Title: Good Governance Principles and Democratic Development in Nigeria (2015-2023)
Authors: Achinike Daniel Chimaobi
Achinike Peace Onyinye
Volume: 10
Issue: 7
Pages: 476-482
Publication Date: 2026/07/28
Abstract:
Good governance affects citizens' daily lives, in terms of access to public services, security, economic opportunities and confidence in government. Nigeria experienced political change, anti-corruption efforts, electoral reforms, and growing demands for good governance between 2015 and 2023.Between 2015 and 2023, Nigeria's political landscape was characterized by change, corruption and electoral reforms, as well as rising expectations for good governance (Bekoe, 2015; UNDP, 2018). The level of implementation of key governance principles (transparency, accountability, rule of law, citizen participation, government effectiveness) and their impact on democratic development are examined. The study makes use of qualitative research method in which the secondary data gathered from the source were government reports, policy documents, electoral records, institutional indices, and scholarly literature which were then analyzed using documentary and content analysis. Results show that though some democratic norms have been supported through reforms, including anti-corruption measures and electoral reforms, many citizens remained subjected to insecurity, economic suffering and limited access to public services, which gradually eroded public trust (BudgIT, 2021; Transparency International, 2022). Good governance is not a mere abstract concept, it has real impact on the access of the citizens to education, healthcare, jobs and security, the study claims. It finds that the principles of good governance have not been consistently practiced in the country which has reduced their influence in democratic consolidation and suggests the reinforcement of independent institutions, participatory decision making, transparency and accountability mechanisms as the way to enhance democracy and the daily life of the people.