AN ANALYSIS OF THE NEXUS BETWEEN CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS AND GOOD GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This paper analyzes the nexus between civil society organizations and good governance in Nigeria. The paper predicates its analysis on some propositions extracted from the structural functional theory. On methodology, the paper relies substantially on secondary method of data collection which it analyzes using content analysis. The paper argues that civil society organizations as pillars of democracy have the capacity to deepen democracy and accordingly help to bring about good governance in Nigeria. By their origin and functions, civil society organizations are always better placed to apply pressure on the government and demand for policies and actions that foster democracy, development and good governance. However, the paper also reveals that civil society organizations in Nigeria are faced with numerous challenges, problems and constraints that impede or hinder their ability towards playing their good governance roles effectively. The paper therefore, recommends among other things that all concerned persons and bodies in the country should come together to help rescue civil society groups from their acute constraints and weaknesses and accordingly empower them with more efficient and effective facilities, resources, skills and methods of operations.