Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi

AN APPRAISAL OF WORLD BANK ASSISTED COMMUNITY DRIVEN DEVELOPMENT APPROACH IN BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

Ikwuba, Agnes A., Bai-Tachia Margaret & Iorgirim Sandra

Abstract

Evidences of failure of many development programmes in developing nations are innumerable. The catastrophe behind these programmes are attributed largely to the approach used in implementation. The top-down approach used in the implementation of projects is said to have not achieved the target goal of poverty reduction, food insecurity and improved livelihood of the citizens. This study appraised World Bank Assisted Community Driven Development (CDD) approach in Benue State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the nature of CDD approach and ascertained the level of involvement of beneficiaries of CDD approach in Benue State.A sample of 384 respondents were drawn for the study using multi-stage sampling procedure. Structured interviews, focus group discussions and key informant interviews were instruments used for data collection. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics to address the research objectives. Findings revealed that the nature of CDD approach in Benue State was bottom-up approach which involved decision-making, community participation in funding projects, demand driven needs of the community and ownership and sustainability of projects. The beneficiaries of CDD approach were fully involved in all stages of project initiation, implementation, control/management and evaluation.The study therefore recommends that the Benue State Government should improve on security in the state to ensure that the Community and Social Development Projects (CSDPs) are not destroyed. The CSDA should ensure constant capacity building of community members involved in projects implementation for project sustainability, amongst others. .

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