Communication as a Strategy for Promoting the Execution of Community Development Projects in Rivers State

Abstract

This study examined communication as a strategy for promoting the execution of community development projects in Rivers State. Two research questions and two null hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The population of the study was 12,218 respondents which comprised of the entire community chiefs (618) and members of community based organizations (11,600) in Rivers State. The sample for this for this study was determined with the aid of Taro-Yamane formula which comprises of 103 community chiefs and 395 members of community based organizations. The instrument used in this study was a self developed questionnaire titled “Communication as a Strategy for Promoting the Execution of on Community Development Projects Questionnaire (ECSPECDPQ)”.The instrument was validated by the researcher’s supervisor, one expert in Community Development and one in Measurement and Evaluation from Rivers State University. The reliability of the instrument was established using the test re test method. Reliability Coefficients of 0.70 was obtained indicating the instrument was reliable. The research questions were answered using the mean and standard deviation statistics while the hypotheses were tested using z-test statistics at 0.05 significant level. The findings of the study revealed among others that provision of opportunities discourse among relevant stakeholders promote the execution of community development projects in Rivers State to a high extent. Based on the findings of the study it was recommended among others that Delebration and Discourse with important stakeholders should be examined explored widely in promoting the execution of significant community development. That way, these stakeholders will gain a chance  to interchange  key  facts and opinions,  that will quicken effectual service delivery in community development among engaged communities.