Background of the Study
Regional labor mobility—the movement of workers across different regions—is a crucial element in promoting economic integration and balanced regional development in Nigeria. By enabling the efficient allocation of human resources and facilitating the transfer of skills and knowledge, labor mobility helps to mitigate regional disparities and enhances overall productivity (Obi, 2023). In Nigeria, where significant differences in economic opportunities exist between regions, the free movement of labor not only reduces unemployment in surplus regions but also addresses skill shortages in areas with high demand.
Recent studies have demonstrated that regions with higher labor mobility experience more robust economic integration, as the movement of workers creates interconnected networks that promote the diffusion of best practices and innovation (Adeniyi, 2024). Improved transportation, digital job platforms, and streamlined regulatory processes have further encouraged labor mobility, contributing to the emergence of a dynamic national labor market (Eze, 2025). These factors collectively boost entrepreneurial activity, support the establishment of new businesses, and drive overall economic growth.
Nevertheless, challenges such as skill mismatches, restrictive employment practices, and insufficient support systems for migrant workers continue to impede the full potential of labor mobility. This study aims to assess the impact of regional labor mobility on economic integration in Nigeria, examining both the benefits and challenges associated with the movement of labor across regions. By analyzing labor market trends and policy interventions, the research seeks to provide insights into how enhanced labor mobility can foster a more integrated and dynamic economy.
Statement of the Problem
Despite its recognized importance, regional labor mobility in Nigeria faces significant challenges that hinder economic integration. Many regions experience imbalances where some suffer from high unemployment while others encounter labor shortages (Ibrahim, 2023). Barriers such as inadequate transportation infrastructure, restrictive employment practices, and socio-cultural constraints limit the free movement of workers. These obstacles lead to inefficiencies in the labor market and exacerbate regional economic disparities. Additionally, the lack of effective support systems—such as access to housing, social services, and vocational training for migrant workers—further reduces the potential benefits of labor mobility (Nwankwo, 2024).
The limited mobility of labor not only affects individual regions but also undermines national economic cohesion. Without the smooth flow of human resources, regions are unable to fully capitalize on their economic strengths, resulting in a fragmented labor market and reduced overall productivity. Furthermore, the absence of comprehensive data on labor mobility trends complicates the development of targeted policies that could address these challenges. This study seeks to identify the structural and operational barriers to labor mobility and assess their impact on regional economic integration, with the aim of proposing policy measures that can facilitate a more dynamic and integrated labor market.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on labor mobility trends across selected Nigerian regions. Limitations include data availability, regional disparities in labor market conditions, and potential biases in self-reported mobility data.
Definitions of Terms
– Regional Labor Mobility: The movement of workers across different regions within a country.
– Economic Integration: The process of harmonizing economic policies and activities across regions.
– Labor Market: The supply and demand dynamics for employment in a given region.
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