AN ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADMINSTRATION ON RURAL DEVELOPMENT (A CASE STUDY OF KATCHA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, NIGER STATE)

ABSTRACT This study examined extent to which local governments have impacted on rural development in Katcha local government areas Niger State. In this study, the objectives were mainly focused to assess the impact of Local Government on rural development in Katcha Local Government areas, to determine the extent to which funding affect Katcha Local Governments ability to undertake rural development activities and to find out the extent to which community mobilization and participation affect rural development in Katcha Local Government. In this study, the basic tools local governments have impacted on rural development was studied was basically questionnaire and literature review, 400 questionnaire were distributed and 321 representing 80% questionnaire were filled and returned. On how the local governments have impacted on rural development was basically the collection of information. It was recommended that based on budgetary allocation for rural development but, very importantly, in ensuring that such allocated funds are judiciously used with optimum financial autonomy to execute rural development projects and programmes, and the local government in Nigeria, particularly Katcha need to eschew corruption specifically at the leadership level and emphasize accountability, due process, prudence and diligence. The leadership need to refocus firmly on its primary and statutory duty of administering local and rural development in integrated and sustainable manner. It is expected that the democratization process in Nigeria will aid the coming into existence of visionary and purposeful leadership in the local government system.