Stomach infrastructure or palliative? The effectiveness and long-term implication of temporary relief measures on governance and development in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examines the effectiveness and long-term implications of temporary relief measures on governance and development in Nigeria. While the administration of temporary relief, such as the distribution of palliatives, plays a crucial role in alleviating the plight of vulnerable populations, it has also emerged as a persistent limitation in the Nigerian context due to overreliance on such measures. Over time, this reliance can have detrimental effects on development, fostering negligence, corruption, and the misappropriation of public funds, thereby undermining good governance. This study utilizes dependency theory alongside clientelism and patronage theory to provide insight into the long-term implications of temporary relief measures on governance and development in Nigeria in order to proffer solutions. A qualitative, descriptive approach grounded in literature review and theoretical analysis was adopted to examine these implications. Ultimately, this paper recommends a rethinking and increased focus on immaterial aspects such as good governance, strengthening the educational structure, promoting economic growth, and implementing sustainable developmental policies rather than relying on the immediate gratification offered by temporary relief measures.