ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITY-DRIVEN INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT IN AKURE REGION, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study assessed community driven efforts in the provision of infrastructure in Akure region, Ondo state. The study identified community based organizations in the selected area within the region, it also highlighted the resources available for CBOs in infrastructural development, it assessed the extent at which the community members are involved in community development projects and examined the challenges faced by the CBOs towards infrastructure development in their communities. Akure comprises of three local governments areas which are Akure South, Akure North and Ifedore. The projected population figure for the sub-regions using the 2006 population figures and a growth rate of 3.5% (NPC) up to year 2018 is approximately 486,300 for Akure South; 176,500 for Akure North; and 238,100 for Ifedore. Therefore, the overall projected population of the Akure region for 2018 is 900,900. 0.5% of population of each local government area in the study area was calculated. Thereafter, using the calculated population, the sample size of the study was calculated using Yamane formula Yamane formula n= 1+N(e)2 Where n is the sample size, N is the population size, and e is the desired level of precision. This gives a total of 376 questionnaires that were administered in the study area. Systematic random sampling was used to select the first household at random and the subsequent households were selected at every 3rd interval along the sampled streets. Results from the analysis shows that, Akure community perceived that the benefits of infrastructure to the community are accessibility to water supply, and mostly security. 54.31% of the respondents revealed that there is an improved change in economic activities after CDID. Also, the major challenges of CDID toward their projects is mainly undedicated committee, followed by improper utilization of resources and financial constraint The study therefore recommends that Youths and women should be encouraged to participate in community infrastructure development, There should be awareness by individuals, organizations and government bodies on the importance of community driven projects participation and Project monitoring and inspections by the government should be encouraged.