SPATIO-TEMPORAL ANALYSIS OF IGBO TRADERS AND THEIR SOCIO-ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES IN ILORIN METROPOLIS

Abstract

sequence. It is no doubt that Igbo entrepreneurs play vital roles in the growth of the economy in the Ilorin Metropolis. This study examines Igbo traders' spatial-temporal patterns and their socio-economic activities in the Ilorin Metropolis. The study uses primary data which include personal interviews and questionnaire administration. Yamane's formula was employed to obtain the required and appropriate sample size. A set of 249 questionnaires was distributed among Igbo traders in six different locations. Chi-Square statistic was used to test for the relationship between Igbo traders and their socio-economic activities. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistical tools such as cross-tabulation and percentages. The result of the questionnaire administration indicates that Igbo traders contribute to job opportunities and increase the standard of living of the people in the Ilorin Metropolis. In addition, the Chi-Square analysis result shows a significant relationship between the spatio-temporal location of Igbo traders and their socio-economic activities because the 2 value of Chi-square calculated (X =115.8) is greater than the critical value (7.815). Therefore, the study recommends that the State Government and Financial Institutions make credit facilities accessible and available to Igbo traders and reduce taxes to encourage entrepreneurial activities within the Metropolis. In addition, the people of Ilorin and Nigeria should emulate the Igbo entrepreneurship culture for the nation's economic development.