Spatial Inequalities in Infrastructural Development in Plateau State, Nigeria
Adefila, J. O., Bulus, J. S.

Abstract
The development processes often produce spatial contrast among regions such that some areas may appear to have more than their average share of the same facility and this is evident in developing countries where the urban centres usually have concentration of essential goods and services at the expense of their rural counterparts. The objective of the study is to examine the level of spatial dimension of inequalities in infrastructural development in Plateau State with a view to making a comparative analysis of the pattern of development. The primary data were collected through the administration of structured questionnaire among one thousand and twenty (1,020) randomly sampled population in the seventeen local government areas of Plateau State. Also, secondary data were generated from relevant ministries and agencies to authenticate data from questionnaire survey in Plateau State. The study employed standardized score (Z-score) analytical technique was for the analysis of data. The result revealed considerable inter-local government disparities in overall levels of infrastructural development in the study area. Among the upper third category that are most privileged areas include Jos Central (4.85), Jos North (4.49), Mangu (4.14), Shendam (2.59 and Pankshin (2.10). The middle third areas include Mikang (0.40), Quan ‘an Pam (0.05), Kanem (-0.16), Langtang South (-0.72) and Wase (-0.94). The bottom third category include Bokkos (-1.00), Jos East (-1.60), Barkin Ladi (-1.13), Langtang North (-1.82), Bassa (-2.07), Kanke (-3.30) and Riyom (-4.45) in that order of performance. It shows a lopsided spatial pattern of infrastructural development. On the basis of the findings, the study recommends among other things that community development strategy should be adopted such that areas that shouldered the construction of roads, bridges, supply of pipe-borne water and embark upon electrification projects should be encouraged by the government through provision of financial grants and technical assistance. Also, there should be a discriminatory investment in infrastructural facilities in favour of less-privileged and deprived areas so as to enhance a balanced infrastructural development.

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