community
development.
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Provide socio-economic indicators on community development and
how these measures could play a critical role in the process of
Uruan resettlement.
Create awareness among development planners on how to apply
the participatory development theory to meet the developmental
needs of the local communities.
1.6 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is focused on mobilization as a tool of rural development in
Akwa Ibom State, using Uruan local government area as a case study.
Limitation
The researcher was restricted to the area of study because of the
following:
The attitude of respondents in handling and responding to
questionnaires as respondents collected the instruments without
responding to it, thereby impeding into the expected data analysis.
Inadequate literature on the subject matter compound the
researcher focus and wide range of coverage.
Some of the instruments suffer from regression; all these further
limited the study to its present form.
1.9 Definition of Terms
The following terms and concepts are operationally defined to suit the
context of the study.
Community: is a social group of any size whose members resides in a
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specific locality, share government and likely have a common interest.
Participation: is the active involvement of individuals or groups in an
activity or events like decision making process, group works, and
political parties.
Mobilization: is a process whereby a group of people have transcended
their differences to meet on equal terms in order to facilitate a
participatory decision-making process.
Rural: these are areas located outside of urban centers, typically
characterized by lower population densities, limited access to services,
and a stronger reliance on agriculture.
Development: this refers to the process of improving the quality of life of
individuals and communities at larger.
Community Participation: it refers to the active involvement of
community members in decision making processes, planning and
implementation of development initiatives.
Rural Development: refers to the process of improving the quality of life
of rural communities through sustainable economic, social, and
environmental development.
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CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 Introduction
Rural development remains a critical component of national development
in Nigeria. In Akwa Ibom State, which is predominantly rural,
community participation has been increasingly recognized as a
fundamental element in achieving sustainable development - (Offiong,
2000). This literature review explores the concept of community
participation and its role in rural development with particular reference to
Akwa Ibom State.
This study seeks to access the level of participation of youth groups in
rural development activities in Akwa Ibom State thereby exploring the
socio-economic characteristics. This literature reviews aims to provide
actionable insights for improving youths involvement and addressing
barriers to participation.
2.1 Conceptual Literature
2.1.1 The Concept of Community
The concept of community refers to a group of individuals who shares
common values, interest, or geographic locations, and who often engage
in social interactions that fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support.
(Hillary, 2005).
According to Delanty 2003, argues that community is a symbolic
construction grounded in communication and shared cultural frameworks
rather than merely in spatial closeness. Etuk et al 2018, sees community
as a locality, or small town where its inhabitants shares same identity
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culture, virtual connections and works in unity to achieve a collective
desire. According to Ekanem 2009, community can be physical, such as
neighbourhoods or villages, or virtual such as online groups. A
community has its features which are known to be social interaction,
sense of belonging, shared interests or goals, as well as its structure and
or organization - Ekpeyong 2017.
2.1.2 The Concept of Community Development
Community development is a process where community members come
together to take collective action and generate solutions to common
problems. It emphasizes on empowerment, participation and capacity
building to improve the social, economic and environmental well-being
of a community. (Bhattacharyya, 2004). Community development
involves both the process (how changes is been achieved) and the
outcome (the result of that change) - Ayeni, 2021.
According to the United Nations 2009, community development is "a
process where community members are supported to identify and take
collective actions on issues which are important to them". This includes
strengthening local institutions, promoting inclusive participation, and
fostering self-reliance. According to Littrell 2018, it is an open system of
decision making whereby those comprising the community uses
democratic and rationale means to arrive a group decisions to take action
for enhancing the social and economic well-being of the community.
The participatory approach ensures that community members are not just
participants of aid, but key contributors to the development process of
their community.
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2.1.3 The Concept of Development
The concept of development refers to the multidimensional process
involving economic growth, social transformation and the improvement
of human well-being. Traditionally, development was equated with
economic indicators such as GDP growth, but modern perspectives
emphasize a broader view, including health, education, equity and
freedom (Todaro and Smith, 2020).
According to Amarty Sen 2009, development is a process of expanding
the real freedoms that people enjoys. This approach known as the
capability approach argues that development should be evaluated not just
by economic wealth but by the ability of individuals to lead lives they
values and have reasons to value.
Sachs, 2015 sees development as a multifaceted concept encompassing
the improvement of economic, social, political and cultural conditions of
a society.
The United Nations Development Programme (UUDP) 2020 also adopts
this broader perspective, defining development through the Human
Development Index (HDI), which includes indicators of health, education
and standard of living.
2.1.4 The Concept of Rural Development
This concept refers to the process of improving the quality of life and
economic well-being of people living in relatively isolated and sparsely
populated areas. It encompasses a wide range of activities, including
improving infrastructure, increasing access to education and healthcare,
promoting sustainable agriculture, and enhancing local government and
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community participation (Ellis and Biggs, 2001). The World Bank 2003,
defined rural development as a strategy designed to promote the
economic and social life of a specific group of people living in the rural
area. It is a multidimensional and integrated approach that goes beyond
just agriculture to include rural industries, education, health and gender
equality. (Edet 2000). Rural development according to Chambers, (2005)
emphasizes on promoting sustainable livelihoods, thereby reducing
poverty in the rural regions or areas.
2.2 Evaluation of Rural Community Development Activity in Nigeria
Rural community development in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria has been
pursued through various initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure,
livelihoods, and social services. (Hanson and Schulz, 2010). The
evolution of the the practice of self-help development activities has the
following periodic dimension; which are: the pre-colonial era, the
colonial period, Nigerian Civil War years, and the post-civil war years to
the present democratic settings. Before the onset of the colonial
administration, communities across Nigeria has employed communal
efforts as a mechanism for mobilizing community resources to providing
physical improvement and functional facilities in the social, political and
economic aspects of lives. (Dahiru 2018).
An enactment of modern community concept in rural development was
introduces in form of mass mobilization for self-help activities. This was
heralded by the Abrogation in Britain of the colonial development act
which was replaced by the development and welfare act in 1939. Suffice
it to say that underdevelopment led to the establishment of community
development division at the local level and thus became an important
organ of government, charged with the responsibility of channeling and
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coordinating the efforts of the people towards promoting social and
economic development (Onwuzubuike, 2007).
Further efforts made by the government to motivate development at the
grassroots, led to the enactment of the 1976 local government reforms; to
create new growth centers for further spread of development. In addition
to this, was the creation of the local government service commission, and
its functions by the 1979 constitution, and the enactment of the funds for
community development at the local level sufficed. (Akpomivie, 2010).
A number of task forces and bodies were set up to oversee, organize and
direct partnership with the people on self-help activities. They include:
Directorate of Food, Roads and Rural Infrastructure (DFRRI), Credit
Scheme like Cooperative Development Bank, Universal Primary
Education Schemes, Low Cost Housing Scheme, Primary Health Care
Programme, and Better Life for Rural Women Programme as well as
Family Support Programme (FSP). More Recent Programmes includes
National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP), Lift Above Poverty
Organization (LAPO), International Fund for Agricultural Development
(IFAD), as well as Development in Practice And Empowerment Centers
(DIPEC). Apart from the establishment of government exploitative
infrastructural apparatus, linking the major seats of government through
forces labour, no serious self-help programmes was encouraged. Based on
historical analysis, two (2) principles underlying rural community
development activities have emerged which are the principle of
individual and cooperate survival and the principle of society felt need.
These two (2) principles have variously acted as the motive force in
organizing and mobilizing the people in their pursuit of self-development.
The government had also articulated blueprints on rural development,
adopting the integrated rural development strategy as their strategy option
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to carry development to the masses.
2.3 Agencies of Mobilization for Rural Community Development
a. Local government in Nigeria serves as a third tier of governance,
constitutionally, mandated to facilitate grass root development. Their
proximity to rural communities positions them as pivotal agents in
mobilizing resources, implementing policies and delivery essential
services aimed at improving the quality of life in these area. Despite
these strategic positioning, the effectiveness of local government in
actualizing rural development has been a subject of ongoing debate
and analysis. (Ohazurike, 2024).
Local governments are strategically placed to drive rural development
in Nigeria. While they have made notable contributions, systematic
challenges continue to impede their effectiveness. Addressing these
issues through policy reforms, capacity enhancement, and increased
community involvement is crucial for realizing the full potential of
local governments as agents of rural transformation. (Sulaiman, 2025).
b. The Formal but Non-Governmental Organizations.
The NGOs plays a pivotal role in mobilizing resources, knowledge
and community participation to facilitate rural development in
Nigeria. These entities distinct from government bodies, encompass a
range of organizations including faith based groups, community based
groups, international development agencies. Their interventions often
address gaps left by governmental efforts, focusing on area such as
health, education, agriculture and women's empowerment. They also
contribute to the socio-economic advancement of rural population.
However, to maximize their impact, it is essential to address the
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challenges they face through strategic partnerships, capacity building,
and supportive policies. (Hashim, and Abubakar, 2011).
c. The Non-Formal Organizations
This is another agency of mobilization for rural community
development in Nigeria which encompassed community based
organizations, traditional associations, youth groups, and faith based
entities, plays a vital role in mobilizing rural communities in Nigeria.
These organizations often rooted in local customs and social
structures, facilitates grassroots participation, resource mobilization,
and implementation of development initiatives. (Taylor and
Kechiyerum, 2022). The Non-Formal Organizations are crucial agents
of development. Their deep-rooted presence and understanding of
local context enables them to effectively engage communities,
implemented projects, and address socio-economic challenges.
Strengthening their capacities and integrating them into formal
development frameworks can significantly enhance rural development
outcomes.
2.4 Group Dynamism in Rural Community Development
Group dynamism is a critical component of rural community
development, especially in Uruan Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom
State. The collective efforts of community members, through well-
structured and dynamic groups, have the potentials to drive sustainable
development, promote social cohesion, and enhance the quality of life in
rural areas. By addressing the challenges and leveraging the strengths of
group dynamics, stakeholders can foster inclusive and effective
community development initiatives. (Ugwu, and Okafor, 2024). These
groups can equally engage in development efforts in the community
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through awareness and sensitization of the community members. Most of
these groups includes:
a. Town Unions: the town unions represent an association formed by
the people of the same town, locality or even district as the case
may be. Town union is a veritable tool of self-help approach in
rural areas. They help to promote cultural heritage as well as
enhancing social justice among the community members.
b. Age Grade: these associations are traditional social organizations
found in many African communities, where individuals of the same
age group come together to promote social, economic and cultural
development in their community.
c. Social Clubs: social clubs were quite popular even before the
Nigerian civil war. Various associations of common interest were
formed for one purpose or the other. Some of these social clubs
draw their members form a particular town or locality. These social
clubs protect the interest and as well serve as a form of social
security for their members. They also contribute towards erecting
certain social amenities in their community.
d. Town Women Association: in Akwa - Ibom State, the women have
various associations that aid community development. One of the
popular women associate is Uruan Women Forum; which is locally
known as Iban Uruan.
The women associations contribute to various development
projects in their home communities. They organize a periodical
meeting, where they discuss various self-help based on rural
community development projects. They use their association to
assist the men in their development projects.
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e. Individual Efforts: in this light, some wealthy individuals make
enormous contributions towards the development of their
communities by way of providing resources both human and
resources for certain development projects. Some of them
singularly sponsor a number of scholarships to their kits and kin to
ensure their academic development. Some of them have donated
huge amount of money for which a launching was slated. One
could equally argue that some individuals single-handedly
contribute to community development in terms of water supply,
construction of roads, empowerment, electricity, etc.
2.5 Mass Mobilization and Community Development
Mass mobilization is a strategic process that involves rallying large
segments of the population to participate actively in initiatives aimed at
societal transformation. In Nigeria, mass mobilization has been an
instrument in driving community development by fostering collective
action, enhancing civic engagement, and addressing socio-economic
challenges. This analysis delves into the multifaceted role of mass
mobilization in Nigeria's community development landscape,
highlighting contemporary examples, challenges and recommendations.
Mass mobilization aims as galvanizing the people to achieve a given
course in fostering their collective consciousness. Sambe, (2008),
considers mobilization as one of the core functions of the community and
or media related to stimulating people’s consciousness in pursuit of a
given course.
Community development is one of the typical issues that requires robust
and effective mass mobilization and attain. Akindele, (2004) noted that
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political mobilization deals with mass emotional motivation, psycho-
socio and political spurring of people toward the attainment of corporate
and communal goals. Akindele reviewed scholarly definitions which
point to the fact that mobilization denotes the process of stimulating
people's consciousness toward attaining certain ends.
A central contention in conceptualization of mobilization is that the
concept must be approached in terms of engaging the people to
participate actively and freely in discussions and decisions affecting their
general welfare. Experts contends that mobilization describes endeavors
that aim at increasing people's level of awareness or understanding of
political and other issues in order to apply their energies positively and
participate actively in their community development. (Akindele, 2004)
2.6 Community Participation and Rural Development
One of the cornerstone of democracy is the participatory decision making
process which is required by these in government. According to
Tshabalala (2016), Community participation is a process through which
stakeholders influences and share control over development initiatives
and the decision and resources which affects them. Unless the poor are
given an opportunity to participate in the development of intervention
designed to improve their livelihood, they will continue to miss the
benefits of any intervention.
Ekong (2013), defined community participation as playing active through
not necessarily direct, role in community decisions, knowledge of local
issues, attendance at public meetings, related attempts to influence
proposed measures through individual and group action, belonging to
groups and committees and financial contributions towards community
programs.
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The United Nations refers community development as the process that
unites the efforts of the people with the governmental authorities. (Curtis
2015). The goal of this unity of efforts is to improve the economic, social
and cultural conditions of communities to integrates this communities
into the life of a nation and to enable them contributes fully to national
progress. Ekong (2013), states that it allows for the tapping of under-used
human resources and gets many people to understand and corporate with
measures called for in the planners' strategy for development.
2.7 Challenges of Community Participation
While community participation is vital for sustainable development in
Nigeria, numerous challenges impede it effectiveness. Addressing socio-
cultural barriers, political interference, economic constraints,
communication issues, environmental concerns, and infrastructural
deficits is essential. The following are the challenges of community
participation that hinders rural development (Okeke, 2019).
i. Lack of Local Government Autonomy: Local governments in
Nigeria frequently operate under the heavy influence of state
authorities, limiting their ability to address specific community
concerns effectively. This centralization hampers responsive
governance and diminishes community trust in local institutions.
ii. Gender Inequality: Cultural norms and practices in certain regions
restrict women's participation in community affairs. Factors such as
marital obligations, limited educational opportunities, and societal
expectations contribute to the under representation of women in
development projects.
iii. Political Interference and Corruption: political agendas often
overshadow genuine community needs. Elected officials may
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prioritize projects that serve personal or party interest, leading to
the misallocation of resources and undermining trust in governance
structures.
iv. Inadequate Funding: many community development projects suffer
from insufficient financial resources. This scarcity limits the scope
and sustainability of initiatives, discouraging community members
from active participation due to unmet expectations.
v. Poverty and Unemployment: high poverty rates and unemployment
levels in rural area diverts attention from communal activities to
individuals survival strategies. This economic pressure reduces the
time and energy residents can dedicate to community development
efforts.
vi. Digital Divide: limited access to digital technologies in rural area
hampers information dissemination and engagement in modern
participatory platforms. This divide restricts communities from
accessing vital information and contributing to digital forums.
vii. Low Literacy Levels: a significant portion of Nigeria's rural
population has limited literacy skills, impeding their ability to
engage with written materials related to development projects. This
barrier restricts informed participation and feed-back.
2.8 Impact of Community Participation
Community participation has been widely recognized as a crucial factor
in the success and sustainability of development projects. The impacts of
community participation are multifaceted, ranging from social and
economic benefits, to environmental and institutional outcomes.
(Oluwatayo, 2021).
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1. Social Impacts
a. Increased sense of ownership: when community members are
fully involved in decision making process of their community, they
are likely to feel a sense of ownership and responsibility for the
project.
b. Empowerment: participating in community development
projects can empower individuals and communities, enabling them
to take control of their lives.
2. Economic Impacts
a. Increased Income: community led development projects can
generate income and improve livelihoods for community members.
b. Job creation: participatory development projects can create
employment opportunities, both during and after project
implementation.
3. Environmental Impacts
a. Sustainable resource management: community led development
projects can promote sustainable resource management and
environmental conversation.
b. Environmental awareness: participatory development projects
can raise awareness about environmental issues and promote
environmental friendly practices.
4. Institutional Impact
a. Improved governance: community participation can lead to
improved governance and more accountable institutions.
b. Increased transparency: participatory development can promote
transparency and accountability, reducing the risk of corruption and
mismanagement of funds and other resources.
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2.9 Theoretical Framework
a. Participatory Development Theory
This theory emphasizes on the active involvement of local people in
the planning, implementation and evaluation of development projects
that affect their lives. It posits that sustainable rural development is
most effective when local communities are actively engaged and
empowered.
Participatory development theory has its roots in developmental
economics and sociology, gaining prominence in the 1970s and 1980s
as a response to the failures of top-down development models.
According to David Korten, he criticized centralized planning and
emphasized local participation for meaningful development.
This theory assumes that development processes must be bottom-top
rather than top-bottom. Empowering communities leads to social
inclusion, greater ownership, accountability and sustainability of
project. A scholarly view on this theory from Cornwall (2002) argues
that while participatory development is ideal in theory, it is often
manipulated by elites if safe guards are in place. Mansuri and Rao
(2013), in their World Bank publication argues that participation must
be induced and that outcomes are best when participation is both
demand driven and supported by strong institutions.
The participatory development theory is directly relevant to the study
on Community Participation and Rural Development in Uruan Local
Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, in the sense that it highlights the
importance of involving the Uruan community members of all the
home towns in identifying development needs, planning interventions
and implementing projects. This theory supports the including of
indigenous cultural practices and utilization of local knowledge, which
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are prevalent in Uruan local government, most especially knowing
about their cultural festival.
b. Putnam's Social Capital Theory:
This theory explains how social networks, norms and trust among
individuals facilitate cooperation for mutual benefits. In developmental
studies, social capital is seen as an essential resource that communities
can use to mobilize collective action, enhance governance, and
improve economic and social outcomes.
While the broader concept of social capital has roots in the works of
early sociologists, Putnam argues that social capital is a fundamental
prerequisite fore effective governance and development. This theory
assumes that social networks, trust and reciprocity, as well as civic
engagement are asserts that facilitate cooperation among individuals
and institutions for strengthen community solidarity. Social capital can
be both bonding (within groups) and bridging (between different
groups), both of which are important for cohesive and inclusive
development.
A scholarly view on theory from Woolcock and Narayan (2000), argues
that social capital enhances the capacity of communities to access
resources, manage risk, and reduce poverty. Bourdieu (2003), and
Coleman (2005) provided fundamental work, with Bourdieu
emphasizing the reproduction of social inequalities through social
capital and Coleman highlights its role in creating human capital.
This theory is directly linked to the study of "Community Participation
and Rural Development in Uruan Local Government Area" in that it
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strengthens community networks, fosters trust and collective action,
helps in overcoming developmental challenges, and sees civic
engagement as a catalyst.
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CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH DESIGNS AND METHOLOGY
3.0 Introduction
In this chapter, the various methods and procedures used in carrying out
this study is examined. This includes the determination of population,
research design, methods of data collection and analysis. This chapter
acts as the bedrock for chapter four (4), which deals with the presentation,
and analysis as well as discussion of findings.
3.1 Research Design
The researcher employs descriptive research method, which is directed
towards determining the nature of the situation or a current status of a
phenomenon, as it exist at the time of the study.
3.2 Area of the Study
The study centers and focuses only on Uruan Local Government Area of
Akwa Ibom State, situated at the Southern part of Nigeria. it covers an
approximate land mass of 440km2.
According to the 2016 census, the population of Uruan is estimated at one
hundred and sixty four thousand (164, 000). The capital city or
administrative headquarter is located in Idu. Uruan has extensive arable
land, abundant wildlife, raffia palms and timber resources. The fertile
coastal plains of the area support the cultivation of various crops,
including cassava and maize. Uruan Local Government Area was created
in 2988 from Uyo local government and it comprises of seven (7) clans
and fifty-one (51) villages. Finally, the executive chairman currently is
Hon. Surv. Iniobong Ekpeyong.
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3.3 Population
The population of the council under the study is made up of about 200
staff, which comprises of both senior and junior officers in various
departments.
3.4 Sample and Sampling Techniques
Hale (2011) stated that it is appropriate to select samples on the basis of
the knowledge of the population. A simple mathematical formula for
determining the appropriate sample size with the total population of 200
using Bourley's method.
The formula was applied thus
N = total population
e = tolerable error margin normally assumed to be 5%
n = sample size
the n = 1+N(e)2
Illustration
n = 200
1+200 (5%)2
n = 200
1+200 (0.05)
n = 200
1+200 (0.0025)
n = 200
1+0.5
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n = 200
1+1.5
n = 133
3.5 Method of Data Collection
Data for this study were gathered using the questionnaire. Copies were
administered to the one hundred and thirty three (133) respondents of the
study. Another method adopted was through oral interview.
3.6 Method of Data Analysis
Data collected for this study were analyzed and presented using tables
and expressed in simple percentage to answer research questions.
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CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND DISCUSSION OF
FINDINGS
4.0 Introduction
This chapter focuses on the analysis and interpretation of data collection
from the questionnaires administered to the respondents of Uruan local
government, as well as test of hypothesis and discussion of findings. The
questionnaires were presented in two (2) sections, which is section A and
section B respectively. All data collected from the questionnaires were
presented in a tabular form; and the analysis was done under each table.
The researcher administered 133 questionnaires and retrieved 120.
Therefore the study worked its statistics on 120 respondents.
4.1 Data Presentation
Table I: Distribution of Questionnaires Based on the Respondents.
Respondents Frequency Percentage (%)
Questionnaires correctly filled and 120 90
returned
Questionnaires not correctly filled and 13 10
returned
Total 133 100
Source: Field survey data, 2025
Table I shows that out of one hundred and thirty three (133) copies of
questionnaires distributed to respondents representing (100%) covered in the
study. One hundred and twenty (120) copies representing (90%) was correctly
filled and returned while three (3) was not returned, ten (10) was not correctly
filled totaling thirteen (13) copies representing (100%) was not correctly filled
and not returned.
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Table II: Distribution of Questionnaires Based on Sex.
Sex Frequency Percentage (%)
Female 84 70
Male 36 30
Total 120 100
Source: Field survey data, 2025
Table II shows that out of the total number of one hundred and twenty (120)
respondents representing (100%) covered in the study, eight-four (84)
respondents representing (70%) were females, while thirty six (36) respondents
representing (30%) were male that filled the questionnaires.
Table III: Distribution of Questionnaires Based on Age
Age Frequency Percentage (%)
19 – 25 20 17
26 – 33 36 30
34 – 41 24 20
42 – 49 40 33
Total 120 100
Source: Field survey data, 2025
Table III shows that out of the total number of one hundred and twenty (120)
respondents representing (100%) covered in the study, twenty (20) respondents
representing (17%) were in 19-25 age group, thirty six (36) respondents
representing (30%) were in the 26-33 age group, twenty four (24) respondents
representing (20%) were in the 34-41 age group, while forty (40) respondents
representing (33%) were in the 42-49 age group, filled the questionnaires
respectively.
Table IV: Distribution of Questionnaires Based on Marital Status
Marital Status Frequency Percentage (%)
Singles 72 60
Married 36 30
Divorced 8 7
27
Widows 4 3
Total 120 100
Source: Field survey data, 2025
Table IV above shows that out of the total numbers one hundred and twenty
(120) respondents representing (100%) covered in the research study, seventy
two (72) respondents representing (60%) were in the singles group which
consists of the bachelors and spinsters, thirty six (36) respondents representing
(30%) were married, while eight (8) respondents representing (7%) were
divorced, and lastly four (4) respondents representing (3%) were widows that
filled the questionnaires.
Table V; Distribution of Questionnaires Based on Staff Status
Level of Organization Frequency Percentage (%)
Management staff 24 20
Senior staff 60 50
Junior staff 36 30
Total 120 100
Source: Field survey data, 2025
Table V shows that out of one hundred and twenty (120) respondents
representing (100%) covered in the study, twenty four (24) respondents
representing (20%) were management staff, while sixty (60) respondents
representing (50%) were senior staff, lastly, thirty six (36) respondents
representing (30%) were junior staff that respectively filled the questionnaires.
4.2 Test of Hypothesis
Hypothesis one (1)
Mobilization has effect or do not have effect on community development
in Uruan Local Government Area.
28
Sex Response Total
Yes No
Female 48 25 73
Male 35 25 60
Total 83 50 133
Chi square (x2)
X2 = N(ad-bc)2
(a+b)(c+d)(a+c)(b+d)
Where N = 133
a = 48
b = 25
c = 35
d = 25
= 133 [(48x25)-(25-x35)]2
(48+25)(35+25)(48+35)(25+25)
= 133 (1200-875)2
(73)(60)(83)(50)
= 133 x 105625
18177000
= 14048125
18177000
= 0.77
Test of independence
Degree of freedom - (df) = 1(2x2table)
Alpha level - () = .10
Calculated chi-square - (x2) = 0.77
Table chi square - = 2.7
29
The above analysis shows that calculate chi square (x 2) is less than the
table chi square which is 2.7, therefore the research or alternative
hypothesis is rejected while the null hypothesis is accepted. This means
that the mobilization of the people of Uruan does not have any effect on
community development. Reasons were:
a. I cannot participate in rural development because of my lean
financial resources.
b. Apart from financial studding, my occupation does not give me
chance to fully participate in rural development.
c. My affiliation does not allow my participation in rural development
d. Number of my children stops me from participating in rural
development.
e. My low level of education causes me to shy away from my civic
responsibility which includes participating in rural development.
Hypothesis two (2)
Mobilization has or do not have significant relationship between
community participation and rural development.
Sex Response Total
Yes No
Female 39 19 58
Male 32 43 75
Total 71 62 133
Chi square (x2)
X2 = N(ad-bc)2
(a+b)(c+d)(a+c)(b+d)
Where N = 133
a = 32
b = 43
c = 39
d = 19
30
= 133 [(32x19)-(43-x39)]2
(32+43)(39+19)(32+39)(43+19)
= 133 (608-1667)2
(75)(58)(71)(62)
= 133 x 1121481
19148700
= 149156973
19148700
= 7.7
= x2 = 77
Test of independence
Degree of freedom (df) =1
Alph level ( ) = .10
Calculated chi square (x2) = 7.7
Table chi square = 2.7
The above analysis indicates that the calculated chi square (x 2) was
greater than the tables chi square (x 2), therefore the research hypothesis
was accepted which says that mobilization has significance on
community participation and rural development. Examples of the ways
are:
a. Incorporating the community members in the decision of the area
which would give them a sense of belonging.
b. Encouraging them to advance in their educational pursuit
31
c. Giving soft loans to subsistence farmers which would raise their
standard of living.
d. Finding out their felt needs before embarking on any
developmental project.
4.3 Discussion of Findings
This study has clearly shown that there is evidence of Uruan local
government in community development in some communities that makes
up the council area. The findings revealed that Uruan local government
has over the years embarked on some community development projects
like road construction, provision of healthcare services, provision of
education, water supply and power supply (electricity) in various
communities that makes up the local government. It is also revealed that
in Uruan local government, community members deals on agriculture as a
principal occupation but has other side hustles that meets their urgent
demands as they wait for their agricultural produce to become read for
sales. The findings also show that healthcare services in Uruan local
government faces some challenges like lack of healthcare
facilities/equipment, as well as poor management and low funds. There
are only few general hospitals in existence which are functionally ailing.
In addition, other existing cottage hospitals are privately owned. Uruan
local government has not provided adequate health care services in most
communities as a means of improving community development, as
revealed.
In the aspect of education, the findings further reveals that educational
development has greatly improved in various communities, while some
(majority) has not improved as expected.
The findings also revealed that other social amenities such as water,
32
electricity among others have been in short supply and has not realy been
provided in some communities. It is found that internally generated
revenue has not adequately increased to fund community development,
due to unseriouness in revenue generation.
Finally, the findings unfolds that lack of skilled and qualified personnel is
another hindrance to rural development, Uruan local government to be
precised.
33
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATION
5.1 Introduction
This chapter presents the summary, conclusion and recommendations of
the study as it marks the end of this research work.
5.2 Summary
The reason necessitating this research study was borne out of the need to
assess the level of people's participation in rural development in Uruan
local government area. The study made use of parameters such as the
extent of people's participation in rural development; the mechanisms for
participation; hindrances to effective participation and recommendations
for effective mobilization of the people of Uruan towards participating in
rural development.
The data were collected by the use of a well-structured questionnaires
properly designed for this purpose. One hundred and thirty three (133)
questionnaires were designed for this purpose, but only one hundred and
twenty (120) was properly filled and returned by the respondents, and this
was the number used for the study. The data collected were presented in
chapter four (4), it was generally observed that females participated more
than males in rural development. It was also revealed that the singles
were more active in participation than the married. it was also seen in the
analysis that people were motivated to participate more in rural
development where there was proper mobilization and enlightenment.
34
5.3 Conclusion
It has been established through this study that the level of people's
participation in rural development projects is largely influenced by the
degree of awareness created by the project and its direct benefits to the
people's welfare. This project has therefore helped to assess the level of
the people's participation in rural development project in Uruan local
government area.
This project research has revealed that community members are to be
fully involved in the decision making process of any developmental
project coming in. It is a true fact that a project that does not reflect the
desires or needs of the people will likely get a less participation from the
people, therefore the felt needs of the people should be considered before
any developmental project is been embarked upon.
5.4 Recommendations
Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are
made;
If the participation level of the people in developmental projects is to be
enhanced in Uruan, it is my humble suggestion that peoples participation
should be greatly encouraged through the formation of development
unions in the communities, which can initiate development projects in the
rural area, especially a type of developmental project that has direct focus
on poverty reduction among the people.
Secondly, traditional rulers and community leaders should be recognized
as key stakeholders in community development.
Finally, there should be training and empowerment for the rural dwellers,
including the women, men, youths and children.
35
REFERENCES
Abasiekong, E. E. (2000) Mass Participation: An Essential Element For Rural
Development Programmes in Developing Countries, Scholars Press
Nigeria Limited, Calabar.
Abasiekong, E. M. (1982) Integrated Rural Development in Third World,
Explosion Press New York.
Akindele, S. T. (2004) Mass Mobilization for Rural Development and a Stable
Nigerian Democratic Republic. An Independent Examination of the Role
of Local Government Journals of Human Ecology. 16(2), 99-112.
Curtis, A. D. (2015) the Contribution of The Doctrine of Citizens Participation
in Organization and Implementation of Community Development Project.
European Journal of Scientific Research.
Ekong E. E. (2003) an Introduction to Rural Sociology; University of Calaba
Press, Calabar.
Ekong, V. T. (2013) Assessing The Level Of Community Participation as a
Component of Community Capacity Building for Tourism Development.
Journal of Science Research 28(3) 443-450
Hasim, A. And Abubakar, B. Z. (2011) Role of Non-Governmental
Organizations in Community Development in Nigeria. International
Journal of Environment, Agriculture and Biotechnology.
Mansuri, Y. E. And Rao, B. D. (2014) Rural Markets as a Factor of Rural
Development in Nigeria, Phd. Thesis, Development of Geography,
University of Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Extension and
Rural Development Studies. 7(4) 18-26
Nampila, J. D. (2015) Defining Urban and Rural Areas in U.S. Epidemiologic
Studies, Journal of Urban Health. 83 (2), 162-175
Ohazurike, E. U. (2024) Local Government and Administration of Rural
Development in Nigeria, 2020-2023; A Constructive Analysis.
Sambe, J. A (2008) Introduction of Mass Communication in Nigeria Spectrum
Books
Sulaiman, T. H. (2025). Implications for Rural Development of the Role of
36
Local Government Internal Revenue in Fostering Social Economic
Development in Nigeria.
Taylor, D. And Kechinyerum, A. (2022) Role of Community Based on
Organization in Mobilization of Citizens for Participation in Community
Development among the Rural Dwellers. International Journal of Social
Sciences and Management Study.
Tshabalala E. G. (2016), "Self-Help as a Strategy for Rural Development in
Nigeria. A Bottom-Up Approval". Journal of Alternative Perspectives in
the Social Science 2(1), 88-111.
Ugwu, C. U. And Okafor, J. O. (2024), Group Dynamics and Sustainable
Community Development in Nigeria. Journal of Continuing and
Development. Education 3(2), 186-191
37
APPENDIX
Department of Public Administration,
Faculty of Management Sciences,
Heritage Polytechnic,
Eket,
Akwa-Ibom State.
7th August, 2025.
Dear Respondents
LETTER OF INTRODUCTION
I am a final year student of Heritage Polytechnic, Eket, Akwa Ibom State;
Department of Public Administration. As part of my HND programme, I am
carrying out a research on Community Participation and Rural Development in
Akwa Ibom State (A Study of Uruan Local Government Area).
This questionnaire is designed to obtain information from your opinion and
therefore I solicit your cooperation in this regards as every information and
suggestion supplied to me will be treated with full confidentiality.
Thanks for your co-operation.
Yours faithfully
James, Comfort Joshua
(Researcher)
38
39
QUESTIONNAIRE
SECTION A
1. sex: Male ( ) Female ( )
2. Age
a. 18 - 27 years ( )
b. 28 - 37 years ( )
c. 38 - 47 years ( )
d. 48 - 57 years ( )
e. 58 years and above ( )
3. Marital status
a. Singles ( )
b. Married ( )
c. Divorced ( )
d. Widows ()
4. Level of organization
a. Management staff ( )
b. Senior staff ( )
c. Junior staff ()
5. Occupation
a. Farming ( )
b. Trading ( )
c. Civil service ( )
d. Craft ( )
SECTION B
6. What are the rural developments projects undertaken in your community?
a. Water supply project ( )
b. Electricity projects ( )
c. Road construction projects ( )
d. Building of town hall ( )
e. Renovation/building of school ( )
f. Construction of healthcare center ( )
40
g. Sanitation project ( )
h. Farm produce processing project ()
7. What is the rate of development in your community?
a. 10% - 20% ( )
b. 30% - 40% ( )
c. 50% - 60% ( )
d. 70% - 80% ( )
e. 90% - 100% ( )
8. What are the means through which you participate in the development
project?
a. Donation of land ( )
b. Provision of advice or counseling ( )
c. Active participation ( )
d. Donation of funds ( )
e. Provision of equipment ()
9. Do you take active part in project activities?
A. Yes ( ) b. No ( ) c. Partially ( )
[Link] you feel a sense of belonging concerning the project you have
participated?
A. Yes ( ) b. No ( ) c. Partially ( )
[Link] are the hindrances to participation in the development projects of
your community?
a. Projects do not reflect the real needs of the people ( )
b. Inadequate mobilization of people by development agency ( )
c. Lack of cooperation ( )
d. Wrong timing of projects ( )
e. Lack of skilled and qualified personnel ( )
12. What do you think should be done to enhance participation in
development projects?
a. Training and empowerment of community members ( )
b. Finding out their felt-needs before embarking on any developmental
project ( )
c. Encouraging mobilization for developmental project ( )
41