A THEORETICAL ASSESSMENT OF SUCCESSION POLICY AND GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The study assessed succession policy and governance in Nigeria, with particular focus on challenges and prospects. The objective of the paper was to ascertain the effectiveness of succession policy in Nigeria. The paper assumed that succession issues have generated several controversies not only in Nigeria but globally. The system theory was utilised as the theoretical framework for the paper. Data was obtained from secondary sources from journals, books, newspapers and other relevant materials. The study adopted the descriptive method of analyses. It argued that in spite of the existence of succession policy, some Nigeria leaders are reluctant to hand over power and responsibilities at the expiration of their tenure to a successor. The finding revealed the following as challenges of succession policy in governance; weak institutions, sit-tight syndrome, and politricking among others. The paper concluded that much is still expected of government in tackling succession challenges; however, there is prospect for improvement in succession processes with the prevalent awareness of the gains of succession policy processes. The study therefore recommends building strong institutions, and shunning sit-tight syndromes among others to mitigate the challenges of succession issues.