IMPACT OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEFICIT ON YOUTH RURAL-URBAN MIGRATION AND AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
Keywords:
Infrastructure deficit, youth migration, agricultural productivity, Delta State, rural developmentAbstract
This study investigates the impact of infrastructure deficits on youth rural-urban migration and agricultural productivity in Delta State's Local Government Areas (LGAs), Nigeria, a key agricultural region facing socio-economic vulnerabilities from urbanization and environmental degradation. Drawing from push-pull migration theory, the research highlights how poor roads, unreliable electricity, and limited irrigation act as push factors, depleting rural labour and constraining farming outputs. The aim was to analyse these associations, with objectives to assess deficit extents, examine migration influences, evaluate socio-economic effects, and propose governance reforms. Research questions focused on deficit impacts on productivity, migration decisions, rural communities, and policy effectiveness. A mixed-methods design was employed, with stratified random sampling of 540 respondents (aged 15–29) across six LGAs (Bomadi, Burutu, Patani, Oshimili North, Uvwie, Warri South West), selected for agrarian dominance and high migration rates. Data included surveys, 12 FGDs, and secondary policy reviews, analysed via descriptive statistics, logistic/multiple regression (with controls for age, education, income; VIF < 3), and thematic analysis. Results showed poor roads and electricity associated with 65% higher migration odds (OR = 1.65, 95% CI [1.42–1.92], p < .001). Irrigation deficits linked to 15% productivity decline (β = -0.32, 95% CI [-0.41 to -0.23], p < .05). Perceptions rated adequacy below 90% (electricity M = 1.51, SD = 0.78). Themes emphasized energy poverty hindering agro-processing. Findings suggest associations between deficits and outcomes, enriching migration literature without implying causation. Recommendations include participatory infrastructure upgrades to retain youth and boost agriculture, advancing sustainable rural goals.
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