The Youth Migration Wave: Health Implication and Demographic Consequences in Wukari Local Government Taraba State Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59890/ijatss.v4i3.208Keywords:
Migration, Aspirations, Demographic, ConsequencesAbstract
This study examined the youth migration wave in Wukari, focusing on the aspirations driving migration, the risks encountered by young migrants, and the demographic consequences for both emigrant and host communities. The study review relevant literature, it also guided by the Aspirations-Capabilities theory, the research employed a quantitative design, utilising a structured questionnaire administered to a sample of 400 youths, aged 15–35 years, selected through stratified random sampling, 386 was retieved. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings reveal that the primary aspirations for migration are better employment (35.8%) and educational opportunities (26.4%). Key challenges include difficulty finding employment (31.1%) and inadequate housing (21.2%). Demographically, migration leads to reduced labour availability (29.0%) in communities of origin, while destination areas experience mixed developmental effects, viewed positively by 48.2% of respondents. The study concludes that youth migration is a dualistic phenomenon, offering pathways for personal advancement while generating significant risks and demographic imbalances. Recommendations include enhancing local opportunities in rural areas, strengthening migrant protections, investing in urban infrastructure to accommodate migrant
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Copyright (c) 2026 Daikwo Onazi Lucy, Akafa Tensaba, Emmanuel Oguwuche, Franklin Nsasire Rulwanu
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