NECO Government OBJ
- A — authority
- C — identify eligible voters
- B — coup d’etat
- B — legitimacy
- E — promote world peace and harmony
- B — multi
- B — 15
- B — National Party of Nigeria
- A — Ibrahim Babangida
- B — clerical
- B — Ladoke Akintola
- D — party leader
- D — limited powers
- A — citizens
- A — 1960
- C — executive head
- D — inform citizens about current events
- C — mass media
- D — shared between central and component units
- E — High Commission
- A — Hague
- A — federal government only
- D — secession of the eastern region
- A — Assembly of Heads of State and Government
- D — participation
- C — Independent National Electoral Commission
- E — traders union
- D — Propaganda
- B — constitution
- B — Nomination of candidates
- C — free and fair elections are conducted
- E — third
- E — 360
- B — open-secret ballot
- A — electoral constituencies
- E — public fiscal resources
- C — management
- E — transition programmes
- E — saves time
- B — democracy
- B — cultural and ethnic diversity
- B — General Assembly
- E — strike
- C — force
- A — dissolution of the parliament
- B — is convicted of a serious offence
- D — presidential
- C — exploitative
- B — federal
- D — profit oriented
- A — derivation
- C — exploitation and oppression
- D — housing for all
- B — 1953 London
- D — creation of states
- D — Sarki
- E — scrambling and partition of Africa for colonialism
- E — Mass education
- B — military
- B — free movement of persons and rights of residence
COMPLETED!!!
NECO Government Essay
Number 1
VERSION I
(1a)
Government as an institution of the state refers to the body or machinery through which the affairs of a state are organized, controlled and administered. It is made up of people and organs that make laws, implement laws and interpret laws for the maintenance of order and welfare of the citizens.
(1b)
(PICK ANY FIVE)
(i) Population: A state must have people living in it. The population may be large or small, but there must be human beings who are regarded as citizens or residents of the state.
(ii) Definite territory: A state must have a clearly defined geographical area. This includes the land, water and airspace within its boundaries. Without a definite territory, a state cannot exist.
(iii) Government: A state must have a government that controls and administers its affairs. The government makes laws, enforces laws, maintains order and protects the lives and property of the people.
(iv) Sovereignty: A state must have supreme power to make and enforce laws within its territory without control from another state. Sovereignty makes a state independent and gives it authority over its internal and external affairs.
(v) Recognition: A state should be recognized by other states and international organizations. This enables it to relate with other countries, sign treaties and participate in international affairs.
(vi) Permanence: A state is expected to have continuous existence. Governments may change from time to time, but the state itself remains.
(vii) Law: A state must have laws that guide the conduct of the people. These laws help to maintain peace, order and justice in the society.
(viii) Independence: A state must be free from external control. It must be able to make decisions for itself and conduct its affairs without being controlled by another country.
VERSION II
(1a)
Government as an institution of the state is the organized body of people and agencies that control, direct and manage the affairs of a state. It is the machinery through which laws are made, executed and interpreted for the purpose of maintaining peace, order, security and development in the society.
(1b)
(PICK ANY FIVE)
(i) Sovereignty: This is the supreme power of a state to make and enforce laws within its territory without being controlled by any external authority. It means that the state is independent and has final authority over its people and affairs.
(ii) Population: A state must have people who live within it. These people may be citizens or foreigners, but there must be a human population for the state to govern. Without people, there can be no state.
(iii) Definite territory: A state must occupy a fixed geographical area. This includes its land, rivers, lakes and airspace. The boundaries of the state must be known so that its area of control can be identified.
(iv) Government: A state must have a government that makes laws, carries out policies and maintains order. The government represents the state and performs functions such as defence, security, taxation and provision of social services.
(v) Recognition: A state should be recognized by other states and international bodies. Recognition enables the state to enter into diplomatic relations, sign agreements and participate in international organizations.
(vi) Permanence: A state has a continuous existence. Even when a particular government is removed or replaced, the state continues to exist. This means that government can change, but the state remains.
(vii) Law and order: A state must have rules and regulations that guide the behaviour of the people. Laws help to prevent disorder, protect rights and punish offenders.
(viii) Independence: A state must be free to control its own internal and external affairs. It should not be under the authority of another state.
VERSION III
(1a)
Government as an institution of the state is the group of persons and public offices established to run the affairs of a state. It is responsible for making policies, enforcing laws, protecting the people and promoting the general welfare of the society.
(1b)
(PICK ANY FIVE)
(i) Political organization: A state must have an organized political structure through which its affairs are controlled. This structure includes the government, officials and institutions that direct the activities of the state.
(ii) Sovereign power: A state must possess supreme authority over its territory and people. This means that it has the power to make laws, enforce them and take final decisions without being controlled by another state.
(iii) Defined boundary: A state must have a known and accepted boundary. The boundary separates it from other states and shows the area where its authority can be exercised.
(iv) People: A state must have people who live within its territory. These people are the citizens and residents who obey the laws, enjoy rights and perform duties to the state.
(v) Government machinery: A state must have institutions that help to administer its affairs. These include the legislature, executive, judiciary, civil service, police and other public agencies.
(vi) Ability to maintain law and order: A state must be able to control the behaviour of people through laws. It must also punish offenders and protect the lives and property of citizens.
(vii) External recognition: A state should be accepted by other states as an independent political unit. This recognition allows it to exchange ambassadors, sign treaties and join international organizations.
(viii) Control of resources: A state must have control over the resources within its territory. These resources help the state to provide services, maintain security and promote development.
(ix) Permanent existence: A state does not end when a government changes. Leaders may leave office, but the state continues to exist as long as its people, territory and institutions remain.
Number 2
VERSION I
(2)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Free and fair election: A government that comes to power through a free and fair election is more likely to be accepted as legitimate. This is because the people are given the opportunity to choose their leaders without intimidation, rigging or manipulation.
(ii) Popular support: A government becomes legitimate when it enjoys the support and approval of the majority of the citizens. If the people willingly obey the government and accept its policies, such a government is regarded as legitimate.
(iii) Good governance: A government that provides good leadership, protects lives and property, respects the rule of law and promotes development is likely to be seen as legitimate by the people.
(iv) Respect for the constitution: A government that follows the constitution and operates within the limits of the law gains legitimacy. When leaders obey constitutional procedures, the citizens are more likely to accept their authority.
(v) Protection of fundamental human rights: A government that respects the rights and freedoms of citizens gains the confidence of the people. Rights such as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, right to life and right to fair hearing help to strengthen legitimacy.
(vi) Accountability and transparency: A government that is open in its activities and accountable to the people is likely to be accepted as legitimate. Citizens trust a government more when public funds are properly used and leaders are answerable for their actions.
(vii) Provision of social amenities: A government that provides basic needs such as roads, schools, hospitals, electricity, water and security can gain the support of the people. These services show that the government is working for the welfare of citizens.
(viii) Rule of law: Legitimacy is promoted when government officials and citizens are equal before the law. A government that does not rule arbitrarily but follows the law will be respected by the people.
(ix) Recognition by other states: A government may gain more legitimacy when it is recognized by other countries and international organizations. This recognition shows that the government is accepted as the lawful authority of the state.
(x) Peace and stability: A government that maintains peace, order and security in the country is more likely to be accepted by the people. Citizens tend to support a government that protects them from violence, disorder and insecurity.
VERSION II
(2)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Constitutional rule: A government becomes legitimate when it rules according to the constitution of the state. If leaders follow constitutional procedures and do not act above the law, the people will accept their authority.
(ii) Regular election: Legitimacy is promoted when elections are held regularly to allow citizens to choose or change their leaders. This gives the people a sense of participation in government.
(iii) Free choice of leaders: When citizens are allowed to vote freely without force, bribery, rigging or intimidation, the government elected through such a process will be regarded as legitimate.
(iv) Respect for human rights: A government that respects the rights of the people will enjoy public support. Citizens are more likely to accept a government that protects their freedom, life, property and dignity.
(v) Performance of government: A government that performs its duties well can gain legitimacy. When it provides security, employment, education, health care, roads, electricity and other basic services, the people will support it.
(vi) Obedience to the rule of law: A legitimate government must rule according to law. Government officials should not act arbitrarily, and both leaders and citizens should be equal before the law.
(vii) Popular participation: A government gains legitimacy when citizens are allowed to take part in politics. This can be through voting, joining political parties, criticizing government policies and contesting elections.
(viii) Good leadership: Honest, responsible and patriotic leaders help to increase legitimacy. When leaders are not corrupt and they work for the interest of the people, citizens will have confidence in the government.
(ix) National unity: A government that promotes unity among different ethnic, religious and social groups is likely to be accepted by the people. It should avoid discrimination and treat all citizens fairly.
(x) International recognition: A government may also gain legitimacy when it is recognized by other countries and international organizations. This allows it to relate with other states as the lawful government of the country.
VERSION III
(2)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Method of coming to power: A government is more legitimate when it comes to power through an accepted method, such as election. If a government comes to power by force, the people may not regard it as legitimate.
(ii) Consent of the people: Legitimacy is strengthened when the people willingly accept the government. A government that rules with the consent of the citizens enjoys greater support and obedience.
(iii) Fair electoral process: When elections are properly conducted, citizens will believe that their votes count. This makes the elected government acceptable to the people.
(iv) Respect for public opinion: A legitimate government listens to the views, complaints and demands of the citizens. When the people feel that their opinions matter, they are more likely to support the government.
(v) Responsible leadership: Leaders who are honest, disciplined and committed to public service increase the legitimacy of government. Bad leadership, corruption and selfishness reduce public trust.
(vi) Protection of lives and property: A government that provides security for the people gains their confidence. Citizens will support a government that protects them from violence, crime and disorder.
(vii) Justice and fairness: Legitimacy is promoted when government treats all citizens equally. There should be no discrimination based on religion, tribe, class or political opinion.
(viii) Economic development: A government that improves the economy, creates jobs, reduces poverty and provides opportunities for citizens will gain more acceptance from the people.
(ix) Respect for the judiciary: A government becomes more legitimate when it allows the courts to operate freely. This shows that the government respects justice and the rule of law.
(x) Peaceful change of government: Legitimacy is strengthened when leaders can be changed peacefully through constitutional means. This prevents violence and gives citizens confidence in the political system.
Number 3
VERSION I
(3)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Small size of the state: A state may adopt a unitary system when its land area and population are small. In such a state, the central government can easily control and administer all parts of the country without difficulty.
(ii) Homogeneous population: A country with people of similar language, culture, religion and customs may adopt a unitary system. Since there are fewer differences among the people, there may be no need to divide powers among many levels of government.
(iii) Need for quick decision-making: A unitary system allows the central government to make decisions quickly. Since power is concentrated in one authority, there is less delay in making and implementing policies.
(iv) Desire for national unity: A state may adopt a unitary system in order to promote unity and loyalty to one central government. This helps to reduce sectionalism and division among the people.
(v) Less expensive to operate: A unitary system is usually cheaper because it does not require many levels of government with separate officials and institutions. This helps to reduce the cost of administration.
(vi) Strong central control: A state may adopt a unitary system when it wants the central government to have firm control over the whole country. This can help in maintaining law, order and security.
(vii) Uniformity of laws and policies: Under a unitary system, the same laws and policies can be applied throughout the country. This helps to avoid confusion and differences in administration.
(viii) Avoidance of conflict between governments: In a unitary system, there is less conflict between the central and regional governments because the central government is supreme. This reduces struggle over power and authority.
(ix) Effective use of resources: Since decisions are made at the centre, the government can plan and distribute resources according to national needs. This can help to prevent waste and duplication of functions.
(x) Emergency situations: A country may adopt a unitary system to make it easier for the central government to respond quickly during war, crisis or national emergency.
VERSION II
(3)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Easy administration: A state may adopt a unitary system because it is easier to administer. Since power is concentrated in one central government, policies can be made and carried out without too much difficulty.
(ii) Small population: A country with a small population may not need a federal system. The central government can easily govern the people directly and provide for their needs.
(iii) Small geographical area: A unitary system is suitable for a country with a small land area. The central authority can easily reach all parts of the state and control public affairs effectively.
(iv) Similar culture and language: A country whose people share similar customs, language, religion and way of life may adopt a unitary system. Since the people have much in common, there may be little need for separate regional powers.
(v) Reduction of cost: A unitary system is less costly to run because it does not require many levels of government with separate legislatures, executives and public officers. This helps to reduce government expenditure.
(vi) Uniform laws: A state may adopt a unitary system to ensure that the same laws and policies operate throughout the country. This promotes equality and makes administration easier.
(vii) Strong national government: A unitary system gives the central government strong authority to maintain peace, security and order in the country. This is useful where the state wants firm control.
(viii) Quick response to problems: In a unitary system, the government can respond quickly to emergencies because decisions are taken at the centre. This reduces delay in times of crisis.
(ix) Prevention of regional rivalry: Since power is not divided among strong regions, a unitary system can reduce conflict between different parts of the country. It helps to prevent unnecessary struggle for power.
(x) Promotion of national loyalty: A unitary system encourages citizens to give their loyalty to one central government rather than to regional or sectional authorities.
VERSION III
(3)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) To maintain strong central authority: A state may adopt a unitary system in order to make the central government very strong. This helps the government to control all parts of the country effectively.
(ii) To avoid division of power: In a unitary system, power is not shared equally between the central and regional governments. This prevents confusion over which level of government has authority over certain matters.
(iii) To promote uniform development: The central government can plan development for the whole country. This helps to ensure that government projects and policies are spread according to national interest.
(iv) To prevent sectional interest: A unitary system can reduce too much attachment to regions, tribes or local groups. It encourages citizens to think more about the whole country.
(v) To make law-making easier: Since the central government has the final authority, laws can be made faster and applied to the whole country without delay.
(vi) To ensure effective control of public officers: Under a unitary system, civil servants and public institutions can be controlled from the centre. This makes supervision and coordination easier.
(vii) To reduce administrative conflict: A state may adopt a unitary system to avoid quarrels between central and regional governments. Since the centre is supreme, there is less struggle over power.
(viii) To suit a country with common identity: Where the people share similar history, culture, language and religion, a unitary system may be suitable because there are fewer differences to manage.
(ix) To save public funds: A unitary system reduces the cost of running government because it does not require many separate governments with different officials and assemblies.
(x) To handle national emergencies quickly: The central government can act quickly during war, natural disasters or serious crises because decisions do not need to pass through many levels of government.
Number 4
VERSION I
(4)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Method of becoming head of state: In republicanism, the head of state comes to power through election or appointment by elected representatives. In monarchy, the head of state usually comes to power through inheritance.
(ii) Tenure of office: In republicanism, the head of state normally serves for a fixed period of time. In monarchy, the king or queen may rule for life unless removed, abdicates or dies.
(iii) Source of authority: In republicanism, political authority comes from the people through the constitution and elections. In monarchy, authority is often based on royal birth, tradition and hereditary succession.
(iv) Accountability: In republicanism, leaders are expected to be accountable to the people and can be removed through constitutional means. In monarchy, the monarch may not be directly accountable to the people, especially in an absolute monarchy.
(v) Succession: In republicanism, succession is usually determined by election or constitutional procedure. In monarchy, succession is usually determined by royal family line or inheritance.
(vi) Equality of citizens: Republicanism is based on the idea that citizens are politically equal and can aspire to public office. Monarchy gives special status to the royal family above ordinary citizens.
(vii) Nature of leadership: In republicanism, the head of state is usually a president. In monarchy, the head of state is usually a king, queen, emperor or emir.
(viii) Removal from office: In republicanism, a president can be removed through election, impeachment or other constitutional means. In monarchy, it is usually difficult to remove a monarch because the position is hereditary.
(ix) Democratic nature: Republicanism is more democratic because the people have a role in choosing their leaders. Monarchy may be less democratic, especially where the monarch has absolute power.
(x) Example: Nigeria and the United States are examples of republics, while Britain, Saudi Arabia and Morocco are examples of monarchies.
VERSION II
(4)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) In a republican system, the head of state is elected or chosen according to the constitution. In a monarchy, the head of state usually inherits the throne from the royal family.
(ii) In republicanism, the head of state is usually called a president. In monarchy, the head of state may be called a king, queen, emperor, emir or sultan.
(iii) In a republic, the leader normally stays in office for a fixed term. In a monarchy, the ruler may remain on the throne for life.
(iv) Republicanism is based on popular sovereignty because power belongs to the people. Monarchy is based mainly on hereditary right and tradition.
(v) In a republic, any qualified citizen may contest for political office. In a monarchy, only members of the royal family usually have the right to become ruler.
(vi) In republicanism, succession is done through election or constitutional arrangement. In monarchy, succession is usually through hereditary line.
(vii) In a republic, the head of state can be removed through constitutional means such as election or impeachment. In a monarchy, removing the monarch is usually difficult because the position is hereditary.
(viii) Republicanism encourages equality of citizens before the law. Monarchy gives special honour and privilege to the royal family.
(ix) A republic is usually more democratic because citizens have a role in choosing their leaders. A monarchy may be less democratic, especially where the monarch has wide powers.
(x) Examples of republican states are Nigeria, Ghana and the United States, while examples of monarchies are Britain, Saudi Arabia and Morocco.
Number 5
VERSION I
(5)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Search for raw materials: European countries colonised Africa because they needed raw materials for their industries. Africa had resources such as cotton, rubber, palm oil, cocoa, groundnut, gold, tin and other minerals which were useful for European factories.
(ii) Need for markets: Europe needed markets where they could sell their manufactured goods. Colonising Africa gave them control over African markets and allowed them to sell goods such as clothes, guns, mirrors, drinks and other factory products.
(iii) Investment of surplus capital: European businessmen had excess money which they wanted to invest outside Europe. Colonies in Africa provided opportunities for investment in mining, plantations, railways, trading companies and other businesses.
(iv) Search for cheap labour: Europeans needed cheap African labour to work on farms, mines, plantations, roads and railways. Colonisation enabled them to control African labour for economic purposes.
(v) Political competition among European powers: European countries colonised Africa because they wanted to show their power and greatness. Countries like Britain, France, Germany, Belgium and Portugal competed to acquire colonies as a sign of national prestige.
(vi) Strategic reasons: Some African territories were colonised because of their strategic importance. European powers wanted control of ports, rivers, trade routes and military bases to protect their economic and political interests.
(vii) Missionary activities: European missionaries came to Africa to spread Christianity. Their activities helped to open the way for colonisation because missionaries often encouraged European governments to protect them and support their work.
(viii) Desire to spread European civilization: Europeans claimed that they wanted to civilize Africans by introducing Western education, Christianity, European laws and modern administration. This was used as an excuse for colonisation.
(ix) Scientific exploration and discovery: European explorers travelled into the interior of Africa and reported on its resources, rivers, people and trade opportunities. Their reports encouraged European governments and traders to colonise African territories.
(x) Industrial Revolution: The Industrial Revolution increased the need for raw materials and markets. Since European industries were producing more goods, they needed colonies in Africa to support their industrial growth.
VERSION II
(5)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Economic interest: European powers colonised Africa because they wanted to control the economic resources of the continent. Africa had many valuable products needed for European trade and industrial growth.
(ii) Need for raw materials: European factories required raw materials such as palm oil, rubber, cotton, cocoa, timber, tin and gold. Colonisation made it easier for Europeans to obtain these raw materials cheaply.
(iii) Search for markets: The Industrial Revolution led to mass production of goods in Europe. Europeans therefore needed African territories as markets where they could sell their manufactured goods.
(iv) Cheap labour: Europeans needed Africans to work in mines, plantations, farms, railways and construction sites. Colonisation enabled them to control and use African labour at low cost.
(v) Investment opportunities: European merchants and companies wanted places where they could invest their surplus capital. Africa provided opportunities for investment in mining, agriculture, transport and trade.
(vi) National prestige: European countries colonised Africa to show their power and greatness. Possession of colonies became a sign of political strength and international importance.
(vii) Strategic advantage: Some African territories were colonised because of their location. European powers wanted to control seaports, rivers, trade routes and military bases for commercial and military purposes.
(viii) Missionary influence: Christian missionaries wanted to spread Christianity in Africa. Their activities encouraged European governments to take control of African areas in order to protect missionaries and their converts.
(ix) Exploration: Explorers travelled into Africa and gave reports about its resources, rivers and trade possibilities. These reports encouraged European governments and traders to take interest in colonising Africa.
(x) Claim of civilising Africans: Europeans claimed that they wanted to introduce Western education, Christianity, modern government and European culture to Africans. This claim was used to justify colonisation.
VERSION III
(5)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Industrial demand: European industries needed steady supplies of raw materials from Africa. Materials such as rubber, palm oil, cotton, cocoa, timber and minerals were needed to keep European factories working.
(ii) Control of African trade: European countries wanted to control trade in Africa directly instead of depending on African middlemen. By colonising Africa, they controlled buying, selling, prices and trade routes.
(iii) Search for new markets: European factories produced many goods after the Industrial Revolution. Africa provided a market where Europeans could sell their manufactured goods and make profit.
(iv) Political rivalry: European powers were competing with one another for greatness and influence. Colonies in Africa became a sign of national power and prestige among European countries.
(v) Need for military and naval bases: Europeans wanted important coastal areas, ports and routes for military and naval purposes. Such areas helped them to protect their ships, trade and overseas interests.
(vi) Missionary activities: Christian missionaries came to Africa to spread Christianity. Their presence encouraged European governments to take control of African territories in order to protect missionary work.
(vii) Activities of explorers: European explorers travelled into the interior of Africa and discovered rivers, resources and trade opportunities. Their reports encouraged European countries to colonise African territories.
(viii) Surplus capital: European businessmen had extra money to invest. Africa provided opportunities for investment in plantations, mines, railways, roads and trading companies.
(ix) Cheap labour: Europeans wanted African labour for mines, plantations, farms, roads and railways. Colonisation helped them to control labour and use it for economic gain.
(x) Claim of humanitarian mission: Europeans claimed that they wanted to stop slave trade, end barbaric practices and bring civilization to Africa. This claim was used as an excuse to colonise African territories.
Number 6
(6)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Shortage of British officials: The British colonial government did not have enough European officials to administer all parts of the colonies. They therefore involved African traditional rulers to help govern the local people.
(ii) To reduce administrative cost: It was cheaper to use existing African traditional rulers than to employ many British officers. The traditional rulers were already respected by the people and could help in administration at lower cost.
(iii) Knowledge of local customs: African traditional rulers understood the customs, traditions, languages and beliefs of their people. The British used them because they could easily communicate with the people and explain government policies.
(iv) Acceptance by the people: The people were already used to obeying their traditional rulers. By using these rulers, the British made colonial rule appear more acceptable to the local population.
(v) Collection of taxes: Traditional rulers were used to help collect taxes from the people. Since they knew their communities well, they made tax collection easier for the colonial government.
(vi) Maintenance of law and order: The British involved traditional rulers because they could help settle local disputes, enforce rules and maintain peace in their communities.
(vii) Easy communication of policies: Traditional rulers served as links between the colonial government and the people. They helped to pass government orders, instructions and policies to the local population.
(viii) To avoid resistance: The British used traditional rulers in order to reduce opposition to colonial rule. Since the people respected their rulers, they were less likely to resist policies introduced through them.
(ix) To preserve the traditional system: The British involved traditional rulers because they wanted to govern through existing political institutions instead of completely destroying them.
(x) Effective local administration: Traditional rulers helped in carrying out local duties such as sanitation, road maintenance, market control, local courts and community development.
Number 7
(7)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Wider consultation: The Macpherson Constitution was prepared after consultations with Nigerians at village, district, provincial, regional and national levels. This made Nigerians more involved in constitution-making than before.
(ii) Introduction of regional legislatures: The constitution created regional Houses of Assembly in the Northern, Western and Eastern Regions. This gave each region more opportunity to discuss and make decisions on regional matters.
(iii) Establishment of Houses of Chiefs: It established Houses of Chiefs in the Northern and Western Regions. This gave traditional rulers a role in the legislative process.
(iv) Creation of a central legislature: The constitution created a central House of Representatives for the whole country. This helped to bring representatives from different parts of Nigeria together to discuss national issues.
(v) Increased Nigerian participation: More Nigerians were allowed to take part in government under the constitution. Nigerians became members of legislative houses and executive councils.
(vi) Introduction of a Council of Ministers: The constitution provided for a Council of Ministers at the centre. This gave Nigerians some experience in executive administration.
(vii) Promotion of regionalism: The constitution strengthened the regional structure of Nigeria by giving the regions more political importance. This allowed each region to handle some of its own affairs.
(viii) Growth of political parties: The constitution encouraged political activities and helped in the growth of political parties in Nigeria. Political leaders used the opportunities created by the constitution to organize and mobilize the people.
(ix) Training for self-government: The constitution gave Nigerian leaders more experience in law-making and administration. This helped to prepare them for greater self-government.
(x) Unity through national representation: By bringing representatives from different regions together at the centre, the constitution helped Nigerians to discuss common national problems.
Number 8
(8)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Inadequate finance: Many local government councils do not have enough money to carry out their duties. Their internally generated revenue is low, and they often depend heavily on allocations from the federal and state governments.
(ii) State government interference: State governments often interfere in the affairs of local government councils. This reduces the independence of local councils and prevents them from taking decisions freely.
(iii) Corruption and mismanagement: Some local government officials divert public funds meant for development projects. This affects the provision of roads, health centres, markets, water supply and other services.
(iv) Shortage of skilled personnel: Many local councils lack qualified and experienced workers. This leads to poor planning, poor record keeping and ineffective execution of local government programmes.
(v) Poor revenue generation: Local government councils find it difficult to generate enough revenue from local sources such as rates, fees, markets and licences. This makes it hard for them to finance development projects.
(vi) Political instability: Frequent changes in local government leadership affect continuity of policies and programmes. New leaders may abandon projects started by previous administrations.
(vii) Poor leadership: Some local government chairmen and councillors lack good leadership qualities. They may fail to plan properly, supervise workers or provide services needed by the people.
(viii) Lack of autonomy: Local governments in Nigeria often lack full political, financial and administrative autonomy. This makes them depend on state governments for funds and important decisions.
(ix) Low public participation: Many citizens do not take active interest in local government activities. This allows leaders to mismanage resources without proper public supervision.
(x) Poor infrastructure: Many local government councils lack good offices, roads, vehicles, electricity and modern equipment. This affects their ability to perform their duties effectively.
Number 9
(9)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) National interest: Nigeria’s foreign policy is affected by what the country considers beneficial to its security, economy, independence and development. Any policy that protects Nigeria’s interest is usually given attention.
(ii) Economic needs: Nigeria’s need for trade, foreign investment, loans, technology and economic assistance can affect her foreign policy. The country may relate closely with states that can support her economic growth.
(iii) Geographical location: Nigeria’s location in West Africa affects her foreign policy. This is why Nigeria gives attention to peace, security and cooperation among neighbouring countries and ECOWAS members.
(iv) Political leadership: The views and personality of Nigerian leaders can affect foreign policy. Different leaders may give more attention to Africa, the West, the United Nations, or economic diplomacy depending on their beliefs and priorities.
(v) Military strength and security: Nigeria’s defence capability and security needs influence her foreign relations. The country may cooperate with other states to fight terrorism, border crimes, smuggling and other security threats.
(vi) Public opinion: The views of citizens, pressure groups, labour unions, students and the media can influence government decisions on foreign affairs. Government may avoid policies that are strongly opposed by the people.
(vii) Ideology: Nigeria’s political beliefs and principles can affect her foreign policy. For example, support for democracy, self-determination, anti-colonialism and peaceful settlement of disputes can guide Nigeria’s external relations.
(viii) International organizations: Nigeria’s membership of organizations such as the United Nations, African Union, ECOWAS and Commonwealth affects her foreign policy. Nigeria is expected to respect the aims and decisions of these organizations.
(ix) Historical experience: Nigeria’s past experience of colonialism and its role in African liberation struggles affect her foreign policy. This explains Nigeria’s interest in African unity, independence and opposition to foreign domination.
(x) Availability of natural resources: Nigeria’s oil and gas resources influence her foreign policy because many countries are interested in economic relations with Nigeria. Oil also gives Nigeria some importance in international politics.
Number 10
(10)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Veto power: The five permanent members of the Security Council have veto power. This often prevents the United Nations from taking quick and effective action on important international issues.
(ii) Lack of military force: The United Nations does not have a permanent army of its own. It depends on member states to provide soldiers for peacekeeping operations, and this can delay action.
(iii) Financial problems: The United Nations depends on contributions from member states. When some countries fail to pay their dues regularly, the organization may not have enough funds to carry out its programmes.
(iv) Conflict of interest among member states: Member states often pursue their own national interests. This makes it difficult for the United Nations to reach agreement on certain matters.
(v) Non-compliance by member states: Some countries refuse to obey United Nations resolutions and decisions. This weakens the authority and effectiveness of the organization.
(vi) Ideological differences: Differences in political and economic beliefs among countries can hinder the work of the United Nations. Such differences often lead to disagreement among member states.
(vii) Interference by powerful nations: Powerful countries sometimes influence the decisions of the United Nations in their own favour. This makes smaller nations feel that the organization is not always fair.
(viii) Slow decision-making process: The United Nations has many organs, procedures and committees. This can make decision-making slow, especially during urgent international crises.
(ix) Sovereignty of member states: The United Nations cannot easily interfere in the internal affairs of independent states. This limits its ability to solve problems within countries.
(x) Frequent wars and conflicts: The many wars, civil conflicts and terrorist activities in different parts of the world make it difficult for the United Nations to achieve peace and security fully.