Like many developing countries, Nigeria embarked on the privatization of many of its state owned enterprises (SOEs) in the late 1980s. Although a number of stakeholders, for…
Abstract
Purpose
Like many developing countries, Nigeria embarked on the privatization of many of its state owned enterprises (SOEs) in the late 1980s. Although a number of stakeholders, for different reasons, are opposed to the divesture of many of the country's SOEs, the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), the agency charged with the responsibility of implementing the Nigerian policy on privatization and commercialization, has continued with the exercise. The first phase of the privatization programme began in 1988 under the Technical Committee on Privatization and Commercialization (TCPC) and ended in 1993, and the second phase began in 1998 under the BPE and is proceeding with full steam. As of last count about 400 SOEs have been divested both by the TCPC and BPE. This paper aims to reflect on the privatization policy in Nigeria.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper seeks to reflect on the privatization policy in Nigeria and examines some of the strengths/successes and weaknesses/failures of the exercise.
Findings
There are enormous benefits that Nigeria can reap from privatization if the exercise is done properly. This is possible if it addresses the major problems that confront it with regards to various aspects of the implementation of the sale of SOEs.
Originality/value
The paper reflects on privatization in Nigeria, proffers some way forward and points to some lessons for other African or developing countries that have embraced or are planning on embracing the policy.
Details
Keywords
This paper aims to examine issues of bribery, cronyism and nepotism in one of the most corrupt countries in Africa.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine issues of bribery, cronyism and nepotism in one of the most corrupt countries in Africa.
Design/methodology/approach
This is a single-country case study, drawing on material dating from the mid-1970s, including court cases.
Findings
The corruption is pervasive and systemic, showing severe problems with governance in general, in the sector and against corruption. Nonetheless, two operators, one South African and one Nigerian, have delivered extensive access to mobile networks.
Practical implications
The system of governance requires significant structural reforms, if the burden of corruption is to be reduced.
Originality/value
This paper sheds new and explicit light on the complex history of telecommunications in Nigeria. It adds to the small base of material on corruption in the telecommunications sector. It identifies issues that could usefully be taken up by institutions in Nigeria.