Understanding Politics and Failure of Public Enterprises through Board Appointments: A Perspective from Nigeria

Abstract

The major objective of this study is to examine how the appointment of incompetent political loyalist to boards of public enterprises by incumbent government ruined public enterprises in Nigeria. Public Enterprises in Nigeria were established after independence with a view to speeding up socio-economic development. It is most worrisome that haven established them, they are characterized by some impediments. In most cases, public enterprises in Nigeria are compelled by the incumbent government to donate money to the ruling party for elections and other purposes. Such interferences by government affect the performance of public enterprises. This study used the qualitative research method. Secondary data was mainly used in data collection. The content analysis method was applied to analyze the secondary data obtained from textbooks, academic journals, newspapers and internet services. The theoretical framework adopted for this study is the theory of “scientific management approach” this study finds among other that government appoints incompetent and illiterate political loyalist to boards of public enterprises in Nigeria as members. It is further recommended among others that competent and seasoned technocrats be appointed to boards of public enterprises in Nigeria with a view to making sure that majority of the citizens have access to essential goods and services at a reasonable price. The findings of the study will be of great importance to public administration as a discipline, it will enrich existing literature in public administration and will be used as a policy instrument for government and policy makers.