By Dr. Jumai Ahmadu
For decades, Nigeria’s development planning followed a familiar pattern: government officials designed projects from their offices, and communities were expected to accept them without question. The result? Countless initiatives that missed their mark because those they were meant to serve had no say in their creation.
The Federal Capital Territory is proving there is a better way. Under the current Minister’s leadership, a quiet revolution in governance is taking shape—one that places communities at the heart of decision-making, particularly in rural infrastructure planning.
From Theory to Practice
This shift represents the practical application of bottom-up policy formulation—a model that treats local communities as partners rather than passive recipients of government programmes. The approach draws on established frameworks including Paul Sabatier’s Advocacy Coalition Framework, Richard Elmore’s Bottom-Up Implementation Theory, and Michael Lipsky’s work on street-level bureaucracy.
Unlike the traditional Top-Down Policy Model, where decisions flow from the centre with limited consultation, participatory governance acknowledges that those who live with developmental challenges daily are often best positioned to identify practical and sustainable solutions.
Lessons from the Past
The Jibi Resettlement Scheme stands as a cautionary tale. Conceived to relocate communities affected by Phase II of the Federal Capital City, construction was completed in 2002. Yet before relocation could occur, the estate was allocated to the Nigeria Police Force—a decision that fundamentally altered the original plan and delayed its objectives.
The episode offers an enduring lesson: development initiatives are most sustainable when built around the expectations, participation and confidence of intended beneficiaries.
A New Approach Takes Hold
Across the Area Councils, communities now identify and prioritise their infrastructure needs. Rather than imposing projects from the centre, officials listen to rural dwellers whose firsthand knowledge guides project selection. The result? Numerous rural access roads that directly reflect community priorities—improving mobility, agricultural productivity, market access, healthcare and education.
One remarkable demonstration occurred during a ministerial inspection tour when residents appealed for the construction of the Kagini–Kabba Road and Zaudna Road, explaining years of hardship. After hearing their concerns directly, the Minister gave on-the-spot approval for both projects.
The Path Forward
The benefits are becoming evident. Community participation strengthens ownership, reduces resistance, improves accountability and ensures scarce resources deliver maximum impact. Completed projects are embraced, protected and utilised by beneficiaries.
This evolution in governance represents one of the most significant policy innovations in the FCT. It demonstrates that effective governance is measured not by projects commissioned but by citizens’ influence over decisions shaping their lives.
The future of governance in Nigeria lies in moving beyond government acting for people to government working with them. The FCT’s participatory approach offers a compelling model—one deserving serious consideration across the nation as we seek to build policies that are not only well-designed but genuinely owned by those they serve.
Dr. Jumai Ahmadu is Director, Reform Coordination and Service Improvement Department, FCTA.