Community Day Celebration as an Agent of Community Development in Ifaki Ekiti

ABSTRACT
This study examines the impact of Community Day activities on the development of infrastructure in Ifaki Ekiti, focusing on the challenges encountered, the level of community participation, and the overall effect on the success of development projects. Using a combination of survey questionnaires and field data from 60 respondents, the research explores the influence of collective efforts in infrastructure development, the obstacles hindering the sustainability of these activities, and how community involvement shapes project outcomes. The findings reveal that Community Day events have significantly contributed to the development of infrastructure in Ifaki Ekiti, with 80% of respondents affirming that these activities have positively impacted local infrastructure. Key infrastructure projects such as roads, schools, and health centers have been initiated through these events, demonstrating the importance of collective action in rural development. Respondents indicated that the initiatives have improved the quality of life in the community, particularly in healthcare and education. However, the study also highlights several challenges faced in organizing Community Day activities. The most significant of these challenges is lack of funding, with 82% of respondents identifying it as a major obstacle. Other challenges include coordination issues and conflicts among community members. In terms of community participation, the study shows high levels of involvement, with 80% of respondents having participated in Community Day activities over the past five years. The youth, in particular, play a pivotal role, with 93% of respondents indicating active youth participation in planning and executing the events. The study concludes that active community participation is critical to the success and sustainability of development projects initiated during Community Day events. It recommends enhancing youth participation, improving funding mechanisms, and fostering better coordination to overcome the challenges limiting the effectiveness of these events.