Theory question 105
Nigeria: People and EconomyFor candidates in Nigeria: (a) In what four ways has the physical setting of the Sokoto plains of Nigeria influenced the types of economic activities in the region? (b) Highlight any four problems of development facing this region. (c) Outline two ways in which any of the problems in 5(b) above could be solved.
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(a) Flat to gently undulating plains make farming and grazing easy; low, seasonal rainfall and long dry season favour drought-tolerant crops (millet, sorghum, groundnut, cotton) and cattle, sheep and goat rearing; the Sokoto-Rima river and fadama flood plains support irrigated rice, onions, wheat and vegetables and fishing (Argungu); sedimentary rocks provide limestone for cement (Sokoto) and phosphate/kaolin; tsetse-free savanna supports pastoralism and hides and skins trade.
(b) Low and unreliable rainfall and drought; desertification and sand dunes; poor sandy soils; shortage of water; long distance from the sea and poor transport; few industries and low investment; seasonal flooding of rivers; poverty and low literacy.
(c) Irrigation schemes and dams (Bakolori, Goronyo); afforestation and shelter belts; improved roads and railways; boreholes and water supply; provide credit and incentives for industries; fertilizers and improved seeds.
Link each activity to relief, climate, rivers or rocks.