Achieving Good Governance and Development in Nigeria Through Decentralization: A Case Study of Ondo State

Abstract

Decentralization through the political theory of federalism has been at the centre of policy experiments in the last six decades in Nigeria where development and governance institutions have embraced federalism, as a part of the process of political reform, based on the constitutional foundation for its adoption. Federalism is perceived to be the panacea for improvements in efficiencies of the public sector so satisfying the needs of the citizenry, ethnic, religious and political divides notwithstanding. By transferring decision-making powers closer to the grass roots, federalism improves governance, results in an equitable division of the national wealth and encourages critical development. Whilst the structure and process of government is crucial, it is not the sole determinant of what is considered to be good governance. Other factors that impact include the political culture in which subsidiary features such as corruption and civic activism influence the quality of federal governance. Federalism has largely failed to engender political stability and socioeconomic development in Nigeria. This research examines the major shortcomings in its implementation and a detailed analysis of such factors may help in laying the foundation for improvements in the system. v