A Retrospective Analysis of Strategic Management Practices in Local Government Authorities: Trends, Challenges, and Areas for Improvement

Abstract

This study examines a retrospective analysis of the
implementation processes of Strategic Management
Practices (SMPs) in Local Government Authorities
(LGAs) over the past decade. The study principally
identifies trends, challenges, and areas for improvement
in the implementation of SMPs in LGAs. A
comprehensive review of literature and secondary data
analysis of LGAs' strategic plans and performance
reports were conducted. The findings revealed that
LGAs have made significant progress in adopting
SMPs, but challenges persist in implementing these
practices effectively. The study identifies trends,
including the increasing adoption of SMPs, the
importance of leadership commitment, and the need for
capacity building. Challenges include limited resources,
inadequate infrastructure, and lack of stakeholder
engagement. Areas for improvement include the need
for more effective monitoring and evaluation, better
stakeholder engagement, and more robust capacity
building programs. The study concludes that SMPs are
essential for improving the performance of LGAs, but
their effective implementation requires addressing the
identified challenges and areas for improvement