By Hon. Peter Okpara
My recent experiences in Enugu East Urban and my village have left an indelible mark on my perspective on urbanization and rural development. In December, I found myself in Enugu East Urban, expecting the usual hustle and bustle of city life. However, I was struck by the scanty number of people in the area.
Fast forward to the New Year celebrations, and I made my way to the village. The stark contrast between the two environments was evident – the village was teeming with life, as families and friends reunited to mark the beginning of a new year.
This experience got me thinking: why do our rural areas come alive during holidays, only to return to their usual quiet state afterwards? The answer lies in the lack of opportunities and amenities in these areas, driving people to migrate to urban centers in search of better lives.
However, this urbanization comes at a cost. Our cities are becoming increasingly congested, with inadequate infrastructure and services to support the growing population. This is where rural development comes in – by investing in rural areas and providing opportunities for economic growth, social development, and infrastructure improvement, we can reduce the pressure on our cities.
Rural development is not just a moral imperative; it’s an economic necessity. By creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and providing access to basic services in rural areas, we can stem the tide of urban migration and create more balanced and sustainable communities.
As I reflected on my experiences in Enugu East Urban and my village, I became convinced that rural development is the key to unlocking a brighter future for our nation. Let us prioritize the development of our rural areas, and in doing so, create a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable society for all.
From
Hon. Peter Okpara
