INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS (INTRA AND INTER) AND SOCIAL INTEGRATION IN NIGERIA’S TWENTY-ONE YEARS OF DEMOCRATIZATION

ABSTRACT

Since the beginning of Nigeria’s fourth Republic 1999, the relationship among agencies, tiers and arm of government has not been healthy, thus cast aspersion on the likelihood of IGRs in stimulating social integration in Nigerian federal system. This unhealthy relationship is not unconnected with overbearing influence of the federal government over other levels of government which had heightened (inter and intra) governmental relations in Nigeria. A number of recent trends and challenges are identified while its implications on national integration are drawn from the current practices of IGRs in Nigeria. The paper explores secondary data such as textbooks, published journals, online information among others to explain the missing link between IGRs and social relations in contemporary Nigeria. The authors find out that the practice of intergovernmental relationship as shown today in Nigeria has not in any way strengthened good relationship among the units of governments. The paper therefore suggests the necessity to practice federalism base on constitutionalism and rule of law. Consensus must also play maximum role while taking important decision rather than coercion. The spirit of equality among the levels and arm of government must be imbibe toward strengthening intergovernmental relations and promote social integration in Nigeria.

Keywords: Constitution, Federalism, Integration, Government and Nation-States