Alternative Energy and Changes Alternative

Alternative Energy and Changes

Alternative and Changes in the Pattern of Economic Development the Case of Lagos Nigeria

Over the last several decades, the international community has been focused on dealing with a host of economic issues in Lagos, Nigeria. The reason why, is because the country has been trying to deal with a number of challenges since gaining independence. However, many of these different kinds of programs have been proven to be ineffective. This is based on a number of different factors including: high amounts of illiteracy, the ineffective use of foreign aid programs, a lack of foreign direct investment, security issues, crippling deficits, frequent power outages, a lack of planning in infrastructure / transportation, political instability, failing to address the needs of many communities, police / military brutality and failing to enforce the law. These different elements are important, because they are showing how various programs that have been enacted are ineffective of dealing with these underlying challenges.

As a result, our research is indicating that the status quo is failing to address the root causes of these problems. Over the course of time, this has meant that these issues are becoming more extreme, with one single commodity being main source of revenues for the region (oil exports). This has created vast disparities within society and in the economic development of Lagos. At the same time, the growth of the region has multiplied these problems exponentially. To deal with the issues it is recommended that a comprehensive approach is taken that will tackle these challenges head on. The most notable include: building capacity that will address the current / future challenges of Lagos, bringing in the public as a part of the process, increasing the amounts of transparency / accountability, incorporating more IT technology for different projects, not commercializing the different planning programs, improving governance, reforming education, enforcing the rule of law, creating more effective trade policies, dealing with human rights issues (i.e. police and military brutality), providing electricity / good sewage systems to poorer regions of Lagos and having politicians deliver on the promises that they are making.

Aims and Objectives

To focus our research, there are a number of different aims and objectives that we will be looking at to include:

The long-term impact of current economic development efforts in Lagos and Nigeria itself.

The kinds of programs that have been implemented by the status quo.

What types of possible reforms can be introduced that will address the problems facing the city.

The way these changes could deal with the current challenges in Lagos and Nigeria.

These different elements are important, because it will help to focus our research on how specific changes can be implemented and the way these transformations will address the current problems.

Introduction

Since becoming an independent nation in 1961, Nigeria has been facing a number of different challenges surrounding their economic development. What has been happening; is that the country has been dealing with a variety issues that have been causing this to take place on an uneven level. As, the nation has tremendous amounts of natural resources, yet the vast disparities among different segments of the population has been increasing at an alarming rate. In this case, most of their revenues are being generated mainly from the export of oil with very little emphasis on the on other sectors. Evidence of this can been seen by looking no further than the below table.

Nigerian GDP Growth by Sector

Sector

$ in Billions

% of GDP

Agriculture

$11.8

29.2%

Oil

$17.2

42.4%

Manufacturing / Mining

$1.7

4.2%

Government Services

$1.8

4.4%

Financial Sector

$0.4

1.0%

Trade / Private Services

$7.6

18.8%

Total

$40.5

(King 2003)

These different elements are important, because they are showing how Nigeria's economy is unevenly balanced. As, oil is: the largest industry and product they are exporting. While all of the other major sectors, are only contributing a small amount to the total GDP growth. To fully understand these disparities we will focus on the city of Lagos and possible alternatives that can be implemented. (King 2003)

This will be accomplished by looking at a number of different factors to include: conducting a literature review, examining the methodology that we will be utilizing, talking about these results / analyzing the various findings, establishing a conclusion to these findings, making specific recommendations and looking at the limitations of the study we are conducting. Once this occurs, it will provide the greatest insights as to: how effective alternatives and changes can be implemented in the economic development of Lagos. At which point, we will have a better understanding as to the way these kinds of shifts can be implemented throughout the nation.

Chapter 1: Literature Review

To fully understand how effective changes can take place inside Nigeria and Lagos requires examining how the economy is currently structured. At the same time, we must look at the challenges the country faced in the past and the way this impacting them at the moment. To comprehend these issues we will look at a number of different variables. Once this takes place, it will provide us with specific insights as to how these transformations in Nigeria are having an impact on Lagos itself. This will allows us to make inferences about these changes and way they are effecting economic development.

The source titled Nigeria (2011) provides us with a basic background about the past and current issues that are hindering economic growth. As, we are looking at timely information that was provided by: the CIA (through their World Fact Book). According to the information, Nigeria is mainly dependent upon oil exports for the majority of their GDP growth. As, this is providing the nation with: 90% of their capital reserves and 80% of their budgetary revenues. The below table is illustrating those countries that are receiving these different oil exports. (Nigeria 2011)

Top Oil Exporting Nations for Nigeria

Country

Percentage of Oil Exports

US

34.0%

India

9.8%

Brazil

9.0%

Spain

6.8%

France

4.5%

(Nigeria 2011)

These figures are important, because they are illustrating how majority of Nigeria's oil exports are to: mainly developed or rapidly developing nations. This has led to a current account surplus of $27.77 billion in 2010. (Nigeria 2011)

However, nearly 70% of country is living in poverty with large amounts of illiteracy in many parts of the nation. At the same time, the government has been known for massive amounts of corruption and political instability. Where, most regimes of the past have either been some kind of democracy that was elected by the people only to be overthrown in a military coup. At which point, different military dictatorships were imposed, that were known for their brutality. This has caused the massive amounts of oil revenues that are being received to go into the personal accounts of greedy government officials. At the same time, the country has taken on large amounts of foreign debt and had a percentage of this forgiven by a host of debtor nations. There have been recent attempts by the government to address these issues since 2008. The problem is that is still too early to tell if these kinds of programs are having any kind of positive effect on the nation. (Nigeria 2011)

The information from this source is useful, because it is providing us with specific insights about the past and current issues that are hindering economic growth. Given the fact that Lagos is the largest city in Nigeria and principal port; this means that this will have an effect on efforts surrounding economic development throughout the region. As a result, this is helping to address the different aims and objectives. To include: the long-term impact of current economic development efforts in Lagos along with Nigeria itself and the kinds of programs that have been implemented by the status quo.

The source that is titled Fashola Signs Lagos Residents' Registration Bill into Law (2011) discusses current efforts to improve planning and economic development in Lagos. As, Governor Fashola signed bill that would give the state the power to: collect reliable data that can be used for a number of different purposes. These include the ability to gather information on: the demographics of residents within the community, health, security and financial figures. The way that this will be accomplished is with an agency being established to: collect and analyze the data that is being amassed. This will be used by: the Local Government Areas and Community Development Areas to ensure that all parts of Lagos have adequate infrastructure to deal with the various challenges they are facing. Commenting about what is taking place Fashola said, "First of all, it will help us to keep good records. As, every resident will now have a card with: a unique identity number that they will have for life. In this state no two numbers will be the same. So that we are able to keep data and with that, we have information where the government has the power to truly respond to the needs of the community. We want people to come into the Lagos economy. There is room to do this by: obtaining a resident registration card. The value of registration will benefit everyone in terms of: the provisions of amenities, security and the protection of businesses. This is an enormous step forward." (Fashola Signs Lagos Residents' Registration Bill into Law 2011)

The information from this source is useful because it is illustrating how the state government is taking a different approach when it comes to the development of Lagos. As, they want to help bring in residents and businesses to the area. Once this takes place, it will allow the community to prosper over the long-term and it will create jobs. This is the point that local governments can effectively deal with challenges that are affecting their areas. As a result, this is illustrating how the status quo is trying to focus on alternative programs that will improve the quality of life in different communities of Lagos through: effective development efforts. At the same time, this addressing how specific changes could occur to deal with various issues in: the city and the way various reforms can be introduced. These elements are important, because they are illustrating how there has been a shift in the kinds of alternatives that can be utilized for effective economic development.

Moreover, the article titled Economic Growth and the Environment (2011), is discussing how the port of Lagos is becoming congested. Part of the reason for this, is because it is one of Nigeria's busiest locations that accounts for nearly all of the oil and other exports throughout the country. To deal with the issues, USAID has been working in conjunction with the Ministry of Trade and Commerce. Their objectives are to create new transportation infrastructure that will help to expand the port and trade throughout the region. At the same time, they are working with the Nigerian Expanded Export Program to stimulate the amount of trade that is taking place in and out of Lagos. This is accomplished through having different programs that will encourage private businesses to become involved in this sector of the economy. Once this occurs, it will help to increase the number of jobs and development in the region through sustainable growth. (Economic Growth and Environment 2011)

The information from this source is useful, because it is corroborating various programs that are currently being embraced by the status quo. As, it is illustrating how: these different efforts are working to have an impact on: Lagos and Nigeria itself. This is significant, because it is helping to provide us with some basic background information surrounding the overall challenges and what steps are being taken to: tackle the issues associated with effective economic development in the region.

The source that is titled Lagos Metropolitan Development and Governance Project (2011), talks about efforts of the World Bank to help improve the quality of life inside the city. This is accomplished through the Lagos State Urban Renewal Authority. They have several different objectives in place to help address the various economic and social issues affecting the city to include:

Working on upgrading and developing different slums throughout the area. These were identified in 1995, as a part of a World Bank study to improve problems plaguing the city. The most notable are: Agege, Ajegunle, Amukoko, Badia, Iwaya, Makoko, Ilaje, Bariga and Ijeshatedo / Itire. The way that they are tackling these issues are to develop plans that can deal with long-term flooding and the effective disposal of sewage / solid waste.

Through effective public governance and capacity building. This is supporting a number of different programs that will help to improve the response of the local government in addressing the needs of communities. Including: budgetary reforms, support for public finance efforts, the use of IT technology to store / retrieve information and performance management.

Effective monitoring and evaluation. This is when they are looking at the impact that these efforts are having on different part of Lagos through: dialogue, communication and analyzing the operating costs. (Lagos Metropolitan Development and Governance Project 2011)

This information is useful, because it is identifying specific factors that are being utilized to help improve economic development throughout the region. As, it is highlighting a long standing World Bank program to: deal with a host of economic and social issues affecting some of the poorest parts of the city. At which point, we are able to use this to corroborate previous sources that have been examined on: how these issues and patterns of economic development have been addressed throughout Lagos. This helps to answer several of the different aims and objectives that were outlined earlier including: the kinds of programs that have been implemented by the status quo along with the possible long-term impact of these effects on city.

The article that was written by Oduwaye (2009) discusses the issues that Lagos is having in effective development efforts. Part of the reason for this, is because the city has been facing a tremendous amount of challenges due to the lack of infrastructure since independence and various instances of corruption. At the same time, many private contractors who are paid to develop these programs often ignore the needs of the people and are only concerned about increasing their overall bottom line as much as possible. This is problematic, because it means that the city has been facing uneven amounts of economic growth. As more people are moving into the region and the overall amounts of trade are increasing. This has led to a rise in the underlying levels of congestion. (Oduwaye 2009)

At which point, there is the possibility that city will be unable to sustain these amounts until some kind reforms are introduced. There are currently efforts in place to deal with these kinds of challenges through various programs that are funded by: foreign countries and the international community. However, the problem is that none of these efforts are doing enough to deal with these issues. The reason why, is because they are not effectively taking into account the real time problems on the ground in many locations. To help improve these programs, Oduwaye suggests that the government goes in new direction. This will involve: building capacity that will address the current / future challenges of Lagos, having the public become a part of the process, increased amounts of transparency / accountability, incorporating IT technology as an effective tool and not commercializing the different planning programs. These different elements are important, because they are highlighting the problems with various efforts that are affecting Lagos and what steps need to be taken to deal with them. (Oduwaye 2009)

As a result, the information from this source is useful, because it is discussing factors that are impacting long-term efforts in economic development throughout the region. At the same time, it is addressing specific reforms that can be introduced to deal with the underlying challenges facing the city. Once they are implemented this is offering specific insights about the how these problems can be effectively dealt with. Therefore, this source is offering ideas that are supporting the aims and objectives of the study. While at the same time, it is illustrating how the current approaches taken by the status quo were unable to reach these objectives. When you put these elements together, they are providing insights about how these issues are having an impact on Lagos and Nigeria itself.

In the source titled Fashola, Commonwealth Chief and Others Task FG on the Economy (2011), it discusses the impact that current economic reforms are having on various development effort in Lagos and in Nigeria. The most notable include: good governance, the fight against corruption, power, security, budget deficits, infra- structure, education, small / medium enterprises, diversification, improving the business climate and trade policies. Commenting about these issues the President of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Femi Deru said, "Tackling corruption and governance issues are a must for Nigeria. Corruption increases the cost of doing business and it deters investors. Nigeria should be the future of Africa, but without governance and risk management there will not be adequate financial market, without which the country cannot achieve its potentials." He further added, "At the heart of all sustained and inclusive economic development and growth are: peace, safety and security. Security goes hand-in-hand with growth and investment; no economy can prosper without security. Infrastructure is key particularly Nigeria's power deficit that is holding back economic success. No entrepreneur can prosper when he cannot reliably power his factory or studio." (Fashola, Commonwealth Chief and Others Task FG on the Economy 2011)

These different elements are important, because they are showing how Lagos and Nigeria are dealing with a host of programs. That is having a major impact on economic development. This is problematic, because it means that despite various initiatives to help improve the quality of life in Lagos. They are making the underlying situation worse. The reason why, is because the combination of these different factors is holding the city back from effectively growing and building some kind infrastructure that will address their future needs. Over the course of time, this means that any kind of programs to deal with these challenges will not have any kind of positive effect due to the overhang of these continuing problems. (Fashola, Commonwealth Chief and Others Task FG on the Economy 2011)

The information from this source is useful, because it is showing how the current efforts to improve economic development are ineffective over the long-term. The reason why, is because no one is dealing with these challenges that are impacting the root causes of these problems. As a result, this corroborating and expanding upon the different aims as well as objectives that were outlined earlier. To include: the long-term impact on current economic development efforts in Lagos / Nigeria and the effects of these programs.

The piece of literature that was written by Mkwezalamba (2007), discusses a number of different problems that are impacting Nigeria and Lagos itself. A few of the most notable include: a high debt burden, corruption, tremendous amounts of poverty, AIDS/HIV, lower levels of foreign direct investment and brutality by the military / police force. These different elements are illustrating how the overall scope of the problems facing Lagos and Nigeria are enormous when dealing with a variety of challenges. At which point, this makes any kind of programs to improve economic development in the city ineffective. The reason why, is due to the fact that they are failing to address the causes that are associated with these situations. (Mkwezalamba 2007)

To deal with these challenges, Mkwezalamba recommends that the government should be taking a comprehensive approach that will tackle all of them head on. The most notable include: establishing anti-corruption branches that have the authority to go to the highest levels of the government, increased transparency, greater public interest groups involved in the process, working with local communities to address specific challenges affecting their communities, the establishment of procedures that will enforce the rule of law and holding everyone accountable for their actions. These different elements are important, because if they can be embraced, they will help the government to effectively tackle a host of issues that are having an impact on programs that affecting economic development in Lagos and in Nigeria itself. This is the point that they will be able to deal with various challenges that are impacting the city. (Mkwezalamba 2007)

The information from this source is useful, because it is providing us with specific insights about how we can effectively deal with a wide variety of issues that are having an impact economic development is Lagos. Where, they are showing the current problems that are affecting the city and the nation. As a result, this is addressing a number of the different aims and objectives that were outlined earlier to include: the long-term impact of current economic development efforts, the kinds of reforms that can be introduced to address the challenges facing the city / nation and the way these changes could deal with the current issues affecting Lagos as well as Nigeria itself.

Furthermore, the article that was written by Ibrahim (2011) discusses the various promises that were made by politicians in dealing with the numerous challenges affecting Lagos. As, all of the different presidential candidates were addressing issues such as: economic reforms, the improving the availability of electricity to poor regions of the city, building the infrastructure, attracting foreign investors and improving security. However, once they are elected to office is the point that none of them are delivering on the promises they made during the election. Instead, they encounter a number of different obstacles that are standing in the way of any kind of economic progress. This is problematic, because it means that any of the effort to improve economic reforms has only become worse. As, one politician after another does not: have the will or the desire to see real change implemented. (Ibrahim 2011)

To deal with these kinds of issues, Ibrahim recommends that politicians do not engage in the same kind of idealism as their predecessors. Instead, they need to take an approach that will work with communities by addressing their basic needs and improving transparency in the process. This means taking a real world approach about the underlying problems that are impacting the growth of Lagos and Nigeria itself. Then, one by one dealing with these issues on: local levels. If this kind of strategy can be utilized it will help to improve the lives of ordinary citizens in addressing the most pressing challenges facing the city. This is important, because it is highlighting some of the various issues that will be encountered when conducting any kind of reforms. Due to the fact that local politicians will play a role in determining how effectively any kind of changes are implemented. (Ibrahim 2011)

The information from this sources is useful, because it is illustrating how there is a political element that must be taken into account when enacting any kind of reforms. As a result, this is providing specific insights that are a part of: the aims and objectives of current economic development efforts along with how possible reforms can be introduced to deal with these underlying challenges.

All the different facts that were uncovered during the literature review, is illustrating the overall problems and challenges associated with undertaking any kind of economic reforms in Lagos and Nigeria itself. At the same time, it is identifying specific alternative strategies that could be utilized to help improve the effectiveness of these efforts. Therefore, this is providing us with ideas about how these challenges can be addressed that are outside of the programs that have been implemented by the status quo.

Chapter 2: Methodology

In order for the project to be effective, we need to have a focus on addressing specific issues that are impacting economic development. At the same time, we have to look beyond emotional issues that are tied to what is occurring. This is accomplished by examining the overall big picture and addressing the problems objectively. As a result, we have selected the qualitative research approach. The reason why, is because it can provide us with a clearer understanding of the overall scope of the problem and what possible solutions could be introduced to deal with these issues.

Qualitative research is when we are looking at a number of different sources to have a greater understanding of the issues affecting Lagos and Nigeria. The way that was accomplished is through examining various pieces of information to include: current news articles, scholarly journals, government / NGO reports and books. These different elements are important, because they are providing us with specific insights about how a wide variety of factors are affecting economic development throughout the region. Once this occurs, it is providing us with specific insights about the current programs to deal with economic development inside Lagos and Nigeria itself. This will help to focus our research on: understanding the impact of these efforts, possible alternatives that can be introduced and the long-term impact that it is having. (What is Qualitative Research 2011)

A good example of the use of this approach can be seen by looking at the diagram below. Where, this is illustrating the effectiveness of the methodology that was utilized and how this will help us to have a better comprehension of the overall scope of the challenges facing the city.

The Qualitative Approach that was used during the Study

Government / NGO

News Sources

Scholarly Journals

Books

Outcome of the Research

(What is Qualitative Research 2011)

These different elements are important, because they are showing how the basic approach that we are taking to address the problems surrounding economic development inside Lagos was as objective as possible. Where, all of the different facts that were discovered are designed to corroborate one another. This is the point that we will have a greater comprehension about how to effectively tackle the problems. Once this occurs, we can see what are: the major impediments that are affecting the current situation and the steps can be taken to address these issues.

When you step back and analyze the approach that is being taken, it is clear that using qualitative research to gain greater insights will provide a more effective understanding of the overall variables. This is because, we are looking a number of different factors and the impact that they are having on the underlying situation.

Evidence of the value of this kind of approach can be seen by looking no further than comments from Glicken (2005), where he writes, "Qualitative research is based on the belief that even non-empirical studies can lead to a better understanding in the effectiveness of the research. It suggests trends, implied relationships and weak associations among variables." (Glicken 2005, pg. 23) To corroborate these findings Silverman (2010) observed, "The beauty of qualitative research design is that it allows us to put scare marks around objective concepts such as effectiveness." (Silverman 2010, pg. 143) These different elements are important, because they are highlighting how qualitative research is a good way of understanding the overall issues surrounding a host of different situations. This is because; we are looking at a number of different pieces of data in conjunction with one another to objectively comprehend the overall big picture of what is taking place. As a result, this kind of research methodology will help us to see the challenges in Nigeria and Lagos. At which point, we can be able to understand the trends that are taking place and determine what variables are most important.

Comparative Analysis

Once we have completed the research, we must have some kind of methodology for effectively evaluating the information that was obtained. The way that this will be accomplished is through conducting comparative analysis. This is when we are comparing a number of different ideas, facts, figures and programs to have a greater comprehension of the overall patterns of economic development inside Lagos. (Comparative Analysis 2011)

To achieve this objective we will use a four step approach in understanding the information that was obtained during the course of our research. Below is how these different steps were utilized in helping us to understand the overall scope of the issues and the impact that they are having on the situation.

Establish a frame of reference. In this case, the first step of our examination will be to establish patterns of current economic development that are taking place in Lagos and within Nigeria itself. At which point, we will shift gears and focus on how previous strategies that have been utilized. This will provide us with a basic foundation as to the overall scope of the problem and the impact that it is having on economic development. Once these facts have been established, we will then look at the possible alternatives that could be implemented in conjunction with the current programs. Another option is to examine how these ideas could replace the status quo that is in place. This is the point that we will have a better comprehension of the challenges affecting Lagos and what action can be taken to deal with these issues.

Once these different facts have been established, we will create a list of possible changes that could be implemented to improve economic development throughout the city. This will be accomplished by examining how these alternatives could be augmented with the current programs that are in place. At the same time, we can study how new programs will influence the underlying problems facing the city and the nation. This is when we will be able to make effective inferences about the overall situation.

Next, we will focus on comparing the different findings with one another. Where, we will look at the various facts that were discovered and possible alternatives. As, any kind anomalies that do not correspond with the underlying trends will be disregarded. The reason why, is because they have inconsistencies. Once this occurs, we will have more specific insights about the underlying situation and how we can address the challenges facing economic development inside Lagos.

The final step will be to make specific conclusions that will address the underlying situation. In this case, we will take the various findings that were examined earlier and will make specific recommendations about how to deal with the various challenges facing Lagos and Nigeria itself. (How to Write a Comparative Analysis 2011)

These different elements are important, because they are showing how our approach in analyzing the information that was collected along is helping us to focus on: specific challenges and the way these issues can be effectively dealt with. This is the point that we will be able to have a better understanding of the overall scope of the situation. At which point, we can make specific recommendations about how possible alternatives can be introduced that will have an impact on Lagos. We can then take this one step further, to have a more comprehensive approach in dealing with possible issues that are affecting programs implemented by the status quo. This will help to improve reform efforts in these areas. At which point, we will be able to introduce initiatives that will address various challenges surrounding economic development inside the city.

When you analyze the methodology for studying the various facts that were presented, it is clear comparative analysis will assist us to: understand what is happening and making specific inferences about these events. The reason why is because we are utilizing a technique that will allow us to maintain objectivity. At the same time, this is helping us to make accurate assessments about: the effectiveness of the findings from our research.

Evidence of this can be seen by looking no further than observations from Green (1999), where she writes, "It (comparative analysis) provides an: effective assessment, design / implementation of unbiased sampling procedures, the consistent / accurate collection of sample data and rigorous ways of understanding this information." (Green 1999, pg. 5) This is important, because it is illustrating how our basic approach of understanding and analyzing the data will help us to make the most accurate assessments of the information that was collected. Once this occurs, it will assist us in making specific recommendations that will reflect the realities of the real world. At which point, we can take these findings and make an accurate evaluation as to what kinds of programs are effective in helping to promote efficient economic development in Lagos. We can then, determine how new alternatives can be introduced that will allow us to understand how to deal with these challenges. This is the point that we will be able to make an accurate determination as the best ways to create workable solutions that is based on real world observations.

Obviously, the most appropriate way for understanding what is happening with economic development inside Lagos and Nigeria requires taking a unique approach. The reason why, is because many of the different NGO's and governments around the world have tried to implement a number of programs that will address these issues. Yet, beneath the surface, all them are considered to be failures. This is because, they do not understand the root causes of the problems and how to deal with them. Our approach is different because we are using qualitative research to look at various facts from different sources. This will help to keep our research objective by studying this and it will help us to identify the underlying trends. At which point, that we can collect and analyze all of this data into a workable format that corroborates each other.

Once this has taken place, we will then examine at a number of different facts that were discovered during the course of our research through comparative analysis. The reason why this approach was selected is because it will help us to determine what kinds of figures are most relevant. The way that that our analysis will be conducted is: to look at the different facts. Then, focus on identifying the underlying trends and the impact that they are having on economic development inside Lagos. Once this occurs, we will be able to answer some of the various aims and objectives that were discussed earlier including:

The long-term impact of current economic development efforts in Lagos and Nigeria itself.

The kinds of programs that have been implemented by the status quo.

We will then takes this approach one step further, by studying how these programs are failing to address these problems. This is when the research will help to identify possible alternatives that could be introduced. At which point, we can utilize these facts to see what specific programs could be implemented that will have a positive impact on addressing these issues. This will help us, to effectively deal with the most pressing challenges facing economic development inside Lagos and within Nigeria itself. As a result, these findings will allow us to make specific recommendations about how to improve the programs introduced by the status quo and to implement new ones that will effectively tackle the problem. This will specifically address the aims and objectives that are related to this aspect of the study including:

What kinds of possible reforms can be introduced that will deal with the current problems facing the city and the nation.

The way these changes could address the current challenges in Lagos and Nigeria.

Once this occurs, it will offer us specific insights about how to deal with these issues. At the same time, it will help use to create a workable system that can be implemented based upon real world situations on the ground. This is the point that we will be able to create an effective economic development program for Lagos and introduce possible alternatives that will take into account all of these variables.

Chapter 3: Result and Analysis of Findings from the Methodology

In this chapter we are going to discuss the results of the research that was conducted using the qualitative methodology and comparative analysis. We will then focus on: what these findings mean and how they are impacting economic development. This is the point, that we will objectively evaluate what is taking place and how this is hindering efforts for the region to deal with these issues.

The Results of the Research Methodology Utilized

The results of the research that was conducted are highlighting that there are number of different facts that are currently having a dramatic impact upon economic growth inside Lagos and Nigeria itself. A few of the most notable include:

Corruption.

An overconcentration on the oil industry.

A lack of planning for dealing with the current and future needs.

Tremendous amounts of poverty.

High amounts of illiteracy.

The ineffective use of foreign aid programs.

A lack of foreign direct investment.

Security issues.

Crippling deficits.

Frequent power outages.

A lack of planning in transportation and infrastructure.

Political instability.

Failing to address the basic needs of many communities.

Police and military brutality.

Not enforcing the law.

These different elements are important because, they are showing how there are a number of factors that are hindering any kind of economic development throughout the region. The reason why, is due to the fact that most of the programs that are currently in place are addressing select aspects of the problem. Yet, they are not effectively dealing with the root causes of what is taking place. Once this occurs, it means that any kind of efforts to deal with these issues are based mostly upon half measures that have no hope of dealing with the situation over long-term. At which point, these problems will only become worse. As, the region will continue to grow populations wise, but they will not have any kind of effective tools for addressing the root causes of the problems.

Therefore, the information that was uncovered is highlighting the various shortcomings of the status quo. This is because they are showing how the qualitative methodology that was utilized has identified a number of factors that are having a direct impact on economic development. This is problematic because, if these root causes of the problem are not addressed it will mean that the city's issues will only continue to become worse. As a result, there needs to be new programs that should be augmented with current ones and alternative ways of dealing with these problems. This is based upon our methodology objectively identifying: the underlying scope of these issues and the way they have been affecting the region along with the nation over the last several years.

At the same time, the research uncovered a number of different facts that highlight possible solutions in introducing alternatives for dealing with the various challenges facing Lagos and Nigeria. These include:

Building capacity that will address the current / future challenges of Lagos.

Bringing in the public as a part of the process.

Increasing the amounts of transparency / accountability.

Incorporating more IT technology for different projects.

Not commercializing the different planning programs.

Improving governance.

Reforming education.

Enforcing the rule of law.

Creating more effective trade policies.

Dealing with human rights issues (i.e. police and military brutality).

Providing electricity and good sewage systems to poorer regions of Lagos.

Having politicians deliver on the promises that they are making.

These different elements are important, because they are showing how these programs that have been enacted by the status quo are ineffective. The reason why, is due to the fact that they are not effectively addressing the underlying root causes of the problems. The results of our research is indicating that if new alternatives can be introduced (using the above recommendations). This will make our program more effective at dealing with efforts to improve economic development throughout the city and the region. The reason why, is because they are going after some of the long-term lingering problems that have effectively negated any kind of efforts that are being taken by the status quo. This is important, because it is showing how these kinds of issues will make the situation better. This is due to the fact that these ideas will involve local communities in the process. Where, they will have a say and can be able to play a role in helping to develop various projects that will benefit everyone. At the same time, the increased amounts of accountability and the use of technology will make a number of these different initiatives more efficient. While at the same time, it is helping them to ensure that the funding that is provided for these programs are not squandered by: government officials or corporations that are seeking to maximize their profit margin. Over the course of time, this kind of approach will help to effectively address the current and future needs of Lagos. This is the point that they will begin to be able to address a host of situations that are having an impact on the city and the region.

At the same time, the country needs to focus on effectively reforming trade. This has become problematic, because various trade barriers have served as a way of limiting any kinds of economic growth from taking place. This has been having a dramatic impact on a number of different goods that are going into the nation. Most notably: textiles, footwear and other manufactured products. Once this occurs, it means that having any kind of diversification of the economy away from oil will have an adverse impact on other sectors. At which point, the nation will be driven by the sales of one single product on the world markets (oil). Over the long-term, this effectively negates any kind of efforts that are designed to deal with economic reform. (Treichel 2010, pg. 51)

Evidence of these kinds of views can be seen by looking no further than observations from Treichel (2010), he observed that, "Nigeria's trade regime is somewhat liberalized in recent years with the adoption of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). However, the common external tariff remains highly restrictive and prevents the economy from moving towards those sectors in which Nigeria is competitive. In fact, reforming trade is one of the key elements in moving towards a competitive advantage strategy." (Treichel 2010, pg. 51) This is significant, because it is an example of how various programs to expand the Port of Lagos are just one part of the overall approach in dealing with economic development. Yet, when you are unable to do anything about issues such as: tariffs and other trade barriers. This will make the challenges that country is facing even worse. At which point, any kind of strategy for dealing with these kinds of issues is effectively negated. As a result, there must be new programs is in place that will deal with these challenges to help foster effective economic development. If this kind of approach can be taken, it will help Lagos and Nigeria to overcome one of the major issues that have been having an impact on achieving these objectives. This is significant, because it is just one example of how the current approach that is being used by the status quo to deal with these problems is not working. Instead, there needs to be other avenues that must be taken to ensure that the country is able to adjust to these changes that are tackling the root causes of the problems.

Analysis of the Findings from Methodology

When you step back and analyze the findings from the methodology, it is clear that some kind of changes needed to be implemented from the current approach. The reason why, is because different redevelopment efforts are helping to somewhat address the problems that are affecting Lagos and Nigeria itself. However, the inability to deal with the root causes of the problems means that any kind of progress that is made is nothing more than half measures. This is due to the fact that they are often ignoring key elements that are having an impact on economic development and the kind of approaches that are being taken. Over the course of time, this allows for some amounts of short-term progress to be made as far as economic development and growth is concerned. Yet, over the long-term it is doing nothing to deal with issues that are having an impact on how these programs are addressing these issues. This is the point that many NGO's and foreign governments that are providing any kind of assistance are: wasting their money and time. As, these initiatives have: no hope of being able to deal with a variety of challenges and they will allow the situation to become even worse. At which point, many ordinary people will become frustrated with the situation, due to the lack of economic progress that is taking place in the economy. Therefore, some kind of bold new initiatives must be introduced that will ensure that everyone is able to receive the resources they need to deal with these problems. While ensuring; that any kind of assistance that is being provided is addressing these roots causes. If this kind of approach can be taken, it will help to improve economic development efforts throughout Lagos and Nigeria itself. Over the course of time, this will have a positive impact in dealing with these issues and allowing the region to have viable programs that will effectively respond to these different needs.

Chapter 4: Conclusions to the Findings

The different conclusion to these findings are illustrating how some kind of effective reforms need be implemented in dealing with the way various economic development efforts are being undertaken in Lagos and Nigeria. In this case, there must be some kind of transformation away from the current approach that is being utilized to one that is focused on dealing with the most pressing issues impacting communities and business throughout the region. As a result, governments must be focused on effectively working with a host of different organizations and communities to tackle these challenges that they are dealing with. Where, administrators must have some kind all-encompassing approach that will work together with various organizations to have a better understanding of what is occurring. This is the point that they can be able to deal with these challenges and have a positive impact in creating lasting changes. Once this occurs, it means that you can be able to effectively reach out someone that can help you to identify how to effectively tackle these problems on the local level. Over the course of time, this will help to make the different programs more effective at dealing with these underlying challenges.

Evidence of how this technique can assist in addressing these issues can be seen by looking no further than observations from Dibie (2003). He found that there needs to be a new approach in the way government and other organizations are reaching out to people. As, he determined that they need to: abandon many of the strategies that were utilized in the past and begin focusing on new ideas that can address these issues. A good example of this can be seen with him observing, "In order for public management to be effective in Nigeria, the national and state governments would have to move their public organizations towards the empowerment administration strategy. This involves establishing an organizational strategy that is aligned with its structures, systems, human resource practices and employee skills. At the heart of service excellence, is the extent to which core values or beliefs about excellence form an intrinsic view of the public management strategy and the culture." (Dibie 2003, pg. 160) This is significant, because it is showing how this kind of approach needs to be utilized by administrators moving forward. Until these kinds of changes can be implemented, this will reduce the overall effectiveness of various programs that have been enacted by the status quo. As, any kind of initiatives will have a limited impact on addressing these issues, which will have no hope of deal with the problems that are plaguing the economy. Once this occurs, it means that various efforts to engage in some kind of economic reform will not address these challenges. This will prevent Lagos from have effective planning strategies. At which point, the odd remain high that there will continue to be vast amounts of disparities inside the region and the country. (Dibie 2003, pg. 160)

Until, the government begins to take this kind of approach there will be continued issues that will hinder economic development throughout Lagos and Nigeria itself. This is troubling, because it means that these kinds of issues will have a ripple effect on what is taking place throughout the region. At which point, a host of issues ranging from various security threats to other challenges will become even worse. Evidence of this can be seen with comments from U.S. Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, who was shocked by how the unresponsiveness of the government made the underlying situation even worse. After one recent trip to the region she said, "The failure of the Nigerian leadership over many years to respond to the legitimate needs of their own young people, to have a government that promoted a meritocracy, which really understood that democracy can't just be given lip service. It has to be delivering services to the people, as this has meant there is a lot of alienation in that country and others. The corruption is unbelievable. People were standing and shouting about what it was like to live in a country where the elite were so dominant, where corruption was so rampant, where criminality was so pervasive. And that is an opening for extremism that offers an alternative world view." (Corruption in Nigeria is Unbelievable 2010)

This is significant, because it is illustrating how the current approach that is being taken by the government in dealing with issues of: corruption, not providing basic services and other aspects are causing the underlying security situation to become even worse. This is having a ripple effect on contributing to the underlying social and economic situation in Lagos along within Nigeria itself. Where, the frustrations are building to the point that many people no longer have any faith in the kinds of programs that have been implemented. This is the point that any kind of economic development programs will not be effective at addressing these issues. Once this occurs, it means that it is only a matter of time until these efforts will begin to fail. This is when the underlying issues that are affecting the regions will become even worse. As, this will cause the overall amounts of disparities to become even larger, despite the fact that the government and foreign aid agencies have spent billions of dollars in dealing with these challenges.

To corroborate the different views, the source titled At a Glance Nigeria provides us with specific information about how this is a drag on economic activity. Where, the country is bringing in tremendous amounts of revenues from the export of oil-based products. Yet, beneath the surface none of this is effectively addressing the most pressing economic issues facing Lagos and other regions. A good example of this can be seen by looking at the average GDP growth rate between 1970 and 2010 with this accounting for a -1.7% during that time. While, the nation is experiencing 22% inflation, despite the fact that they have large amounts of natural resources and the government is running a surplus from the export of oil. (At a Glance Nigeria 2011) These different figures are important, because they are showing how various efforts to address social and economic issues in the Lagos region are not effective. The reason why, is due to the fact that they are ignoring the most critical problems affecting these areas. Over the course of time, this will lead to vast disparities within region and country itself. This is the point that any kind of economic development programs will fail to be effective at tackling these challenges.

What the conclusions to the finding are illustrating, is that there needs to be some kind of effective economic reform implemented in dealing with: the various social and economic challenges impacting Lagos as well as Nigeria itself. Otherwise, the odds increase that any new programs will only make the underlying situation worse in the region. At which point, the chances increase that there will be continued amounts of instability that is leading to even more problems. To include: greater amounts of corruption, even larger disparities in the community, the security situation will become even worse and there will be more political instability. This could result in some kind of actions being taking (i.e. A coup) that will result in an unfriendly government in the West. Once this occurs, it means that there is the possibility that oil exports could begin to decline and the vast disparities will continue to become even worse. At which point, the economy in Lagos will go through another period of economic stagnation. Then, when the situation improves there will be increased amounts of foreign economic aid that will have no effect on dealing with these challenges.