Planning and execution of a pilot project on rural development: lessons from Badeku, Nigeria
Igodan, C.O.; Olawoye, J.E.
Journal of Rural Development and Administration 24(3): 1-11
1992
Document Number: 497243
The Badeku Village Development Project in Nigeria was initiated in October 1970. Its aim was to integrate agricultural research, education and extension as a viable step towards rapid and lasting agricultural development. Badeku is located some 17 miles from the University of Ibadan in Lagelu Local Government Area. Work started with an initial socioeconomic and agricultural survey to determine the social structure, economic status, habits, traditions and other relevant characteristics of the village. In 1973, the project was expanded to 18 villages in the Egbeda and Fashola units. Comments are made on this expansion and on participation at village level. Further issues considered are technological and physical constraints, farm input supply, credit, marketing and storage of maize, and lessons learnt. While the project started out with enthusiasm and cooperation from several institutions and with an integrated rural development approach, it eventually resulted in a limited extension programme. Constraints included funding and logistics. Yet, Badeku today has many improvements such as electricity, piped water, and health facilities. External involvement made the area visible and allowed people through collective resolve to transform themselves into a small pressure group that served as a springboard for other development and self help projects.