A Module on Market Condition and Regional Development Planning in Ekiti-State, South Western Nigeria

Abstract

A market place is a geographical space that facilitates trade and enables the distribution and allocation of resources in a society, whereby parties engage in exchange of goods and services which promotes production, promotion, distribution, and consumption activities and improve the welfare and social life of the people. The purpose of the study was is to assess the types and conditions of the markets facilities in Ikere, Ise/Orun and Emure region of Ekiti state, Nigeria with a view to enhancing the economic development of the study area. This study adopted the survey research method, and used three different questionnaires to collect research data from the authority in Ikere, Ise/Orun and Emure Local Government Councils of Ekiti State, Market authorities in Ikere, Ise/Orun and Emure LG Councils of Ekiti State and the market traders in the study area which is the main focus of this study. The findings among others revealed that the facilities provided for the market traders are grossly inadequate, while the existing market facilities are in bad conditions. However, the condition of most facilities in the markets was dilapidated and had not been adequately maintained, which is affecting the level of patronage of the markets in Ekiti State. In view of the findings, there were need to improve the market facilities and conditions through additional provision and maintenance of the existing markets; private management firm should be responsible for the inspections and general maintenance of the entire market in the study area.

Keywords: Condition, Market, Module, Planning, Regional Development