The philosophy of the Confluence Journal of Social Sciences is to publish well-researched problem-solving papers on social, economic and political issues. Scholars convey their insights and findings in a manner that resonates with the pace in global scholarship. Unique to the Journal is its flexibility devoid of limiting contributors to some narrow methodology. The journal adopts a multifaceted approach in understanding the complex dynamics of the society through a critical examination of the social-political and economic environment.
Determinants of Poverty and Economic Growth Nexus in Nigeria
This study examined the relationship between poverty determinants and economic growth in Nigeria, addressing the persistent challenge of sluggish growth despite various policy interventions. The key objectives were to assess the impacts of consumer price index (CPI), unemployment (UNE), capital formation (CFO), industrial progress (IPR) and per capita income (PCI) on Nigeria’s GDP growth from 1981 to 2023. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach was used to analyse the long- and short-run relationships between the poverty rate and economic growth in Nigeria. The findings reveal that per capita income and capital formation have a positive and significant influence on GDP growth, while unemployment has a negative long-term impact. Conversely, inflation and industrial progress showed no significant effect on economic growth within the study period. Based on these findings, the study recommends policies to enhance income generation, job creation and investment promotion while emphasising the need for effective inflation management to ensure economic stability and sustained growth.
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The Determinants of Inflation in Nigerian Economy: Impact Analysis
This research was designed to investigate the determinants of inflation in the Nigerian Economy from 1981 to 2023. Time series data were obtained from the Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin and World Development Indicator. Inflation (INFR) represents dependent variable while Total Export (EXP), Total Import (IMP), Government Expenditure (GEXP), Exchange Rate (EXCH) and Interest Rate (INT) all represent the explanatory variables. The paper used the Autoregressive Distributed Lag approach (ARDL), co-integration test and an error correction model to examine the determinants of inflation in Nigeria. The anticipated coefficients of the variables specified that all the variables are integrated in the same order 1(1) exception of IMP which was integrated of order 1(0). IMP, GEXP, EXCH and INT were inversely related with inflation in the short run exception of EXP that is positively related with inflation. In the long run, all the variables were negative with significant impact on inflation in Nigeria exception of export and exchange rate that were positively related with inflation but the exchange rate alone was not statistically significant. The government should ensure that monetary policy of central bank is on the same page as fiscal policy of the federal Ministry of Finance. Government should discourage border closure policy in the economy. The government should use interest rate as a tool to control inflation in the economy. Inversely, when inflation is high the government can raise interest rates to slow down the economic activities and vice versa.
Insecurity, Economic Uncertainty and Performance of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in North Central, Nigeria
This study investigates the impact of insecurity and economic uncertainty on the performance of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in North-Central Nigeria. Utilising survey data from 574 MSMEs in Benue, Plateau and Nasarawa states, the research employs a Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) technique. The findings reveal that the effects of insecurity are not uniform. Terrorism/insurgency and criminal insecurity exert a significant direct negative impact on MSME performance. Conversely, farmer-herder conflict influences performance indirectly by profoundly exacerbating economic uncertainty, which acts as a critical transmission channel. The study concludes that while direct security threats require robust law enforcement, the unique nature of farmer-herder conflict demands policy interventions focused on economic stabilization and predictability. This research provides a unique empirical analysis of the interconnectedness of these variables in the Nigerian context, offering insights for targeted policy formulation.
Impact of Exchange Rate Correlates on Consumer Spending In Nigeria (1981-2023)
This study investigated the impact of exchange rate fluctuations on consumer spending in Nigeria, prompted by the Naira's continuous decline, which has led to increased import costs, inflation and reduced purchasing power. The research examines how exchange rates, money supply, interest rates and imports influence consumer behaviour. Using a multiple regression method and Vector Autoregressive (VAR) technique, the result reveals a significant negative impact of exchange rates on consumer spending. In contrast, money supply and interest rates have no significant effect on consumer spending. These findings underscore the need for policy intervention to stabilise the economy and protect consumer welfare. To address this, the government should prioritise exchange rate stabilisation by boosting foreign reserves and stimulate exports. Additionally, promoting import substitution through local production incentives can help reduce reliance on imports and stimulate employment. Implementing these measures will enable the government to boost consumer spending, strengthen economic stability and enhance the overall well-being of Nigerian citizens. Achieving these outcomes will require close coordination between monetary and fiscal authorities to ensure effective and sustainable economic growth and development.
Assessment of the Role of Participatory Communication in Enhancing Development in Rural Communities of Kuje Area Council, FCT Abuja
This research examines the role of participatory communication in enhancing development in rural communities of Kuje Area Council, FCT Abuja. Participatory communication, which involves the active involvement of community members in decision-making processes, is crucial for sustainable development. This study therefore aims to explore how local engagement through dialogue, collaboration and shared information contributes to addressing key developmental challenges in these rural areas. The paper is anchored on the theoretical underpinning of the Participatory Communication Theory developed by Paulo Freire in 1970 which emphasise dialogue or two-way communication as a means of providing consensus for sustainable action in development activities. The research draws from a population of 102,299 residents of Kuje Area Council. Through the Taro Yamane formula, a sample size of 100 respondents selected through a multi-stage sampling technique was utilised. Being a survey methodology, data were collected using structured questionnaires and interviews to assess the impact of participatory communication on areas such as healthcare, education and infrastructural development. The findings are expected to reveal the extent to which community-driven communication fosters collective action and contributes to the socio-economic improvement of these rural communities. Insights from this study could inform future strategies for more inclusive development policies in Kuje and similar rural areas.
Socio-Economic Determinants of Willingness to Pay Tree Tax in Selected Suburbs of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria
The Federal Capital territory, Abuja, Nigeria is witnessing rapid population growth with its attendant consequences on construction especially infrastructural development. Consequently, the natural ecosystem, especially trees are exposed to rapid degradation and depletion. Since the new subsidy regime in Nigeria and the FCT in particular the cost of living is quite high and this has forced many inhabitants of the community especially those living outskirts to rely primarily on fuelwood, charcoal and expansion of agricultural activities which has a direct impact on the availability of trees in the study area. Therefore, in order to reverse the trend of the rapid depletion of trees, the need for tree tax becomes a viable option. The study utilises both the primary and secondary sources of data, data types included: respondents’ awareness of tree tax, payment of tree tax and socio-economic characteristics respondents. The sample frame of this work constitutes the six area councils in the FCT. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select respondents from Gwagwalada, Kuje and Bwari area councils, leading to 100 suitable responses analysed through cross-tabulation and Chi-Square tests as well as stepwise regression model. The analysis revealed a statistically significant association between willingness to pay the tree tax and gender (χ² = 9.368, p = 0.009), with females showing higher uncertainty compared to males. Family size also had a significant effect (χ² = 9.985, p = 0.041), as responses varied based on the number of children. The strongest association was with income level (χ² = 43.868, p < 0.001), where higher earners (₦60,000–₦80,000) were more willing to pay, while lower-income groups (₦8,000–₦15,000) were entirely unwilling. However, no significant associations were found between willingness to pay and marital status (p > 0.05), age (p = 0.127), occupation (p > 0.05), or education level (p = 0.101). These results suggest that gender, family size and income are key factors influencing willingness to pay the tree tax, while other demographic variables do not show a significant relationship. Stepwise regression analysis further confirmed that income alone accounted for 6% of the variation in willingness to pay tree tax, while combining income with age explained 52.8% of the variation, highlighting these as primary predictors. These findings have significant implications for environmental taxation policies and socio-economic engagement strategies.
Assessment of Residents' Perception of Child Trafficking in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria
Child trafficking is a societal problem which threatens the productive and leadership potential of children, who are seen as the hope of the future. This study has assessed the drivers, impacts and strategies for curbing child trafficking in Oredo LGA of Edo State, based on SDG 3, which specifies 'Good Health and Well-being'. Good health and well-being play a critical role in the growth and development of children. Primary data for the study was derived from a field survey of residents in the study area based on the projected population size of 604,975 persons and a sample frame of 204 persons. The data for this study were collected through the administration of a structured questionnaire to 204 household heads in four communities (Urubi, Ugbague, Eguadase and Etete) of Oredo LGA. Descriptive statistics such as averages and percentages were used in analysing the data. The results of the study indicate that female children were mostly trafficked, instigated mostly by social factors which include poverty (61.8%), parental neglect (18.6%) and poor governance/ social insecurity (10.3%). The predominant motives for child trafficking were prostitution, child labour and organ harvesting. The social health impacts of child trafficking include disruption in the education of children, poor mental and physical state of health, an increase in societal vices, non-inculcation of family values in children, unwanted childhood pregnancies and death in some cases. The study recommended measures to curb child trafficking to include free basic and secondary education for children, sensitisation of the public on the ills of child trafficking, implementation of policies against child trafficking and violations of child rights, prosecution of individuals involved in child trafficking and access to quality healthcare and social welfare for children.
Microbial Detection and Quantification and its Effects on the Potability of Ofu River Water in Anyigba, Nigeria
This study aimed at analyzing specie composition and community structure of microbial indicators and its potable water quality implications. The objectives were: to identify the types of microbials in Ofu River and Soils, quantify their community structure and compare with WHO, EU and NSDWQ standards. Total viable bacteria count for water samples was conducted while total coliforms count (TCCs) was analysed using standard Plate Coliform counts Technique using MacConkey Agar. Fecal coliform was determined using Eusin Methylene medium via Pour Plate Technique (PPT). The confirmation of the isolated medium was obtained using Lactose broth at 45.50C. Both soil and water samples were collected at four (4) different sample points (S1-S4) along the Ofu River channel. Soil samples were emulsified in 45ml of distill water followed by serial dilution until 106 was achieved. Results of TVBCs at S1 (Ojofu) was 6.7x10c6cfu/ml but MacConkey agar revealed 3.0x106cfu/ml concentration. At S2 (Agbenema), results indicate 5.8x106cfu/ml and 2.0x106cfu/ml respectively. At S4(Akponogwu), it was 6.1x106cfu/ml and 3.5x106cfu/ml. For total viable bacteria count (TVBCs) for the riparian soil, S1(Ojofu), it was 8.6x106cfu/kg and 4.1x106cfu/kg. At S2(Agbenema), it was 7.3x106cfu/kg and 5.2x106cfu/kg. S4 revealed a concentration of 9.4x106cfu/kg and 3.8x106cfu/kg. Soil Fecal coliform at S1(Ojofu) 4.0x105cfu/kg and 8.0x105cfu/kg. For water sample at S2 (Agbenema), it was 9.5x105cfu/ml and 11.5x105cfu/ml, S3 (Agala-Ogane)3.5x105cfu/ml and 11.5x105cfu/ml. This study recommends periodic microbiological assessment of Ofu River and its riparian soil so as to be abreast with microbial indicator’s concentrations and its potable water implications.
The Perennial Challenge of Corruption in Nigeria: The Way Forward
Corruption is a global phenomenon and continues to ravage nations with endemic abuse of entrusted power for personal gain. However, this problem is more devastating in developing nations such as Nigeria. In Nigeria, the challenging of corruption has become institutionalised, highly malignant and cancerous. Corrupt practices in the Nigeria have assumed threatening dimension that if the malaise is left unchecked, it may be the beginning of the end of a nationstate that its founders toiled assiduously to build. In view of the overwhelming impacts of corruption, this paper examines the perennial challenging corruption in Nigeria and the way forward to tackle the menace. Many factors are proved to have been responsible for this ugly scenario, amongst which is the institutional factors. The impacts are manifest in the decay infrastructure and decline in leadership’s trust and this call for collective efforts to checkmate and put an end to corruption and bring development in the country. The study utilises secondary sources of data mainly. The paper therefore suggests that a potent action against corruption must produce effective sanction and greater political transparency as a means of ensuring that the resources of the country are deployed to bring about sustainable development in Nigeria.
The Impact of Selected Macroeconomic Variables on Economic Growth in Nigeria
This study investigates the impact of selected macroeconomic variables on economic growth in Nigeria from 1981 to 2023, utilising key economic variables, including inflation rate, interest rates, trade openness, unemployment and exchange rates. The analysis employs data sourced from the World Development Indicators, leveraging the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach to capture both short-run and long-run dynamics. The findings reveal a significant negative relationship between inflation and economic growth, with a particularly strong impact on interest rates and unemployment. In contrast, trade openness and exchange rates exhibit no significant influence on growth during the study period. Based on these findings, the study recommends implementing robust monetary policies to control inflation, enhancing financial inclusion to lower interest rates and fostering policies aimed at reducing unemployment to stimulate economic growth. Additionally, it suggests that future research should explore the interactions between these variables across different sectors to better inform policymakers.
Socioeconomic Inequality and Body Mass Index in Nigeria: Evidence From Demographic Health Surveys
This study examined the distribution of Body Mass Index (BMI) across socioeconomic strata in Nigeria using nationally representative data from the 2008, 2013 and 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Surveys (NDHS). Using wealth indicator, education status and occupation type as ranking variables, this study employed the Concentration Index (CI) to measure inequality in BMI outcomes among adult women. Findings of the study revealed a consistent and rising concentration of BMI on the wealthier groups, with CI values for wealth increasing from 0.0652 in 2008 to 0.0840 in 2018. Similar patterns were observed with education, while occupational differences exhibit a concentration on the disadvantaged group, indicating relatively higher BMI among manual and unskilled workers. These results showed persistent and increasing socioeconomic disparities in nutritional health among the population of the study. The study, therefore, recommended, among others, that health and nutrition interventions be tailored to account for these socioeconomic gradients, particularly by enhancing access to preventive services and promoting awareness among the socioeconomic groups.
Agricultural Finance and Economic Growth In Nigeria
This study examined how agricultural finance affects Nigeria's economic growth from 1986 to 2024. The analysis utilised the Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme Fund, loans from banks to farmers, government expenditure on agriculture and real gross domestic product as indicators of agricultural funding. Time-series data for this analysis were obtained from the statistics bulletin of the Central Bank of Nigeria. Various data analysis techniques were applied, including the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression method, the Error Correction Model, the Johansen Cointegration test and the Augmented Dickey Fuller unit root test. The OLS estimate revealed that there is a significant relationship between agricultural bank loans and Nigeria's real GDP, specifically, the study shows that a 1% increase in BLN, GEX and ACS will result to 0.9, 0.6 and 0.1 expansion in GDP in Nigeria. Additionally, there is a strong correlation between the Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the level of government spending on agriculture. A meaningful and important relationship was found between Nigeria's Real Gross Domestic Product and the Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme Fund. The findings of this research indicate that investments from the Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme Fund, government funding for agriculture and bank lending have significantly contributed to Nigeria's economic development. Among other recommendations, it has been proposed that increasing the volume and size of agricultural loans by lowering interest rates will enhance economic growth in the country.
Socioeconomic Status and Child Health in North Central Nigeria: Mediating Roles of Policy Interventions and Practices
This study investigates the socioeconomic and health-related determinants of infant mortality and malaria occurrences among households in North Central Nigeria. Using stepwise logistic regressions on a sample of 539 households, the study examines the mediating effect of policy intervention and practices on the relationship between socioeconomic status and child health. The results reveal that household income consistently reduces both malaria incidence and infant mortality, highlighting the protective role of economic resources in improving living conditions and access to preventive measures. Maternal income significantly lowers malaria risk, while paternal education strongly reduces infant mortality, suggesting that household and parental human capital are critical determinants of child health outcomes. Sleeping under insecticidetreated mosquito nets significantly reduces both malaria incidence and infant mortality, whereas exclusive breastfeeding markedly decreases infant mortality but has no significant effect on malaria risk. Maternal occupation is positively associated with malaria, indicating occupational exposure, while paternal occupation increases infant mortality in models accounting for behavioural controls. Immunisation shows no significant effect on malaria and a weakly positive association with infant mortality, likely reflecting reverse causality or targeted vaccination of highrisk children. The findings underscore that child health outcomes are shaped by the interplay of socioeconomic resources, parental human capital and household health practices. Effective policy interventions should combine economic empowerment, parental education, promotion of preventive behaviours such as bed-net use and breastfeeding and targeted support for households at greater occupational or environmental risk, to simultaneously reduce malaria burden and improve infant survival.
Public Infrastructure and Private Domestic Firms’ (MSMEs) Performance in Nasarawa State, Nigeria
This study investigates the impact of public infrastructure on the performance of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Using primary data from 282 firms and a logistic regression framework, the analysis reveals a differentiated relationship. Public water supply significantly enhances firm output and capacity utilisation, while public transport services positively affect sales. Conversely, public electricity demonstrates an inconsistent and largely insignificant impact, attributed to endemic issues of unreliability and high costs. The findings underscore that effective public infrastructure is a critical driver of MSME performance by reducing transaction costs. The study further found that despite government initiatives, MSMEs face significant constraints, with infrastructure deficit being a primary bottleneck. The study concludes with targeted policy recommendations, including sector-specific infrastructure investments and public-private partnerships for reliable utilities, to foster a more enabling environment for domestic private investment and sustainable local economic development.
ASSESSMENT OF RESIDENTS' PERCEPTION OF CHILD TRAFFICKING IN OREDO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF EDO STATE, NIGERIA
Child trafficking is a societal problem which threatens the productive and leadership potential of children, who are seen as the hope of the future. This study has assessed the drivers, impacts and strategies for curbing child trafficking in Oredo Local Government Area (LGA) of Edo State. The study is based on SDG 3, which specifies 'Good Health and Well-being'. Good health and well-being play a critical role in the growth and development of children. Primary data for the study is derived from a field survey of residents in the study area based on the projected population size of 604,975 persons and a sample frame of 204 persons. The data was collected through the administration of a structured questionnaire to 204 household heads in four communities (Urubi, Ugbague, Eguadase and Etete) of Oredo LGA to which descriptive statistics such as averages and percentages was used in analysing the data. The results of the study indicate that female children are the most trafficked, instigated mostly by social factors which include poverty (61.8%), parental neglect (18.6%) and poor governance/ social insecurity (10.3%). The predominant motives for child trafficking are prostitution, child labour and organ harvesting. The social health impacts of child trafficking include disruption in the education of children, poor mental and physical state of health, an increase in societal vices, non-inculcation of family values in children, unwanted childhood pregnancies, and death in some cases. The study recommends measures to curb child trafficking to include free basic and secondary education for children, sensitisation of the public on the ills of child trafficking, implementation of policies against child trafficking and violations of child rights, prosecution of individuals involved in child trafficking and access to quality healthcare and social welfare for children.
MONETARY POLICY CHANGES AND UNEMPLOYMENT IN NIGERIA: EVIDENCE FROM SVAR MODELLING
This study investigates the impact of monetary policy changes on unemployment in Nigeria from 1981 to 2023, focusing on the role of key monetary variables such as interest rates, inflation and monetary aggregates (M2). Employing the Structural Vector Autoregressive (SVAR) model, the study analyses the dynamic relationships among these variables and their effects on unemployment. The findings reveal that monetary policy shocks, particularly changes in inflation and interest rates, significantly affecting unemployment in both the short and long run. Inflation shocks have an immediate negative impact on unemployment, while interest rate shocks exhibit a similar short-term effect. Additionally, M2 is found to play a crucial role in influencing inflation and, indirectly, unemployment. The study concludes that effective monetary policy can play a vital role in managing unemployment in Nigeria by targeting key macroeconomic variables. Based on these findings, the study recommends that Nigerian policymakers prioritise inflation control and interest rate stabilisation to reduce unemployment. Specific measures such as tightening the money supply through increased reserve requirements, adopting inflation targeting frameworks and using open market operations to manage liquidity are suggested. To stabilise interest rates, the Central Bank of Nigeria should maintain a consistent monetary policy stance and improve policy communication. Strengthening the financial sector and adopting counter-cyclical monetary policies are also recommended to mitigate the adverse effects of monetary shocks.
Structural Vector Autoregressive (SVAR) Model
POLICY-MAKING AND SOCIAL TENSION IN NIGERIA: A STUDY OF PRESIDENT TINUBU AMINISTRATION
This study examines the dynamics of policy-making and social tension in Nigeria during the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which began in 2023. The research explores how government policies, particularly in the economic sector, have influenced social stability and unrest. The historical context of Nigeria's political landscape, shaped by colonial history, ethnic diversity and economic disparities, is critical to understanding the current challenges faced by the nation. Utilising Social Conflict theory as the theoretical framework, the study analyses the implications of key policy decisions, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the liberalisation of the foreign exchange market on societal tensions. The research employs secondary data sources, including government reports, policy documents, academic literature and reputable media publications, to provide a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between governmental actions and social unrest. The findings reveal that the disconnection between policy intentions and the socio-political realities experienced by ordinary Nigerians has resulted in increased hardship and discontent, threatening national unity and development. Ultimately, the study highlighted the need for a more equitable and inclusive approach to policy-making that addresses the underlying inequalities contributing to social tensions in Nigeria.
MODERATING EFFECT OF PSYCHOLOGICAL EMPOWERMENT ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN JOB STRESS AND TURNOVER INTENTION
This study examines how psychological empowerment moderates the relationship between job stress and turnover intention among nurses in public hospitals in Katsina metropolis. A cross-sectional research design was adopted, and data were collected from 327 nurses using a simple random sampling technique and self-administered questionnaires. Findings indicate that job stress significantly influences turnover intention. Psychological empowerment also has a significant effect on turnover intention and moderates the relationship between job stress and turnover intention. Based on the findings, the study concludes that enhancing psychological empowerment can reduce the negative impact of job stress on nurses’ intention to leave. It is recommended that the managements of hospitals should implement empowerment-based interventions, provide supportive work environments and promote participatory decision-making to retain skilled nursing staff
IMPACT OF CONSUMER GOODS TRADE ON ECONOMIC GROWTH IN NIGERIA
This study investigated the impact of various categories of consumer goods trade, namely: food and live animals, beverages and tobacco, animal and vegetable oils or cooking oil and fats, and manufactured goods on Nigeria’s economic growth measured by Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate. The study employed the Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) test and PhillipsPerron (PP) test for unit root analysis, the ARDL bounds testing approach for cointegration and short-run and long-run ARDL models to determine the dynamic relationships. Granger causality tests were conducted to ascertain causality directions, while diagnostic tests ensured model robustness. The findings revealed that food and live animals, animal and vegetable oils or cooking oil and fats, and manufactured goods have a significant positive impact on GDP growth, whereas beverages and tobacco have a relatively weaker effect. The results indicate a robust long-term relationship between GDP and the consumption of these goods, particularly emphasising the critical role of manufactured goods. In conclusion, enhancing agricultural productivity, diversifying and innovating within the beverage and tobacco sectors, developing the oils and fats industry and innovation in manufacturing are crucial for optimising Nigeria’s economic growth. Recommendations included boosting agricultural efficiency, promoting innovation in beverage and tobacco industries, investing in processing and export opportunities for oils and fats and improving the competitiveness of the manufacturing sector. These measures are expected to strengthen Nigeria’s economic growth trajectory through effective management and strategic investments in consumer goods trade.
GOVERNMENT, ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND SOCIETY: A TRIPARTITE MODEL FOR ACHIEVING ENTREPRENEURIAL SUCCESS
The tripartite model of government, entrepreneurship and society offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex and dynamic interactions that drive entrepreneurial success. To explore this phenomenon, this study aims to examine the ecosystem of government, entrepreneurship and society in responding to the complexity of the interconnection mix of the tripartite model that influence the success of new ventures. It is a theoretical research study that adopted qualitative and phenomenological methods through the exploration review of extant literature. It focused on the symbiotic interaction among the Government-EntrepreneurshipSociety institutional actors, the influence of each of the actors on the others and the models that explains the interconnectedness of the tripartite actors on entrepreneurial success. The results of the study reveal that the interrelationship among the three actors is complex and by interdependence and interconnectedness, activities and actions of each actor affect the others and entrepreneurial success is determined by the direction of their interactions. The study concludes that the institutional actors through regulatory quality, government and market support and social norms are fundamental input variables that drive entrepreneurial success. The study recommends a supportive, stable and well-coordinated institutional environment that enables entrepreneurs to access resources, reduce uncertainty and achieve higher rates of success; carrying out empirical studies of the dynamics of GES-institutional players in Nigeria using quantitative approach; recommends comparative studies of the subject across different market economies to capture unique patterns of interaction among the tripartite institutional bodies in diverse environments; ensuring collaborative partnership and efforts of the tripartite actors to foster positive relationship; promoting inclusive stakeholders’ participation policy framework for entrepreneurship growth and socioeconomic progress; conducting educational programmes that can promote understanding of the interrelationships among the three institutional actors and prepare future leaders to effectively navigate along these heterogeneities.
STATE ASSEMBLIES, LEGISLATIVE CRISES AND LEADERSHIP REMOVAL IN NIGERIA
Since Nigeria returned to democratic system in 1999, under the presidential and federal constitution, an average of about two state assembly speakers have been removed per year. This study examines the reasons for the removals using secondary data generated from documentary evidence and online archives. The data analysed using the qualitative method, namely, explanatory and descriptive methods. The study covers forty-nine cases in 32 states of the federation and established forty-four cases of removals. The study argues that allegation of corruption and authoritarian leadership rank first and second most important triggers of the removals. Other triggers include administrative incompetence, executive instigated removal and the subordination of the legislature to the executive.
FEDERALISM AND A RETHINK OF TRADITIONAL OPTIMISM: A COMPARATIVE NOTE
An early generation of students of inter-ethnic or plural societies considered federalism an effective way of achieving and preserving both integration and stability in plural and deeply divided societies. No doubt, early generation of federal scholars see it as a ‘catchall management formulae’. That once a society is plural, federalism comes handy as a panacea. The thrust of this paper however is a challenge of the capability of federalism to perform the expected ‘magic’ as traditionally assumed in terms of seamless integration. Or put differently, experience has shown that it has not proved to be a particularly good device for integrating plural societies into a single political entity. The paper interrogates the two contending positions and takes a dim view of various federal arrangements – in both developing and developed democracies - and infers that for integration to be attained each federal system should be reinforced with federal instrumentalities if it will not eventually go the way of the defunct Soviet Union (USSR) amongst others systems.