Okoro, Kelechi Collins (2025) “Local Government Autonomy and National Development”. In: “POWER DYNAMICS IN NIGERIA: SEPARATION OF POWERS, HUMAN RIGHTS, AND DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE” 3 rd ANNUAL NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HISTORY AND STRATEGIC STUDIES, 10TH JULY, 2025, ALEX EKWUEME FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, NDUFU-ALIKE, EBONYI STATE.
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Abstract
Local government autonomy in Nigeria has been a subject of continuous debate, significantly impacting national development. As the third tier of government, local governments are meant to function independently in delivering grassroots development. However, constitutional constraints, political interference, and financial dependence on state governments have hindered their effectiveness. Historically, Nigeria's local government system has evolved from colonialera indirect rule to post-independence reforms aimed at strengthening decentralization. Despite these efforts, challenges such as inadequate funding, corruption, and limited administrative capacity persist, affecting service delivery and economic growth at the local level. In the context of national development, local government autonomy is crucial for improving governance, enhancing public service delivery, and fostering inclusive economic growth. Models, from other federal systems like the United States and Germany, suggest that stronger local governance structures can drive sustainable development. In Nigeria, however, the excessive control by state governments has weakened the effectiveness of local authorities, creating disparities in development across regions. This paper employs a qualitative research approach, utilizing historical and comparative analysis. Data is drawn from secondary sources, including government reports, academic publications, and policy documents. By examining Nigeria’s local government structure within its historical and international context, the paper identifies challenges and best practices in decentralization, Comparative case studies from other federal systems provide insights into how increased local autonomy can contribute to national development. The findings aim to inform policy reforms that enhance local governance, ensuring a more effective and inclusive development process in Nigeria.
| Item Type: | Conference or Workshop Item (Paper) |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | J Political Science > JA Political science (General) |
| Divisions: | Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences > School of Art |
| Depositing User: | Uchenna Eneogwe |
| Date Deposited: | 22 Sep 2025 09:27 |
| Last Modified: | 22 Sep 2025 09:27 |
| URI: | http://eprints.gouni.edu.ng/id/eprint/5554 |
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