PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND THE CHALLENGE OF NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA: CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

Contemporary Nigeria is plagued with the problems of widespread poverty, large-scale unemployment, technological backwardness, low capacity utilization, inadequate and decayed social and physicalinfrastructure, high incidence of diseases, high crime rate, among others. These disturbing socio-economicindicators in Nigeria are among the worst in the world. Ironically, these unpleasant indicators exist side-byside the country’s great national wealth and potentials, with an enviable stock of human resources whopossess knowledge, expertise and skills especially in the public service. Unfortunately, it appears these knowledgeable public servants are unable to serve as catalysts in the development of the nation. This situation makes the Nigerian case paradoxical. The objective of this study therefore is to identify the challenges preventing Nigerian public administration from playing its catalyzing role in the development of the country as well as to proffer possible solutions. One of the findings is that bribery and corruption are a bane of Nigerian public administration. In fact, they constitute a serious impediment to national development. The paper recommends, inter alia, the empowering of the anti-corruption institutions and introduction of information and communication technology in public governance. The paper submits that the label of poor performance and absence of excellence in the public service has the tendency to undermine development and good governance in Nigeria.