Colonial Administrative Policies and Modern Nigerian Governance: Journey So Far on The Political and Economic Structure of Nigeria

This study investigates the impact of colonial administrative policies on modern Nigerian governance, focusing on how these historical practices continue to affect administrative structure, federalism, and inter-governmental relations. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research involves historical document analysis and qualitative interviews to enhance proper examination of the topic. The centralization of administrative power under British colonial administration established a hierarchical and inflexible governance structure that remain in Nigeria’s public sector. This concentration of power at the center has contributed to significant inefficiencies, including inequality, bureaucratic bottleneck, corruption, and a lack of responsiveness to local needs. The colonial legacy of centralization continues to have significant impact on Nigeria's administrative effectiveness, sabotaging effective service delivery and good governance. The marriage of Nigeria’s Northern and Southern Protectorates in 1914 resulted to a federal system that has struggled with regional and ethnic intimidation. This amalgamation, motivated by economic rather than political or cultural motives, provide the foundation for persistent problems facing the national unity and stability of the modern Nigeria. The study adopted Postcolonial Theory and Historical Institutionalism. This study recommended that the government of Nigeria and policy makers should consider decentralization of power from the central level to sub level of government which are; state and local governments and in addition, the government should also prioritize and implement policies that foster national unity and tackle the principal causes of ethnic, religious and regional upheavals in the country. Keywords: Colonial Administration, Governance, Federalism, Centralization, Economy, Political, Amalgamation and Policy.