Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Community development is a multifaceted process influenced by various factors that contribute to its success. This research project aims to explore the key factors that promote community development and examine their impact on enhancing community well-being. The study utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative insights gathered through interviews and focus group discussions. The research identifies several critical factors that play a significant role in fostering community development. Social cohesion emerges as a central element, emphasizing the importance of strong social networks, trust, and collaboration among community members. Additionally, effective leadership is highlighted as a key factor in driving positive change and mobilizing community resources towards common goals. Economic development is another essential aspect that influences community well-being. The research findings underscore the importance of sustainable economic activities, job creation, and access to economic opportunities in promoting community development. Education and skill development are also recognized as crucial factors that empower community members and contribute to overall community growth. Furthermore, the study explores the role of infrastructure and public services in supporting community development. Access to basic amenities such as healthcare, education, transportation, and communication facilities is found to be vital for enhancing the quality of life within a community. The research emphasizes the need for equitable distribution of resources and the provision of essential services to all community members. In addition to these factors, the research project examines the significance of environmental sustainability in community development efforts. Promoting environmental awareness, conservation practices, and sustainable resource management are identified as key strategies for ensuring long-term community well-being. The study emphasizes the interdependence between environmental health and community prosperity. Overall, the research project sheds light on the complex interplay of various factors that promote community development and enhance community well-being. By identifying and understanding these factors, policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders can formulate targeted strategies to support and strengthen communities. The findings from this research contribute to the existing body of knowledge on community development and offer valuable insights for fostering sustainable and inclusive community growth.

Thesis Overview

Community development and its practice in Nigeria are not new. Even before the coming of the colonial masters, several societies in Nigeria used communal efforts s mechanism for mobilizing community resources to improve physical improvement and functional facilities in their given locations in the social, political, cultural and economic aspect of life (Ewelum and Madu, 2010). According to Ewelum and Madu (2010), the modern concept of community development gave rise to the establishment of community development division /department/directorate as a crucial arm of government charged with the responsibility of channeling the efforts of the people towards promoting social and economic development. Ezeh (2014) therefore defined community development as a term that denotes various strategies and interpositions through co-ordinated actions of the community members in order to usher in for the people social and economic development. It is an effort geared towards achievement and solution of the problems of the community, promoting social welfare, justice, raising standard of living, community cohesion and developing their material and human resources to a great extent. Alvis in Njoku (2016) defined community development as many issues ranging from the development of the neighborhood community through improved social services, protection and regeneration of natural and built environmental factors, through the development of economic and employment opportunities.