Assessing the Inuence of Rural-Urban Migration on Economic Development of Bwari Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

Migration from rural to urban areas is a pervasive phenomenon in Nigeria, driven by a complex interplay of poverty, socio-economic, employment opportunities, financial stability, and a better quality of life. This study aimed to examine the influence of rural-urban migration on economic development of Bwari Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria. A sample size of three hundred and eighty-four (384) respondents were selected through multi-stage sampling technique using cluster, stratified, and simple random sampling techniques. A designed and validated questionnaire was used to collect data and analyzed using multiple regression analysis and Pearson-r correlation coefficient to test hypothesis 1 and 2. The findings revealed that (i) rural-urban migration made a significant positive contribution to the influence of quality of life among youth Abuja (β=.276, t=5.645), employment opportunities (β = .285, t = 6.445) and socio-economic factors (β = 1.054, P< .01) among youth living in Bwari Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria; (ii) there was a statistical significant relationship between rural-to-urban migration and infrastructural transformation in Bwari Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria (0.205**). The study concluded that strengthening rural economies through better agricultural practices, infrastructure development, and employment opportunities can reduce the push factors driving migration. The study emphasizes the importance of considering investment in rural education, healthcare, and social services is essential to improve living standards and reduce migration pressure.