Assessment of Migration Patterns and Socioeconomic Impacts in Plateau State

Internal migration to Jos and its environs has increased pressure on urban services while affecting livelihoods in both sending and receiving communities, and understanding these dynamics is important for planning and conflict-sensitive development. This study assessed migration patterns and their socioeconomic impacts in Jos North and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas, Plateau State, North Central Nigeria. A structured interview survey was conducted among 280 migrant and 120 non-migrant households selected through multistage sampling. Data collected covered place of origin, reason for migration, employment status, housing quality, and perceived economic and social impacts. Economic opportunity was the primary driver of migration in 62.5 percent of cases, while conflict-related displacement accounted for 21.4 percent. Most migrants originated from rural communities in Plateau and Benue States. Occupational concentration in informal services (58.9 percent) characterised the migrant workforce. Overcrowding in migrant settlements was significant, with an average household size of 7.8 persons. Receiving communities reported increased strain on water and school facilities but positive economic activity through trade expansion. Non-migrants showed higher formal employment rates and property ownership. Recommendations include a Plateau State internal migration policy, investment in urban infrastructure proportional to population growth, and conflict-sensitive community integration programmes targeting migrant-host community relations in Jos North LGA.

Keywords: internal migration, Plateau State, socioeconomic impact, Jos, conflict displacement