Government E-Note: Nature and Structure of Nigerian Federalism

Subject: Civic Education / Government

Class: JSS 3 / SS 1

Topic: Nature and Structure of Nigerian Federalism

Lesson Objectives:

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Define federalism and explain the nature of Nigeria’s federal system.

2. Describe the structure of Nigeria’s federalism.

3. List the levels of government in Nigeria and state their functions.

4. Identify the features and challenges of Nigeria’s federalism.

Instructional Materials:

• Nigeria’s map showing states and geo-political zones

• Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

• Chart showing the three arms and three levels of government

• Diagrams of federal structure (if available)

Previous Knowledge:

Students are already familiar with the concept of government and the idea of power sharing in a country.

Content of the Lesson:

1. Definition of Federalism

Federalism is a system of government in which powers are constitutionally shared between a central (federal) government and component units such as states, regions, or provinces.

Each level of government operates independently within its own area of authority, as provided by the constitution.

2. Nature of Nigeria’s Federalism

• Nigeria practices a federal system of government because of its ethnic, cultural, religious, and linguistic diversity.

• Nigeria’s federalism was influenced by British colonial rule and began formally with the Lyttleton Constitution of 1954.

• The Nigerian federal structure aims to promote unity in diversity, ensure equitable distribution of resources, and give each region a sense of belonging.

Key characteristics of Nigeria’s federalism:

• Written constitution that defines the powers of each level of government

• Division of powers between the federal, state, and local governments

• Supremacy of the constitution

• Cooperation and coordination among the different levels of government

• Revenue allocation and resource control issues

• Multi-ethnic composition and cultural diversity

3. Structure of Nigeria’s Federalism

Nigeria operates on a three-tier federal structure:

i. Federal Government (Central Government)

• Located in Abuja (the Federal Capital Territory).

• Headed by the President.

• Controls areas such as defense, foreign affairs, immigration, currency, and customs.

• Has three arms: Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary.

ii. State Governments (36 States)

• Each state has its own governor and House of Assembly.

• Handles matters like education, health, agriculture, and local infrastructure.

• They also have their own courts and laws under the state level.

iii. Local Government Areas (774 LGAs)

• These are the closest governments to the grassroots.

• Administered by Local Government Chairmen and Councillors.

• Provide primary health care, sanitation, and local roads.

• Created to bring governance closer to the people.

4. Powers and Responsibilities of Each Level

5. Features of Nigeria’s Federalism

• Constitutionally defined powers for each level

• Multiple political parties and elections

• Supreme Court to resolve constitutional disputes

• Diverse ethnic and religious groups living within one nation

• Revenue sharing formula between the three levels of government

• Autonomy of state governments

6. Challenges of Nigerian Federalism

• Resource control disputes

• Ethnic and religious conflicts

• Uneven development

• Corruption and mismanagement

• Demand for more states and local governments

• Tension between federal and state governments

Conclusion:

Nigeria’s federalism is a unique system designed to manage its diversity and promote national unity. Although it has faced several challenges, it remains a key feature of the country’s political structure. Understanding how it works helps citizens appreciate the responsibilities and functions of various levels of government.

Evaluation Questions:

1. What is federalism?

2. Describe the structure of Nigeria’s federal system.

3. List three responsibilities of the federal government.

4. How many states and local governments does Nigeria have?

5. Mention two challenges facing Nigeria’s federalism.

Assignment:

Draw a diagram showing the three levels of government in Nigeria and give two functions of each level.