Publication: State and Local Governance in Nigeria
Date
2002-07-23
ISSN
Published
2002-07-23
Author(s)
World Bank
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to increase
knowledge about state capacity in Nigeria by taking stock of
governance issues, including public financial management and
civil services, and analyzing them in representative states
across the regions, as states assume an expanded role in
delivering services to their populations under the 1999
constitution. Specifically, the study lays the groundwork
for preparing a program of assistance to state governments,
should the Federal Government seek financing from the Bank.
Before capacity can be strengthened, the context for
capacity building must be understood and the constraints
analyzed. Thus the study focuses both on the evolving story
of federalism in Nigeria, as well as the challenges states
face in managing their finances and delivering services in
the aftermath of misrule and decay under the military. Six
states were selected for review: Bauchi, Nasarawa, Rivers,
Anambra, Ogun and Sokoto--one from each of the geo-political
zones of Nigeria. These are some of the principal findings:
There is a great deal of variation across states in their
capacity for governance. A new generation of state governors
is emerging, albeit still a minority. Some are beginning to
address public sector reform, through civil service
modernization and right sizing, and strengthening financial
management. These last are suggested areas for support, but
they must be calibrated with the commitment to state reform,
and not provided as an entitlement.
Link to Data Set
Citation
“World Bank. 2002. State and Local Governance in Nigeria. © Washington, DC. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/15379 License: CC BY 3.0 IGO.”