The political economy of development in weak states: An institutional analysis of the Nigerian State

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the weaknesses of Nigerian social and political institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

Thematic analysis of interview and questionnaire data was undertaken.

Findings

The paper locates the Nigerian State as a weak state.

Research limitations/implications

The paper adopted a qualitative research approach which is not generalizable.

Practical implications

Nigeria needs to restructure her social and political institutions otherwise the likelihood of becoming a failed state is indeed very high.

Social implications

The prevalence of insecurity to lives and property as well as a growing level of poverty in Nigeria will lead to the failure of the Nigerian State.

Originality/value

This paper has immense value for social and political policy in Nigeria.

Citation

Uzonwanne, G. (2013), "The political economy of development in weak states: An institutional analysis of the Nigerian State", International Journal of Social Economics, Vol. 40 No. 1, pp. 4-25. https://doi.org/10.1108/03068291311283418