MOBILITY AND INEQUALITY IN RURAL NIGERIA - THE CASE OF OFF-ROAD COMMUNITIES

This article draws attention to the specific problems faced by off-roa d communities on the Jos Plateau, Nigeria. It contends that many membe rs of off-road communities have become more isolated, more unequal, at least in part because of road construction in their region, and that the structural adjustment programme in place between 1986 and 1994 has exacerbated their problems. Economic, social welfare and political is sues are examined in turn. Suggestions are made regarding ways off-roa d communities could be assisted at limited cost. However, the study co ncludes that there will have to be much greater political commitment t o poverty-focused development before the needs of off-road communities are adequately addressed.