Road Construction and Poverty Reduction in Nigeria: A Study of Itu Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State

Mfon E. Asuquo, Anthony F. Edet & Samuel E. Solomon

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Abstract

Despite being a critical agricultural and peri-urban corridor, Itu Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, contends with significant deficits in road infrastructure, which impede market access, escalate transportation costs, and constrain socio-economic opportunities. This study assessed the condition of existing road networks, evaluated their socio-economic impacts on residents, and analysed the effectiveness of recent interventions. Empirical literature reviewed indicated that there is a correlation between road construction and poverty reduction in Itu. The study adopts rational choice theory, health belief model and ethnomethodology as its theoretical framework. Reports were obtained from road construction sites in Itu LGA. Independent Electoral Commission (2015) gave the estimated population of Itu LGA as 163,200 with a population density of 2,164/sq ml. Employing a mixed-methods approach, quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, means) and inferential statistics (Spearman’s correlation) with SPSS. Qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Spatial data was analysed using GIS tools to map road networks and accessibility. The study adopted 200 respondents. The research combined spatial analysis, household surveys, and key informant interviews to generate robust, location specific evidence. The paper recommended more targeted and participatory infrastructure policies, contributing to sustainable rural development, poverty alleviation in the region and compensation to house owners whose houses were demolished in the course of road construction.

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