A Research Proposal on Migration and Economic Development of Imo State (2015-2023)
Chapter One
Objective of the Study
The primary purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of migration on the economic development of Imo State, specifically focusing on the local government areas of Aboh Mbaise, Ahiazu Mbaise, and Ezinihitte Mbaise, from 2015 to 2023. The study aims to achieve the following specific objectives:
- Examine the factors driving migration within Imo State, with particular attention to the specific dynamics affecting the selected local government areas.
- Assess the economic impact of migration, concentrating on labour availability, business growth, and agricultural productivity in Aboh Mbaise, Ahiazu Mbaise, and Ezinihitte Mbaise, to understand how these factors interrelate within the context of the state’s economy.
- Investigate the role of remittances in influencing household income levels, investment decisions, and consumption patterns among residents of the selected local government areas in Imo State.
- Evaluate government policies related to migration and economic development, analyzing their effectiveness in mitigating the negative impacts of migration on the economy of Imo State, particularly in the focus areas.
Chapter Two
Literature review
Concept of Migration
Migration is a complex phenomenon defined as the movement of people from one place to another, often involving a change of residence. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM, 2020), migration can be categorized based on various factors, including duration, purpose, and geographic scope. It encompasses both voluntary and involuntary movements, where individuals may migrate for reasons such as economic opportunities, education, political instability, or social factors. This study focuses on the migration patterns observed in Imo State, Nigeria, and their implications for economic development.
One of the most common forms of migration is rural-urban migration, which refers to the movement of individuals from rural areas to urban centers. This type of migration is often driven by the pursuit of better employment prospects, improved living standards, and access to services such as education and healthcare (Ogunleye, 2021). In Nigeria, urbanization has accelerated significantly in recent years, with cities like Lagos and Abuja witnessing substantial population influxes. As individuals relocate to urban areas, they contribute to urban growth and economic activities but also pose challenges in terms of infrastructure, housing, and social services (Adebayo, 2019).
Economic Development
Economic development is a multifaceted concept that encompasses the process through which a community, region, or nation improves its economic, social, and political conditions. According to Todaro and Smith (2020), economic development involves not just growth in income but also improvements in living standards, reduction of poverty, and equitable distribution of wealth. It is a holistic approach that aims to enhance the quality of life for all individuals within a society, focusing on various dimensions such as health, education, and environmental sustainability (Gonzalez, 2019).
One of the key indicators of economic development is gross domestic product (GDP), which measures the total economic output of a region. However, GDP alone does not capture the complete picture of development. Other indicators, such as the Human Development Index (HDI), which combines life expectancy, education, and per capita income, provide a more comprehensive understanding of a community’s well-being (UNDP, 2021). In Imo State, analyzing these indicators is crucial to assess the effectiveness of economic policies and the overall progress toward development goals.
The implications of economic development for Imo State are significant. As a region that has historically relied on agriculture and small-scale industries, Imo State faces the dual challenge of diversifying its economy and managing the impacts of migration. With a growing population and increasing migration to urban areas, the state must create job opportunities to absorb the labour force and mitigate unemployment (Ajaegbu, 2022). Economic development strategies that focus on enhancing productivity in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services are vital for achieving sustainable growth.
Socio-Economic Impacts of Migration
Migration has profound socio-economic impacts on both sending and receiving areas, influencing various aspects of life in both contexts. Understanding these effects is crucial for policymakers to create interventions that maximize benefits and mitigate adverse outcomes. Migration can bring about both positive and negative outcomes, and analyzing these impacts provides valuable insights into the broader implications for the communities involved.
In sending areas, one of the most significant positive socio-economic impacts of migration is the increase in household incomes through remittances. Migrants often send money back home to support their families, which can improve living standards and provide access to essential services such as education and healthcare (Asiegbu & Chukwuokolo, 2020). In regions like Imo State, where many individuals migrate for better opportunities, these remittances can be a vital source of income, fostering local economic development by enabling families to invest in small businesses and agricultural activities (Chami, Fullenkamp, & Jahjah, 2022). Furthermore, the outflow of people may lead to reduced unemployment in sending areas, as job opportunities can become more available for those who remain (Adeseye, 2021).
However, there are also notable negative socio-economic impacts associated with migration in sending areas. The loss of young and skilled individuals can result in labour shortages in critical sectors, particularly in agriculture, which is a significant economic driver in rural areas like Imo State (Adarkwa, 2023). This phenomenon, often referred to as “brain drain,” can hinder economic growth and lead to a decline in productivity. Additionally, the emotional toll on families left behind, including issues related to family dynamics and social cohesion, can have lasting effects on community well-being (Maduka & Madichie, 2017).
Chapter Three
Methodology
Research Design
This study will adopt a quantitative survey research design, focusing on collecting measurable data across selected local government areas (LGAs) in Imo State. A quantitative survey will be ideal for this research as it will support systematic data collection, allowing for a detailed analysis of migration’s economic impact across specific dimensions, such as labour availability, remittance flows, business development, and agricultural productivity. This approach will align with the strength of quantitative research in identifying statistical relationships within large, defined populations, as noted by Saunders, Lewis, and Thornhill (2019). Given the study’s emphasis on economic outcomes, the survey design will provide a structured means to gather reliable data directly from the targeted local communities within the timeframe of 2015 to 2023 (Bell et al., 2019).
Population of the Study
The study’s target population will include residents of the selected LGAs—Aboh Mbaise, Ahiazu Mbaise, and Ezinihitte Mbaise—within Imo State. These areas will be specifically chosen for their relevance to the state’s migration dynamics and economic activity, especially in sectors such as labour, business, and agriculture. With a population of approximately 1,200 respondents, representing diverse stakeholders within these economic sectors, the sample will aim to offer insights relevant to understanding migration’s economic influence locally. According to Frankfort-Nachmias, Nachmias, and DeWaard (2021), defining a target population based on specific local contexts will strengthen the relevance and applicability of research findings, ensuring they address the unique socio-economic dynamics of the study area.
References
- Adarkwa, M. (2023). Impact of remittances on economic growth: Evidence from selected West African countries (Cameroon, Cape Verde, Nigeria and Senegal). African Humane Mobility Review, 1(2), 17-31.
- Adedokun, O. A., & Karzanova, I. V. (2019). Impact of migration on the economy of Nigeria: Recent trends. Vestnik NSUEM, 2019(2), 204–211. https://doi.org/10.34020/2073-6495-2019-2-204-211
- Adedokun, O. A., & Karzanova, I. V. (2019). Impact of migration on the economy of Nigeria: Recent trends. Vestnik NSUEM, 2019(2), 204-211. https://doi.org/10.34020/2073-6495-2019-2-204-211
- Adenike, A. (2021). The effect of migrants’ remittance on economic growth in Nigeria: An empirical study. Open Journal of Political Science, 11(1), 1-24.
- Adeseye, A. (2021). The effect of migrants’ remittance on economic growth in Nigeria: An empirical study. Open Journal of Political Science, 11(1), 99–122. https://doi.org/10.4236/ojps.2021.111007
- Adeseye, A. (2021). The effect of migrants’ remittance on economic growth in Nigeria: An empirical study. Open Journal of Political Science, 11, 99–122. https://doi.org/10.4236/ojps.2021.111007
- Adeyi, E. O. (2023). Remittances and economic growth: Empirical evidence from Nigeria and Sri Lanka. Basic Research Journal of Education Research and Review, 4(5), 91-97.
- Adigun, A. O., & Ologunwa, O. P. (2017). Remittance and economic growth in Nigeria. International Journal of Research in Management, 7(6), 29-40.
