The Impact of Migrants’ Remittances on Rural Development in Benue State, Nigeria

The study assessed the role of migrants’ remittances in rural development in Benue State, Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to ascertain the relationship between migrants and their home of origin as well as the contribution of migrants to rural development in Benue State. A total of 1202 respondents were selected from 55 rural settlements and used for the study. The rural communities and respondents were selected through multi-stage sampling technique involving purposive, simple random, judgement and snowball sampling. Data were obtained through questionnaire. Descriptive statistical tools like frequencies and percentages were used for data analysis. Tables and plates were used for data presentation. The study found that 60.1% of the respondents are male. Most respondents (23.7%) are within age 50-54 years. Most respondents are married (79.8%) and have children. The ratio of migrants to respondent is 2.5. Migrants sent remittance to home of origin for community development; the remittances were used for school, electricity, hospital and road construction. The study recommends that migration should be coordinated to enhance its advantage. To ensure rural development, government, communities, private individuals and migrants should collaborate in funding infrastructural facilities in rural communities that are interested in self-help project in the State.