Rural Development and Agro-Industrial Promotion in Nigeria: Concepts, Strategies and Challenges

Abstract

The relevance of industrial development to national economic growth cannot be over-emphasised. This paper examines the importance of agro-industrial promotion to rural development. It discusses the theoretical underpinning of rural development and small scale / agro-industrial establishments. It identified the strategies that could be used for establishing small-scale industries in the rural areas. Finally, the challenges, opportunities and benefits derivable from small-scale industrial development in the rural areas are highlighted.