UNITARY FEDERALISM IN NIGERIA: HISTORICAL BACKGROUND AND IMPLICATIONS FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

This study explores the history, evolution, and implications of unitary federalism in Nigeria and its impact on national development using theoretical frameworks such as the dependency and resource control theories which supply a channel to understand Nigeria’s unitary federalism and its developmental implications. Adopting a qualitative methodology, it critically analyzes secondary sources, including academic texts, policy documents, and relevant reports. The research highlights how centralization within Nigeria’s federal system has led to regional inequalities, governance inefficiencies, and socio-economic underdevelopment. The research findings reveal that policies such as fiscal centralization and limited regional autonomy have perpetuated resource mismanagement and inter-regional tensions. Efforts to address these challenges, including the establishment of development commissions and constitutional amendments, have achieved limited success due to corruption and resistance to reforms. The study recommends restructuring Nigeria’s federal system to promote inclusivity, regional autonomy, and transparent governance for sustainable development.