Good Governance and Sustainable Socio-political Development in Nigeria: A Discourse

Abstract

As a universally accepted socio-political instrument in overcoming the challenges of socio-political instability good governance provides opportunities for popular participation in decisions that affect the life of the people, access to power and transparency, predictable and stable legal frameworks – rule of law – that promotes equality of citizens  as well as accountability of those in power. Often socio-political policies presumably designed to meet the need and promote the sustainability of socio-political development are deliberately manipulated by the political leaders and in the process circumvent constitutional provisions thus making the reality of a sustainable political system through good governance a pipe dream. This work presents an understanding of good governance and sustainable socio-political and economic development, the essence of the state which is not embedded in the constitution but also a function of the ideas and nature of problem confronting the state. Good governance no doubt is pivotal to successful and sustainable development; hence for enduring developmental progress to take place the basic tenets of good governance must be well institutionalized.

Keywords: Good governance, Accountability, Sustainability, Corruption, Development