AJAG Article

Abstract

This study examines the concept of good governance as a crucial factor in ensuring national prosperity,
enhancing development, and maintaining sustainable individual and communal dignity. Developmental
deficiencies in Nigeria are attributed to the crisis of poor governance, which results in high unemployment rates,
budget deficits, infrastructural gaps, increasing debt profiles, multidimensional poverty, and insecurity. Using
secondary data and participant observation, the study reveals that poor governance perpetuates poverty, and
impoverished populations contribute to poor governance through systemic disorder, ignorance, lack of
democratic culture and practice, corruption, and indiscipline. Conversely, good governance is essential for the
growth and sustainability of any country. The study highlights the need for effective strategies to enhance good
governance and meaningful development. It emphasizes the importance of realistic action plans focusing on
viable remedial interventions to drive sustainable economic growth and development. The study recommends
that, to maintain competitiveness in the new economic age, the government should provide the necessary
infrastructure to encourage the application of innovation and technology across all sectors of the economy. This
would bolster the economy by adding value, creating a sustainable technology-based entrepreneurial culture,
and generating new business opportunities, as well as incubating spin-off technologies. In conclusion, the study
asserts that deliberate intervention policies, when appropriately and faithfully implemented, will stimulate and
propel Nigeria‘s inherent potentials toward productivity and gainful engagement.

Good Governance in Nigeria: The Harbinger to Individual and Communal Dignity, 2023, Vol. 1, No. 1, pp. 53-63. PDF