Non-Governmental Organizations and Development of Rural Communities: A Study of Awka North LGA, Anambra State

Abstract

The study examined the relationship between non-governmental organizations and the development of rural communities in Awka North Local Government Area, Anambra State. The study was anchored on the Modernization Theory principally advanced by Talcott Parsons. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, with a population of 328 residents of Awka North LGA, including community leaders, adult household members, and local opinion leaders who have direct knowledge of or involvement in community development projects initiated by NGOs. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources, with a structured questionnaire serving as the primary instrument for data collection. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and mean scores, while the Pearson Product Moment Correlation (r) techniques, through the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26 was used to test the hypotheses. The findings revealed that: non-governmental organizations has significantly influenced; access to social services in rural communities, the provision and improvement of community infrastructure, and livelihood empowerment among residents of rural communities in Awka North LGA. Based on the findings, the study concluded that non-governmental organizations play a crucial role in promoting rural development in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State. It recommends among other things that government should create enabling policies and partnership frameworks that support NGO participation in the provision of healthcare, education, water supply, and other essential social services in rural communities.