Small Towns and Rural Settlements
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Meaning of Small Towns and Rural Settlements
- Brief History of Towns and Rural Settlements in Nigeria
- Characteristics of Rural Settlements in Nigeria
- Types of Rural Settlements
- Economic Activities in Rural Areas
- Examples of Small Towns in Nigeria
- Importance of Rural Settlements in National Development
- Challenges Facing Rural Settlements in Nigeria
- Solutions to Rural Underdevelopment
- Conclusion
- Revision Questions
Introduction to Small Towns and Rural Settlements in Nigeria
Small towns and rural settlements in Nigeria represent the backbone of the country’s social and economic life, as they serve as residential, cultural, and agricultural hubs for millions of people. These settlements are usually smaller in size and population compared to urban centers, yet they play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s identity, food supply, and community networks. Rural settlements are often defined by their traditional lifestyles, low population density, and close interaction with the natural environment, while small towns act as semi-urban centers that connect rural areas to larger cities through trade, administration, and local industries. Understanding the meaning and features of small towns and rural settlements in Nigeria is important, as it highlights their contribution to national development and the challenges they face in terms of infrastructure, modernization, and migration.
Meaning of Small Towns and Rural Settlements
A small town is a moderately populated area that is larger than a village but smaller than a city. It usually has basic infrastructure such as schools, markets, roads, and health centers but lacks the large population and complex systems of big cities.
A rural settlement refers to a community located in the countryside with low population density and primary dependence on agriculture, fishing, hunting, and related activities. These areas are typically more traditional, less industrialized, and have limited infrastructure.
Brief History of Towns and Rural Settlements in Nigeria
The history of towns and rural settlements in Nigeria dates back thousands of years and is closely tied to the development of agriculture, trade, traditional kingdoms, and migration patterns across different regions. Early Nigerian settlements were primarily founded near rivers, fertile lands, and areas rich in natural resources. These locations made it easy for communities to farm, fish, and carry out trade with neighboring villages.
In the southern parts of Nigeria, particularly among the Yoruba, Igbo, and Niger Delta groups, many rural settlements evolved from ancient clans and family compounds. These settlements were usually small, with a central market square and a palace or shrine symbolizing traditional authority. Towns such as Ile-Ife, Oyo, and Nri began as small rural centers and gradually expanded into cultural and religious capitals due to their influence and leadership.
In the northern region, early rural settlements were established by nomadic and farming communities such as the Hausa, Fulani, and Kanuri. These settlements later grew into towns as a result of Islamic influence, trans-Saharan trade, and the formation of emirates and caliphates. Examples include towns like Daura, Zaria, and Biu, which started as rural communities but became important centers of religion and commerce.
During the colonial period, British administrators restructured many traditional settlements into administrative towns, introducing modern roads, schools, and local government systems. While some rural areas remained small due to their remote locations or lack of infrastructure, others grew into local government headquarters and commercial towns.
Today, many rural settlements in Nigeria still preserve traditional practices, communal living, and local economic activities like farming, fishing, and crafts. Although development has been slower in rural areas compared to cities, they continue to play a crucial role in national food production, cultural preservation, and grassroots governance.
Characteristics of Rural Settlements in Nigeria
- Low population density
- Dominance of natural environments (farmlands, rivers, forests)
- Primary economic activities such as farming, fishing, and hunting
- Poor road networks and limited access to modern facilities
- Strong community ties and traditional leadership
- Simple housing structures (e.g., mud, wood, or thatched roof houses)
- Limited electricity, water supply, and healthcare services
Types of Rural Settlements
Rural settlements in Nigeria can be classified based on their layout and structure:
- Linear settlements: Buildings are arranged in a line, often along a road, river, or railway.
- Clustered (nucleated) settlements: Houses are grouped around a central point like a market or village square.
- Dispersed settlements: Homes and farms are spread far apart from one another.
Economic Activities in Rural Areas
- Subsistence and commercial farming (cassava, yam, maize, rice, cocoa, etc.)
- Fishing and fish drying in riverine communities
- Crafts and traditional industries (e.g., blacksmithing, weaving, pottery)
- Local trading and marketing of farm products
- Animal rearing such as cattle, goats, poultry, and sheep
Examples of Small Towns in Nigeria
Here are selected examples of small towns across the country:
State | Small Towns & Rural Areas |
---|---|
Oyo | Ogbomosho North, Iseyin, Eruwa |
Benue | Otukpa, Ushongo, Vandeikya |
Cross River | Obubra, Akamkpa, Ugep |
Ondo | Oka Akoko, Ifon, Igbokoda |
Ebonyi | Izzi, Ezzamgbo, Afikpo North |
Sokoto | Tambuwal, Shagari, Wurno |
Kaduna | Kafanchan, Birnin Gwari, Giwa |
Rivers | Ahoada, Bori, Omoku |
Ogun | Ifo, Imeko, Igbesa |
Taraba | Bali, Takum, Donga |
Borno | Biu, Magumeri, Chibok |
Ekiti | Ido-Ekiti, Iyin-Ekiti, Omuo-Ekiti |
These towns are not large enough to be classified as major urban cities, but they serve as local administrative, agricultural, and trading centers.
Table of Small Towns and Rural Settlements in Nigeria
State | Small Towns / Rural Settlements |
---|---|
Abia | Ohafia, Arochukwu, Isuikwuato, Bende, Uzuakoli |
Adamawa | Numan, Lamurde, Ganye, Gombi, Shelleng |
Akwa Ibom | Oron, Ikot Abasi, Okobo, Esit Eket, Ibeno |
Anambra | Ihiala, Uli, Ekwulobia, Neni, Otuocha |
Bauchi | Toro, Misau, Katagum, Jama’are, Dass |
Bayelsa | Ogbia, Sagbama, Nembe, Amassoma, Ekeremor |
Benue | Otukpa, Ushongo, Vandeikya, Buruku, Adikpo |
Borno | Biu, Magumeri, Askira, Chibok, Gwoza |
Cross River | Obubra, Ikom, Akamkpa, Ugep, Bekwarra |
Delta | Oleh, Ozoro, Obiaruku, Bomadi, Agbor |
Ebonyi | Ezzamgbo, Izzi, Afikpo North, Onueke, Ikwo |
Edo | Irrua, Auchi, Ekpoma, Agenebode, Uromi |
Ekiti | Omuo-Ekiti, Ijero, Ido-Ekiti, Ikole, Efon-Alaaye |
Enugu | Nsukka, Udi, Awgu, Oji River, Agbani |
Gombe | Billiri, Kumo, Dukku, Bajoga, Nafada |
Imo | Mbaise, Oguta, Ohaji, Isiala Mbano, Umuelemai |
Jigawa | Hadejia, Gumel, Birniwa, Guri, Kazaure |
Kaduna | Birnin Gwari, Giwa, Kachia, Saminaka, Kagoro |
Kano | Gaya, Wudil, Rano, Dawakin Tofa, Bichi |
Katsina | Malumfashi, Funtua, Kankia, Dutsin-Ma, Daura |
Kebbi | Argungu, Yauri, Zuru, Jega, Koko |
Kogi | Idah, Kabba, Ankpa, Dekina, Ogori-Magongo |
Kwara | Omu-Aran, Offa, Lafiagi, Kaiama, Share |
Lagos | Badagry, Epe, Agbowa, Ikorodu North, Ibeju |
Nasarawa | Akwanga, Nasarawa Eggon, Doma, Keana, Toto |
Niger | Wushishi, Kuta, Kagara, Kontagora, Bida |
Ogun | Imeko, Ifo, Igbesa, Ilaro, Aiyepe |
Ondo | Oka Akoko, Ifon, Igbokoda, Okitipupa, Idanre |
Osun | Iwo, Ilesa, Ila-Orangun, Ejigbo, Ikire |
Oyo | Iseyin, Eruwa, Tede, Ogbomosho North, Okeho |
Plateau | Pankshin, Langtang, Shendam, Bokkos, Dengi |
Rivers | Ahoada, Bori, Omoku, Buguma, Abua |
Sokoto | Illela, Tambuwal, Wurno, Gwadabawa, Dange |
Taraba | Takum, Bali, Donga, Gembu, Wukari |
Yobe | Gashua, Nguru, Potiskum, Fika, Machina |
Zamfara | Anka, Kaura Namoda, Gummi, Talata Mafara, Tsafe |
FCT (Abuja) | Abaji, Kuje, Gwagwalada, Bwari, Kwali |
Importance of Rural Settlements in National Development
- They are the food basket of the nation due to farming activities.
- They preserve traditional culture, language, and customs.
- They support the distribution of population and reduce urban congestion.
- They serve as sources of raw materials like timber, cocoa, and livestock.
- They promote local trade and rural economies.
- They act as political wards or administrative units in national governance.
Challenges Facing Rural Settlements in Nigeria
- Poor road networks and lack of transportation
- Limited access to quality education and health care
- Inadequate electricity and water supply
- High rate of rural-urban migration
- Poor communication and technology access
- Environmental degradation from overfarming or erosion
- Limited government investment in rural infrastructure
Solutions to Rural Underdevelopment
- Investment in rural infrastructure (roads, schools, hospitals)
- Promotion of rural electrification and clean water programs
- Encouraging youth participation in agriculture through funding and training
- Development of rural industries and cooperatives
- Improved access to health care and education
- Strengthening local governance and empowerment programs
Read and study also:
- List of Yoruba states in Nigeria Meaning and History
- List of hausa states in Nigeria: meaning, origin and history
Revision Questions
- What is the meaning of a rural settlement?
- Mention three characteristics of rural settlements in Nigeria.
- List two types of rural settlement patterns.
- Give four examples of small towns in Nigeria.
- State three challenges facing rural areas in Nigeria.
- What are the major economic activities in rural communities?
- How do rural settlements contribute to national development?
- Suggest two solutions to rural-urban migration.
- What type of settlement is common along rivers?
- Name any two rural settlements in Taraba or Cross River State.
DISCOVER ALSO: list of Cities in Nigeria: major urban centers and their significance
Conclusion on Small Towns and Rural Settlements
Small towns and rural settlements in Nigeria are often overlooked in development conversations, yet they remain critical to the nation’s agricultural production, cultural heritage, and socio-economic balance. With better infrastructure, education, and support, these areas can thrive and reduce the pressure on urban centers.