AN ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT OF MIGRATION ON THE PROCESS OF NATION-BUILDING IN NIGERIA

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study In contemporary Nigeria, having a family member residing, studying, or working abroad has increasingly become a source of pride and social prestige. This is often associated with expectations of financial support, improved living conditions, and greater opportunities for the family and extended relatives (Akinsanmi, 2017). Such expectations are typically based on the assumption that the family member living overseas will remit foreign currency, eventually settle down successfully, and facilitate access for others through shared knowledge and resources. These assumptions are especially strong when the migrant resides in developed countries such as those in Europe or the United States, where higher standards of living and more favorable quality of life are perceived to exist (Nwajiuba, 2022). Given the limited socio-economic opportunities available in Nigeria, the motivation to seek a "better life" becomes a driving force behind migration. The aspiration to escape economic hardship and spread benefits to others creates a compelling incentive to migrate. This aspiration is often reinforced by the stark socio-economic inequalities that characterize Nigerian society, which validate migration as a means of improving personal income, educational attainment, and the future prospects of the next generation. Consequently, individuals migrate both internally and across international borders, seeking better living conditions not only for themselves but also for their families and communities (Okorie, 2019). Migration often follows a progressive trajectory, beginning with relocation from rural hamlets to villages, then from villages to towns, and eventually to urban centers or foreign countries. This pattern underscores the pursuit of better opportunities, which serves as a major pull factor (Olajide, 2020). Various push and pull factors influence migration, including personal reasons such as cultural stigmatization or social exclusion. Nigeria, with a population exceeding 200 million, is not only the most populous country in Africa but also experiences significant levels of both internal and external migration. This trend is driven by factors such as economic instability, porous borders, and structural inequalities (Olajide, 2020). With nearly 70% of its population living in poverty and widespread corruption plaguing public systems, Nigeria ranks among the world's poorest nations. The lack of employment opportunities and rising economic hardship push millions of Nigerians to seek improved livelihoods elsewhere each year. Unfortunately, these migration patterns are increasingly characterized by irregular means. Forged travel documents, fraudulent asylum claims, fake marriages, people smuggling, and human trafficking contribute substantially to the surge in illegal migration (Castles, 2017). Within Nigeria, internal migration is also accelerating, particularly among young men of working age who migrate across states in search of improved opportunities. The growing prevalence of undocumented migration has posed serious challenges to nation-building efforts in Nigeria (Egbe, 2022). A significant proportion of these migrants—predominantly between the ages of 18 and 35—represents the most productive segment of the population. Economic motivations such as youth unemployment (estimated at 61.1%) and rising costs of living are key drivers of this trend (Durand, 2016; David, 2021). Given these realities, this study seeks to investigate the effect of migration on nation-building in Nigeria, with a view to understanding how the outflow of human capital and the structural shifts associated with migration impact socio-economic development and national integration. 1.2 Statement of the Problem Migration has been a constant aspect of human existence throughout history. People have always moved in search of improved opportunities, whether in terms of livelihood, safety, or well-being. While many instances of migration are voluntary, others arise from coercive circumstances such as armed conflict, natural disasters, economic collapse, or political instability (de Haan, 2017). In recent decades, migration has attracted increasing academic and policy interest, particularly regarding its economic and social implications for developing nations like Nigeria. The growing concern centers around the consequences of economic migration, especially forced or involuntary migration, on national development efforts across Africa. Although there is a scarcity of detailed research on rural-to-urban migration within the continent, the effects of such movements are widely observable (Docquier, 2022). Notably, the largely agrarian nature of African societies amplifies the consequences of large-scale migration—especially the departure of able-bodied young men—on agricultural productivity, food security, and community sustainability. This phenomenon ultimately undermines national development and the broader goal of nation-building. Therefore, the researcher finds it imperative to investigate the effect of migration on nation-building in Nigeria, considering both its economic consequences and its long-term developmental implications. 1.3 Objective of the study The general objective of the study is to analyze the Impact of Migration on the Process of Nation-Building in Nigeria. The specific objectives is as follows: i.          To find out the factors responsible for  migration in Nigeria. ii.        To examine whether migration has an effect on nation building in Nigeria. iii.      To investigate the benefits of migration to the family and the nation as a whole. iv.      To assess the Consequences of migration in Nigeria. 1.4 Research Questions The following questions have been prepared for the study i.          What are the factors responsible for  migration in Nigeria? ii.        Does  migration have an effect on nation building in Nigeria? iii.      What are the benefits of migration to the family and nation as a whole? iv.      What are the Consequences of migration in Nigeria? 1.5 Research hypotheses H0: Migration does not have an effect on nation-building in Nigeria Ha: Migration does not have an effect on nation-building in Nigeria 1.6 Significance of the study This study is significant to the Nigerian government as it will expose them to the high rate of unemployment in the country which in turn makes youth emigrate from Nigeria to other countries. The findings of the study will implore government to create an enabling environment where business can thrive, and also create employment opportunity so that Nigeria will not be lacking for the able bodied men and women that should contribute to nation building. The study will be significant to the academic community as it will contribute to the existing literature. 1.7 Scope of the study The study will analyze the Impact of Migration on the Process of Nation-Building in Nigeria. The study will also examine whether migration has an effect on nation building in Nigeria. The study will further investigate the benefits of migration to the family and the nation as a whole. Lastly, the study will assess the Consequences of migration in Nigeria. Hence, this study will be delimited to Nigerian immigration service. 1.8 Limitation of the study Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. Insufficient funds tend to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire, and interview), which is why the researcher resorted to a moderate choice of sample size. More so, the researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. As a result, the amount of time spent on research will be reduced. 1.9 Definition of term Migration: seasonal movement of humans or animals from one region to another. Nation building: the process through which the boundaries of the modern state and those of the national community become congruent.