AN ASSESSMENT OF THE CONDITIONS OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA: 2015-2024

Abstract

Infrastructures such as roads, electricity and markets is a critical driver of social and economic development in both developed and developing economies. However, for years, Imo State has faced inadequate provision and poor conditions of infrastructure needed to facilitate rural development. Despite legislative efforts and rural development programmes, rural areas continue to struggle with challenges that threaten employment, income generation, and quality of life. Thereby raising urgent concerns about how to improve socio-economic development of rural areas in the state. The study adopted a mixed methods approach for the study. A multistage sampling technique was utilized through stratified sampling and purposive sampling techniques in the selection of one local government area within each senatorial zone in Imo state. Content analysis revealed that rural development was constrained by infrastructure deficiencies, governance and institutional barriers, and community and cultural factors. The study concluded that rural development in Imo State is primarily driven by road and market infrastructure, while electricity infrastructure shows limited statistical influence, with governance, contextual, and community dynamics further shaping development outcomes. The paper recommends that Imo state government should put more budget in the development of infrastructures for more socio-economic development.