THE EFFECT OF INSECURITY ON SMALL SCALE BUSINESS IN GWALLAMEJI COMMUNITY BAUCHI LGA

This study investigates the effect of intergovernmental relations (IGR) on the performance of local governments in Bauchi State, Nigeria. Local governments, constitutionally established as the third tier of government, are expected to drive grassroots development; however, their effectiveness is largely shaped by the quality of interaction with federal and state authorities. Using a descriptive survey design, the study drew a sample of 250 respondents comprising local government officials, policymakers, community leaders, and residents. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings reveal that political interference, excessive state control, fiscal dependence, and administrative inefficiencies severely limit local government autonomy and service delivery. Delays in disbursements, weak internally generated revenue, and overlapping responsibilities further undermine performance. The study concludes that effective local governance requires constitutional reforms, enhanced financial autonomy, capacity building, and stronger intergovernmental collaboration. It recommends direct allocation of funds to local governments, reduction of political interference, improved revenue generation, and institutionalized joint planning as strategies for strengthening IGR and repositioning local governments as viable agents of grassroots development.