CITIZEN PARTICIPATION IN GOVERNANCE AND SERVICE DELIVERY IN NIGERIA (A CASE STUDY OF SAKI WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study explores the role of citizen participation in governance and its impact on service delivery in Saki West Local Government, Oyo State, Nigeria. Citizen involvement is crucial to democratic processes and effective local administration, yet in many Nigerian localities, engagement remains low due to structural, socio-economic, and political barriers. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 350 respondents across various stakeholder groups, including local officials, community leaders, and residents. The analysis, conducted with SPSS software, employed descriptive and inferential statistics to test three key hypotheses. Findings revealed that citizen participation in governance within Saki West is limited, particularly in areas such as public consultations, decision-making, and project monitoring. Contributing factors include poor communication channels, political interference, economic hardship, and lack of awareness. Nevertheless, the study confirms that increased citizen participation significantly enhances accountability, transparency, and service delivery effectiveness. It concludes with a call for improved participatory structures, civic education, and inclusive governance practices to strengthen local democracy and ensure that public services meet community needs.
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