FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES
DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE STUDIES
MPA-602 PUBLIC POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION
STUDENT NAME: SOLOMON SAMUEL ADETOKUNBO
STUDENT NUMBER: 201502535
LECTURE: DR. BASHI MOTHUSI
TERM-PAPER TITLE
FACTORS THAT AFFECT POLICY ENVIRONMENT
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INTRODUCTION
The saying, “he who pays the piper dictates the tune” is a true statement in the public policy-
making arena across the globe. The policy theatre is a space filled with plethora of actors who
wield uneven power and have lopsided influence that determines the course or direction a policy
heads.
Over the last decade, the system of government in developed and developing countries has
steadily changed, with more focus being placed on setting strategic directions through policy
formulation and implementation to actively engage stakeholders e.g. Sustainable Development
Goals (United Nations), Agenda 2063 (Africa Union) Transformation Agenda Vision 2020
(Nigeria) etc.
Public policies in most developing countries are characterized by poor public participation and
are never subject to referendum or opinion poll; even if they were the public are not adequately
informed. This makes the whole process effortless and inconclusive, leading to a state of wastage
in public resources and eventual change in policy.
The public policy environment is characterized by a dynamic and complex structure as a result of
the divergent interests of actors. It is on this basis, the term paper examined how social,
economic and political milieu under which policies are borne affects policy, factors and actors
This paper discusses socio-political and economic milieu under which policies are borne as well as factors
and actors that influence policies. The submission of this paper is that the political actor especially the
executive have a suppressing Influence over all other policy actors and stakeholders. Amongst other factors
that affect wider public participation in Nigeria policymaking are gender inequality, elitist control, parochial
political culture etc.
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who have influence over emergent policy in Nigeria and the elements that affects wider public
participation in policy making.
The paper is outlined in four sections, the introduction which presents an overview of public
policy process followed by the concept of public policy and the processes that it entails; closely
Followed is public policy in Nigeria considering the social, economic and political facets of
public policy making and the actors who control the various facets. Factors that impede and
allow for wider participation was discussed before drawing a conclusion to the paper, the
argument of this paper is based on the elitist nature of the Nigerian society which limits public
participation and marginalizes a large share of the population from contributing their quota
towards public policy making in the Country. The researcher ended the study recommending a
Constitutional and legislative framework on public participation in order to encourage and
increase wider participation in Public Policy making
CONCEPT OF PUBLIC POLICY
Public policy as a concept does not have a single definition attached to it; just as there exist
multiplicity of actors in the theater of public policy so also do we have various definitions of
public policy conceptualized by different scholars
Robert and Clark (1982, p.121) defined public policy from ‘goal attainment’ and power
configuration point of view. According to the duo, public policy making process refers to:
Series of steps taken by a government to solve problems, make decisions, allocate
resources or values, implement policies and in general to do the things expected of them
by their constituencies. (Robert and Clark, 1982, p.121)
Unfortunately this definition is not operationalized in most countries of the world especially the
developing Countries. What is obtainable is decision making by a few elite carried out outside
the ruling of the constitution and forced on the public. Baker (1975, p.15) defines policy as “a
mechanism employed to realize societal goals and to allocate resources”. Public policy is a
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means of meeting the yearnings and need of the public, by putting actionable measures in place
to solve problems and challenges the public faces.
According to Geurts (2011 p.7), four phases make up the public policy process, they are:
initiation, formulation, implementation and the evaluation stage. Public policy starts with agenda
setting and ends with evaluation to properly assess whether the policy achieved its goals and
stated objectives.
The policy making process is carried out by policy makers who are also referred to as actors;
they include: politicians, civil servants, lobbyists, advisors, auditors, etc.
The political system obtainable in any country will determine the type of public policies that will
be formulated. Under a dictatorship form of government, policies formulated will be in the
interest of the leader while in democratic settings public policies are often formulated in the best
interest of the citizen. This cannot be said to be practical in many developing countries in Africa
practicing democracy, policies made often end up in the best interest of the elite class.
In a democratic system, the role played by politicians and public office holders in agenda setting
is what leads to public policy (Jenkins, 1978, p.79). In essence public policy can be described as
sets of decisions carried out by individual political actor or group of actors towards the selection
of goals and how to go about achieving them under a condition where those decisions should in
principle be within the power of those actors
PUBLIC POLICY PROCESS IN NIGERIA
Federalism in Nigeria dates back to the colonial era, when Nigeria was under the British Colony
and the country was reorganized into a federation of three regions (North, East and West) in
1946. There was a departure from this during the Military era, since the transition to Democratic
system of government on May 29, 1999, Nigeria has since then operated a Federal system of
government modeled in a similar way like the present system of government in the United States.
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The dominant feature of policy-making process in Nigeria is the principle of Federal supremacy.
(Philip & Peter, 2013, p.60). Section 2 subsection 2 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria states
that, “The Federal Government shall direct its policy towards ensuring that there are equal and
adequate opportunities at all levels.” (Nigerian Constitution, 1999). This empowers the Federal
Government to provide overall direction in the policy process (formulation to evaluation stage).
Politics in Nigeria has been perceived by many, most especially the politicians as a winner takes
all game; this has resulted into a political competition that has been marked by political violence
and abandonment of legitimacy norms. The implication of this for the policy environment is that
formal institutions and rules are often undermined leading to the marginalization of public
participation in the policy making process.
Ukiwo (2003, p.1) stated that Military intervention in politics led to the relative over-
development of the executive arm of government and marginalization of the judiciary and
legislature. This made the executive arm of government over powerful during the Military era in
Nigeria; a trace of this superfluous nature is still evident till date.
The Public Policy Process in Nigeria will be considered from two perspectives, the political
perspective and the socio-economical perspective.
POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE OF POLICY IN NIGERIA
The context under which policies are formulated in Nigeria is quite complex. The process is to a
large extent defined by the nature and character of the country, which has evolved through years
of colonial, military and civil rule.
MILITARY ERA
Othman (1989, p.54) noted that widespread corruption by the political leaders were reasons
given for the military coup that sacked the first Republic on January 15, 1966 and brought to
power General Aguiyi Ironsi. Even though the military took over power to make wrongs right, it
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is important to state that most of them left the government worse than they met it except for the
Buhari / Idiagbon regime (1983-1985).
During the Military era in Nigeria, the Supreme Military Council (SMC) was in charge of public
policy making, it consisted of the Regional Military Governors of the various States, the Military
Administrator of the Federal Territory, the Heads of the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force, the
Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces and the Inspector-General of Police or his Deputy. The
Chairman of the supreme Military Council l was the head of the Military Government.
During this period, the military relied on traditional rulers and bureaucrats to govern, having
discredited politicians. Thus permanent secretaries were very influential in the policy making
process so much so that some of them who were closest to the military authorities became known
as super permanent secretaries. Othman (1989, p.57) is of the opinion that, through this process
the Civil service was politicized; some of the rules and regulations in the service were abandoned
to serve the wishes of the military dictators.
The Military era, which lasted from 1966-1979, coincided with the period of the oil boom in
Nigeria. However, despite the so-called corrective mission of the military, oil revenues were
squandered away in evident consumption and corruption. Olukoshi (1996, p.110) concurred to
the fact that Nigeria’s oil wealth was the major factor that undermined the development policies
of agriculture sector, which was the major revenue of the economy in the 1950s and 1960.
The military administrations devoted their time and attention to expenditure rather than creating
incomes. According to Othman (1989, P.58) some of the oil wealth was also devoted to a
vigorous foreign policy, “which saw Nigeria becoming the arrowhead of nationalist and anti-
Apartheid struggles in Africa”.
DEMOCRATIC ERA
The 1999 Constitution provides for a Presidential system of government with clear separation of
powers between the three different organs of Government; Federal, State and Local Government
NOUN (2007, P.93). The actors and organs that formulate the public policy in the Nigeria
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political terrain are the Executive, Legislative and the Judiciary.
EXECUTIVE ACTORS
At the Federal level, the Executive is made up of the President, who is elected directly alongside
the Vice-President, and Federal Ministers who are appointed in accordance with the Federal
character by the President and are assigned different portfolios.
The President and appointed Ministers constitute the Federal Executive Council (FEC), which
meets weekly. At the Executive Council, Ministers, the office of the President and the Vice-
President, present policy proposals, which are debated and approved. Once approved the policy
is usually sent as a bill to the National Assembly for ratification. Once ratified by the Legislature,
the bill is returned to the Executive for the president’s final seal.
According to Ukiwo (2003, p.3) one of the significant body in the policy making process is is the
National Council of State, made up of the President, Vice-President, Senate President, Speaker
of the House of Representatives, Chief Justice of the Federation and all State Governors as well
as former Heads of State and Chief Justices. The body meets at least once a year and may be
convened by the President at any time. It plays an advisory role on policy formulation and state
of affairs in the country.
A replica of the policy making structure that occurs at the Federal level also occurs at the State
level; the Governor occupies a similar position like the President, having been directly elected by
members of the State. He or She heads the State Executive Council (SEC), which meets once a
week to deliberate on policy issues. Draft policies are forwarded from the different Ministries
and deliberated by the Council. Once approved, they are forwarded to the state legislature for
ratification and returned to the State Governor for assent.
At the local Government level, the Chairman from local Government area is the Executive Head
of the Council, which includes the Vice-Chairman and Councilors elected to represent the
different wards under the local Government (Philip & Peter, 2013, p.59). Council takes decision
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based on proposals made by the councilors or chairman. Apart from the Council, traditional
rulers and prominent personalities such as Political godfathers and rich businessmen from the
community typically influence policy at this level of Government.
Ukiwo (2003, p.17) noted that within the circles of the executive arm of government some
Commissioners and Ministers often claim they have little or no influence and the Governor or
President determines policies of the State. What this mean in essence is that the executive council
meetings merely takes place to rubber stamp the wishes of the Chief Executive.
LEGISLATURE
The Legislature at all levels of government makes and influences policies through its
constitutional role of considering bills sent in by the executive or proposed by members of
the legislature (Anderson, 2003, p.17).
The Legislature formulates policy by virtue of its oversight function over the executive arm of
government and its roles of resolutions on public issues. The constitutional responsibility of
considering nominees for appointment into public offices is vested in the legislature. This put the
legislatures in a strategic position to influence policy.
It is imperative to note, however, that in the practical aspect; the Chief Executive at all tiers of
Government have the final say in terms of public policy making, this can be attributed to the long
years of Military rule which has left a mark on the nation’s political culture and strengthened the
executive arm of government above other arms which were not functioning or suppressed during
the Military era.
It is common knowledge today, not only in Nigeria but in most African countries that the
President and Governors influence the selection of those who form the Legislative arm of
Government as a means of ensuring that bills and nominations sent by the Executive to the
Legislature are signed without hesitation while bills or proposals that are not in line with the
agenda of the President or Governor are nipped in the bud.
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Since the inception of democracy in 1999, six governors have been impeached by their State’s
Legislature due to corruption and mismanagement of public funds; they are: Ayo Fayose of Ekiti
impeached in 2006, Peter Obi of Anambra impeached in 2007, Joshua Dariye of Plateau state
impeached in 2007, Rashidi Ladoja of Oyo, impeached in 2006, Late Diepreye Alamieyeseigha of
Balyesa in 2005 and Murtala Nyako of Adamawa state in 2014.
In the 6th National assembly in Nigeria (2007-2011) the former ruling party, Peoples Democratic
Party (PDP) had 260 elected members in the House of Representative out of 360 members from
six political parties and 85 members out of 109 members in the Senate which was more than half
of the Legislature, this paved way for approval of biased policies which were formulated in the
interest of the ruling party and their cabals.
Ekwueme (2003, p. 179) pointed out that though the Executive, Legislative and Judiciary are the
key actors, however other political actors also exist such as the panels and ad-hoc committees
established by Government to provide advice on sundry issues, e.g. Bureau for Public Enterprise;
who have great influence on the direction and substance of public policy, the Technical
Committee for the Reform of Local Government, whose statutory function is to guide the
government on the proposed reform of the third tier of government; others are Ministries of
Finance, Education, Justice, Internal Affairs, Works, Health, Women and Youth Development,
and National Planning. Also relevant are a number of statutory bodies, Revenue Mobilization
Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Federal Character Commission, Federal Civil Service
Commission, National Boundary Commission and the National Poverty Eradication
Commission.
THE JUDICIARY
Judiciary refers to the body of judges and courts that interpret the constitution and the laws
(NOUN, 2007, p.62). In addition to the judiciary’s interpretation role they also settle conflicts
and crises between the various institutions of government, groups and individuals; they also
influence policy and not necessarily make policy, which makes them an Actor.
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The Judiciary is made of the Supreme Court, which is the highest court in Nigeria followed, by
the Court of Appeal, High Court, Magistrate Court; which is the first court of instance. In the
southern part of Nigeria we have the Customary Court and in the Northern part we have the
sharia court, they exercise jurisdiction over religious or customary matters.
An instance of the judiciary’s influence of policy was when the Supreme Court in 2000 gave a
verdict on the electoral act, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had refused
to register political party on the ground that they did not have a presence in two-thirds of states
of the Federation, the Supreme Court ruled that INEC had no such powers; that all parties who
campaigned for votes should be allowed to do so and Nigerians should be the judge as to which
parties will get voted in. This changed the policy on party registration and policy.
It is also worthy to note that apart from their constitutional roles, members of the bar (judiciary)
are held in high esteem in society which gives them the leverage to influence policy through their
association with the state and federal executive.
ECONOMIC PERSPECTIVE OF POLICY IN NIGERIA
World Bank (2014) described Nigeria as one of the richest Countries in Africa, with a population
of over 178 million. Even though Nigeria is one of the richest countries in Africa it is still a
middle-income economy and remains an emerging market in financial service, technology and
entertainment.
According to Statistics Times (2015), Nigeria is ranked as the 21st largest economy in the world
in terms of nominal GDP, and the 20th largest in terms of Purchasing Power Parity. In 2015
Nigeria rebased her economy and this pushed it above South Africa as the biggest economy in
Africa.
Nigeria is a major exporter of oil in Africa and generates bulk of its revenue through oil
production; once a large net exporter of food but today reverse is the case, the country has
degraded to being a large importer of food products as a result of failure in the Agriculture sector
to meet up with the rapid growing population of the Country.
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The contribution of international donor towards Nigeria’s economy cannot be underestimated
even though it has failed to yield positive results. According to Abata & Adeju (2011) the need
for economic reforms in Nigeria can be traced back to 1983, under President Shehu Shagari
administration. The mounting economic problems during this Shagari’s regime forced Nigeria to
seek a balance of payments support loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
This was followed by the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) loan from the World Bank in
1986, which forced Nigeria to reform its foreign exchange system, trade policies, as well as
business and agricultural regulations. These loans have kept on rolling in into Nigeria’s treasury.
The most recent from the World Bank is the 500 million dollars loan for medium and small-scale
enterprise.
It is imperative to note that over the past three decades the World Bank has had a dominant
presence with respect to economic policies in Nigeria. Presently the World Bank is involved in
facilitating the preparation of the Poverty Reduction Strategic Papers for Nigeria. In addition to
this the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) was also instrumental in the
preparation of the Vision 2010 and continues to collaborate with the Government in various
poverty alleviation programmes in the Country, which makes them important stakeholders in
policy development and implementation.
The loan from these donors empowers them, to influence and dictate the economic policies that
beneficiary countries should or should not adopt due to their financial support that is needed by
the government to function and operate effectively.
Until Nigeria becomes self-reliant and become donor-free it will will remain a puppet to
international donors and continue to remain subjected to their economic statement, which might
eventually result to her total loss of economic sovereignty.
SOCIAL SYSTEM THAT IMPEDE / FACILITATE PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT IN
POLICY MAKING
According to Thomas (1995:55) public participation is a process of involving “all organized and
unorganized groups of citizens or citizen representatives” on a particular issue. It can be
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concluded from Thomas’s definition that in public participation the public include active
members be it organized or not organized on specific issues.
Government in developing countries around the world are beginning to recognize the important
role public involvement can play in policy formulation, however, despite these efforts, there are
still many barriers and challenges that stand in the way of public participation in policy making
in Nigeria. They are as follow:
PRESS SUPPRESSION: The media plays a critical role in the formation of sound public
policy. The media produces a platform in which policy ideas and initiatives can be tested and
formed in the arena of public opinion. However lack of press freedom inhibits the media from
contributing towards constructive policy formulation in Nigeria.
According to Picard (1985, p.49) "Positive press freedom is intended to promote the free flow of
diverse ideas and public debate by removing and guarding against barriers to that flow". If press
freedom is put in place it would ensure the necessary conditions for freedom of expression.
Nigeria has a virile and influential media but unfortunately the refusal of the government to
enshrine freedom of the press in the constitution is a major constraint for the mass media to
operate full-fledged.
Suppression of press freedom in Nigeria dates back to the Military era, when activities of the
mass media were fully suppressed. After Tunde Thompson and his partner Nduka Irabor of
Guardian Newspaper published a report on diplomatic postings that involved top military
officials during Buhari’s regime, the two journalists were arrested in February 1984 and held for
eight months. Similar to this, Channels Television in 2008 was also closed down for some days
under the President Yar’adua’s administration after the TV Station aired a story about the
Federal Government injection of one trillion Naira ($5,025,757,004,648.83) into the economy.
If ever public participation is going to be given a fair chance, then the freedom of the press has to
be enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution to give room for the media to freely air issues objectively
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on policy related matters
ELITIST CONTROL: Anderson (2003, p.13) approached elite theory from the perspective of
public policy reflecting the values and preference of governing elite. The fundamental argument
of this theory is that public policy process is often not determined by the actions of the masses.
Professors Thomas Dye and Harmon Zeigler (1972) provided a summary of elite theory as a
Society that is separated into the few who have power and the many who do not. This summary
represents the state of elitist control in Nigeria, where a minute number of individuals like Alhaji
Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, funmilayo Alakija etc. decide values for the society.
Policies especially the economic policies churned out are the product of these Nigerian elites,
reflecting their values and serving their ends without providing in anyway for the welfare of the
masses except on few occasions.
CIVIL SOCIETY: The role of the civil societies in Nigeria towards promoting public
participation in public policy making is highly laudable. Civil society groups that have been
influential in policy-making include The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC); which is the most
popular and influential trade union, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and Nigeria Economic
Society (NES); the most influential professional association in Nigeria.
In 2012, when the Nigerian government formulated and implemented a policy to increase the
price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) also known as petrol from 65 Naira to 141 Naira, it was
the NLC that mobilized millions of Nigerians across the Nation who agitated and withstood
against this policy until the government reversed it to 97 Naira.
If the Civil societies continue at the pace at which they are carrying out their operations in
Nigeria, it I believed that the government will one day bring them on board to participate in the
drafting of national policies which will result to developing technically sound policies and
stakeholder agreement on the problem definitions as well as solutions in Nigeria
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GENDER INEQUALITY: A high level of gender equality exists in public involvolvement
regarding public policy making. The patriarchal structure of the Nigerian society makes it
difficult for Women’s voice to be heard when it comes to their views and contribution towards
towards policy making which brings about lack of equity in the policy making process.
As it exists at the grass root, among non-political office holders, which hinders them from
contributing towards contributing their quota towards policy formulation, so does it exist at the
top echelon of power. On Wednesday 11th of November 2015,it was reported by Vanguard
Newspaper that President Muhammadu Buhari swore in 36 new Ministers. However it is
disheartening that only six out of the thirty-six were female. In addition out of the 469
representatives in the Nigerian Legislature only 21 of them are women.
The marginalization and limited participation of women in public policy clamps down on a
balanced public participation. This has negative effects on future generations, as ongoing
imbalances in equal opportunities can affect the prospects for social and economic development
in the longer term.
PAROCHIAL POLITICAL CULTURE: The type of political culture practiced in Nigeria
accounts for lack of interest and commitment on the part of the citizens towards what is
happening in their political arena or the political environment. As a result of Lack of orientation
by Nigerians towards the political system, this has hindered the wider participation from the
public been capitalized on by the government to deny the country a systematic and sustainable
development. This was evident in the immediate past administration of President Goodluck
Jonathan.
CONCLUSION
This paper discussed on public policy making terrain under which policies are borne, with a
close emphasis on factors mitigating wider Public participation in public policy in Nigeria.
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There are plethora of policy actors in Nigeria but among them all the most powerful is executive
arm of government which dominates them all. Policy is also largely influenced by international
donors whom Nigeria strongly relies on for funds. There are several reasons for limited public
participation in policy making amongst them are Gender inequality, elitist control, parochial
political culture which has resulted in the formulation of policies that are not beneficial to the
public over the past decade.
REFRENCES
Anderson, J. (2003) Public policymaking: An introduction. Boston, Houghton, Mifflin
Company
Baker, R. Michaels, R. and Preston, E. 1975. Public policy development:
Linking the technical and political processes. New York: John Wiley
Be Informed (March 2011) “Public Policy Making: the 21st Century perspective,”
http://www.beinformed.com/BeInformed/webdav resource/binaries/pdf/publications/public-
policy-making.pdf?webdav-
id=/Be%20Informed%20Bibliotheek/0000%20WEBDAV/WebDAV%20StatContent.bixml
retrieved on the 13th November 2015
Cogan and Sharpe (1986) “The Theory of Citizen Involvement” in University of Oregon,
Planning Analysis: The Theory of Citizen Participation,
http://wwww.uoregon.edu/~rgp/PPPM613/class10theory.html retrieved on the 13th November
2015
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria [Nigeria], Act No. 24, 5 May 1999,
http://www.refworld.org/docid/44e344fa4.html retrieved on the 13th November 2015.
Dye, T. & Zeigler, H. (1972) The irony of democracy: An introduction to American politics,
Belmont, Duxbury Press.
Ekwueme, A (2003) “Federalism: The Future of Decentralizing States? The Nigerian
Experience” In Alex J,B. etal (Editor),2nd International Conference on Decentralization.
Center for Local and Regional Governance (CLRG), Philippines, pp. 171-188.
Jenkins, W. (1978) Policy Analysis: A Political and Organizational Perspective, Oxford,
Martin Robertson.
NOUN (2007) “Public Policy Analysis,”
http://www.nou.edu.ng/uploads/NOUN_OCL/pdf/SMS/PAD%20810.pdf retrieved on the 13th
November 2015
Olukoshi O. (1996) “The Impact of Recent Reform Effort on African State” in Kjell, J, H. and
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Brian, V, A. Domination or Dialogue ? Experience and Prospects for African Development
Cooperation, Uppsala, Nordiska Afrikainstitutet
Philip, D. (2013) “Public Policy Making and Implementation in Nigeria: Connecting the Nexus”,
Public Policy And Administration Research, Vol. 3, No. 6, pp 58.
http://www.iiste.org/Journals/index.php/PPAR/article/view/6355/6593 retrieved on the 13th
November 2015
Picard, R. (1985) The press and the decline of democracy, Westport, Greenwood Press.
Roberts and Clark (1982) Powers and Politics in the third World, New York Santa Barbara,
John Wiley and Company.
Statistics Times (2015) “World GDP (nominal) Ranking,”
http://www.worldbank.org/en/country/nigeria/publication/nigeria-economic-report-improved-
economic-outlook-in-2014-and-prospects-for-continued-growth-look-good retrieved on the 13th
November 2015
The World Bank (2014) “Nigeria Economic Report: Improved Economic Outlook in 2014, and
Prospects for Continued Growth Look Good,”
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economic-outlook-in-2014-and-prospects-for-continued-growth-look-good retrieved on the 13th
November 2015
Thomas, J. (1995) Public Participation in Public Decisions: New Skills and
Strategies for Public Managers. California: Jossen-Bass.
Ukiwo, U . (2003) “Policy Levers in Nigeria”, CRISE Policy Context Paper, Vol. 1, No. 5, pp
15-18. http://www.qeh.ox.ac.uk/pdf/pdf-research/crise-pcp2 retrieved on the 13th November
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Vanguard Nigeria,. (2015). Buhari swears in Ministers - Vanguard News. Vanguard Nigeria,.
(2015). Buhari swears in Ministers - Vanguard News. Vanguard News. Retrieved 13 November
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Factors that affect policy environment

  • 1.
    FACULTY OF SOCIALSCIENCES DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE STUDIES MPA-602 PUBLIC POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION STUDENT NAME: SOLOMON SAMUEL ADETOKUNBO STUDENT NUMBER: 201502535 LECTURE: DR. BASHI MOTHUSI TERM-PAPER TITLE FACTORS THAT AFFECT POLICY ENVIRONMENT
  • 2.
    1 INTRODUCTION The saying, “hewho pays the piper dictates the tune” is a true statement in the public policy- making arena across the globe. The policy theatre is a space filled with plethora of actors who wield uneven power and have lopsided influence that determines the course or direction a policy heads. Over the last decade, the system of government in developed and developing countries has steadily changed, with more focus being placed on setting strategic directions through policy formulation and implementation to actively engage stakeholders e.g. Sustainable Development Goals (United Nations), Agenda 2063 (Africa Union) Transformation Agenda Vision 2020 (Nigeria) etc. Public policies in most developing countries are characterized by poor public participation and are never subject to referendum or opinion poll; even if they were the public are not adequately informed. This makes the whole process effortless and inconclusive, leading to a state of wastage in public resources and eventual change in policy. The public policy environment is characterized by a dynamic and complex structure as a result of the divergent interests of actors. It is on this basis, the term paper examined how social, economic and political milieu under which policies are borne affects policy, factors and actors This paper discusses socio-political and economic milieu under which policies are borne as well as factors and actors that influence policies. The submission of this paper is that the political actor especially the executive have a suppressing Influence over all other policy actors and stakeholders. Amongst other factors that affect wider public participation in Nigeria policymaking are gender inequality, elitist control, parochial political culture etc.
  • 3.
    2 who have influenceover emergent policy in Nigeria and the elements that affects wider public participation in policy making. The paper is outlined in four sections, the introduction which presents an overview of public policy process followed by the concept of public policy and the processes that it entails; closely Followed is public policy in Nigeria considering the social, economic and political facets of public policy making and the actors who control the various facets. Factors that impede and allow for wider participation was discussed before drawing a conclusion to the paper, the argument of this paper is based on the elitist nature of the Nigerian society which limits public participation and marginalizes a large share of the population from contributing their quota towards public policy making in the Country. The researcher ended the study recommending a Constitutional and legislative framework on public participation in order to encourage and increase wider participation in Public Policy making CONCEPT OF PUBLIC POLICY Public policy as a concept does not have a single definition attached to it; just as there exist multiplicity of actors in the theater of public policy so also do we have various definitions of public policy conceptualized by different scholars Robert and Clark (1982, p.121) defined public policy from ‘goal attainment’ and power configuration point of view. According to the duo, public policy making process refers to: Series of steps taken by a government to solve problems, make decisions, allocate resources or values, implement policies and in general to do the things expected of them by their constituencies. (Robert and Clark, 1982, p.121) Unfortunately this definition is not operationalized in most countries of the world especially the developing Countries. What is obtainable is decision making by a few elite carried out outside the ruling of the constitution and forced on the public. Baker (1975, p.15) defines policy as “a mechanism employed to realize societal goals and to allocate resources”. Public policy is a
  • 4.
    3 means of meetingthe yearnings and need of the public, by putting actionable measures in place to solve problems and challenges the public faces. According to Geurts (2011 p.7), four phases make up the public policy process, they are: initiation, formulation, implementation and the evaluation stage. Public policy starts with agenda setting and ends with evaluation to properly assess whether the policy achieved its goals and stated objectives. The policy making process is carried out by policy makers who are also referred to as actors; they include: politicians, civil servants, lobbyists, advisors, auditors, etc. The political system obtainable in any country will determine the type of public policies that will be formulated. Under a dictatorship form of government, policies formulated will be in the interest of the leader while in democratic settings public policies are often formulated in the best interest of the citizen. This cannot be said to be practical in many developing countries in Africa practicing democracy, policies made often end up in the best interest of the elite class. In a democratic system, the role played by politicians and public office holders in agenda setting is what leads to public policy (Jenkins, 1978, p.79). In essence public policy can be described as sets of decisions carried out by individual political actor or group of actors towards the selection of goals and how to go about achieving them under a condition where those decisions should in principle be within the power of those actors PUBLIC POLICY PROCESS IN NIGERIA Federalism in Nigeria dates back to the colonial era, when Nigeria was under the British Colony and the country was reorganized into a federation of three regions (North, East and West) in 1946. There was a departure from this during the Military era, since the transition to Democratic system of government on May 29, 1999, Nigeria has since then operated a Federal system of government modeled in a similar way like the present system of government in the United States.
  • 5.
    4 The dominant featureof policy-making process in Nigeria is the principle of Federal supremacy. (Philip & Peter, 2013, p.60). Section 2 subsection 2 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria states that, “The Federal Government shall direct its policy towards ensuring that there are equal and adequate opportunities at all levels.” (Nigerian Constitution, 1999). This empowers the Federal Government to provide overall direction in the policy process (formulation to evaluation stage). Politics in Nigeria has been perceived by many, most especially the politicians as a winner takes all game; this has resulted into a political competition that has been marked by political violence and abandonment of legitimacy norms. The implication of this for the policy environment is that formal institutions and rules are often undermined leading to the marginalization of public participation in the policy making process. Ukiwo (2003, p.1) stated that Military intervention in politics led to the relative over- development of the executive arm of government and marginalization of the judiciary and legislature. This made the executive arm of government over powerful during the Military era in Nigeria; a trace of this superfluous nature is still evident till date. The Public Policy Process in Nigeria will be considered from two perspectives, the political perspective and the socio-economical perspective. POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE OF POLICY IN NIGERIA The context under which policies are formulated in Nigeria is quite complex. The process is to a large extent defined by the nature and character of the country, which has evolved through years of colonial, military and civil rule. MILITARY ERA Othman (1989, p.54) noted that widespread corruption by the political leaders were reasons given for the military coup that sacked the first Republic on January 15, 1966 and brought to power General Aguiyi Ironsi. Even though the military took over power to make wrongs right, it
  • 6.
    5 is important tostate that most of them left the government worse than they met it except for the Buhari / Idiagbon regime (1983-1985). During the Military era in Nigeria, the Supreme Military Council (SMC) was in charge of public policy making, it consisted of the Regional Military Governors of the various States, the Military Administrator of the Federal Territory, the Heads of the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces and the Inspector-General of Police or his Deputy. The Chairman of the supreme Military Council l was the head of the Military Government. During this period, the military relied on traditional rulers and bureaucrats to govern, having discredited politicians. Thus permanent secretaries were very influential in the policy making process so much so that some of them who were closest to the military authorities became known as super permanent secretaries. Othman (1989, p.57) is of the opinion that, through this process the Civil service was politicized; some of the rules and regulations in the service were abandoned to serve the wishes of the military dictators. The Military era, which lasted from 1966-1979, coincided with the period of the oil boom in Nigeria. However, despite the so-called corrective mission of the military, oil revenues were squandered away in evident consumption and corruption. Olukoshi (1996, p.110) concurred to the fact that Nigeria’s oil wealth was the major factor that undermined the development policies of agriculture sector, which was the major revenue of the economy in the 1950s and 1960. The military administrations devoted their time and attention to expenditure rather than creating incomes. According to Othman (1989, P.58) some of the oil wealth was also devoted to a vigorous foreign policy, “which saw Nigeria becoming the arrowhead of nationalist and anti- Apartheid struggles in Africa”. DEMOCRATIC ERA The 1999 Constitution provides for a Presidential system of government with clear separation of powers between the three different organs of Government; Federal, State and Local Government NOUN (2007, P.93). The actors and organs that formulate the public policy in the Nigeria
  • 7.
    6 political terrain arethe Executive, Legislative and the Judiciary. EXECUTIVE ACTORS At the Federal level, the Executive is made up of the President, who is elected directly alongside the Vice-President, and Federal Ministers who are appointed in accordance with the Federal character by the President and are assigned different portfolios. The President and appointed Ministers constitute the Federal Executive Council (FEC), which meets weekly. At the Executive Council, Ministers, the office of the President and the Vice- President, present policy proposals, which are debated and approved. Once approved the policy is usually sent as a bill to the National Assembly for ratification. Once ratified by the Legislature, the bill is returned to the Executive for the president’s final seal. According to Ukiwo (2003, p.3) one of the significant body in the policy making process is is the National Council of State, made up of the President, Vice-President, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Justice of the Federation and all State Governors as well as former Heads of State and Chief Justices. The body meets at least once a year and may be convened by the President at any time. It plays an advisory role on policy formulation and state of affairs in the country. A replica of the policy making structure that occurs at the Federal level also occurs at the State level; the Governor occupies a similar position like the President, having been directly elected by members of the State. He or She heads the State Executive Council (SEC), which meets once a week to deliberate on policy issues. Draft policies are forwarded from the different Ministries and deliberated by the Council. Once approved, they are forwarded to the state legislature for ratification and returned to the State Governor for assent. At the local Government level, the Chairman from local Government area is the Executive Head of the Council, which includes the Vice-Chairman and Councilors elected to represent the different wards under the local Government (Philip & Peter, 2013, p.59). Council takes decision
  • 8.
    7 based on proposalsmade by the councilors or chairman. Apart from the Council, traditional rulers and prominent personalities such as Political godfathers and rich businessmen from the community typically influence policy at this level of Government. Ukiwo (2003, p.17) noted that within the circles of the executive arm of government some Commissioners and Ministers often claim they have little or no influence and the Governor or President determines policies of the State. What this mean in essence is that the executive council meetings merely takes place to rubber stamp the wishes of the Chief Executive. LEGISLATURE The Legislature at all levels of government makes and influences policies through its constitutional role of considering bills sent in by the executive or proposed by members of the legislature (Anderson, 2003, p.17). The Legislature formulates policy by virtue of its oversight function over the executive arm of government and its roles of resolutions on public issues. The constitutional responsibility of considering nominees for appointment into public offices is vested in the legislature. This put the legislatures in a strategic position to influence policy. It is imperative to note, however, that in the practical aspect; the Chief Executive at all tiers of Government have the final say in terms of public policy making, this can be attributed to the long years of Military rule which has left a mark on the nation’s political culture and strengthened the executive arm of government above other arms which were not functioning or suppressed during the Military era. It is common knowledge today, not only in Nigeria but in most African countries that the President and Governors influence the selection of those who form the Legislative arm of Government as a means of ensuring that bills and nominations sent by the Executive to the Legislature are signed without hesitation while bills or proposals that are not in line with the agenda of the President or Governor are nipped in the bud.
  • 9.
    8 Since the inceptionof democracy in 1999, six governors have been impeached by their State’s Legislature due to corruption and mismanagement of public funds; they are: Ayo Fayose of Ekiti impeached in 2006, Peter Obi of Anambra impeached in 2007, Joshua Dariye of Plateau state impeached in 2007, Rashidi Ladoja of Oyo, impeached in 2006, Late Diepreye Alamieyeseigha of Balyesa in 2005 and Murtala Nyako of Adamawa state in 2014. In the 6th National assembly in Nigeria (2007-2011) the former ruling party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had 260 elected members in the House of Representative out of 360 members from six political parties and 85 members out of 109 members in the Senate which was more than half of the Legislature, this paved way for approval of biased policies which were formulated in the interest of the ruling party and their cabals. Ekwueme (2003, p. 179) pointed out that though the Executive, Legislative and Judiciary are the key actors, however other political actors also exist such as the panels and ad-hoc committees established by Government to provide advice on sundry issues, e.g. Bureau for Public Enterprise; who have great influence on the direction and substance of public policy, the Technical Committee for the Reform of Local Government, whose statutory function is to guide the government on the proposed reform of the third tier of government; others are Ministries of Finance, Education, Justice, Internal Affairs, Works, Health, Women and Youth Development, and National Planning. Also relevant are a number of statutory bodies, Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Federal Character Commission, Federal Civil Service Commission, National Boundary Commission and the National Poverty Eradication Commission. THE JUDICIARY Judiciary refers to the body of judges and courts that interpret the constitution and the laws (NOUN, 2007, p.62). In addition to the judiciary’s interpretation role they also settle conflicts and crises between the various institutions of government, groups and individuals; they also influence policy and not necessarily make policy, which makes them an Actor.
  • 10.
    9 The Judiciary ismade of the Supreme Court, which is the highest court in Nigeria followed, by the Court of Appeal, High Court, Magistrate Court; which is the first court of instance. In the southern part of Nigeria we have the Customary Court and in the Northern part we have the sharia court, they exercise jurisdiction over religious or customary matters. An instance of the judiciary’s influence of policy was when the Supreme Court in 2000 gave a verdict on the electoral act, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had refused to register political party on the ground that they did not have a presence in two-thirds of states of the Federation, the Supreme Court ruled that INEC had no such powers; that all parties who campaigned for votes should be allowed to do so and Nigerians should be the judge as to which parties will get voted in. This changed the policy on party registration and policy. It is also worthy to note that apart from their constitutional roles, members of the bar (judiciary) are held in high esteem in society which gives them the leverage to influence policy through their association with the state and federal executive. ECONOMIC PERSPECTIVE OF POLICY IN NIGERIA World Bank (2014) described Nigeria as one of the richest Countries in Africa, with a population of over 178 million. Even though Nigeria is one of the richest countries in Africa it is still a middle-income economy and remains an emerging market in financial service, technology and entertainment. According to Statistics Times (2015), Nigeria is ranked as the 21st largest economy in the world in terms of nominal GDP, and the 20th largest in terms of Purchasing Power Parity. In 2015 Nigeria rebased her economy and this pushed it above South Africa as the biggest economy in Africa. Nigeria is a major exporter of oil in Africa and generates bulk of its revenue through oil production; once a large net exporter of food but today reverse is the case, the country has degraded to being a large importer of food products as a result of failure in the Agriculture sector to meet up with the rapid growing population of the Country.
  • 11.
    10 The contribution ofinternational donor towards Nigeria’s economy cannot be underestimated even though it has failed to yield positive results. According to Abata & Adeju (2011) the need for economic reforms in Nigeria can be traced back to 1983, under President Shehu Shagari administration. The mounting economic problems during this Shagari’s regime forced Nigeria to seek a balance of payments support loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This was followed by the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) loan from the World Bank in 1986, which forced Nigeria to reform its foreign exchange system, trade policies, as well as business and agricultural regulations. These loans have kept on rolling in into Nigeria’s treasury. The most recent from the World Bank is the 500 million dollars loan for medium and small-scale enterprise. It is imperative to note that over the past three decades the World Bank has had a dominant presence with respect to economic policies in Nigeria. Presently the World Bank is involved in facilitating the preparation of the Poverty Reduction Strategic Papers for Nigeria. In addition to this the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) was also instrumental in the preparation of the Vision 2010 and continues to collaborate with the Government in various poverty alleviation programmes in the Country, which makes them important stakeholders in policy development and implementation. The loan from these donors empowers them, to influence and dictate the economic policies that beneficiary countries should or should not adopt due to their financial support that is needed by the government to function and operate effectively. Until Nigeria becomes self-reliant and become donor-free it will will remain a puppet to international donors and continue to remain subjected to their economic statement, which might eventually result to her total loss of economic sovereignty. SOCIAL SYSTEM THAT IMPEDE / FACILITATE PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT IN POLICY MAKING According to Thomas (1995:55) public participation is a process of involving “all organized and unorganized groups of citizens or citizen representatives” on a particular issue. It can be
  • 12.
    11 concluded from Thomas’sdefinition that in public participation the public include active members be it organized or not organized on specific issues. Government in developing countries around the world are beginning to recognize the important role public involvement can play in policy formulation, however, despite these efforts, there are still many barriers and challenges that stand in the way of public participation in policy making in Nigeria. They are as follow: PRESS SUPPRESSION: The media plays a critical role in the formation of sound public policy. The media produces a platform in which policy ideas and initiatives can be tested and formed in the arena of public opinion. However lack of press freedom inhibits the media from contributing towards constructive policy formulation in Nigeria. According to Picard (1985, p.49) "Positive press freedom is intended to promote the free flow of diverse ideas and public debate by removing and guarding against barriers to that flow". If press freedom is put in place it would ensure the necessary conditions for freedom of expression. Nigeria has a virile and influential media but unfortunately the refusal of the government to enshrine freedom of the press in the constitution is a major constraint for the mass media to operate full-fledged. Suppression of press freedom in Nigeria dates back to the Military era, when activities of the mass media were fully suppressed. After Tunde Thompson and his partner Nduka Irabor of Guardian Newspaper published a report on diplomatic postings that involved top military officials during Buhari’s regime, the two journalists were arrested in February 1984 and held for eight months. Similar to this, Channels Television in 2008 was also closed down for some days under the President Yar’adua’s administration after the TV Station aired a story about the Federal Government injection of one trillion Naira ($5,025,757,004,648.83) into the economy. If ever public participation is going to be given a fair chance, then the freedom of the press has to be enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution to give room for the media to freely air issues objectively
  • 13.
    12 on policy relatedmatters ELITIST CONTROL: Anderson (2003, p.13) approached elite theory from the perspective of public policy reflecting the values and preference of governing elite. The fundamental argument of this theory is that public policy process is often not determined by the actions of the masses. Professors Thomas Dye and Harmon Zeigler (1972) provided a summary of elite theory as a Society that is separated into the few who have power and the many who do not. This summary represents the state of elitist control in Nigeria, where a minute number of individuals like Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, funmilayo Alakija etc. decide values for the society. Policies especially the economic policies churned out are the product of these Nigerian elites, reflecting their values and serving their ends without providing in anyway for the welfare of the masses except on few occasions. CIVIL SOCIETY: The role of the civil societies in Nigeria towards promoting public participation in public policy making is highly laudable. Civil society groups that have been influential in policy-making include The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC); which is the most popular and influential trade union, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and Nigeria Economic Society (NES); the most influential professional association in Nigeria. In 2012, when the Nigerian government formulated and implemented a policy to increase the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) also known as petrol from 65 Naira to 141 Naira, it was the NLC that mobilized millions of Nigerians across the Nation who agitated and withstood against this policy until the government reversed it to 97 Naira. If the Civil societies continue at the pace at which they are carrying out their operations in Nigeria, it I believed that the government will one day bring them on board to participate in the drafting of national policies which will result to developing technically sound policies and stakeholder agreement on the problem definitions as well as solutions in Nigeria
  • 14.
    13 GENDER INEQUALITY: Ahigh level of gender equality exists in public involvolvement regarding public policy making. The patriarchal structure of the Nigerian society makes it difficult for Women’s voice to be heard when it comes to their views and contribution towards towards policy making which brings about lack of equity in the policy making process. As it exists at the grass root, among non-political office holders, which hinders them from contributing towards contributing their quota towards policy formulation, so does it exist at the top echelon of power. On Wednesday 11th of November 2015,it was reported by Vanguard Newspaper that President Muhammadu Buhari swore in 36 new Ministers. However it is disheartening that only six out of the thirty-six were female. In addition out of the 469 representatives in the Nigerian Legislature only 21 of them are women. The marginalization and limited participation of women in public policy clamps down on a balanced public participation. This has negative effects on future generations, as ongoing imbalances in equal opportunities can affect the prospects for social and economic development in the longer term. PAROCHIAL POLITICAL CULTURE: The type of political culture practiced in Nigeria accounts for lack of interest and commitment on the part of the citizens towards what is happening in their political arena or the political environment. As a result of Lack of orientation by Nigerians towards the political system, this has hindered the wider participation from the public been capitalized on by the government to deny the country a systematic and sustainable development. This was evident in the immediate past administration of President Goodluck Jonathan. CONCLUSION This paper discussed on public policy making terrain under which policies are borne, with a close emphasis on factors mitigating wider Public participation in public policy in Nigeria.
  • 15.
    14 There are plethoraof policy actors in Nigeria but among them all the most powerful is executive arm of government which dominates them all. Policy is also largely influenced by international donors whom Nigeria strongly relies on for funds. There are several reasons for limited public participation in policy making amongst them are Gender inequality, elitist control, parochial political culture which has resulted in the formulation of policies that are not beneficial to the public over the past decade. REFRENCES Anderson, J. (2003) Public policymaking: An introduction. Boston, Houghton, Mifflin Company Baker, R. Michaels, R. and Preston, E. 1975. Public policy development: Linking the technical and political processes. New York: John Wiley Be Informed (March 2011) “Public Policy Making: the 21st Century perspective,” http://www.beinformed.com/BeInformed/webdav resource/binaries/pdf/publications/public- policy-making.pdf?webdav- id=/Be%20Informed%20Bibliotheek/0000%20WEBDAV/WebDAV%20StatContent.bixml retrieved on the 13th November 2015 Cogan and Sharpe (1986) “The Theory of Citizen Involvement” in University of Oregon, Planning Analysis: The Theory of Citizen Participation, http://wwww.uoregon.edu/~rgp/PPPM613/class10theory.html retrieved on the 13th November 2015 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria [Nigeria], Act No. 24, 5 May 1999, http://www.refworld.org/docid/44e344fa4.html retrieved on the 13th November 2015. Dye, T. & Zeigler, H. (1972) The irony of democracy: An introduction to American politics, Belmont, Duxbury Press. Ekwueme, A (2003) “Federalism: The Future of Decentralizing States? The Nigerian Experience” In Alex J,B. etal (Editor),2nd International Conference on Decentralization. Center for Local and Regional Governance (CLRG), Philippines, pp. 171-188. Jenkins, W. (1978) Policy Analysis: A Political and Organizational Perspective, Oxford, Martin Robertson. NOUN (2007) “Public Policy Analysis,” http://www.nou.edu.ng/uploads/NOUN_OCL/pdf/SMS/PAD%20810.pdf retrieved on the 13th November 2015 Olukoshi O. (1996) “The Impact of Recent Reform Effort on African State” in Kjell, J, H. and
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    15 Brian, V, A.Domination or Dialogue ? Experience and Prospects for African Development Cooperation, Uppsala, Nordiska Afrikainstitutet Philip, D. (2013) “Public Policy Making and Implementation in Nigeria: Connecting the Nexus”, Public Policy And Administration Research, Vol. 3, No. 6, pp 58. http://www.iiste.org/Journals/index.php/PPAR/article/view/6355/6593 retrieved on the 13th November 2015 Picard, R. (1985) The press and the decline of democracy, Westport, Greenwood Press. Roberts and Clark (1982) Powers and Politics in the third World, New York Santa Barbara, John Wiley and Company. Statistics Times (2015) “World GDP (nominal) Ranking,” http://www.worldbank.org/en/country/nigeria/publication/nigeria-economic-report-improved- economic-outlook-in-2014-and-prospects-for-continued-growth-look-good retrieved on the 13th November 2015 The World Bank (2014) “Nigeria Economic Report: Improved Economic Outlook in 2014, and Prospects for Continued Growth Look Good,” http://www.worldbank.org/en/country/nigeria/publication/nigeria-economic-report-improved- economic-outlook-in-2014-and-prospects-for-continued-growth-look-good retrieved on the 13th November 2015 Thomas, J. (1995) Public Participation in Public Decisions: New Skills and Strategies for Public Managers. California: Jossen-Bass. Ukiwo, U . (2003) “Policy Levers in Nigeria”, CRISE Policy Context Paper, Vol. 1, No. 5, pp 15-18. http://www.qeh.ox.ac.uk/pdf/pdf-research/crise-pcp2 retrieved on the 13th November 2015 Vanguard Nigeria,. (2015). Buhari swears in Ministers - Vanguard News. Vanguard Nigeria,. (2015). Buhari swears in Ministers - Vanguard News. Vanguard News. Retrieved 13 November 2015, from http://www.vanguardngr.com/2015/11/buhari-swears-in-ministers/
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