PATTERNS AND MOTIVE OF RURAL MIGRANTS IN GUSAU TOWN, ZAMFARA STATE

This research was conducted to identify the patterns and motives of rural migration in Gusau town, Zamfara State. Two survey areas (Sabon Gari and Tudun Wada)were selected based on the fact that most rural migrants in Gusau reside in these areas. A total of 75 respondents were selected using a stratified sampling technique. To achieve the research objectives, relevant literature was reviewed. The study involved data collection from the two selected areas, with questionnaires distributed to the residents of these areas. The data was analyzed using SPSS and simple percentages. The findings revealed the absence of essential factors such as social services, infrastructure and employment opportunities in rural areas which "push" migrants away. In contrast the presence of these factors (such as hospitals, electricity, schools and piped water) in urban areas particularly Gusau town, served as factors attracting migration. The analysis showed that males predominate among migrants, accounting for 70.7%, compared to 29.3% females. Furthermore, young single men aged 15–45 years formed the largest group in the migratory stream, making up 82.7%, while the remaining 17.3% were older individuals or women. The study suggests that proper rural development planning could reduce the influx of rural populations to urban areas. The government is urged to provide basic infrastructure, tools, and develop the agro-industrial sector to stimulate economic development in rural areas.