The Third-tier In Federations: Nigeria And India Compared

Federal systems of government represent a unique form to reconcile the need for unity and centralized rule for defence or economic purposes while enabling the accommodation of a degree of diversity. Most federations are characterized by a level of interdependence between the general and regional governments that has been depicted as co-operative federalism. There is considerable difference in the operations of federal systems and relations between the various levels of government are often contentious. Maintaining a federal system in the face of the dangers of both centralization and fragmentation involves a culture of tolerance and commitment to an institutional framework. Studies in federalism have rarely looked at the third-tier of government in detail. Most often there has only been a passing reference. While there are numerous studies in comparative federalism, comparative studies of the third-tier have been few and far in between. This study attempts to compare the local government administration in Nigeria and India and also, the evolution of local governance in both countries.