Table of Contents
ABSTRACT.. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 7
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 9
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 10
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 10
CHAPTER TWO.. 13
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 13
2.1 Introduction.. 13
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 13
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 15
2.4 Empirical Review.. 18
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 20
CHAPTER THREE.. 21
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY.. 21
3.1 RESEARCH DESIGN.. 21
3.2 POPULATION AND SAMPLING TECHNIQUES.. 21
3.3 DATA COLLECTION METHODS.. 22
3.4 DATA ANALYSIS PROCEDURES.. 23
3.5 AREA OF THE STUDY.. 23
3.6 ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS.. 24
CHAPTER FOUR.. 25
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 25
4.1 Preamble.. 25
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 25
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 28
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 28
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 45
4.5 DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS.. 47
CHAPTER FIVE.. 50
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 50
5.1 Summary of Findings. 50
5.2 CONCLUSION.. 51
5.3 RECOMMENDATIONS.. 53
REFERENCES.. 54
Appendix.. 57
Questionnaire.. 57
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Intergovernmental conflict within the framework of federalism presents a complex challenge with profound implications for the political, social, and economic landscape of Nigeria. As Africa's most populous nation and one with a diverse cultural and ethnic fabric, Nigeria's federal system is designed to distribute power between the central government and its constituent states, aiming for effective governance and equitable resource allocation. However, persistent intergovernmental conflicts have marred the practice of federalism in Nigeria, hindering its ability to achieve these objectives. Such conflicts often arise from overlapping jurisdictional claims, disputes over resource control, and political differences between federal and state authorities. Adebayo, A., & Onapajo, H. (2019).
These conflicts have far-reaching consequences, impacting various aspects of Nigerian society. At the political level, they undermine the stability of democratic institutions and processes, eroding public trust in the government's ability to address the needs of its citizens. Socially, intergovernmental conflicts exacerbate ethnic tensions and communal violence, threatening the country's social cohesion and fostering a climate of insecurity. Moreover, the economic ramifications of these conflicts are significant, impeding development efforts and deterring much-needed investment in key sectors. The resulting uncertainty hampers economic growth and perpetuates cycles of poverty, particularly in regions already marginalized by the central government. Akpan, N. I. (2018).
Understanding the root causes and dynamics of intergovernmental conflict is essential for devising effective strategies to mitigate their impact on the practice of federalism in Nigeria. Scholars and policymakers alike have emphasized the importance of fostering dialogue, strengthening institutional mechanisms for conflict resolution, and promoting greater fiscal autonomy for states as potential solutions. Furthermore, addressing underlying socio-economic disparities and promoting inclusive governance processes are integral to building a more resilient federal system that can withstand the pressures of intergovernmental conflict. By addressing these challenges, Nigeria can harness the potential of federalism to promote unity, equity, and progress for all its citizens. Amuwo, K. (2017).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The practice of federalism in Nigeria is greatly influenced by intergovernmental conflicts, which have persisted over the years, posing significant challenges to effective governance and development. Intergovernmental conflicts between the federal government and state governments, as well as among different tiers of government, often stem from disagreements over resource allocation, distribution of powers, and jurisdictional boundaries. These conflicts not only hinder the smooth functioning of federalism but also exacerbate socio-political tensions and impede progress towards achieving national unity and development (Olowu, 2002; Agbiboa, 2013). As of April 2024, the impact of such conflicts continues to undermine the principles of cooperative federalism and intergovernmental cooperation, thereby hindering Nigeria's ability to address pressing socio-economic challenges and effectively manage its diverse political landscape.
Furthermore, intergovernmental conflicts in Nigeria exacerbate issues of corruption, institutional inefficiencies, and undermine public trust in the government's ability to deliver essential services (Okolie, 2016; Akinola, 2018). These conflicts often result in policy paralysis, as the focus shifts from governance to power struggles, further perpetuating a cycle of instability and underdevelopment. The failure to effectively address intergovernmental conflicts not only undermines the principles of federalism but also threatens the country's democratic stability and socio-economic progress. As of April 2024, it is imperative for Nigerian policymakers to prioritize mechanisms for conflict resolution, institutional reforms, and enhanced intergovernmental cooperation to mitigate the adverse effects of these conflicts and promote sustainable development and national cohesion.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Impact of intergovernmental conflict in the practice of Federalism in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To analyze how intergovernmental conflict around resource allocation impacts fiscal federalism in Nigeria.
- To examine the influence of intergovernmental conflict on policy implementation and service delivery at the subnational level in Nigeria.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of existing mechanisms for resolving intergovernmental conflict in Nigeria's federal system.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- To what extent do conflicts over resource allocation between federal, state, and local governments lead to inefficiencies and inequities in fiscal federalism in Nigeria?
- How do intergovernmental conflicts hinder the effective implementation of national policies and the delivery of public services in Nigerian states and local governments?
- Are the existing mechanisms for resolving intergovernmental conflicts in Nigeria sufficient in promoting cooperation and achieving national goals within the federal system?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no statistical significant relationship between intergovernmental conflict and practice of Federalism in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Political Science sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Adamawa state. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
