The Role of Youths in Rural Economic Development. a Case Study of Jere Local Government Area of Borno State

ABSTRACTThis study assesses the role of youths in rural economic development in Jere Local Government Area, Borno State. Objectives of the study are to examine the contribution of youths to rural economic development in Jere Local Government Area; to identify the specific challenges faced by youths in rural economic development in Jere Local Government Area; and to ascertain the strategies employed by youths to control the challenges they face in rural economic development in Jere Local Government Area. Modernization Theory was used as the theoretical framework to guide the study. The study used cross-sectional research design. This is a type of design in which the researcher collected data from many different individuals at a single point of time. The people of the Jere Local Government Area (LGA) made up the population of this study. One hundred (100) respondents were selected using multi-stage sampling technique. Data was collected through a household survey using a structured questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. Findings of the study among others revealed a strong belief that youths are at the forefront of rural economic development across various dimensions. Whether in agriculture, small business creation, infrastructure improvement, technology promotion, or entrepreneurship, the consensus is that young people are making meaningful contributions to the growth and modernization of rural communities. Their role as innovators and economic drivers is widely recognized, and they are seen as key players in shaping the future of rural economies. Finally, the study among others recommended that government should develop targeted financial programs and micro-financing options specifically for young entrepreneurs in rural areas, facilitating easier access to capital for their ventures.