The Illusion of Three‐tier Federalism: Rethinking the Nigerian Local Government System

Abstract

Attempts a critical evaluation of the theoretical foundation of the local government system in Nigeria. Re‐assesses Nigeria′s idea of three‐tier federalism both as a theory of federal organization and as a policy reform. Reviews the different definitions of “tiered federalism” and attempts to synthesize them into a coherent idea. Shows that three‐tier federalism is impossible to define in a consistent manner. Proceeds from this to argue that its so‐called successes are in centralizing the Nigerian state rather than in furthering the idea of local governance.

Citation

Ayeni, V. (1994), "The Illusion of Three‐tier Federalism: Rethinking the Nigerian Local Government System", International Journal of Public Sector Management, Vol. 7 No. 5, pp. 52-65. https://doi.org/10.1108/09513559410067528