Detail Publikasi
Abstrak
The administration of COVID-19 policies in Rivers State, Nigeria, has raised concerns over their implications for socio-economic development within the region. This study aims to analyze the effects of these policies on the socio-economic landscape of Rivers State. Utilizing the Policy Feedback Theory, the research adopts a purposive sampling technique to select four hundred respondents across Rivers-East, Rivers-South, and Rivers-West senatorial districts. Data analysis was conducted using mean and standard deviation to interpret the research questions. The findings indicate that while government interventions were crucial in curbing the virus spread, their execution significantly hindered socio-economic advancements, as evidenced by diminished educational, income, skill development, employment, and food security outcomes. Consequently, the research suggests a significant impact of COVID-19 policies on socio-economic development in Rivers State. The study recommends an integrated policy approach that harmonizes public health objectives with socio-economic considerations. Future strategies should encompass collaborations with various sectors to formulate policies that bolster economic and educational resilience alongside public health safety, thereby ensuring a balanced response to crises that sustains both health and economic well-being.