THE IMPACT OF GODFATHERISM ON NIGERIAN POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
Abstract
This study examines the impact of godfatherism on Nigeria's political and economic growth, with an
emphasis on how political godfathers influence governance, policy implementation, and economic
performance. Using a quantitative research design, data was collected through the administration of
structured questionnaires to a sample of 400 respondents drawn from diverse socio-political and
economic backgrounds across Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to examine role of
godfatherism in shaping political landscape, to assess how godfatherism affect the quality of
governance, to identify potential solution to reduce the impact of godfatherism on Nigerian political
and economic growth. The findings revealed that godfatherism significantly undermines democratic
processes, with 78% of respondents indicating that political godfathers determine leadership
outcomes irrespective of merit or public interest. Additionally, 70% linked godfatherism to
corruption, weak institutions, and poor resource allocation, all of which negatively affect economic
growth. The study also found that godfatherism breeds political instability and discourages investor
confidence, thereby hindering sustainable development. Based on these findings, the study
recommends the strengthening of internal party democracy, enforcement of anti-corruption
frameworks, and the promotion of political literacy to empower citizens against patron-client political
structures. Addressing the menace of godfatherism is crucial to achieving transparent governance
and inclusive economic development in Nigeria.
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