The Kainji dam project

Abstract

This paper examines the problems and potential for rural development in the region of future Kainji Lake. It is not a report on a positive program or project of development, but rather a research assessment of the obstacles and opportunities presented for development in a remote area of Nigeria. In order to place the problems presented by this region into a development context, the discussion will proceed against a background of generalization drawn from geographic theory. The region is inhabited by eight tribes speaking ten local languages , the Hausa, Bussa, Gungawa, Slianga, Kambari, Duka, Lopa, and a mixed group called Yaurawa. The Hausa language is lingua franca of the area and spoken by most adults with facility.