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1. Definition of Public Administration
Public administration refers to the implementation of government policies, the management of public programs, and the conduct of public affairs by bureaucrats, civil servants, and public institutions. It encompasses all activities related to the planning, organizing, directing, coordinating, and controlling of government operations.
It serves as the machinery for implementing laws, policies, and decisions made by the political authorities and ensures the day-to-day running of government activities at all levels—federal, state, and local.
2. The Civil Service
Definition
The civil service is the administrative arm of the executive branch of government. It is composed of permanent, career-based officials who are responsible for executing government policies and delivering public services.
Structure
The civil service is usually structured into:
- Ministries/Departments: Headed by Ministers (political heads) and Permanent Secretaries (administrative heads).
- Directorates and Divisions: Managed by Directors and Assistant Directors.
- Cadres: Administrative, Professional, Technical, and Clerical staff.
- Ranks: Hierarchically organized from Permanent Secretary down to junior officers.
Functions
- Policy Implementation: Execute laws and government policies.
- Advisory Role: Provide professional advice to ministers and political leaders.
- Service Delivery: Offer essential public services like education, health, and transportation.
- Regulation and Supervision: Enforce rules and monitor compliance with laws.
- Record-Keeping: Maintain government data and archives.
Sources of Revenue
The civil service is funded primarily through:
- Government Budgetary Allocations: From tax revenues and oil proceeds.
- Foreign Aid and Grants: For specific development projects.
- Internally Generated Revenue (in some agencies).
Control
Control mechanisms include:
- Political Control: Ministers and elected officials provide oversight.
- Administrative Control: Through internal audits and supervision.
- Legislative Control: Parliament scrutinizes budgets and operations.
- Judicial Control: Courts ensure civil servants act within the law.
- Public Oversight: Media and civil society watchdogs.
Problems
- Corruption and Nepotism
- Red Tape and Bureaucracy
- Lack of Accountability
- Inadequate Training and Capacity
- Political Interference
- Poor Remuneration and Motivation
Reforms
Reform efforts may include:
- Civil Service Reforms (e.g., Udoji, Obasanjo, Oronsaye reports).
- Performance Management Systems
- Digitalization and E-Government
- Anti-Corruption Measures
- Training and Capacity Development
3. Public Corporations
Definition
Public corporations are government-owned enterprises established by law to provide essential services and operate with a degree of independence. They may operate commercially but serve the public interest.
Structure
- Governing Board: Appointed by government, responsible for policy direction.
- Managing Director/CEO: Oversees daily operations.
- Departments/Units: Handle various operational functions.
Functions
- Provision of Public Utilities: Water, electricity, transport, broadcasting.
- Employment Generation
- Revenue Generation
- Stimulation of Economic Development
- Provision of Goods/Services where Private Sector Fails
Sources of Revenue
- Government Subventions
- Internally Generated Income (Sales, services)
- Loans and Grants
- Investments
Control
- Ministerial Supervision
- Auditor-General Oversight
- Parliamentary Reviews
- Annual Reports and Financial Statements
Problems
- Inefficiency and Mismanagement
- Political Interference
- Corruption
- Financial Losses
- Poor Service Delivery
Reforms
- Commercialization and Privatization (e.g., NEPA to PHCN)
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
- Structural Adjustment Programs (SAPs)
- Performance Contracts
- Corporate Governance Standards
4. Local Government
Definition
Local government is the third tier of government, established by law to administer specific local areas. It brings governance closer to the people and handles grassroots development.
Structure
- Executive Arm:
- Chairman: Chief Executive of the council.
- Vice Chairman and Supervisory Councilors: Handle portfolios (e.g., health, education).
- Legislative Arm:
- Councilors: Represent wards and make by-laws.
- Leader of the House: Head of the legislative council.
- Departments: Finance, Health, Education, Works, etc.
Functions
- Provision of Basic Services: Sanitation, water, roads, primary health care, and education.
- Collection of Rates and Levies
- Maintenance of Law and Order (through Local Vigilantes)
- Mobilization for National Programs
- Local Economic Development
Sources of Revenue
- Federal Allocation (Statutory Transfer)
- State Government Grants
- Internally Generated Revenue (e.g., tenement rates, market dues)
- Loans and Donor Funding
Control
- State Governments: Supervision and auditing.
- Federal Allocation Monitoring Committee
- Auditor-General Reports
- Public Petitions and Judicial Oversight
Problems
- Over-dependence on Federal Allocation
- Corruption and Embezzlement
- Lack of Autonomy (State interference)
- Poor Capacity and Manpower
- Weak Infrastructure
- Poor Public Participation
Reforms
- Financial Autonomy (as supported by some constitutional amendments)
- Capacity Building and Training
- Improved Internally Generated Revenue Strategies
- Community Involvement and Transparency
- ICT and E-governance Implementation
Conclusion
Public administration is the backbone of government operations, and it encompasses the activities of the civil service, public corporations, and local governments. Each plays a unique role in service delivery, economic development, and governance. However, issues such as corruption, inefficiency, and political interference hinder their effectiveness. Sustainable reforms focusing on transparency, accountability, capacity development, and autonomy are crucial for improved public administration and national development.
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