Author(s) :

Odoh John Nathaniel; Agbo Mathew Oga.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Migrant communities play a significant role in the economic development of their host communities. The Igbo and Yoruba communities are among the most conspicuous migrant communities in Gombe State. Their migration to the Gombe area became prominent in the colonial era as a result of economic and transport connectivity presented by the colonial economy. The article argues that the rapid growth Gombe State has witnessed over the years was as a result of the immense economic contributions of migrant communities, especially the Igbo and Yoruba communities. Their influx into Gombe added economic value to the state. They came with skills and business acumen which contributed positively to the economy. Using oral interviews, archival documents, and secondary sources, the article highlights the contributions of the Igbo and Yoruba communities to the development of Gombe State. Findings from the research revealed that during the colonial period, economic activities like sales of spare parts, building materials, pharmaceuticals, textile materials, and skills like mechanics, furniture, masonry, plumbing and electrical work were dominated by the Igbo and Yoruba migrant groups. Further findings show that the host communities benefited from the presence of the Igbo and Yoruba communities through the various apprenticeship skills made available by business owners and the job opportunities the businesses they established provided in the value chain. The study therefore concludes that the Igbo and Yoruba communities played distinctive roles in boosting the economy of Gombe State. Keywords: Apprenticeship, Economic Development, Igbo, Yoruba, Migrant, and Gombe State.

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