Problems of development planning and implementation in Nigeria (2024)

Abstract:Nigeria's various development plans from 1945 to 1993 served the planners' specific objectives. Thus the colonial plans served the interests of the colonial administrators by making Nigeria a cheap source of raw materials for British industries and a viable market for the metropole's finished products. On the other hand, postindependence Nigeria's National Development Plans aimed at increasing the economic and social welfare of Nigerians and making the country economically self-sustaining. However, Nigeria's development plans have been poorly implemented, amongst others as a result of a lack of trained manpower and managerial expertise in public policy administration, the weak linkage between planning and management and between plan preparation and implementation, the pressure of unfavourable conditions in internal and external markets and the failure to make provision for uncertainties, notably fluctuating oil revenues, corruption and lack of commitment on the part of government functionaries, and abuse of contract awards. Recommendations to achieve effective planning and implementation conclude the article. Bibliogr., sum. in English and French.