Effective Budgeting and Development Plan Implementation in Nigeria: A Study of the National Youth Service Corps’ Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development Programme, 2012 - 2023
Abstract
The research analysed the effectiveness of budgeting in implementing development plans in Nigeria using the NYSC’s SAED Programme as a case study. The need for the study is against the backdrop of the level of development in Nigeria despite numerous wonderful development plans. The broad objective of this study was hinged on understanding the concept of budgeting and development plan implementation in Nigeria with reference to the NYSC SAED programme, while the specific objectives were: to examine the effect of budgeting on the effective implementation of the NYSC SAED programme, and to determine the ways by which the NYSC SAED programme can be made to function effectively. It utilised a qualitative approach to examine the extent to which budget allocation to the programme and the implementation of the programme meet the desired end and promote socio-economic development in Nigeria. Discussions were conducted with some relevant stakeholders especially the trainers to gain insight into the effectiveness of the programme. The study found out that the programme, to some extent has been effective, as it has been able to provide relevant skills to Corps members that can be used to find employment or establish their own business. The research also identified unconducive training facilities, inadequate budget allocation, and lack of interest among corps members among others as some of the key challenges affecting the effective implementation of the programme. Taking cognizance of the findings of the study, we recommend that budgetary allocations to the programme should be revisited in order to give it adequate and required funds necessary for the realization of its aims and objectives. Furthermore, the allocations to the programme should be made readily available as and when needed. Also, government should also partner with the private
