BEYOND PALLIATIVES: ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF POLITICAL LEADERSHIP ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The use of palliative economic measures has become increasingly prominent in Nigeria as government seeks to cushion households against the effects of economic reforms and rising living costs. This study examines the contribution of palliative economic programmes to sustainable development and considers how political leadership shapes their design, implementation and outcomes. It also considers the extent to which transparency, accountability and fair distribution influence the developmental value of such interventions. A survey research design was used to obtain primary data from citizens, public servants, community leaders, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders in Cross River and Akwa Ibom States. Data were collected with a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics, with a five-point Likert scale and a decision benchmark of 3.00. The findings show that respondents generally viewed palliative programmes as helpful in reducing immediate economic hardship, improving household welfare and providing temporary relief. Political leadership was also perceived to have an important influence on programme implementation and distribution. However, respondents expressed reservations about fairness in distribution and transparency, even though accountability and proper distribution were regarded as important to sustainable development. The study concludes that palliative measures can provide useful short-term support, but their broader developmental contribution depends on responsible leadership, effective accountability and transparent implementation. It recommends stronger monitoring systems, objective beneficiary identification, greater stakeholder participation and the integration of palliative interventions with long-term policies for employment, entrepreneurship, poverty reduction and economic resilience.