Subject: Civic Education
Class: JSS 2
Week of the Second Term: 1st Week
Topic: Nigeria as a Federation
Sub-Topic: Characteristics of a Federation, Sharing of powers between central and state governments, States have constitutionally defined control over their affairs, Central government controls states and states control local governments.
Objectives:
At the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Identify and explain the characteristics of a federation.
- Describe the sharing of powers between central and state governments.
- Illustrate how the control is defined between central government, states, and local governments.
Entry Behaviour:
Students should already know about the different levels of government in Nigeria and have a basic understanding of governance.
Instructional Materials:
- Civic Education textbook (BEC Edition)
- Visual aids (charts depicting the federal structure)
- Flashcards (with definitions and examples of federation characteristics)
Reference Materials:
- Ogunniyi, D., Ogbogu, E., Fiberesima, B., & Ismail, H. (2014). Civic Education For Junior Secondary School 2 Textbook (BEC Edition). Spectrum Books Limited. Lagos.
- Alonge, F. K., Onwuka, J. O., & Aiyede, R. (2014). Civic Education For Junior Secondary School 2 Textbook (BEC Edition). University Press PLC. Lagos.
Content:
Nigeria as a Federation
Nigeria operates as a federal system, which means it has multiple levels of government, each with its own powers and responsibilities. Understanding the characteristics of a federation and how power is shared between the central and state governments is crucial to comprehending Nigeria’s political structure.
1. Characteristics of a Federation
- Division of Powers: In a federal system, power is divided between the central government and various state governments. Each level of government has specific powers and responsibilities as defined by the constitution.
- Written Constitution: A federal state usually operates under a written constitution that outlines the distribution of powers and the rights of different levels of government. In Nigeria, the 1999 Constitution serves this purpose.
- Supremacy of the Constitution: The constitution is the supreme law of the land, and any law that contradicts it is considered void. This ensures that all government actions are aligned with constitutional provisions.
- Bicameral Legislature: A federation typically has a bicameral legislature, which includes two houses. Nigeria’s National Assembly consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives, allowing representation from various states.
- Independent Judiciary: A federal system ensures an independent judiciary that interprets and applies the law. In Nigeria, the judiciary resolves disputes between different levels of government and protects citizens’ rights.
2. Sharing of Powers Between Central and State Governments
- Exclusive Powers: Certain powers are exclusively reserved for the central government, meaning only it can legislate on these matters. For instance, defense, foreign affairs, and immigration fall under the central government’s jurisdiction.
- Concurrent Powers: Some powers are shared between the central and state governments. Both levels can legislate on these issues, such as education and health care. However, if there is a conflict, the federal law takes precedence.
- Residual Powers: Powers that are not explicitly mentioned in the constitution are considered residual powers and are typically reserved for the state governments. This means states have the authority to legislate on matters not specified in the constitution.
3. States Have Constitutionally Defined Control Over Their Affairs
- State Laws: Each state in Nigeria has the authority to make laws regarding local matters such as land use, taxation, and local governance. This empowers states to address specific needs and conditions unique to their populations.
- Local Government Autonomy: States have the power to establish and manage their local governments, providing a level of governance closer to the people. Local governments handle community services and development projects, promoting grassroots participation.
- Resource Control: States have constitutionally defined rights over certain natural resources located within their territories. However, this often leads to disputes with the central government over revenue allocation and control.
4. Central Government Controls States and States Control Local Governments
- Central Authority: While states have significant autonomy, the central government retains authority over certain functions and can influence state affairs through policies, funding, and constitutional provisions.
- Federal Compliance: States must comply with federal laws and regulations, and the central government can intervene in state matters if necessary. This ensures a degree of uniformity across the federation.
- State Control of Local Governments: Each state government has the power to create and manage local governments. This allows states to address local issues and development needs while adhering to broader state policies.
Step 1: Introduction
Lesson Presentation (Step-by-Step Procedure)
Others removed.
