Problem of Policy Implementation in Nigeria: A Study of Anambra Integrated Development Strategy (ANIDS)

Abstract

The study examined the challenges of policy implementation in Nigeria using Anambra Integrated Development Strategy (ANIDS) 2007-2015 as a point of reference. These problems range from poor funding to corruption on the part of the bodies thrust with the responsibilities of ensuring that developmental targets are met in Anambra state. It exposed why policies failed in Nigeria despite the genuineness associated with its formulation. To achieve this, the researcher adopted Structural-Functional Theory in explanation of the work while questionnaire, in-depth interview and personal observation were the instruments used to generate data. Using descriptive statistics and chi-square as analytical tools, the study revealed that there is serious corruption among the government officials that are responsible for the implementation of public policies in Nigeria. It further revealed that funding has never been the major problem of policy implementation because the available financial resources mapped out for such projects have never been well utilized. Based on the findings, the paper recommended that government should improve her effort in stamping out corruption by strengthening the anti-corruption agencies, as it remains the greatest barrier to policy implementation; increase budgetary allocation public programmes; and that the government should give a legislative backing to ANIDS to ensure its continuity as many projects/programmes suffered abandonment as a result of change in administration.