Background of the Study
Regional identity in Nigeria is characterized by distinct cultural, historical, and social attributes that shape how communities perceive themselves and interact with the broader economy. This identity, forged through shared heritage and traditions, plays a crucial role in fostering economic resilience. Regions with strong, cohesive identities often display higher levels of community solidarity, which can translate into more robust local economies in times of economic uncertainty (Uche, 2023). Economic resilience refers to the capacity of an economy to withstand shocks and recover from downturns, and regional identity can act as a catalyst for this resilience by promoting local innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, and mutual support among businesses and residents.
In Nigeria, where economic shocks such as fluctuating oil prices and political instability are common, a well-defined regional identity can help mitigate adverse effects by reinforcing local networks and resource-sharing mechanisms. For example, regions that actively promote their cultural uniqueness may attract targeted investments and tourism, thereby diversifying their economic base (Adeniran, 2024). Moreover, a strong regional identity can facilitate social capital formation, enabling communities to mobilize quickly in response to economic challenges and to collectively pursue strategies for recovery and growth.
Despite these advantages, the relationship between regional identity and economic resilience remains underexplored. While some regions benefit from their distinct identity, others face challenges due to external pressures such as globalization and internal conflicts that dilute local cohesion (Chukwu, 2025). Understanding this dynamic is essential for policymakers seeking to design interventions that reinforce regional strengths and address vulnerabilities. This study will examine the interplay between regional identity and economic resilience, providing insights into how cultural and social factors can support sustainable economic performance in the face of external shocks.
Statement of the Problem
Although regional identity is recognized as a potential source of economic resilience, many Nigerian regions struggle to capitalize on their cultural assets to buffer against economic downturns. A significant problem is that external economic shocks and internal political tensions can erode local cohesion, undermining the positive effects of regional identity (Ibrahim, 2023). Additionally, there is often a lack of coordinated efforts to integrate cultural and social capital into broader economic policies. This disjunction results in missed opportunities to harness regional strengths for economic stabilization and growth.
Furthermore, limited empirical research on the relationship between regional identity and economic resilience makes it difficult for policymakers to develop evidence-based strategies. Many regions with rich cultural identities continue to experience economic volatility, suggesting that factors such as weak institutional support, insufficient local leadership, and inadequate investment in cultural preservation may hinder the potential benefits (Olu, 2024). This gap in understanding complicates efforts to design policies that effectively leverage regional identity to promote economic sustainability.
This study aims to investigate how regional identity influences economic resilience in Nigeria, with a focus on identifying the factors that enhance or weaken this relationship. By addressing these challenges, the research will provide recommendations for strengthening local institutions and fostering an environment where regional identity can effectively contribute to economic stability and recovery.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on selected Nigerian regions from 2020 to 2025, analyzing economic performance data and cultural indicators. Limitations include data availability and the challenge of isolating the impact of regional identity from other economic variables.
Definitions of Terms
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