THE ROLE OF COMMERCIAL BANKS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL AREAS IN NIGERIA

This work draws attention to the role rural banking can play in Nigeria development. This is because rural banking, will immensely increase the degree of monestisation of economy, making available for rural dwellers, greater opportunities for savings, credit investment and enhance the effectiveness on monetary policies in the achievement of desired national macro – economic objectives. It is with the above objectives in mind, that the rural banking programme was initiated by the Nigeria government in 1977. although the programme has made appreciable progress in the realization of its objectives. The problem of inadequate infrastructure in rural areas has continued to pose a serious hindrance to it. The introduction of appropriate measures, will however ameliorate the situation, thus, bringing the role of commercial banks in rural areas to be better appreciated.