National Development Planning and Sustainable Development in Nigeria (1962-2017): A Case for Incremental Policy Option

Abstract

This research paper examines the nexus between national development planning and sustainable development in Nigeria from 1962-2017. The aim of the study is to x-ray the factors militating against successive implementation of several development plans in Nigeria over the years under review. To obtain the data for the study, secondary data analysis design method was employed. From the data collected and analysed, the following findings were made: (a) weak institutions and governance system; (b) dearth of reliable statistics; (c) gaps between policy formulation and implementation; (d) inconsistency in plans formulations and implementations; (e) unstable governments and polity; (f) over ambitious nature of most plans; (g) financial corruption and other related offences; (h) poor project evaluation and monitoring; and inadequate skilled but disciplined personnel; these collectively inhibited national development planning and sustainable development in the country. In conclusion, we recommend that in addition to other solutions proffered, significant attention must be given to the option of incremental policy and its implementation strategy as evidences from the US and Europe, as contained in empirical literature show positive results.