Kashere Journal of Politics and International Relations

The Outsourcing Paradox: A Critical Analysis of Efficiency and Efficacy in Nigerian Federal Tertiary Educational Institutions

Lawan Cheri — 2025-09-02

The study examines the effects of the Nigerian federal government’s outsourcing policies on Tertiary educational institutions (TEIs) in Nigeria, focusing on their impact on organizational efficiency, student academic performance, and the broader socio-economic landscape. Drawing on data from 22 in-depth interviews and three focus group discussions across three federal institutions in Yobe state, the research employed purposive, quota, and snowball sampling. Thematic analysis revealed that while the policy has led to perceived benefits such as cost savings and a reduced supervisory burden for institutions, these gains are significantly undermined by systemic implementation failures. Findings indicate a decline in the quality of non-core services like cleaning and security, which has created an unconducive academic environment and contributed to a rise in theft across the affected TEIs. Furthermore, the policy has been found to have severe socio-economic consequences, including staff retrenchment and the exploitation of workers through sub-minimum wage payments. The study concludes that the policy’s failures are not inherent to the concept of outsourcing but are a direct result of poor governance, lack of monitoring, and inadequate oversight. It calls for a fundamental re-evaluation of the policy’s implementation, urging for a new approach that prioritizes ethical labor practices, transparent accountability, and robust governance to ensure that the policies genuinely serve the best interests of both the institutions and the public they serve.

An Assessment of the Socio-Economic Effects of Military Barracks on Host Communities in Kaduna State

Yusuf Hashimu — 2025-08-06

Nigeria Defence Academy, Kaduna State

Impact of Climate-Smart Agricultural Cooperatives on Conflict Prevention and Rural Prosperity in West Africa

Mukhtar Bello — 2025-08-28

The climate change exacerbates resource conflicts and undermines rural livelihoods in West Africa, yet climate-smart agricultural (CSA) cooperatives offer a promising solution. This study investigates how CSA cooperatives in Ghana and Senegal reduce land and water conflicts while enhancing rural prosperity. Using a mixed-methods case study approach, data were collected from local government records, NGO reports, and focus group discussions with cooperative members. In Ghana’s Asunafo North Cooperative, agroforestry and land-use agreements increased maize yields by 39% and incomes by 28%, while reducing farmer-herder disputes by 70% between 2018 and 2024. In Senegal’s Louga Water Users’ Cooperative, drip irrigation and water-sharing agreements boosted rice yields by 28% and incomes by 32%, cutting water-related conflicts by 80%. Community perceptions highlight cooperatives as platforms for trust and economic stability, reinforcing peace. Challenges include funding constraints, limited technology access, and policy gaps. The findings address a gap in understanding CSA cooperatives as dual drivers of peacebuilding and economic resilience, offering a scalable model for climate-vulnerable regions. Recommendations include sustained funding, stronger policy integration, and inclusive governance to scale cooperative impacts. This study underscores the potential of CSA cooperatives to transform resource scarcity into opportunities for collaboration and prosperity in West Africa.

Challenges of Implementing Rice Anchor Borrower Programme for Food Security in Kogi State, Nigeria

Ahmed Tijani Yusuf — 2025-08-28

The smallholder rice farmers in Kogi State, Nigeria, are pivotal to national food security and economic stability, yet they face systemic challenges that undermine productivity, despite government policies targeting agricultural revitalization. The Diffusion of innovation theory was employed as theoretical framework and both primary and secondary methods were utilized. This study examines the interplay between federal and state agricultural rice policies—such as the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) and the persistent obstacles confronting smallholder rice farmers in enhancing food security. Through qualitative review of policy documents and academic literature, the research identifies critical gaps in policy implementation, including dilapidated rural infrastructure and climate vulnerabilities. Findings reveal inefficient government policies in tackling the challenges of food security. The study underscores the urgent need for stakeholder-inclusive reforms and enhanced climate-resilient infrastructure to empower smallholder farmers. By addressing these challenges, policymakers can unlock Kogi State’s potential to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s rice self-sufficiency goals. While existing studies broadly address agricultural challenges in Nigeria, there is little focus on the unique socio-political and ecological dynamics of Kogi State. On this note, the study’s recommendations include effective government policies and localized policy design that enhances food security.

The Casualties of Greed: Governance Crises, Development Stagnation, and the Quest for Institutional Reforms in Nigeria

Tolulope Julius Omoyeni — 2025-08-18

The Nigerian State, Africa's most populous nation, has long struggled with governance crises rooted in corruption, political instability, and systemic inefficiencies. These challenges, largely driven by greed at various levels of government, have resulted in significant developmental stagnation, impeding economic growth, social progress, and the realization of the nation's full potential. This paper examines the intricate relationship between governance failures and their implications for sustainable development in Nigeria, emphasizing the critical role that institutional weaknesses play in perpetuating a cycle of underdevelopment. The study highlights that the true victims of Nigeria’s governance crises are the everyday citizens, who bear the brunt of mismanagement, poor policy decisions, and systemic corruption. Employing a Qualitative Critical Phenomenology (QCP) approach, this research analyzes secondary data, to explore the relationship between elite greed and developmental stagnation. Drawing upon the Conceptual Framework for Nigeria's Governance Crises and Developmental Stagnation, the study investigates how elite greed, ethnic and regional tensions, and institutional weaknesses have contributed to Nigeria's slow pace of development. This paper emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive systemic reforms that empower citizens to actively engage in governance and demand accountability from their leaders. The paper recommends civic education programs designed to raise awareness of existing accountability frameworks, such as the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act and Whistle-blower Protection laws, enabling citizens especially in rural areas to challenge poor governance.

Exploring the Impact of Job Rotation on Organizational Performance: A Qualitative Inquiry within the Yobe State Civil Service

Lawan Cheri — 2025-09-02

This study examines the perceptions and effects of job rotation on civil servants within the Yobe State Civil Service, with a focus on its impact on employee commitment and productivity. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected through interviews and focus groups, and subjected to a thematic analysis. The findings reveal a duality of perceptions among civil servants: while the theoretical benefits of job rotation, such as skill diversification, knowledge acquisition, and the reduction of corruption, are widely acknowledged, the practical implementation of job rotation is viewed as a significant source of frustration. Key findings indicate that the current arbitrary and unstructured nature of transfers negatively affects both employee commitment and productivity. Participants expressed concerns over the inability to master a skill, leading to a "jack of all, master of none" effect, and cited instances of operational disruption caused by mid-task transfers. Consequently, the research suggests that resistance to change is primarily a result of a flawed implementation rather than the concept of job rotation itself. The study concludes with practical recommendations for the Yobe State Civil Service, advocating for a shift from the current arbitrary system to a structured, transparent, and predictable rotation policy to effectively harness the program’s potential for developing a more versatile and committed workforce.

Intergovernmental Relations and Coordination in Nigeria

Adebayo O. Adedeji — 2025-08-06

Intergovernmental relations have attracted scholarly attention in federal systems. A key aspect is how the intergovernmental structures and processes are coordinated in delivering public goods and services. Since the return to democratic rule in 1999, the Nigerian federation has witnessed both conflictual and cooperative relations among the tiers of government. Conflictual relations appear to be more predominant due to the constitutional provisions that create a superior-subordinate relationship between the federal and state governments. The activities of the state government also subjugate the local governments. Using Deil Wright’s authority relations model, this paper conceptualises intergovernmental relationships and examines Nigeria's federal-state, interstate and state-local relations. Similarly, it evaluates the state of intergovernmental coordination in implementing national policies. The paper concludes that conflictual relations characterise intergovernmental relations between the tiers of government in Nigeria due to the federal government's dominance. Likewise, coordination has not been effective in delivering public goods and services.

The Role of Digital Nomad Communities in Fostering Peaceful Cross-Cultural Exchange and Economic Growth in West Africa

Mukhtar Bello — 2025-08-28

The Digital nomadism is a lifestyle leveraging technology for remote work and global mobility, is gaining traction in West Africa, a region rich in cultural diversity and emerging digital economies. This study examines how digital nomad communities in Lagos, Accra, and Dakar contribute to peaceful cross-cultural exchange and economic growth. Using a mixed-methods approach, including surveys of 150 nomads, interviews with 50 stakeholders, and economic data analysis, the research reveals that nomads foster cultural understanding through collaborative initiatives like workshops and festivals, with 70% of nomads and 60% of locals reporting reduced stereotypes (study data, 2025). Economically, nomads drive growth, contributing 2% to Lagos’s GDP through $1,200 monthly spending and generating 200 jobs in Accra via mentorships (study data, 2025). However, challenges such as gentrification, with 22% rent increases in Lagos, and infrastructure gaps, like unreliable electricity, pose risks. These findings suggest that digital nomadism can enhance West Africa’s global economic role if supported by policies like digital nomad visas and infrastructure investments. For policymakers, the study advocates equitable frameworks to balance economic benefits with local needs. Local communities can leverage nomad collaborations for cultural and economic gains, while global stakeholders should recognize West Africa’s potential as a nomad hub, fostering sustainable development through inclusive integration.

Decentralised Policing System and Insecurity in Nigeria: An Opinion Survey of Residents of Ovia North East Local Government Area, Edo State

Theophilus Arebamen Okojie — 2025-08-28

The study explored the opinions of the people of the Ovia Northeast Local Government, Edo State, regarding the increasing public opinion on decentralising the security system in Nigeria. The study was anchored on concentric circle theory that postulates that security management should begin from the community level, to the state level and the federal level for effective results. A sample of 400 residents of the Local government Area was obtained, and 352 questionnaires were returned. The data obtained were analysed with simple percentages, the mean and the standard deviation. The study found that respondents supported the creation of a state policing system backed by law in Nigeria; believe there will be no security implications for having state police because they believe that state actors will not hijack state police, collude with criminals to perpetrate crimes, use guns to steal from people or extort people; and believe that state police will be effective in tackling insecurity because they will work in the interest of the people rather than the Nigerian government. Based on these findings, the study, therefore, recommends that the National Assembly should amend the 1999 Constitution to accommodate the state policing system.

Foreign Aid Effectiveness and Global Partnerships: Implications for Nigeria's National Development

Auwal Alhaji Jingi — 2025-08-19

Foreign aid has been a crucial factor in Nigeria's development, impacting economic growth, infrastructure, healthcare, and education. However, its effectiveness is often debated due to issues such as corruption, mismanagement, donor-imposed conditions, and aid dependency. This study examines the effectiveness of foreign aid in Nigeria and the influence of global partnerships on national development. Employing a conceptual framework, the research analyses various aid models, including bilateral and multilateral assistance, humanitarian aid, and technical support. Key findings highlight the relevance of theoretical perspectives like Dependency Theory, showing that foreign aid can either promote economic growth or entrench reliance on external support. A comparative analysis with Ghana and Rwanda emphasizes the significance of governance, policy alignment, and strategic aid utilization. While foreign aid has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s development, its potential remains unfulfilled due to structural inefficiencies and inadequate policy implementation. The study recommends enhancing transparency and anti-corruption measures, aligning aid with national priorities, reducing dependency through local revenue generation, and reforming donor conditionality’s. Furthermore, fostering regional partnerships and investing in sustainable initiatives will improve aid effectiveness. By addressing these challenges, Nigeria can move towards economic self-sufficiency while ensuring that foreign aid effectively supports national development

The Role of International Organizations in Conflict Resolution: Case Studies of the UN and EU in Africa

Bello S. Dantata — 2025-09-02

The role of international organizations in conflict resolution is crucial in maintaining global peace and security, particularly in conflict-prone regions such as Africa. This study examines the involvement of the United Nations (UN) in resolving conflicts on the continent, with a focus on its peacekeeping missions, mediation efforts, sanctions, and diplomatic interventions. Using the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) and Sudan (UNAMID and UNITAMS) as case studies, the research evaluates the effectiveness, successes, and challenges of the UN's interventions. The findings reveal that while the UN has made significant contributions in reducing large-scale violence, supporting democratic transitions, and providing humanitarian assistance, its missions often struggle with logistical challenges, political constraints, and operational inefficiencies. The study highlights the need for enhanced collaboration between the UN, regional organizations such as the African Union (AU), and local governance structures to ensure sustainable peace. The paper concludes that structural reforms, increased funding, and stronger political will are essential for improving the effectiveness of UN-led conflict resolution efforts in Africa.

Comparative Analysis of Electoral Technology Deployment and Voter Trust in the 2015, 2019, and 2023 General Elections in Nigeria

Abubakar Abdulrahman — 2025-08-06

The integrity of electoral processes is fundamental to democratic consolidation, and technological innovations have increasingly been adopted to enhance transparency and credibility. This study conducts a comparative analysis of electoral technology deployment and voter trust in Nigeria’s 2015, 2019, and 2023 general elections. Drawing on a mixed-methods approach that includes document analysis, public opinion surveys, and key informant interviews, the study evaluates the evolution and effectiveness of technologies such as the Smart Card Reader (SCR), the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), and the electronic transmission of results. Findings reveal that while the 2015 elections marked a turning point with the introduction of SCR, subsequent elections in 2019 and especially 2023 saw significant technological upgrades intended to address past deficiencies. However, the study also finds that technological deployment alone does not guarantee voter trust; factors such as operational reliability, INEC’s transparency, political interference, and public awareness significantly shape electoral credibility. The 2023 elections, despite the introduction of BVAS and result upload portals, witnessed mixed reactions from the electorate due to perceived inconsistencies and logistical shortcomings. The study concludes that while electoral technology has the potential to enhance voter trust, its impact is contingent upon effective implementation, stakeholder confidence, and institutional accountability. Recommendations are offered to strengthen the integration of technology in Nigeria’s electoral process for future democratic resilience.