Local Government Administration in Nigeria and The Global Practices: A Comparative Analysis

Abstract

Local government systems are fundamental to effective governance, delivery of service, and grassroots advancement. In Nigeria, however, the performance of local government authorities has been constantly weakened by limited political autonomy, institutional weaknesses, and fiscal dependence. This study undertakes a comparative analysis of local government administration in Nigeria with regard to global practices, in respect to countries such as India, South Africa, and Brazil. These countries demonstrate different models of decentralized governance that accentuate fiscal independence, administrative professionalism, constitutional assurances, municipal autonomy, Self- governance, citizens’ engagement & participatory and accountability. The study employs a qualitative, descriptive-comparative analysis, sourced from secondary data which includes academic literature, policy reports and legal documents. The study in underpinned with 2 theories, decentralization theory and comparative institutional analysis. Five dimensions were use for comparative analysis; fiscal decentralization, legal autonomy, transparency, citizen participation, and administrative capacity, the study highpoints systemic deficiencies in Nigeria, overcentralized financial systems, including interference from state governments, and insufficient public engagement apparatuses. Vital policy implications suggest the imperative need for strengthened fiscal frameworks, constitutional reform, enhanced transparency measures, and the institutionalization of participatory governance at local level. The study recommends, among others, the adaptation of selected global practices (like fiscal autonomy, citizen participatory etc) to Nigeria’s context, alongside electoral modifications and capacity growth initiatives to invigorate grassroots governance. By aligning with tested international replicas, Nigeria can transpose its local government system as a more competent, all-encompassing, and development-oriented layer of governance.

Keywords: Citizen participation, comparative governance, decentralization, fiscal autonomy, local government administration

DOI: www.doi.org/10.36349/fujpam.2025.v4i01.020

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author/Muhammad, Y.W., Emmanuel, O.S. & Birogi, A.A.

journal/FUJPAM Vol. 4, No. 1