Local Government and Its Development Capabilities in Nigeria: A Study of Nassarawa Local Government

Abstract

The paper examined Local Government and its development capabilities in Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State. The theoretical framework for this paper is anchored on Amartya Sen's capability approach. The first clarification that needs to be made is to ask whether the capability approach is a well-defined theory, or something broader, like a paradigm. In its most broad form, the capability approach can indeed be considered to be a paradigm. However, not everyone uses it as such. It could help to distinguish between three different levels at which the capability approach is operating: first, as a framework of thought for the evaluation of individual advantage and social arrangements. Second, as a critique of other approaches to the evaluation of well-being and justice. Third, as a formula or algorithm to make interpersonal comparisons of welfare or well-being. The capability approach is primarily and mainly a framework of thought, a mode of thinking about normative issues, hence-loosely defined-a paradigm. Sen has stressed that the capability approach can be used for a wide range of purposes (Sen, 1993). What does it mean to see the capability approach as a general framework of thought for the assessment of individual advantage and social arrangements? The capability approach focuses on the information that we need to make judgments about individual well-being, social policies, and so forth, and consequently rejects alternative approaches that it considers normatively inadequate, for example when an evaluation is done exclusively in monetary terms. The paper utilized primary data collected from a sample of 267 respondents using self-administered questionnaire, descriptive statistical technique using simple percentage presented in form of table and chart was employed to analyze the data collected. The paper revealed that Nassarawa Local Government has the capability to act and commit, that Nassarawa Local Government deliver on development projects; that Nassarawa Local Government has the capability to relate with external stakeholders, and that Nassarawa Local Government adapt and self-renew. The paper, therefore recommends; that the Nassarawa Local Government should improve on her capability to act and commit by ensuring that it effectively able to make decisions and commitments on viable policies that will improve the development capabilities of the Local Government, that the Nassarawa Local Government should improve on her capability to deliver on development projects by ensuring that the local government have sufficient and capable staff; clear organizational responsibilities; adequate financial resources; and effective administrative mechanisms in place, that the Nassarawa Local Government should improve on its capability to adapt and self-renew by regularly monitoring and evaluating the progress made on its development objectives, and encourage internal learning and reflection, that the Nassarawa Local Government should improve on her capability to relate with external stakeholders by adopting the policy of Public-Private Partnership as well as establishing a cordial relationship with NGs and international organizations.