Abstract

This study investigates the administration of local governments and the associated challenges in the context of rural development, with a particular focus on Ovia North-East Local Government Area (LGA) in Edo State, Nigeria. The primary objective is to assess the dynamics of local governance, rural infrastructure, and service delivery within this region. Adopting a survey research design, the study collected data through questionnaires administered to 200 respondents across Ovia North-East LGA. Data analysis involved the use of descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and thematic content analysis. The findings reveal that local governments, while constitutionally mandated to promote rural development, grapple with significant challenges that hinder their performance. These challenges encompass inadequate financial resources, institutional weaknesses, corruption, deficient infrastructure, and high poverty levels. The current rural development policies and projects are perceived to have limited impact on the ground. Despite these challenges, respondents expressed optimism that strategic reforms and measures could yield improved outcomes if implemented effectively. This study contributes valuable empirical evidence that sheds light on the intricate dynamics of local government administration and rural transformation, particularly in the specific context of Edo State, Nigeria.