LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND THE CHALLENGES OF DECENTRALIZATION IN NIGERIA-A STUDY OF ENUGU STATE LOCAL GOVERNMENT SYSTEM-1999-2010. A RESEARCH PROJECT MATERIAL ON PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
ABSTRACT
This research work examines the topic: local government and challenges of decentralization in Nigeria using Enugu State Local Government System 1999-2010 as a case. The study contends that effective decentralization is important local governments in a federalist state like Nigeria. The data used in this study was collected from both primary and secondary sources. The primary method/source included the use of a research instrument (the questionnaire) and interview. Some research questions were asked as a guide to the respondents. The questionnaire contained twe4lve structured questions designed in both open and close ended style. In addition, the questionnaire was validated and administered accordingly. Secondary source of data collection on the other hand, included textbooks, journal, government documents and internet materials. The study formulated hypotheses to guide its data analysis using simple percentage, tables and chi-square statistical method for data analysis. The data analysis revealed that; assessment of local government are poor following ineffective decentralization; poor decentralization affects service delivery and make local government and local communities not be properly involve in development programmes; political disposition of political leaders in the federal and state government determines the extent of decentralization in the local government among others. It is based on these findings that the study recommended that federal and state governments should expand the functions of local governments by decentralizing their powers. Also the revenue capacities of local governments should be expanded in order to discharge their primary constitutional responsibilities and to contribute effectively to national development.
INTRODUCTION
Any meaningful attempt at development by any government must engage with citizens and communities to understand their needs, preferences and priorities. It is based on this fact that increasing emphasis is being laid on local government in Nigeria.
Prior to the amalgamation of Nigeria in 1914, there existed kindred’s, villages, communities and even regions, which later integrated to form Nigeria as a country. This implies that these small units surrendered their powers and resources to the bigger communities now referred to as Nigeria.
At a time, Nigeria, which represents the Federal Government tends to bite the hand that fed her by neglecting the local government which is the foundation of other governments and concentrating efforts and powers at the central and state levels.
However through serious agitations by meaningful citizens and comparative studies by some elitists, the principle of decentralization, was entrenched in the constitutions of many countries including Nigeria.
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