ROLE OF WEEKLY MARKET ON RURAL LIVELIHOOD IN BABBAN GIDA TARMUWA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, YOBE STATE.

Abstract In rural areas of Northern Nigeria, weekly markets serve as key economic and social hubs. In Babbangida, the administrative center of Tarmuwa LGA, Yobe State, the weekly market plays a vital role in shaping rural livelihoods by enabling trade, providing income opportunities, and influencing consumption patterns. Despite this significance, there is limited empirical evidence on the socio-economic contributions of such markets in fragile and semi-arid regions like Yobe State. This study investigates the role of the Babbangida weekly market in supporting rural livelihoods. Using a mixed-methods approach, data was collected through household surveys (n=120), focus group discussions, and key informant interviews with market participants, traders, and local leaders. Preliminary findings indicate that 68% of rural households rely on the weekly market for income generation, particularly women involved in petty trade and agricultural produce sales. The market also facilitates food access, supports informal credit systems, and fosters inter-community relations. The research highlights the importance of strengthening rural market infrastructure and market-based livelihood support strategies to build resilience among rural populations. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of local economies in conflict-affected and ecologically vulnerable settings and provides insights for rural development planning in northern Nigeria.