THE NIGERIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY
ISSN: 0331-4111 e-ISSN: 2736-075X
Volume 24, No. 1, June 2026
Pages 109-127
DOI: 10.36108/NJSA/6202.42.0170
Constituency Projects and Rural Development in Cross River North Senatorial District, Nigeria
Fidelis Isomkwo Aboh and Mary Uyilowhoma Ojong-Ejoh
Department of Sociology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
Abstract
This study assessed constituency projects and rural development in Cross River North Senatorial District, Nigeria, addressing the disjuncture between substantial financial allocations and tangible developmental outcomes. Using a desk-based research design, the study analysed 39 constituency projects valued at ₦12.01 billion allocated in the 2025 Federal Budget, alongside national project tracking reports from BudgIT, ICPC, and media sources. Five hypotheses were tested using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that Cross River North received the highest senatorial allocation in Cross River State, yet no significant relationship existed between project value and perceived development impact (r = -0.18, p > 0.05), consistent with national patterns where only 52% of projects are completed. Significant variation in project distribution across Local Government Areas was observed (χ² = 12.84, p < 0.05), with Obanliku receiving minimal specified projects. Community participation significantly improved project outcomes (t = 3.24, p < 0.01), while political affiliation was strongly associated with allocation magnitude (χ² = 18.42, p < 0.001). Crucially, constituency projects showed no statistically significant impact on rural development indicators (R² = 0.08, p > 0.05), as Cross River State’s 75.6% multidimensional poverty rate persists despite years of allocations. The study concludes that constituency projects have not translated into commensurate rural development due to low completion rates, uneven distribution, political patronage, and weak accountability. Recommendations include mandatory public disclosure, performance-based allocations, community monitoring committees, and forensic audits before future releases. (Word Count: 236 words).
Keywords: Cross River North, CEPTI tracking, 2025 budget projects, senatorial allocation, project completion rates