The most significant factor which accounts for the rapid growth in the population of the capital cities of West Africa is

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the most significant factor behind the rapid population growth of West African capital cities such as Abuja, Accra, Dakar, and Lagos (a former capital). Think about what causes sustained, long-term growth, not occasional gatherings.

Step 2: Explain the concept Population in a city grows through two main routes:

• Natural increase (births minus deaths)
• Migration (people moving in)

In West Africa, migration into cities, mostly from villages, is the biggest driver. This is called rural-urban migration.

Why people leave rural areas (push factors):

• Poor roads, electricity, schools, and hospitals
• Low farm income and land shortage
• Unemployment and underemployment
• Insecurity or environmental problems, such as erosion, drought, and flooding

Why capital cities attract them (pull factors):

• Job opportunities in government, industry, and commerce
• Better schools, hospitals, and infrastructure
• Higher wages and the hope of a better standard of living
• Concentration of government services and investment

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Political rallies: These are temporary events. People attend and go home, so they do not cause lasting population growth.
• B. Sport events: These are also short-term and attract visitors, not permanent residents.
• C. Rural-urban migration: This is continuous, large-scale, and permanent, so it is the major cause of rapid growth.
• D. Religious tourism: It is seasonal and involves only small numbers, and it is not specific to capital cities.

Step 4: Answer The correct answer is **C.

Exam tip: In Geography questions on urban growth, look for words like "most significant" or "major cause." Pick the factor that is permanent and large-scale, and avoid temporary events. Remember the pairing "push from the village, pull to the city."