Community Engagement and Participation in the Implementation of Community Development Projects in Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study seeks to highlight how community participation and engagement could influence a community development project and the challenges faced, especially in Lagos State where there are many abandoned projects and community development associations. The study adopted a descriptive design to have a full perspective. Data was collected through close ended questionnaires from 10 Community Development Association (CDA) members. Two hundred and eight (208) respondents were selected through a purposive sampling technique to ensure community members are selected from rural and sub-urban CDAs in seven local governments out of the twenty local governments in Lagos State and the data were analyzed with frequency and chi square tests. The study found that community engagement empowers communities to have their say over decisions that affect their lives; community projects are made easier through community development agency participation and lack of qualified professionals in the community affects participation in community development projects. CDAs are encouraged to participate and engage in any project within their jurisdictions. The study therefore recommended the community member to participate actively and discuss with the project financiers before the commencement of projects for their community. Consequently, the study concluded that community participation and engagement encourages the community to claim project ownership.