The Nigerian state and governance crisis theory

Abstract

This paper attempted a critical review of the governance crisis theory in Nigeria. It discusses issues confronting Nigerian political governance as an off shoot of the Colonial Administration. The objectives of this paper are to examine the factors responsible for governance crisis in Nigeria, factors that predetermine the character of the Nigerian State and the effects of governance crisis on economic development and social values in Nigeria. The paper elaborates through a historical method of analysis, numerous incidences of governance crises, their sources and effects. The observation is that governance crisis is an institutional problem that would require structural and reorientational approaches. Basically, enabling laws to be operational and faceless, not to identify with sacred cows. There is the need to address good governance that would position fundamental governance and create an enabling environment for self-participation, collective services, a driving force and responsiveness to public demands.

Key words: Nigerian State, Governance Crisis, Security, Good Governance.