Cultural Policy Implementation Inconsistency and its Implications in Nigeria

Abstract

Nigeria has a long history of cultural policy formulation and was among the first African nations to draft a national cultural policy in the late 1980s. However, the implementation of this policy over the decades has been fraught with inconsistencies. This paper examines the phenomenon of cultural policy implementation inconsistency in Nigeria – defined as the failure to consistently apply and uphold the provisions of the cultural policy across different administrations and contexts – and analyses its implications for national development. The study is guided by three key questions: What is cultural policy implementation inconsistency? How has it affected cultural policy implementation in Nigeria? And what are the implications of these inconsistencies on development? Adopting a qualitative approach, the paper draws on scholarly literature, policy documents, and institutional reports from bodies such as UNESCO, the African Union, and Nigeria’s Ministry of Information and Culture. Findings reveal that frequent administrative changes, political interference, and inadequate commitment have undermined cultural policy execution, resulting in suboptimal contributions of the cultural sector to Nigeria’s social and economic development. The discussion situates Nigeria’s experience within broader theoretical frameworks of public policy implementation and cultural administration, noting both historical and contemporary perspectives. The paper recommends strengthening institutional frameworks, ensuring continuity across political transitions, and aligning with international best practices (including UNESCO conventions and the African Union’s cultural frameworks) to achieve consistent policy implementation. In conclusion, it argues that sustaining commitment to cultural policy implementation is essential for culture to realize its potential as a driver of sustainable development in Nigeria.