Communal Facilities in Coastal Settlements of Ondo State, Nigeria: Assessment of Community-Based Organisations’ Efforts Using the Facility Contributory Index Model

Abstract

Provision of Infrastructure is a facilitator for economic advancement at various levels. The impact on local economic development and the mitigation of poverty is immeasurable. Lack of or poor infrastructure has always impeded economic development. In some cases, CBOs embark on physical development projects to provide amenities in their communities. This paper uncovers the impact of facilities provided by CBOs (especially the CDAs) in Ilaje Local Government Area (a coastal LGA) of Ondo State, Nigeria on the economy of residents. The data were derived from 230 respondents through the administration of questionnaire and participant observation. The questionnaire probed into the perceived level of contribution of each physical infrastructure (provided by the CDAs) to the economy of the residents. Facility Contributory Index (FCI) model was developed using Likert’s scale to analyze levels of contribution of the facilities. The results revealed among other things that facilities for electric power generation ranked highest on the FCI Table of assessment while recreational facilities had least contribution to residents’ economy as a result of low provision and impact level. The relevance of effective power generating facility and other vital infrastructure to businesses and economic development was affirmed. Recommendations include policy review in order to facilitate collaboration between government, CBOs and NGOs with the intention to catalyse the efforts of CBOs in rural coastal communities.