Characteristics of rural-based small scale industries: the case of Esan central and Esan-West local government areas in Edo state, Nigeria
Egbon, P.C.; Okhueleigbe, F.E.
Journal of Rural Development and Administration 26(2): 67-78
1994
Document Number: 262862
This paper examines the nature and characteristics of the small-scale industries in Esan Central and Esan West local government areas of Edo state, Nigeria, a rural setting. Small-scale industries in these areas include cassava processing mills, motor cycle mechanics, bicycle repairs, saw mills, tailoring, carpentry, basket-making, etc. The nature and characteristics of the small-scale industries in the local government would be defined in terms of types of ownership, sources of funds, extent of employment-generation, the extent of use of local resources and the output of industries. Seven selected communities in the local government areas include Ekpoma, Iruekpen, Igueben, Irrua, Ebelle, Opoji and Ewu. The major findings are that: small-scale enterprises in local government areas consist mostly of those engaged in primary and secondary activities; the level of educational qualifications of the proprietors is low and they are deficient in technical knowledge and management skills; the levels of employment and local resources in use are significant determinants of small-scale industries' output in the two areas; raw materials came mainly from local sources; finance came mainly through personal savings and loans from relatives and friends. Industrial development centres located in the local government areas are needed to provide extension and consultancy.