GOVERNANCE STRUCTURES IN CHINA AND NIGERIA: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF POLITICAL SYSTEMS AND INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

This study compares the political and governance structures of China and Nigeria, highlighting their similarities and differences. China operates under a centralized framework dominated by the Chinese Communist Party, with key institutions such as the National People’s Congress, the State Council, and the judiciary playing defined roles. In contrast, Nigeria functions as a federal presidential republic with a clear separation of powers across its executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Despite these differences, both countries share similarities as federal republics with significant influence from dominant political parties. The study concludes that their distinct governance structures reflect divergent developmental paths and underscore the balance between centralized authority and democratic participation. Recommendations include expanding research into other facets of China-Nigeria relations and conducting comparative studies with additional countries to provide broader insights.