Individual Research Projects(IRP)

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Critical Appraisal of Nigeria’s Fiscal and Budget Management System
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Sufi, Sani Ahmed
Budget and fiscal management system is one of the key elements that have a determinative impact on the quality of development process of a nation. This critical role of the system must have informed the painstaking efforts of the present administration in Nigeria to find ways to reform the system, and strengthen its capacity to activate the economy to provide for the developmental needs of the national society. This study is intended as a contribution to this governmental initiative. The general objective is to provide a critical overview of the macro economic framework upon which the national budget and fiscal management process are formulated so as to identify areas of weaknesses which may need reform. The data for the study is collected from government reports and other documents pertaining to national development plans and budgeting process. The study also derived a lot of information from interviews conducted with government officials concerned with fiscal and budget matters. On the whole, the study highlighted that reforming the budget system must be targeted at four major problem areas namely the country's fiscal dependence on oil revenue and its volatility, the external debt overhang, the huge budget deficits and uncontrolled public spending. Reform initiatives are also required on the conduct of the budget process itself, especially in the areas of capacity building for budget personnel, computerization of budget inputs and processes as well as inter institutional linkages and collaboration. Finally, the study recommended the establishment of Federal Stabilisation Fund for oil windfall, aggressive pursuit of debt conversion programme and transparent administration of the budget and fiscal system.
Political Economy of the State Creation in Nigeria: Rivers and Bayelsa State as a Case Study
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Oworibo, Oworibo
On October 1, 1960 when Nigeria gained independence from Britain, it had a tripodal regional structure. These were the Northern, Eastern and Western regions. Since then, the internal composition has been changed six times starting in 1963 when the Mid-Western Region was carved out from the Western Region. In 1967, there was the first military-mediated state creation exercise when 12 states were created out of the then four regions. Subsequent state creation exercises increased the number to 19 in 1976, 21 in 1987, 30 in 1991 and the current 36-state structure in 1996. Reasons advanced for the creation of new states have varied with time. In the early years of the nation-state, demands were motivated by the need to allay fears of the domination of ethnic minorities by the majority ethnic groups. Further demands were fuelled by the attempt to redress the imbalance in the federal structure; ensuring rapid economic development among ethnic groups; equity and fair play; bringing government closer to the people and for political stability. The changing reasons given at the different times states have been created, indications to the fact that there are other underlying reasons not mentioned. The study has shown that the dominant reasons also include economic factors, which are the decisive formative influences on social life. The elite clamour for the creation of additional states for the economic gains derivable from such access. The often advanced reason of bringing development to the people has begun to raise doubts as most states only wait for federal allocations, most of which they use for recurrent expenditures, thereby leaving the areas undeveloped. This is why today, many of the 36 states cannot provide all the essential amenities for socio-economic stability of their states. Observers of the nation's growth and development therefore watch with rapt attention the justification behind the several exercises carried out on the number of states created between 1967 to 1996. To stem the tide to further agitations, good governance has been identified as the primary panacea. Good governance here is taken to mean adhering to the constitutionally provided federal character principle in making appointments and distribution of amenities.
Harnessing the Potential of Nigeria’s Herbal Medicines: the Role of Government Agencies and Standardisation
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Omotayo, Rufus Kayode
The use of herbal medicines in health care is becoming increasingly popular all over the world, even in the developed countries such as Europe and the United States of America. China and India have successfully integrated the use of herbal remedies into their health care systems. The ability of these countries to successfully harness the potentials of their herbal medicinal resources remains a strong challenge to Nigeria whose heavy dependence on importation of orthodox medicinal products and their raw materials is a burden on the nation's economy and its health care delivery. In Nigeria, herbal medicines form the core of traditional medicine that is still widely patronized by over 70% of the populace. It is the aspect of traditional medicine that is amenable to scientific investigation and assessment unlike the spiritual and occultic aspects. The strong appeal for the patronage of traditional medicine is because it is more accessible, available and affordable than orthodox medicine. In China and India as well as in the developed countries, standardization of herbal medicines has reached a level that is comparable to that of orthodox medicines. This is not yet the case in Nigeria where the use of herbal medicines is still largely in the hands of traditional medicine practitioners. Most of these people are not yet knowledgeable about standardization of herbal medicines. This paper has, therefore, examined the roles of relevant government organisations and other stakeholders in achieving an acceptable level of standardization. The need for the conservation and sustainable development of Nigeria's medicinal flora in underscored by the fact that most of the herbs used by practitioners are sourced from nature, raising the fears of possible extinction of these species. The initiatives of Bioresearches Development and Conservation Programme in conservation activities remain some of the prospects for the nation's herbal medicine development programme. However, the absence of legislation for the implementation of the National Traditional Medicine Policy is a cause for concern. The challenges confronting the nation in its attempts to harness the potentials of its herbal medicinal resources may be formidable but certainly not insurmountable. It only requires a great deal of efforts, determination and commitment by the government and other stakeholders to achieve success as in some other countries.
Committed Implementation of the Industrial Master Plan: a Must for Real Growth in the Nigerian Economy
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Imianvan, Omobola Adeola
Between 1989 and 1991 the Guidelines for the Strategic Management of Industrial Development in Nigeria (SMID), otherwise known as the Industrial Master plan (IMP) was prepared and launched by the President. The Guidelines marked Phase I of the plan. Unfortunately, the other two phases were abandoned due to lack of funding and commitment by the government. Meanwhile, the IMP has been tested in countries of the Pacific Rim such as Korea and Malaysia, as is recommended by the United Nations. This essay analysed the various attempts since independence to achieve growth and development in the industrial economy. The botched attempt by Nigeria at implementing the Industrial Master plan was analysed through the activities (or lack of it) of the Strategic Consultation Groups set up to manage the twelve priority sub-systems identified by the IMP Guidelines — Foundry and Forges; Metal Fabrication; Cement; Sugar, Confectioneries and Beverages; Leather and Leather Products; Rubber and Plastics; Textiles and Wearing Apparel; Pharmaceuticals; Non-metallic Building Materials; Cereals and Grains Milling; Fruits, Vegetable Oils, Oil Seeds, Roots and Tubers; and Livestock and Allied Products. Information received from field survey and secondary data from the Federal Ministry of Industry, CBN and the World Bank show the similarities in industrialisation policies between Nigeria, Korea and Malaysia, over the last 40 years or so. However, while Nigeria remained a low-income nation, the other two have moved up into the medium-income group. The difference was mainly due to the successful implementation of the IMP in these two countries. The essay therefore called for a return to the Master plan and its full and committed implementation by Nigeria.
The Nigerian Navy as a Facilitator of Maritime Economic Activities
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Biobaku, Olukayode Oluwole
It is apparent that Nigerians in the past were unaware of the very crucial role of the NN in the facilitation of maritime economic activities, until the advent of crude oil as the principal foreign exchange source for the country. This lack of appreciation of the enormous potential uses of the sea stemmed from technological backwardness and the absence of maritime culture, coupled with the fact that marine activities are far removed from the glare of most Nigerians. But recent technological advancements have altered this apathy towards the oceans, with Nigeria now dependent almost entirely on oil exploration from the coastal waters for economic survival. Fin and Shell fish from the marine environment also provides cheaper protein to teeming Nigerians and holds promise as a viable alternative source of foreign exchange. Furthermore, abundant marine minerals such as manganese nodules, sand, gravel and tin among others are still unexplored. Besides, ocean transportation accounts for over 80 percent of Nigeria's imports/exports of goods, making the country almost dependent on this mode for the facilitation of economic activities. As a result of this growing prosperity from our waters, there have been upsurge in local violent agitations, illegal economic activities and other potential threats to law and order within the maritime environment. This study therefore assesses the capability of the NN as the principal facilitator of maritime economic activities. In this regard, an assessment of the current NN capabilities and the strategy employed against these emerging threats reveal obvious deficiencies in maritime policing operations. The problems include inappropriate and inadequate platforms, maintenance and logistics difficulties, and the absence of professionally trained, skilled and experienced personnel required for maritime policing tasks. Meanwhile, the issues of effective maritime law enforcement, and safety of navigation are identified as crucial to facilitating maritime economic activities. The NN would therefore need to improve its performance in maritime policing/Coast Guard duties through a balanced training doctrine that professionalizes not only purely military tasks, but also that of maritime policing. The enhancement of the NN maritime policing operations will need to be complemented by increased cooperation and interactions with other maritime players, particularly the law enforcement agencies. Ultimately however, a national ocean policy would be required to resolve the crucial problems of how the various elements of national sea power are coordinated. This is expected to produce the desired atmosphere for vibrant maritime economic activities in Nigeria.
Promoting Development at the Grassroots: the Role of Local Government Council
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Ofili, Okechukwu
Local governments are closest to the grassroots. In this regard, they are expected to contribute meaningfully to the wellbeing of the citizenry at that level by promoting development within the communities in their various domains. In order to achieve these objectives, various functions have been reserved for the local government councils which are duly enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This study is concerned with the high poverty level at the grassroots. It is, therefore, felt that local government councils must devote greater attention to poverty eradication programmes, Areas of intervention identified include agriculture, mass literacy programmes, formation of co-operative societies and women empowerment programmes. The holistic or integrated approach to development must also be vigorously pursued by the local governments. Through this means, the local governments should aim at creating model communities in which all the basic facilities without exception such as roads, health institutions, water and electricity are provided. These matters have not sufficiently attracted the attention of the Local Government Councils. It is noteworthy that in the continued efforts to put the Local Government Councils on a platform on which they can effectively perform, the 1976 Local Government Reform was undertaken. Consequently, Local Governments were recognized as the third tier of government. Highlights of the reform included guaranteeing the councils a share from the Federation Account; a share of the states' internally generated revenue and better quality workforce, The Local Government Councils, however, continue to be assessed poorly by the general populace in the performance of their duties. A survey carried out in this study established as much. In addition, the survey identified problems besetting the Councils to range from the perceived structural defects of the local government councils to high operational costs and corruption. Issues of intergovernmental relations have also been considered in this paper, It is important to stress that for as long as local governments continue to depend heavily on the revenue from the federal and state governments, they would not have much latitude to man oeuvre in the performance of their duties. The truth of the matter is that "he who pays the piper, dictates the tune." Only very few local governments in Nigeria, if any, can exist without the allocations from the federation account. Moreover, the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria makes the local government a state matter. This paper while recognizing that the local government councils could be more functional, submits that the problems facing them are deserving of attention. Towards this end, it is recommended that periodic reviews should constitute an essential ingredient of the local government system in Nigeria in order to properly focus it to meet the yearnings of the populace. This is an area that should engage the attention of scholars undertaking future work on Local Government Councils. One of such reviews of the Local Government system is now imperative especially under the new democratic dispensation.
World Bank Funding in the Less Develop Countries: A Corporative Study of Nigeria and Indonesia
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Adedoyin, Olufunke D.
Foreign aid was once perceived as the magic wand that would confer development on the less developed countries (LDC) of the world. Aid, in the form of long-term loans at concessionary rates from multilateral aid agencies could be applied to long-term infrastructural, social and industrial programmes. The failure of most of the LDCs to evidence economic growth and real development resulted in the castigation of multilateral aid agencies, especially the World Bank as neo-imperialist tools for the perpetration of under-development in the LDC. Nigeria and Indonesia are both former colonies who share a large number of features, and are member countries of the World Bank Group, the foremost multilateral aid agencies in the world. Both have availed themselves of lending from the World Bank and have been subjected to similar aid conditionalities. Nigeria, despite its abundant oil-generated resources and heavy borrowing has not developed; its economic and social indices have declined or stagnated. Indonesia on the other hand is characterized by far healthier economic and social indices. Due to the large number of features, which these two countries have in common, the objective of this study is to subject them to a comparative analysis. The study is undertaken to examine the role of World Bank funding in the two countries between 1984 and 1994; its impact, as well as the significance of each countries internal drive toward real development in the years under study. A comparative historical and analytical research method was used to collate and analyze data for interpretation of past trends in both nations. Internal development objectives, discerned through a review of national budgetary allocation to real development, combined with an examination of sectoral allocation of World Bank funding reveals the developmental thrust of each nation. Indonesia consistently devoted a larger portion and value of National budgets to real development. It employed World Bank funding either to supplement low internal sectoral budgetary allocations or to reinforce budgetary spending in other sectors. It combined good economics with good politics to address internal political problems and generate foreign exchange. It showed a marked commitment to a poverty-focused, agriculturally propelled development strategy with a commitment to infrastructural and rural development. The predominance of oil was de-emphasized. Nigeria on the other hand spent very little on real development in its national budgets. This low spending was not supplemented by foreign borrowing in any coherent manner, nor was borrowing used to reinforce budgetary allocations. Foreign borrowing was not incorporated into any discernible development objective. Nigeria did not address herself to the political and social dynamics of development in the years under study. It did not construct a coherent, real-development facilitating approach to the conduct of its economic affairs. Oil remains Nigeria's predominant foreign exchange earner. A poverty-focussed development strategy was not designed, its rural majority was largely ignored, and agriculture was not encouraged. Issues of equity and social justice did not feature at all. The resulting political, economic and social tensions there from must be addressed. Nigeria has to strengthen democratic and accountable governance. It must render enough to its people to engender the public trust, which it must have to take bold, new initiatives required to restructure her economy and achieve real development.
Concepts of and Issues in Collective Security for West Africa
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Ndazumi, Ibrahim Dirisu
International relations have undergone drastic changes in recent years. The year 1991-92 witnessed dramatic shifts in world politics. The break-up of the erstwhile Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War, coupled with the collapse of communism, brought into focus fresh tensions and alignments. These events led to the redefinition of the dynamics of the policies of nations. The present bleak economic situation in the world has adversely affected international relations and international security. The last several years have witnessed a growing number of interventions in internal and regional disputes in Africa. The frequency of this kind of behaviour by both regional and external actors suggests that intervention is a significant issue of African regional security. However, discussion of intervention and regional security will be narrowed down to the West Africa Sub-region, but it made retrospective enquiry into the League of Nations; the United Nations, as well as Africa. Since the establishment of the UN and the signing of its Charter in June 26, 1945, the nature of the international body's activities to implement the Charter has changed considerably. These operations have evolved from the classical peacekeeping operation, to complex multi-dimensional peacekeeping operations, where the military component is but one of the role players. Where the use of force was usually not a consideration for the earlier peacekeeping operations, the mandate to use some form of force has now become the rule rather than the exception. African High Command (AHC) was mooted as a form of collective security in the 1960s. Due to plethora of problems, the AHC did not go beyond the drawing board. The failure of the OAU to midwife a regional collective security under its umbrella, paved the way for Sub-regional arrangement such as ECOWAS/ECOMOG. The coming into existence of an institution like ECOMOG was foreshadowed in the original articles of the ECOWAS treaty. It needed the simmering conflict of the Liberian Civil War to trigger its evolution. It was against the background of gruesome forebodings that the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS met in Banjul The Gambia, in 1990. It is unimaginable what the fate of Liberia and its immediate neighbours, Sierra Leone and Guinea, who were swamped and overrun by hordes of Liberian refugees, would have been today had ECOMOG not been established to help bring peace to Liberia. ECOMOG was an insurance of safety, and it provided visible and assured security guarantees. ECOMOG's professionalism, competence and dedication throughout all phases of the peace plan have earned it and ECOWAS high praise from the international community.
Sharia and the Rights of Non-Muslims: A Case Study of Zamfara State
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Takori, Mohammed Sani
As a result of the controversy generated by the introduction of Sharia Legal System in Zamfara State and other states in the North. This study "Sharia and the Rights of non-Muslims: A Case Study of Zamfara State" is undertaken. The purpose of the study is to examine all the controversies on the constitutionality or otherwise of Sharia. The workability of Sharia within the Nigerian Federal System. the issue of secularism, and the rights of non-Muslims residing in Zamfara State. The study also carefully analyses the evolution and the essentials of Sharia to Muslims as well as the reasons for its adoption by Zamfara State Government. In the course of undertaking this study. Interviews and written responses were obtained from Muslims and Christians alike. Other reference materials. Include publications, Books, Newspapers, and Library materials. Reference is also made to the provision of the Holy Qur'an the Sunnah of the prophet (SAV). The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 and various legislations made by Zamfara State Government for the implementation of Sharia in the State. The study also focuses on the position of Sharia in Nigeria before the coming of the colonialists. the gradual introduction by the colonialists of policies which replaced Sharia with the Common law, the resistance to these changes by the Muslim during the colonial and post colonial period and the reasons for its adoption by Zamfara State Government. Other issues highlighted and discussed include the problems of implementation and the fear expressed by non-Muslims in Zamfara State Consequentl. The study brings into focus the rights of non-Muslims under the Sharia State tracing their origin from the first Islamic State of Medina. These rights are carefully- analyzed within the context of the provisions of the Constitutions of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999. After careful data analysis. The study’s major findings include that the Zamfara State Government has made legislation for the protection of the non- Muslims from being taken to Sharia Court. The provision of Section 5( 11) of the Sharia Penal Code has restricted the application of the code to those who profess Islamic faith only The provision is found to be adequate and there is need for the enhancement of the code to enable it fully recognize Chapter IV of the Constitution aealing with the fundamental human right particularly Sections 33-46 in order to guarantee full fundamental rights of the non-Muslims as enshrined in the Constitution residing in Zamfara State. On the other hand, facts revealed by this study indicate that the non-muslims in Zamfara State are still not satisfied with these provisions. The position of non- Muslims in the State is that the implementation of sharia still curtail their fundamental rights which include the right to an their programme on ZamfaraRadio. The teaching of Christian Religious Knowledge. Denial of land to build churches. Lack of representation in the State Executive Council. Non-establishment of Christians Pilgrims Welfare Board, lack of avenue for the Christians and Muslims to meet and discuss issues affecting the non-Muslim in the process of implementation of Sharia. The study concludes with findings, recommendations and strategies for their implementation by Zamfara State Government and other states implementing Sharia in Nigeria.
Long Term Financing of Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) as a Veritable Tool of Economic Development Planning in Nigeria
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Umar, Mohammed Gambo
The study appraised the concept of economic development planning on a theoretical basis and related the analysis to economic development planning in Nigeria from 1960 to 2000. The National Development, Rolling Plans and the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) were carefully examined. The plans, in relation to the enormous human and material resources committed to them, were failures. The reasons for the failure include among others: a. Political instability leading to frequent changes in policies, plans, personnel and abandonment of projects, (b) The plans did not derive from a well-conceived national economic ideology or philosophy. (c) Some of the policies were inappropriate, such as public sector domination of the economy, import-substitution industrialization which relied on imported machineries and raw materials, and subsidies which were badly implemented. (d) The legal environment generally discouraged transparent businesses. (e) Fiscal indiscipline which led to serious internal and external debt problems (f) Some of the policies do not permeate the whole economy because of the existence of a large informal sector. The Financial System in Nigeria, with a focus on the Banking Industry was examined, with a view to assessing its capability of supporting a private sector driven economy. The banking industry, until the economic liberalization programme of the early 90s, relied heavily on government patronage and did not effectively support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which are effective catalysts for economic growth and development. While the urban areas have adequate banking facilities, the rural areas, where the majority of the population lives, seem to be under banked. The study concludes that the private sector should lead the country's economic revitalization programme while governments at all levels should restrict themselves to the provision of infrastructure, security and a conducive environment, especially regulatory and legal, for business to thrive. The study proposes a rudimentary economic growth model, with SMEs integrated into the petrochemical industry, providing the basic framework. However, certain reforms are essential for the model to work effectively. These include: - giving prominence to collation of statistics at all levels of society to facilitate economic planning, Investing heavily on education, including adult education, to produce the much needed quality manpower and an informed citizenry, Policy formulation should be more consultative and participatory, involving experts and major stakeholders. Further, the government should as much as possible and practicable, minimise undue external influences on domestic policies, the banking industry, especially the development banks should be restructured to effectively support the proposed growth model, the provision of basic infrastructure such as electricity, telephones, roads, and water and Investing heavily on security of life and property.
Old Conception and New Realities: the Theoretical Discussion on the Style of Substance of Nigeria’s Foreign Policy in the New World
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Umar, Mohammad Gali
The demise of the Soviet Union marked end of the Cold War and the beginning of a new era, which has come to be regarded as the New World Order. This new era is characterized by unprecedented changes that spanned the political, economic, social and cultural dimensions of international life. These changes would have obvious implications for Nigeria's leadership role in Africa and its significance as a prominent player on the world stage. Nigeria's response and the relevance of the country's foreign policy to the New World Order constitute the theme of this paper. The study starts with an examination of some general notions of "world order" and a specific consideration of "the New World Order", its nature and characteristics. The existence of a New World Order, in which the United States of America has emerged as the only pre-eminent global super power, was established. It was argued, however, that pax americana by no means meant the establishment of a unipolar structure in world politics. The new system that has emerged could at best be regarded as a transitional stage from a bipolar to a multipolar structure, with diffuse and varied power centers. Thereafter, the evolution of Nigeria's foreign policy was reviewed through an examination of the fundamental principles, i.e. the substance - of the policy and the style adopted by various Nigerian governments in the conduct of foreign relations. The objective was to identify the consistency or otherwise of the foreign policy principles through the different regimes, with a view to determining their relevance in the changed environment of the New World Order. The features of that New World Order were then identified as encompassing globalization of the world economy; the recourse to multilateralism, regionalism, and collective security in international politics; and the reinterpretation of some traditional concepts of international relations, such as national sovereignty. The spread of certain universal social and cultural values as well as the global revolution in communications and information technology, which have shrunk the world to a "universal village", were seen as further characteristics of the New World Order. The paper concludes by observing that the traditional principles of Nigeria's foreign policy - the old conceptions have not changed, but are still valid in the new realities of a changed international environment. There is need, however, for strengthening the domestic foundations of the foreign policy, as well as a review of some aspects of its formulation and implementation. Some recommendations were therefore proffered in that regard.
Problems Militating against Qualitative Healthcare Delivery in Nigeria: a “Critic” of the Role of Federal Ministry of Health
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Ahmed, Mohammad
In spite of Nigeria's relentless efforts toward improving the health status of her people, the unstable economic situation and also the lack of political will laudable desire. Over the years, federal government administrations failed to allocate sufficient funds to the health sector. In other words, the percentage of national budget advocated by the World Health Organisation (WHO) is never met. Among other problems identified, is a gross imbalance in the health status and services between urban and rural dwellers. The presumed necessary modifications to positively address this enigma have always been impeded by the following problems: a. Low community participation b. Poor management capacity c. Poor emphasis on promotive and preventive health care delivery. The result of all these factors put together can be attributed to irresolute political commitment in the implementation of plans for improving Nigeria's health sector. These problems are not unconnected with the overall factors stagnating the Nigerian economy and its political and socio-cultural performance. Therefore, any reference made toward sanitising the health sector of this nation would obviously address the various notorious problems that have wrecked the sector for years. One of such notorious problems (apart from inadequate funding) is that medical equipment. These often times are either not available, or are obsolent and above all, are even completely broken down due to lack of maintenance. The Federal Ministry of Health should pivot the course of ensuring a vibrant health care delivery system for the health status of its teeming population. To ensure positive dramatic changes reforms in the Nigerian health sector should cut across budgetary allocation and expenditure, professionalism, equipment and political will.
The Nigerian Armed Forces and Response to National Disaster
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Ojukwu
Nigeria has suffered from many devastating man-made and natural disasters. The high death toll and property losses from these national disasters in Nigeria, are estimated at over 2% of the country's GNP. This qualifies our national disaster as a major threat to our national development, and, thus, a threat to the national security. Therefore, the Nigerian Armed Forces should play a key role in our national disaster management. A review of some of the typical cases of national disasters, demonstrates a high degree of unpreparedness by the Nigerian Nation to manage these disasters. In fact, Nigeria does not seem to have a comprehensive strategy for effective management of her national disasters, in spite of the establishment of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). The easily recognizable pitfall in Nigeria's disaster management strategy, is the almost total neglect of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the national disaster management. According to the Nigerian Constitution (Section 217 (2c) of 1999), the Armed Forces could only intervene in civil matters when called upon to do so (on emergency basis) by the President. The Constitution, therefore, implies that the Armed Forces cannot, on their own, respond to national disasters. But, paradoxically, Nigerians expect prompt and decisive response to national disasters from various military commanders within their localities, and often feel let down when they fail to assist the public, promptly, during national disasters. This study, therefore, sought to examine, critically, the national disaster management strategy with particular reference to the role of the Nigerian Armed Forces, and propose a more comprehensive disaster management framework. The study involved extensive literature search, as well as interviews of individuals and institutions, who are the key stakeholders in disaster management in Nigeria. In the course of the research, it became clear that with the establishment of NEMA by Decree No.12 of 1999, the Nigerian Nation took a very bold step in addressing, once and for all, the perennial problem of haphazard response to national disasters. The problem of no specific role for the Armed Forces (except when ordered out on emergency basis by the President), has been ameliorated by NEMA through the concept of the military Disaster Reaction Units (DRUs). However, the research identified three serious weaknesses in NEMA, which must be addressed in this early (foundation laying) phase of its life, to ensure a strong and resilient NEMA. The weaknesses so identified in NEMA were: Non-establishment of Local Government Emergency Management Committees (LGEMCs); The lack of direct control of SEMCs and LGEMCs by NEMA; and NEMA's poor influence over its disaster management partners, whom it is supposed to coordinate. As a way forward, the study has come up with a proposal on how the serious weaknesses in NEMA could be rectified, as well as appropriate strategy to ensure active involvement of the Armed Forces in Nigeria's national disaster management.
Traditional Institution as Agent of National Security in a Democratic Setting
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Bakut, Ibrahim
Security is a major prerequisite for any nation seeking to achieve meaningful development. Governments all over the world strive to ensure that their citizens are secure enough to pursue their lawful businesses without let or hindrance, and that foreign investors feel sufficiently convinced about the safety of their investments in their host countries. For over three decades, Nigeria has been experiencing instability in governance. Democratic rule has been truncated several times by military leaders and, as a result, the economy has been going down a precipice with its attendant consequences. Therefore the standard of living of the populace has been worsening by the day, unemployment is rampant, poverty grinding, social amenities and services poorly provided and morality is at its lowest ebb, while societal values have been bastardised. These conditions have posed serious threats to the security of the nation as they have resulted in criminal activities, labour agitation, ethnic/regional demands, religious intolerance, communal clashes, among many other factors threatening the stability of the nation. Security agencies have been stretched to the limit in their efforts to grapple with these threats without significant success. It is in this light that this study attempts to examine the entire situation with particular attention given to the role traditional institutions had played, are playing and can play in achieving formidable security in their communities because they have intimate knowledge of their areas. During the pre-colonial era, traditional rulers were in the forefront on matters of security, but with the advent of nationalists, and democratic governance, they lost this role to the politicians and later to the military, who did not succeed in tackling the problem of insecurity in the country. The threats to security have, therefore, remained unabated, and are even increasing at an alarming rate. Hence, the need to harness all resources to beef up security in Nigeria. Accordingly, the study advocates the full involvement of traditional rulers in ensuring national security. Their grassroots reach and the respect they command among their people, should be taken advantage of by Government. The civil society, which has hitherto remained unconcerned about matters of security, needs to be effectively mobilised to play its part alongside national security agencies. Issues of national security should be of concern to every citizen. To this end, security awarenessm should be taught from the primary school so as to create security consciousness in our society right from childhood. Security is a collective responsibility of all Nigerians.
The Regulatory Agencies and the Pharmaceutical Business in Nigeria
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Okoye, Ifeanyi Eric
The pharmaceutical business can be described as a special purpose business. A business which, though seems open and simple, should not actually be conducted without strict observation of some special ethics. This is so in developed countries. In some developing countries, like Nigeria, it is an all corners business where professional ethics are substituted for quick money. The resultant effect being the wastage of human life, as dangerous drugs are displayed anywhere and are accessible to whoever cares to ask. The Nations economy is constantly bastardized, due to inflow of all forms of drugs from different parts of the world. The importance of regulation at this stage cannot be overemphasized. However, the legislators are uninformed. The Regulatory Authorities are not well trained and sometimes mortgage their conscience to quick money at the expense of the life of the people and the economy of the nation. The essence of this work is therefore to look into some of these problems, identify who is involved in the regulation, examine the causes and proffer recommendations for solutions. The Pharmaceutical Business in any nation cannot contribute its quota to the health and economy of the nation without adequate regulation.
Government and Biotechnology Research in Nigeria
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Adamson, Ishola
Biotechnology is a traditional science of all cultures in the world. The new biotechnology that President Olusegun Obasanjo wanted Nigeria to engage in is genetic engineering. This is a technique that uses living organisms to make or modify a product, to improve plants or animals or to develop microorganisms for specific uses. This science which must be based on long experience in traditional science is best carried out in Nigeria in the agricultural sciences, where Nigeria has over a century of research experience. Biotechnology has a lot of benefits, which have been identified by Nigerian stakeholders. Only scant effort has, however, been expended by the country on biosafety concerns. Biotechnology researchers and facilities are in short supply and discussions of the technology in the country are abysmally low. Nigeria has launched a policy for biotechnology, which has been criticized for its inconsistency and lack of clear focus. The implementation option proposed for Nigeria's policy on biotechnology in this essay was derived from the combination of the strategies used by Cuba and Netherlands. The role of government should be regulatory of biotechnology science and business rather than be involved directly in carrying out the research. It is recommended that Nigeria should invest mostly in basic and applied research in the Universities and the Institutes respectively before the benefits of biotechnology can be realized in Nigeria.
Sexuality Education in Primary and Secondary School as a Strategy in the Prevention of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Sule, Ibrahim Babaminin
Sexuality education in primary and secondary schools as a strategy in the prevention of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection in Nigeria was examined. This was with a view to identifying, factors militating against or in favour of the implementation of the subject.The need to articulate the best approach of implementation of sexuality education informed the choice of this study. A Pilot study of sexuality education in primary and secondary schools was conducted in Niger State of Nigeria. The target population in the study was teachers. Injunctions were obtained from both the Holy Quran and Bible to illustrate the provision of sexuality education in Islam and Christianity. Further information on sexuality education was obtained from relevant documents and organisations. The pilot study revealed that sexuality education was taught only in eight (27%) out of the total of 30 schools involved in the study. Of the total number of respondents (526) only 179 (34%) were trained in sexuality education. Factors identified to influencing implementation are culture, religion and government policy, of which religion was predominant. Reasons given for not teaching sexuality education include: inclusion of contraception in the curriculum, young age of schools children, and propensity to sexual promiscuity, none inclusion of sexuality education in the schools' syllabus and lack of trained teachers in the subject. Information from FMOH, FMOE, NERDC and AHI revealed that there is need for more coordinated efforts among the government and non-governmental organisations for successful implementation of sexuality education. To this end, the following recommendations are given: (i) All tiers of government should create enabling environment for the acceptance of sexuality education. (ii) Government should promote and sustain capacity building and provide necessary facilities for the teachers. (iii) Encouragement should be given to pupils' and students' active participation and (iv) Government should fashion out policy aimed at promoting a sustained inter-sectoral collaboration among the relevant government and non-governmental organizations.
An Assessment on Socio-Economy Dimension of Custodial Nature of Imprisonment in Nigerian Prisons
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Labo, Hassan Saidu
This study examines the state of custody and its socio-economic impact on society and Government based on analysis of statistical data on nationwide prison inmate disposition. The mobile nature of prison population, paucity of statistical data, inadequacy of skilled statisticians and literature on some of the issues under review however, posed some measure of limitation to the comprehensiveness of the study. The study identifies poverty, unemployment, especially as it affects the youths, unbridled quest for materialism, corruption and moral decadence in the society as factors fuelling criminality and its subsequent implications. It further posits that the new democratic dispensation has a moral duty to positively demonstrate its new orientation on past human right abuses as it affects prisoners in line with the provisions of international statutes to which it is a signatory. The essay traced the global evolution of the penal system observing the gradual change in perception of penal institutions from the repressive punitive stance of over three centuries ago, to the new orientation hinged on humane containment, reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of the offender. It also notes the provisions of prison ordinance No. 21 passed in 1916 as the major turning point in prison administration. The study revealed that wide variation in prison inmate population exist from one region to another, between and within zones, state commands and individual prisons, and in relation to the installed capacity. Further, socio-culturally diverse, densely populated industrial cities especially those in the southern commands of the country were found to be worse affected by inmate congestion both in terms of adequacy of inmate cell space and in number of awaiting trial population. The study surprisingly observed that overcrowding in prison, viewed in a more general perspective is more due to uneven distribution of inmates rather than inadequacy or lack of space. Most of the pre-trial detainees were in custody on charges for offences that do not attract bail. The high awaiting-trial population was traced partly to a penal orientation of over use of sentencing options, functional inadequacies of the arms of the three arms of the criminal justice, limited funding to the service, and existence of certain obsolete provisions of the prison act. The essay notes that absence of proper prison classification, only succeed in creating a situation of re-cycling ill-reformed convicts exposed to further risk to life threatening diseases. The essay also discussed policy options in some health management areas and also proffered recommendations and implementation strategies toward tackling problems of prison classification and other issues relevant to prisoner rehabilitation, stressing that the prison service must be adequately empowered morally and financially if it is to cope with the challenges arising there from.
Women in the Nigerian Economy: A Case Study of Niger and Plateau States
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Bala, Dije Jibrin
Nigeria has continued to be characterized by a low level of growth and development despite the huge natural and human resources at her disposal because of her inability to bring these resources together for optimal utilization. Women who form a large percentage of Nigerian human resource have over the years contributed immensely to the developmental process of the country as mothers, wives, housekeepers and community mobilisers in addition to their participation in the economic activities of the country. Women make up the bulk of the labour force in agriculture which is the mainstay of the Nigerian economy. They also constitute the majority in the informal sector where they provide jobs to a large segment of the society in addition to providing services themselves to the Nigerian populace. Yet, their contributions are not recognized or appreciated by both the government and the people of Nigeria. This failure of the government and the people to acknowledge women contribution as well as recognize the unfavourable condition within which the women exist and perform their various activities have seriously militated against the optimal contribution by women to the economy of the country. This study was based on library research, direct interviews and the completion of questionnaires administered to a cross section of women in Niger and Plateau States in order to find out their contribution to the economy. The results of the research revealed the following: a. That women are involved in various aspects of the Nigerian economy. b. That they constitute the bulk of the labour force in agriculture. c. That they are poorly represented in the two states formal sectors. d. That they participate fully in the upkeep of their families. e. That negative socio-cultural practices, political instability, scarce financial resources, low level of education and poor infrastructure has constituted serious obstacles to women's optimal contribution to the national economy. The study also profaned the strategies for improving women's participation in the economy to include the following: (a) The Government should direct the banks to reduce their lending interest rates to enable women access loan, (b) Women should be enlightened on the benefits derivable from belonging to cooperative societies. Government to give soft loans to women with which to generate their own funds for further developments, (c) That requests by banks for collateral as a requirement for accessing loan to women be reviewed, (d) Intensive mobilization of women to effectively participate in all economic spheres through workshops and enlightenment programmes be organized by the government through the Ministry of Women Affairs at Federal and State levels, (e) Policies that are beneficial to women should not only be put in place but should be executed.
The National Health Insurance Scheme: Problems and Prospects
(National Institute Kuru, 2001-11-30) Gana, Daniel S.
Health sector reform is on the agenda of the government in Nigeria, as in other developing countries and transitional economiesof the world. This is because health care systems of such countries are characterised by problems of inequitable access, unsatisfactory quality, technical and allocative inefficiencies, revenue shortfalls, escalating costs and increasing demands from the fast growing population with increased demand for social services. Moreover, it is serviced by poorly motivated health personnel. The need to reform the sector informed the establishment of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). The recognition of the age-long tradition of risk sharing amongst Nigerians, the will for community self-help and solidarity amongst the rural communities have been exploited in the design of the Scheme. The essay reviews the various models of health insurance as practised in other countries like Chile, Tanzania, South Africa, United Kingdom and United States of America. The comparative study shows that the Nigerian model was best suited for the country. Though Act 35 of 1999 that established the NHIS is presently before the National Assembly undergoing amendments, it is the view of this essay that the Scheme be adopted immediately while amendments be made as the Scheme is put to test. Social Health Insurance is based on the principles of "solidarity" and equity. When the risk of falling ill and resources are pooled among a large population, the large resources made available will provide sufficient funds to take care of each member in need of care at anytime. This enhances the security of each individual in the group. There is cross-subsidy, and this is the essence of solidarity. Furthermore, while the NHIS will supervise the Scheme, the Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) that are limited liability companies will run the Scheme. That in essence is liberalising the health sector.

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