EFFECT GOOD GOVERNANCE ON RURAL DEVELOPMENT: A STUDY OF UDENU

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ENUGU STATE, NIGERIA

EZE REMIGIUS

BEING A PAPER PRESENTED AS A COURSE REQUIREMENT FOR THE AWARD

OF BACHELOR OF SCIENCE ([Link]) IN GOVERNMENT PUBLICH
ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF GOVERNMENT PUBLIC
ADMINISTRATION FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCE, IMO STATE UNIVERSITY
OWERRI, NIGERIA

FEBRUARY, 2025

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 ABSTRACT

This study examined effect of bad governance on rural development in Udenu Local government
councils of Enugu state, Nigeria. Three specific objectives were formulated to guide the study
which include: to examine the effect of security and social stability, provision of basic
infrastructure and transparency and accountability on rural development in Udenu local
government area of Enugu state, Nigeria .This study is anchored on institutional theory of
governance. Survey research design was adopted. The total population of the study was 400. A
sample size of 200 was selected using Taro Yamane formula. Multiple regression was use to
analyze the data. The findings reveal that there is a positive significant impact between security
and social stability, provision of basic infrastructure and transparency and accountability with
rural development in Udenu local government. The following recommendations were made:
Government should create a stable political climate that will pave way for rural development in
Udenu local Government area of Enugu state, Nigeria. The following recommendations were
made: The government should prioritize the training and equipping of local security forces to
ensure that rural areas are protected from criminal activities, conflicts, and insurgency,
Government should allocate more resources to the development of basic infrastructure, such as
roads, electricity, clean water, and sanitation systems. Special attention should be given to
isolated communities where infrastructure is lacking; Governments should establish effective
monitoring and evaluation systems. Regular audits, oversight committees, and public reporting
can promote transparency in the management of funds.

Key words: Good governance, rural development, provision of basic infrastructure, Security
and social stability

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 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the study
Rural development is a critical aspect of national progress, as the rural sector often constitutes
the backbone of a country's economy, particularly in agrarian societies. However, achieving
sustainable rural development is largely dependent on the quality of governance. Good
governance, characterized by principles such as transparency, accountability, security, and
provision of basic infrastructure, plays a vital role in transforming rural communities, reducing
poverty, and improving the quality of life. According to the World Bank (1992), good
governance encompasses participation, rule of law, transparency, responsiveness, consensus-
building, equity, effectiveness, efficiency, accountability, and strategic vision. It ensures that
public policies and institutions function effectively to meet the needs of the people, especially in
underserved rural areas.

Rural development, on the other hand, is a multidimensional process aimed at improving the
living standards of people in rural areas. It includes economic growth, infrastructural
development, social services, and human capital improvement (Todaro & Smith, 2015). Rural
development is essential for addressing issues such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality,
which are prevalent in many developing nations. However, these goals cannot be achieved
without a governance system that prioritizes rural needs.

Security and social stability are fundamental prerequisites for rural development. Good
governance ensures peace and order by implementing effective policies to combat crime,
communal conflicts, and insurgencies that hinder rural progress. Rural communities in many
developing countries, particularly in Nigeria, often suffer from banditry, farmer-herder conflicts,
and kidnappings, which undermine agricultural activities and economic stability. (Lee, & Park,
2023).

Infrastructure is a cornerstone of rural development, as it facilitates economic activities,

enhances access to social services, and improves the quality of life. Good governance ensures the
equitable distribution of resources to rural areas, enabling the construction and maintenance of

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roads, bridges, healthcare centers, schools, electricity, and water supply systems. (Osei-Assibey,
& Asamoah, 2023)

Transparency and transparency and accountability are key indicators of good governance that
influence rural development. Transparent governance ensures that resources allocated for rural
development projects are utilized efficiently, reducing provision of basic infrastructure and
mismanagement. Transparency and accountability mechanisms such as independent audits,
citizen engagement, and open data policies help track government expenditures and project
implementations. (Bratton, & van de Walle, (2019).

The role of good governance in rural development cannot be overemphasized. By ensuring

security and social stability, provision of basic infrastructure, and transparency and
accountability, governance institutions can drive sustainable development in rural communities.
Effective governance promotes inclusive growth, enhances economic opportunities, and
improves the quality of life for rural dwellers. Therefore, governments must prioritize good
governance practices to unlock the full potential of rural areas and achieve national development
goals.

This study seeks to explore the extent to which good governance influences rural development,
identifying challenges and proposing policy recommendations for sustainable governance in
rural communities in Udenu local government area of Enugu state, Nigeria.
Statement of the problem
Rural development remains a significant challenge in Nigeria despite numerous government
policies and programs aimed at improving the living standards of rural dwellers. A major factor
contributing to the persistent underdevelopment of rural areas is the absence of good governance.
It has been observed that governance deficiencies in Udenu local government area of Enugu have
led to inadequate security, poor infrastructure, and a lack of transparency and accountability, all
of which hinder rural progress. it is against this backdrop that the study seeks to examine the
effect of good governance on rural development in Udenu local government area of Enugu state,
Nigeria.

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1.3 Research questions
The following research questions were formulated to guide the study
1. What is the effect of Security and social stability on rural development in Udenu local
government area of Enugu state, Nigeria?
2. What is the effect of provision of basic infrastructure on rural development in Udenu local
government area of Enugu state, Nigeria?
3. To what extent does transparency and accountability affect rural development in Udenu local
government area of Enugu state, Nigeria?
1.4 Research objective
The main objective of this study is to examine the effect of bad governance on food rural
development in Udenu local government area of Enugu state, Nigeria. The specific objectives
include:
1. To ascertain the effect of Security and social stability on rural development in Udenu local
government area of Enugu state, Nigeria.
2. To evaluate the effect of provision of basic infrastructure on rural development in Udenu
local government area of Enugu state, Nigeria.
3. To examine the effect of transparency and accountability on rural development in Udenu
local government area of Enugu state, Nigeria.
1.5 Research Hypotheses
The hypotheses are stated in a null form as follow:
H01 There is no significant effect of Security and social stability on rural development in Udenu
local government area of Enugu state, Nigeria.
H02 There is no positive of provision of basic infrastructure on rural development in Udenu local
government area of Enugu state, Nigeria
H03 Loss of transparency and accountability has no effect on rural development in Udenu local
government area of Enugu state, Nigeria
1.6 Significance of the Study
The outcomes of this research can provide insights into how effective governance practices
influence the socio-economic development of rural areas. Policymakers can use the findings to
improve the effectiveness of government programs, rural development initiatives, and public
service delivery in rural areas. The study can help guide resource allocation to ensure equitable

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development in rural regions. It will also be of help to other researchers who would wish to carry
out studies in similar areas.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The scope of this study is limited to Udenu local government area of Enugu state, Nigeria with
the following components under consideration: security and social stability, provision of basic
infrastructure and, transparency and accountability

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 LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Conceptual Review
2.1.1 Concept of Good Governance
Good governance describes the processes, structures, and practices that contribute to effective,
accountable, and transparent leadership. It is essential for promoting the rule of law, protecting
human rights, and ensuring sustainable development. Good governance is epitomized by
predictable, open, and enlightened policy-making, a bureaucracy imbued with a professional
ethos, an executive arm of government accountable for its actions, and a strong civil society
participating in public affairs." (World Bank, 2021). This definition highlights several key
elements of good governance: transparency, accountability, professional public institutions, and
active civil society engagement. It stresses that these elements are crucial for creating policies
that foster long-term economic and social development. Good governance refers to the principles
and practices that ensure decisions are made in the public interest, characterized by transparency,
accountability, rule of law, and participation, leading to socially inclusive development."
(Shafritz & Russell, 2020). This definition aligns with the view that good governance is not only
about effective management but also about ensuring that decision-making is inclusive,
transparent, and consistent with the law.
2.1.2 Components of Good Governance
Security and social stability
Security is a multidimensional concept that encompasses the protection of individuals,
communities, and nations from various threats, including violence, conflict, crime, and
instability. According to Muggah (2023): Security refers to the conditions under which people
and communities are able to live free from threats to their well-being, whether those threats come
from armed violence, criminal activity, or environmental risks. It includes physical security, but
also economic, social, and political dimensions that contribute to human flourishing
Social stability refers to the ability of a society to maintain internal order, continuity, and a sense
of social cohesion without significant disruption or social upheaval. Fukuyama (2022) Social
stability in rural areas refers to the absence of violent conflict, the presence of effective local
governance, and the establishment of social norms that foster cooperation and peaceful
coexistence. It is characterized by a sense of shared identity and mutual trust between citizens
and local authorities." (Afolayan, 2023)

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Provision of basic infrastructure
Provision of basic infrastructure is a critical element for promoting economic development,
improving the quality of life, and achieving social stability. Basic infrastructure typically
includes essential services such as transportation, water supply, energy, sanitation, healthcare,
and education. Sachs (2023) in his work on development economics defines the provision of
basic infrastructure as: "The essential services that support the functionality of an economy and
the welfare of its people, including access to clean water, electricity, transport systems, and
healthcare. The provision of these services forms the foundation for inclusive economic growth
and the reduction of poverty, especially in underserved rural and urban areas. Basic
infrastructure refers to the foundational physical and organizational structures and systems
necessary for the functioning of society, including roads, electricity, water supply, sanitation, and
information communication technologies (ICT). These infrastructure services enable the
economy to function and facilitate equitable access to opportunities for all citizens, particularly
in developing regions." (World Bank, 2022)
Transparency and Accountability
Transparency refers to the openness of decision-making processes, the accessibility of
information, and the availability of data that allows stakeholders to understand and evaluate the
actions and decisions of public institutions and organizations. It is fundamentally about making
information available in a way that is clear, understandable, and accessible, ensuring that the
public can scrutinize government policies, actions, and expenditures." (Roberts, 2023). This
definition emphasizes that transparency is not just about making information available, but also
about ensuring that it is comprehensible and meaningful to the public, fostering informed
participation and oversight. Accountability refers to the obligation of individuals, organizations,
and institutions to answer for their actions and decisions, and to justify those actions in terms of
legality, morality, and efficiency. It involves the answerability of those in power, coupled with
the possibility of sanctions or consequences if performance standards or ethical guidelines are
not met." (Bovens, 2021)
2.1.3 Concept of Rural Development
There has been a plethora of views by different scholars on the concept of rural development.
There is therefore no consensus on the definition of the concept. In his view, Lele (2018) refers

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to rural development as improvement in living standard of the masses of low income population
residing in rural areas and making the process of their development self-sustaining. This implies
that when there is an improvement in the standard of living of the rural dwellers, rural
development is said to have taken place. According to Ewuim (2016) rural development involves
the process of improving the social, economic, political and infrastructural lives of the rural
dweller. It is pertinent to mention the fact that most of these scholars place more emphasis on
various aspects of development and indices for measuring development. Whereas some place
more emphasis on the infrastructural facilities, some emphasize the improvement in the standard
of living of the rural dwellers.
2.2 Theoretical Framework

Several theories are relevant to explaining the effect of bad governance on rural development in
Nigeria. These theories provide conceptual frameworks that highlight the mechanisms through
which governance practices influence development outcomes in rural areas. For the purpose of
this work, institutional Theory of Governance will be used.

Institutional Theory of Governance

Institutional Theory of Governance was propounded by Douglas North (1990), Elinor Ostrom
(1990). This theory argues that strong institutions (rules, laws, and government structures) shape
governance outcomes. North emphasized that institutions determine economic performance,
while Ostrom highlighted the role of self-governance in managing resources efficiently.
Relevance to Good Governance and Rural Development:
Strong institutions ensure efficient governance by reducing corruption and enhancing policy
implementation.
Legal frameworks protect rural land ownership, preventing land grabs and displacement.
Institutional stability promotes investment in rural infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
Application to Rural Development:
Strengthening rural development agencies to ensure effective policy implementation;
Creating legal frameworks to secure land rights and access to resources.
Establishing anti-corruption measures to ensure transparency in rural development funding.

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2.3 Empirical Review
Security and social stability and rural development

Afolayan et al. (2023) researched on impact of Security and social stability in Nigeria, the study
used descriptive Survey with Structured questionnaire. Stratified random sampling was used to
select 500 rural residents from 5 states in Nigeria. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard
deviation), inferential statistics (ANOVA, regression analysis were used to analyze the data. The
study found that security concerns, including rural violence and insurgencies, significantly affect
rural development. Communities with frequent security disturbances had lower agricultural
output, limited investment in infrastructure, and higher out-migration rates. - The study
recommended that government interventions should focus on improving security infrastructure in
rural areas, such as police presence and conflict resolution mechanisms. Local government
authorities were urged to promote social stability by enhancing community trust, building
effective governance systems, and ensuring equal access to resources.

Adebayo, O., & Fajuyigbe, A. (2022) the Impact of Security and Social Stability on Rural
Development in Nigeria. The study used a quantitative correlational research design. Structured
questionnaires were used to gather data from respondents. 400 rural households were selected
using simple random sampling; Regression analysis and correlation were used to analyze the
data collected. The study found that security and social stability have a strong positive impact on
rural development in Nigeria. Specifically, areas with improved security and stable social
conditions experienced better economic growth, agricultural output, and community welfare. The
study recommended enhancing security infrastructure, increasing community-based policing, and
improving governance at the local level to ensure sustained rural development.

Provision of basic infrastructure and rural development

Osei-Assibey, & Asamoah, (2023)The Role of Infrastructure in Enhancing Rural Development

in Ghana: A Case Study of the Northern Region. Quantitative research designs with a survey
method were used in the study with structured questionnaires to collect data. 400 rural
households were selected using simple random sampling. Descriptive statistics, correlation
analysis, and regression analysis were used to analyze the data collected. The authors found that

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the provision of basic infrastructure (such as roads, water, electricity, and healthcare facilities)
significantly influenced the level of economic activities and livelihood improvements in rural
areas.- Improved transportation infrastructure, especially rural roads, increased market access,
reduced transportation costs, and facilitated better access to agricultural markets.- Access to
clean water and sanitation facilities improved public health, which in turn contributed to higher
productivity and improved quality of life.- Electricity was identified as a key factor in
stimulating rural businesses, including small-scale agro-processing industries and local
enterprises. Recommendations: - The study recommended policy reforms focused on improving
basic infrastructure, particularly in underserved regions, and encouraged public-private
partnerships to expand rural infrastructure investments.- The authors also suggested promoting
community-based initiatives for better management and maintenance of infrastructure to ensure
long-term benefits.

Adeyemi, B., & Dada, F. (2022) Impact of Infrastructure Development on Rural Economic
Growth in Nigeria. The research design was quantitative research design with a descriptive
survey- Instruments for Data Collection was through structured questionnaire and official
records from government agencies. 300 rural households were selected using stratified random
sampling. Descriptive statistics, factor analysis, and multiple regression analysis were for data
analysis. Adeyemi and Dada (2022) found that the provision of basic infrastructure, particularly
roads, electricity, and water supply, has a substantial impact on the economic growth of rural
communities in Nigeria.- Improved transportation networks facilitated farmers' access to
markets, increased the flow of goods, and reduced transportation costs, which significantly
enhanced rural economic activities.- Access to clean water and sanitation contributed to better
health outcomes and improved productivity among rural residents.- Electricity access led to the
development of small-scale industries, while communication infrastructure (like mobile networks
and the internet) enhanced information dissemination and market connectivity.
Recommendations:- The study recommended increased government funding for rural
infrastructure, especially roads and electricity, and suggested partnerships with private
companies to expand infrastructure development in rural areas.- The authors also advocated for
sustainable infrastructure maintenance programs to ensure the long-term viability of
infrastructure investments in rural areas.

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Accountability and rural development
Abel Oyuke, (2020) transparency and accountability and Rural Development in Kenya East
Africa: A Systematic Review (2020) the study was based on Literature review. 30 studies,
selected through systematic search and screening. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis
purpose. Transparency and accountability had a significant positive impact on rural development
in Africa, particularly in terms of access to basic services, income, and food security. The study
recommended that policymakers should prioritize initiatives that promote transparency and
accountability.
Olukoshi, (2020) carried out research on transparency and accountability and Rural Development
in Nigeria. The study used survey research design with structured questionnaire was used in the
study for data collection. 1,200 respondents, selected through stratified random sampling.
Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis were used to analyze data. The study found
that transparency and accountability had a significant positive impact on rural development in
Nigeria, particularly in terms of access to basic services. The author recommended that
policymakers should prioritize initiatives that promote transparency and accountability.

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 METHODOLOGY
3.1 Research design
This study adopted survey research design because the data was collected at a point in time from
the respondents and employed questionnaire as the instrument of inquiry. It was carried out in
Udenu Local government council of Enugu State, Nigeria

3.2. Population of Study.

A total population of 400 respondents was selected villages and town across Udenu local
government area of Enugu state. The order of the population chosen is shown in the in table
below.

Table 1: Population of the Study

S/N Selected wards in Udenu LGA Number of people
1 Amala 150
2 Ezimo 80
3 Obollo-Affor 100
4 Ogbodu-Aba 70
Total 400
Source: field survey, (2025)

3.3 Sample size determination and sampling technique

A total of 200 people across the local government area make up the study’s sample size.
According to Tejada and Punzalan (2012), the Taro Yamane formula was used to determine the
sample. Reason for using this particular formula includes the fact that it presumes a simple
random sampling procedure and that its proportionality of variance falls inside the population
frame. Using Bowley’s proportionality method, the research calculated the sample percentage for
the distribution of instruments. The distribution is broken out below.

N
n=
1+ N (e) 2

Where,

n= Sample size,

N= population = 400,

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E= Standard error or allowance error=0.05,

400
1+400(0 . 05 )2
n= ,

400
1+400(0 . 0025 )
n= ,

400
n = 1+1
,

400
=200
2

Table 2: Sample Size Distribution and Allocation of instrument

S/N Selected wards in Udenu LGA Number of people Sample Distribution

1 Amala 150 150

x200 = 75
400
2 Ezimo 80 80
x200=40
400
3 Obollo-Affor 100 100
x200=50
400
4 Ogbodu-Aba 70 70
x200=35
400
5 Total 400 200
Source: Field Survey, 2025.

3.4 Sources of data and data collection method

The research variables, which included land abandonment, loss of labour force and loss of
income, were assessed using a 5-point Likert scale (1=strongly agree, 2= agree, 3=undecided, 4=
disagree, and 5= strongly disagree), which evaluated the relevance and suitability of the
measurement items.
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3.5 Data Analytical Technique
The study used multiple regression to analyze the data. Multiple regression was used because the
researcher established a cause and effect between the variables. The extrapolated data from
administered questionnaire was analyzed using computer-based Statistical Package for Social
Sciences (SPSS) Version 17 for Windows.

3.6 Model Specification

The functional form of the model is stated as:

RUD = f (SSS, PBI, TAC) 1

Where:

RUD= Rural Development

f= Function

SSS= Security and social security

PBI = Provision of basic infrastructure

TAC=transparency and accountability

The econometric model is stated as:

RUD = β0+β1 SSS +β2 PBI +β3 TAC +Ut 2

Where:

β0 = Slope
β1 , β2, β3, = Estimated Parameters

Ut = error term

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 DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
4.1 Data Presentation and Analysis

Test of Hypotheses
The results of test of hypotheses are presented in this section.
Decision Rule: If the P-value is less than 0.05 (i,e., p < 0,05), the null hypothesis (H 0) should be
rejected. Conversely, if the P-value is larger than 0.05 (i.e., P > 0.05), the null hypothesis should
be accepted.

Table 3: Model Summaryb of effect of good governance on rural development in Udenu

local government area of Enugu state, Nigeria.

Adjusted R Std. Error of the

Model R R Square Square Estimate

1 .917a .940 .840 .40781

a. Predictors: (Constant), security and social stability , Provision of basic infrastructure ,

transparency and accountability
b. Dependent Variable: Rural Development.

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Source: Field survey, 2025 using SPSS V17

The table above shows that there is a strong positive association (R = 0.917, p < 0.917) between
the bad governance of security and social stability, provision of basic infrastructure and
accountability. The regression coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.940) indicates that good
governance potentially has a strong significant effect on rural development in Udenu Local
Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria.

Table 4: Anova of effect of effect of good governance on rural development in Udenu local
government area of Enugu state, Nigeria.

Model Sum of squares df Mean F Sig.

Square

1 Regression 50.510 1 50.510 15.954 .000b

Residual 11.30.262 357 3.166

Total 358
1180.772

(a) Dependent variable: Rural Development

(b.) Predictor (constant) security and social stability, Provision of basic infrastructure,
transparency and accountability

The table above displays the results of a statistically significant regression model that
demonstrates the effect of bad governance on rural development in Udenu Local Government
Area of Enugu State, Nigeria. This is further supported by the F- statistic, which has a value of
15.954 at a significance level of 0.000, which is less than 0.05. Consequently, rural development
in Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria is greatly affected by security and
social stability, provision of basic infrastructure and accountability.

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Table 5: Coefficients of effect of effect of good governance on rural development in Udenu
local government area of Enugu state, Nigeria.

Unstandardized standardized
Model coefficients coefficients t Sig.
B Std Error Beta
Constant 0.640 .113 5.645 .000
1 SSS 0.208 .025 .917 8.312 .000
PBI .246 .054 .247 4.615 .000
TAC 755 .059 .708 12.807 .000

(a) Dependent variable: Rural Development

b. Predictor (constant) security and social stability, Provision of basic infrastructure,

Accountability
Source: Field survey, 2025 using SPSS
The standardized Beta coefficient, land abandonment has a value of 0. 917or 91.7%, is the major
determinant of rural development in Udenu Local government area of Enugu state, Nigeria as
shown in the above table. The component which is provision of basic infrastructure has the
value of 0.247 or 24.7% . This is far low than the effect of transparency and accountability which
accounted for .708 or 70.8 %. According to the study all the examined predictor factors had a
positive t- value of 8.312, 4.615, and 12.807 greater than 0.05 significance level.

5.1 Discussion of Findings

The research found out that Security and social stability had strong significant effect on rural
development in Udenu Local government area of Enugu state, Nigeria. These findings
correspond with that of Afolayan et al. (2023). The study found that Security and social stability
had a significant impact on rural development in Nigeria, particularly in terms of access to basic
services, such as healthcare and education. This is further supported the work of Adebayo, O., &
Fajuyigbe, A. (2022)who found that security concerns, including rural violence and insurgencies,
significantly affect rural development. Communities with frequent security disturbances had lower
agricultural output, limited investment in infrastructure, and higher out-migration rates.

The result on objective two showed that there is a clear positive relationship between provision
of basic infrastructure and rural development in Udenu Local government area of Enugu state,
Nigeria. The result was in line with prior findings of Osei-Assibey, & Asamoah, (2023) the study

18
revealed Provision of basic infrastructure had a significant impact on rural development in
Nigeria, particularly in terms of access to basic services. The authors found that the provision of
basic infrastructure (such as roads, water, electricity, and healthcare facilities) significantly influenced
the level of economic activities and livelihood improvements in rural areas.- Improved transportation
infrastructure, especially rural roads, increased market access, reduced transportation costs, and
facilitated better access to agricultural markets.- Access to clean water and sanitation facilities improved
public health, which in turn contributed to higher productivity and improved quality of life.- Electricity
was identified as a key factor in stimulating rural businesses, including small-scale agro-processing
industries and local enterprises.

Lastly transparency and accountability is said to have strong significant effect on rural
development in Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu state, Nigeria. This result corresponds
with the findings of Abel Oyuke, (2020) the study found that transparency and accountability had a
significant positive impact on rural development in Africa, particularly in terms of access to basic
services, income, and food security. This was further backed by the findings of Olukoshi, (2020) the
study found that transparency and accountability had a significant positive impact on rural development
in Nigeria, particularly in terms of access to basic services.

6.1 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

The study revealed that bad governance significantly impact rural development in Udenu Local
government area. Three research objectives were set out to achieve in the course of the study.
This was made possible with the help of structured questionnaire that facilitated the gathering of
data for this research work. It was found that security and social stability, provision of basic
infrastructure and transparency and accountability are said to be significant factors responsible
for rural development in Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu state, Nigeria.

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6.2 Recommendations

The following recommendations are made to help improve upon rural development in Udenu
Local government area of Enugu state, Nigeria.

1. The government should prioritize the training and equipping of local security forces to ensure
that rural areas are protected from criminal activities, conflicts, and insurgency
2. Government should allocate more resources to the development of basic infrastructure, such
as roads, electricity, clean water, and sanitation systems. Special attention should be given to
isolated communities where infrastructure is lacking.
3. Governments should establish effective monitoring and evaluation systems. Regular audits,
oversight committees, and public reporting can promote transparency in the management of
funds.
6.3 Contribution to Knowledge
This research expands existing literature on governance by focusing specifically on the rural
context. While much academic attention has been given to governance at the national and urban
levels, the effect of good governance on rural communities remains under-explored in many
parts of the world, including Nigeria. The study addresses this gap by highlighting the unique
challenges faced by rural populations and how good governance practices can mitigate those
challenges. Also, the study provides a comprehensive analysis of how effective governance at

20
the local level directly impacts rural development in Nigeria, contributing to better-targeted
governance models.

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