This paper examined the constraints of non-agro based industries in the development of rural areas in Esan land, Edo state, Nigeria. Emphasis was on raw materials utilization, power supply, technology, marketing system, capital, accessibility and the government polices as they affect industrial development of rural areas in Esan land. The data for this paper were collected from both primary and secondary sources. The tools for collecting primary data were questionnaires and personal field observation. For the questionnaire administration, 644 were made and distributed mainly to non-agro based industrial establishments in the area. Data collected were then analyzed using tables, percentages and degrees. The result of the findings show that physical and human constraints which include climate, relief, capital, technology, power, market and access roads are the major obstacles to non-agro based industrial development in the study area. Arising from this, the paper recommends integrative approach to non-agro based industrial development in the area. This approach includes, government, non governmental organizations (NGOs), community and individual participation. It is believed that this participation approach will not only increase non-agro based industrial development but will also enhance the socio-economic development of the study area.
