Development Implications of Social Capital among the Igede of Central Nigeria

Abstract

One of the undaunted challenges facing many countries in Africa is that of achieving development. Many African states remain underdeveloped despite the various investments made by successive governments in achieving development. As such, many groups have begun to look inwards using association, identity, love and trust, summed up as social capital to achieve development in their various communities. This study examined the relationship between social capital and sustainable development among the Igede of Central Nigeria. The methodology was basically qualitative. Data was generated through key informant interviews (KII), in-depth interviews (IDI) and focus group discussion (FGDs). KII interviews were conducted with traditionalist (titled) male and female, IDIs were conducted with male and female opinion leaders, leaders of community development associations, political office holders among others. FGDs were conducted homogenously on the basis of age and sex. Findings revealed the existence of strong bonding social capital but weak bridging and linking social capital. The study therefore recommended the development of strong bridging and linking social capital through socialization, awareness creation, civil society actions as well as the use of identity by political office holders to create stronger links between government and the people.