Originally published in 1986, this book provides an in-depth study of the relationship between administrators and politicians in Nigeria from the birth of modern Nigeria in 1914 to the late 20th century. The author explores the different types of regimes that the country underwent during the 20th century: colonial and parliamentary government, military rule and presidential government. The book analyses the impact of regime type on the relationship between politicians and administrators and also studies the respective roles of political and administrative actors in the policy process under each regime type. References are made to the experiences of selected countries in Africa, Europe and North America, which provide a comparative perspective to this illuminating analysis of the shifting relationships between politicians and administrators. The final chapter makes concrete proposals on how to achieve a balanced development of political and administrative institutions in Nigeria – a model which is of course highly relevant to other African states.

The book is valuable reading for students of public administration, political science and public law as well as African studies.