AN EXAMINATION OF t RRANIZ.ATION IN NIGERIA AND THE IMPACT ON THE FAMILY STRI CTURE IN KARU, NASARAWA STATE

Abstract

There has been rapid urbanization in the world in the 21" century particularly in the developing countries like Nigeria. This study examines the challenges faced by the family as a result of urbanization, identify the coping strategies by families in urban areas, examine the effect of urbanization on the family structure in Karu Local Government Area among others. A survey design was used to gather data through the instrument ofquestionnaires. Simple percentages were also used for data analysis. Findings reveal that the general living standards is low, where most households live in dilapidated, congested and overcrowded apartments characterized by lack ofventilation and space due to high cost of living explained in terms ofthe economic changes that have greeted societies in recent times. It is recommended that policy makers in both private and public sectors should come to the plight of urban dwellers in the provision of basic infrastructures to ameliorate the challenges of congestion and overcrowding through housing schemes, and as well make agricultural policies that will support food production and agricultural activities through incentives as subsidies, loans and financial empowerment to the general populace.