Civics & Citizenship

Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Fundamental Concepts of Civics and Citizenship
3. Nigerian Citizenship
4. Rights and Duties of Nigerian Citizens
5. Nigerian Governmental Structure
6. Democratic Principles and Processes
7. National Symbols and Identity
8. Constitutional Development in Nigeria
9. Rule of Law and Human Rights
10. National Values and Ethics
11. Public Service and Civil Society
12. National Security and Defense
13. International Relations and Organizations
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Introduction

Civics and Citizenship forms a critical foundation for police officers who serve as both law enforcers and guardians of democratic principles in Nigeria. Understanding the rights, responsibilities, and governmental structures that define Nigerian society enables police personnel to perform their duties with constitutional awareness, respect for civil liberties, and commitment to national unity. This comprehensive study material covers essential concepts of citizenship, governance, civic responsibilities, and constitutional provisions that are frequently tested in the Nigerian Police Exam.

Fundamental Concepts of Civics and Citizenship

Definition and Scope of Civics

Civics is the study of the rights, duties, and responsibilities of citizens within a political community, and the functioning of government institutions. It encompasses the knowledge and skills necessary for active participation in civic life and understanding of governmental processes.

Citizenship refers to the legal status of being a member of a particular nation-state, with associated rights, privileges, duties, and responsibilities. In the Nigerian context, citizenship determines who belongs to the Nigerian political community and what obligations and entitlements this membership confers.

Importance of Civic Education

• Promotes understanding of democratic principles and institutions
• Encourages active participation in governance and community development
• Fosters national unity, integration, and patriotism
• Develops awareness of rights and responsibilities
• Strengthens accountability and transparency in government
• Prevents political apathy and encourages informed voting
• Reduces ethnic, religious, and regional tensions through civic consciousness
• Builds respect for the rule of law and constitutionalism

Nigerian Citizenship

Constitutional Provisions on Citizenship

The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) provides comprehensive provisions on citizenship in Chapter III, Sections 25-32.

Methods of Acquiring Nigerian Citizenship

1. Citizenship by Birth

According to Section 25 of the 1999 Constitution, the following persons are citizens of Nigeria by birth:

• Every person born in Nigeria before the date of independence (October 1, 1960), either of whose parents or grandparents belongs or belonged to a community indigenous to Nigeria
• Every person born in Nigeria after independence, either of whose parents or grandparents is a citizen of Nigeria
• Every person born outside Nigeria, either of whose parents is a citizen of Nigeria

2. Citizenship by Registration

Section 26 provides for citizenship by registration. A person may apply for citizenship by registration if:

• The person is a woman who is or has been married to a Nigerian citizen
• The applicant has been resident in Nigeria continuously for at least 15 years
• The person has made significant contributions to the advancement or progress of Nigeria
• The person is of good character and has shown a clear intention to be domiciled in Nigeria

3. Citizenship by Naturalization

Section 27 outlines conditions for naturalization. An applicant must:

• Be of full age (18 years and above)
• Be of good character
• Show a clear intention to be domiciled in Nigeria
• Take the Oath of Allegiance prescribed in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution
• Make a declaration of acceptance of Nigerian citizenship
• Have been resident in Nigeria for a continuous period of at least 15 years immediately preceding the application, or have resided in Nigeria for periods totaling at least 20 years
• Be capable of making contributions to the advancement of Nigeria
• Have been assimilated into the Nigerian way of life

4. Honorary Citizenship

This may be conferred on distinguished foreign nationals who have rendered exceptional service to Nigeria, as determined by the National Assembly.

Dual Citizenship

Prior to the constitutional amendment, Nigeria did not fully recognize dual citizenship. However, Section 28 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) now provides that:

• A Nigerian citizen who acquires citizenship of another country shall not lose Nigerian citizenship
• A person who becomes a Nigerian citizen by registration or naturalization may retain the citizenship of their country of origin alongside Nigerian citizenship
• Nigeria now permits dual citizenship for Nigerians by birth and those naturalized

Renunciation of Citizenship

Section 29 allows any Nigerian citizen who is also a citizen of another country to renounce Nigerian citizenship by making a declaration in the prescribed manner.

Deprivation of Citizenship

According to Section 30, the President may deprive a person of Nigerian citizenship (other than citizenship by birth) if:

• The citizenship was acquired by fraud, false representation, or concealment of material facts
• The person has shown disloyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria
• The person has, during wartime, unlawfully traded or communicated with the enemy or engaged in business injurious to Nigeria
• The person has been sentenced to imprisonment for a term of not less than three years within seven years of naturalization
• The person has been ordinarily resident outside Nigeria for a continuous period of seven years and has not registered annually at a Nigerian embassy or consulate

Rights and Duties of Nigerian Citizens

Fundamental Rights (Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution)

The Constitution guarantees the following fundamental rights to all Nigerian citizens in Sections 33-46:

1. Right to Life (Section 33)

• Every person has a right to life, and no one shall be deprived intentionally of their life except in execution of a court sentence for a criminal offense
• Excludes deaths resulting from lawful defense, prevention of crime, or suppression of riots

2. Right to Dignity of Human Person (Section 34)

• Prohibits torture, inhuman or degrading treatment
• Prohibits slavery and forced labor
• Ensures respect for human dignity

3. Right to Personal Liberty (Section 35)

• Protects against arbitrary arrest and detention
• Requires that arrested persons be informed of reasons for arrest
• Mandates that detained persons be brought before court within a reasonable time (24-48 hours)
• Guarantees right to legal representation

4. Right to Fair Hearing (Section 36)

• Entitlement to fair hearing within a reasonable time by an impartial court or tribunal
• Presumption of innocence until proven guilty
• Right to be informed promptly of charges
• Right to adequate time and facilities for defense
• Right to defend oneself or through legal representation
• Right to examine witnesses
• Right to interpretation if the accused cannot understand the language of proceedings
• Public hearing (with exceptions for security, morality, or welfare of children)

5. Right to Private and Family Life (Section 37)

• Privacy of citizens, their homes, correspondence, telephone conversations, and telegraphic communications is guaranteed

6. Right to Freedom of Thought, Conscience, and Religion (Section 38)

• Freedom to choose, practice, and propagate any religion
• Freedom to change religion or belief
• Protection from compulsory religious instruction in schools

7. Right to Freedom of Expression and the Press (Section 39)

• Freedom to hold opinions and receive and impart ideas and information
• Freedom of the press and other media
• Subject to laws preventing defamation, incitement, and maintaining public order

8. Right to Peaceful Assembly and Association (Section 40)

• Freedom to assemble freely and associate with others
• Freedom to form or belong to political parties, trade unions, and other associations

9. Right to Freedom of Movement (Section 41)

• Freedom to move freely throughout Nigeria
• Freedom to reside in any part of Nigeria
• Right to leave and return to Nigeria
• Subject to restrictions for public safety, public order, health, or protecting rights of others

10. Right to Freedom from Discrimination (Section 42)

• Prohibition of discrimination based on ethnic group, place of origin, sex, religion, or political opinion
• Equal protection under the law

11. Right to Acquire and Own Property (Section 43)

• Citizens may acquire and own immovable property anywhere in Nigeria
• Subject to laws regulating land use and acquisition for public purposes

12. Compulsory Acquisition of Property (Section 44)

• Protects against compulsory acquisition of property except for public purposes
• Requires prompt payment of adequate compensation
• Provides right of access to court for determining compensation

Civic Responsibilities and Duties of Citizens

While the Constitution emphasizes rights, citizens also have corresponding duties and responsibilities:

Constitutional Duties (Chapter II - Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles)

• Respect for the National Flag and Anthem: Citizens must show respect for national symbols
• Loyalty to the State: Obligation to be faithful and bear true allegiance to Nigeria
• Obedience to Laws: Duty to obey the Constitution and laws of the land
• Payment of Taxes: Honest payment of taxes and levies as prescribed by law
• Defense of the Nation: Willingness to defend Nigeria when called upon
• Respect for Others: Respecting the dignity and rights of fellow citizens
• Participation in Governance: Active participation in democratic processes, including voting
• National Service: Participation in programs like the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)

Social and Moral Responsibilities

• Promoting national unity and integration
• Combating corruption and indiscipline
• Protecting public property and resources
• Environmental protection and conservation
• Promoting education and literacy
• Supporting community development initiatives
• Volunteering and community service
• Reporting crimes and cooperating with law enforcement
• Promoting peaceful coexistence among diverse ethnic and religious groups

Nigerian Governmental Structure

The Federal System of Government

Nigeria operates a federal system of government with three tiers:

1. Federal Government (Central Government)

The federal government has exclusive jurisdiction over matters in the Exclusive Legislative List (Part I of the Second Schedule to the 1999 Constitution), including:

• Defense and armed forces
• Foreign affairs and diplomatic relations
• Immigration and emigration
• Currency, coinage, and legal tender
• Banking and financial institutions
• Aviation and air transport
• Maritime shipping and navigation
• Posts, telegraphs, and telephones
• Police and other security services
• Prisons
• Taxation of companies and corporate bodies
• Mines and minerals
• Federal trunk roads
• Railways
• Copyrights, patents, and trademarks

2. State Governments (36 States)

State governments have jurisdiction over matters in the Concurrent Legislative List (Part II of the Second Schedule), shared with the federal government, and Residual matters. The Concurrent List includes:

• Education (except higher education and certain professional standards)
• Health services
• Agriculture and animal husbandry
• Antiquities and monuments
• Archives
• Statistics and surveys
• Scientific and technological research
• Industrial, commercial, and agricultural development

Residual matters (those not listed in either the Exclusive or Concurrent Lists) fall within state jurisdiction, including:

• Local government administration
• Chieftaincy affairs
• State roads and transport
• Markets and motor parks
• Environmental sanitation

3. Local Government Councils (774 LGAs)

Nigeria has 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs). The Fourth Schedule of the Constitution outlines local government functions:

• Economic planning and development at the grassroots level
• Collection of rates, radio and television licenses
• Establishment and maintenance of cemeteries, burial grounds, and homes for the destitute
• Licensing of bicycles, trucks, canoes, wheelbarrows, and carts
• Establishment, maintenance, and regulation of markets, motor parks, and public conveniences
• Construction and maintenance of roads, streets, drains, and other public facilities
• Naming of roads and streets and numbering of houses
• Provision and maintenance of public conveniences and refuse disposal
• Registration of births, deaths, and marriages
• Assessment of privately owned houses for rating purposes
• Control and regulation of outdoor advertising, movement and keeping of pets, shops, kiosks, restaurants, and other places for sale of food
• Establishment and maintenance of primary, adult, and vocational education
• Development of agriculture and natural resources
• Provision and maintenance of health services

The Three Arms of Government

1. The Executive Arm

At the Federal Level:

• The President: Head of State, Head of Government, and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces
• The Vice President: Second-in-command, assumes presidential duties when the President is absent or incapacitated
• Federal Executive Council (FEC): Comprises the President, Vice President, and Federal Ministers
• Federal Ministries and Parastatals: Implement government policies and programs

Presidential Powers and Functions:

• Execution and maintenance of the Constitution
• Assent to bills passed by the National Assembly
• Appointment of ministers, judges, ambassadors, and heads of federal agencies (subject to confirmation by the Senate for certain positions)
• Convening and presiding over Federal Executive Council meetings
• Direction of foreign policy and conduct of international relations
• Command of the armed forces
• Granting of pardons and reprieves
• Presentation of annual budget to the National Assembly

At the State Level:

• The Governor: Chief Executive Officer of the state
• The Deputy Governor: Assists the Governor and acts when the Governor is absent
• State Executive Council: Comprises the Governor, Deputy Governor, and State Commissioners

At the Local Government Level:

• The Chairman: Chief Executive of the Local Government Area
• The Vice Chairman: Assists the Chairman
• Supervisory Councilors: Head various departments

2. The Legislative Arm

At the Federal Level - The National Assembly:

The National Assembly is bicameral, consisting of:

• The Senate: Upper chamber with 109 senators (3 from each of the 36 states and 1 from the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja)
• The House of Representatives: Lower chamber with 360 members representing constituencies based on population

Functions of the National Assembly:

• Law-making (legislation) on matters in the Exclusive and Concurrent Legislative Lists
• Amendment of the Constitution (requires two-thirds majority of both chambers and approval by two-thirds of state Houses of Assembly)
• Approval of the national budget and appropriation of funds
• Oversight of the executive arm and its agencies
• Confirmation of certain presidential appointments (Senate only)
• Ratification of treaties and international agreements
• Impeachment of the President or Vice President (requires two-thirds majority of both chambers)
• Investigation and inquiry into matters of public importance
• Representation of constituents' interests

At the State Level - State House of Assembly:

• Each state has a unicameral legislature
• Makes laws on matters in the Concurrent Legislative List and Residual matters
• Approves state budgets
• Confirms certain gubernatorial appointments
• Can impeach the Governor or Deputy Governor
• Exercises oversight over state executive agencies

At the Local Government Level - Local Government Legislative Council:

• Makes by-laws and regulations for local government administration
• Approves local government budgets
• Provides oversight over local government executive activities

3. The Judicial Arm

The judiciary interprets laws, adjudicates disputes, and ensures justice. The Nigerian court system is hierarchical:

Federal Courts:

• Supreme Court of Nigeria: Apex court and final court of appeal; consists of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) and up to 21 Justices of the Supreme Court
• Court of Appeal: Intermediate appellate court; consists of the President of the Court of Appeal and up to 70 Justices; divided into judicial divisions across Nigeria
• Federal High Court: Has jurisdiction over federal matters including taxation, banking, immigration, citizenship, admiralty, and disputes between states or between the federal government and states
• National Industrial Court: Handles labor and employment matters

State Courts:

• High Court of a State: Original and appellate jurisdiction over civil and criminal matters within the state
• Sharia Court of Appeal: Handles Islamic personal law matters in states that have established them
• Customary Court of Appeal: Handles matters of customary law
• Magistrate Courts: Lower courts handling minor civil and criminal cases
• District/Area Courts: Lowest tier of courts in some states

Functions of the Judiciary:

• Interpretation of the Constitution and laws
• Adjudication of disputes between individuals, organizations, and government
• Protection of fundamental rights
• Judicial review of executive and legislative actions
• Punishment of offenders and maintenance of law and order
• Settling constitutional disputes between federal and state governments or among states

Principle of Separation of Powers

The 1999 Constitution establishes separation of powers among the three arms of government to prevent concentration of power and ensure checks and balances:

• Legislative oversight: Legislature monitors executive implementation of laws and policies
• Presidential veto: President can withhold assent to bills (though the National Assembly can override with two-thirds majority)
• Judicial review: Courts can declare executive actions or legislative acts unconstitutional
• Appointment confirmation: Senate confirms certain presidential appointments
• Impeachment: Legislature can remove the President, Vice President, or Governor for gross misconduct
• Budget approval: Executive proposes budget; legislature must approve it

Democratic Principles and Processes

Democracy and Its Features

Democracy is a system of government in which power is vested in the people, who exercise it directly or through elected representatives. Nigeria practices representative democracy.

Features of Democracy:

• Popular sovereignty: Power belongs to the people
• Free and fair elections: Regular, transparent electoral processes
• Universal adult suffrage: Every citizen of voting age has the right to vote
• Political pluralism: Multiple political parties compete for power
• Rule of law: Laws apply equally to all, including government officials
• Fundamental human rights: Protection of citizens' rights and freedoms
• Separation of powers: Division of governmental authority among branches
• Independent judiciary: Courts free from political interference
• Freedom of press and expression: Media can operate freely and citizens can express opinions
• Accountability and transparency: Government answers to the people
• Majority rule with minority rights: Decisions made by majority while protecting minority interests

Electoral Process in Nigeria

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)

INEC is the constitutional body responsible for conducting elections in Nigeria, established under Section 153 and Part I of the Third Schedule of the 1999 Constitution.

Functions of INEC:

• Organization, undertaking, and supervision of elections to federal and state offices
• Registration of political parties and monitoring their operations
• Registration of voters and maintenance of the national voter register
• Delimitation of constituencies
• Conduct of voter education
• Promotion of electoral integrity and democratic values
• Regulation of political party finances and campaign spending

Structure: INEC is headed by a Chairman and has National Commissioners, Resident Electoral Commissioners (one for each state and the FCT), and administrative staff at federal, state, and local government levels.

Types of Elections in Nigeria

• Presidential Elections: Election of the President and Vice President
• Gubernatorial Elections: Election of Governors and Deputy Governors
• National Assembly Elections: Election of Senators and House of Representatives members
• State House of Assembly Elections: Election of state legislators
• Local Government Elections: Election of Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, and Councilors (conducted by State Independent Electoral Commissions - SIECs)

Electoral System

Presidential Election Requirements (Section 134):

To be elected President, a candidate must:

• Receive the highest number of votes cast
• Secure at least one-quarter (25%) of votes cast in at least two-thirds of all states and the FCT
• If no candidate meets both requirements, a run-off election is held between the top two candidates

Gubernatorial Election Requirements (Section 179):

Similar to presidential elections, a gubernatorial candidate must:

• Receive the highest number of votes
• Secure at least one-quarter of votes in at least two-thirds of local government areas in the state

Legislative Elections: Based on simple majority (first-past-the-post) system where the candidate with the highest votes wins.

Voting Eligibility

According to Section 117 of the 1999 Constitution, a person is qualified to vote if:

• They are a citizen of Nigeria
• They have attained the age of 18 years
• They are registered as a voter
• They are ordinarily resident in the constituency where the election is taking place

Political Party Registration

The Electoral Act and Constitution provide that political parties must:

• Apply to INEC for registration
• Have national character (offices in at least two-thirds of states)
• Have membership reflecting Nigeria's federal character
• Submit their constitution, symbols, and list of executive members
• Not have names, logos, mottos, or symbols that connote ethnic or religious associations
• Submit annual financial statements and sources of funding

Political Parties in Nigeria

As of recent records, Nigeria has numerous registered political parties. The major ones include:

• All Progressives Congress (APC): Current ruling party at the federal level (as of 2023)
• Peoples Democratic Party (PDP): Main opposition party; ruled Nigeria from 1999 to 2015
• Labour Party (LP): Growing opposition party
• New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP): Opposition party
• All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA): Regional party with significant presence in southeastern Nigeria
• Social Democratic Party (SDP): Opposition party

National Symbols and Identity

The Nigerian National Flag

The Nigerian flag was designed by Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, a student, in 1959 and was officially adopted on October 1, 1960, Nigeria's Independence Day.

Description:

• Consists of three vertical stripes of equal size
• Two green stripes on either side representing Nigeria's agricultural wealth and natural resources
• One white stripe in the middle representing peace and unity

The Nigerian National Anthem

Nigeria has had two national anthems:

First National Anthem (1960-1978): "Nigeria, We Hail Thee"

Composed by Frances Berda (music) and Lillian Jean Williams (lyrics), both British.

Current National Anthem (1978-present): "Arise, O Compatriots"

The lyrics were composed by a committee of five Nigerians: John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B.A. Ogunnaike, Sota Omoigui, and P.O. Aderibigbe. The music was composed by Benedict Elide Odiase.

Full Lyrics:

Arise, O compatriots, Nigeria's call obey
To serve our fatherland
With love and strength and faith
The labour of our heroes past
Shall never be in vain
To serve with heart and might
One nation bound in freedom, peace and unity.

O God of creation, direct our noble cause
Guide our leaders right
Help our youth the truth to know
In love and honesty to grow
And living just and true
Great lofty heights attain
To build a nation where peace and justice shall reign.

The Nigerian Coat of Arms

Adopted in 1960, the Nigerian Coat of Arms contains several symbolic elements:

• The Black Shield: Represents Nigeria's fertile soil
• The Two White Horses: Represent dignity
• The Eagle: Represents strength
• The Green and White Band (Y-shaped): Represents the two main rivers in Nigeria - River Niger and River Benue
• The Red Flowers (Costus Spectabilis): Nigeria's national flower
• The Wreath: Represents agricultural wealth
• The Motto: "Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress"

The Nigerian Pledge

Composed in 1976 by Professor Felicia Adebola Adedoyin:

"I pledge to Nigeria my country
To be faithful, loyal and honest
To serve Nigeria with all my strength
To defend her unity
And uphold her honour and glory
So help me God."

Nigeria's National Symbols

• National Flower: Costus Spectabilis
• National Bird: Black Crowned Crane (though not officially designated)
• National Motto: "Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress"
• National Currency: The Naira (₦), divided into 100 kobo
• National Language: English (official); Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba are major indigenous languages

Constitutional Development in Nigeria

Pre-Independence Constitutions

1. The Clifford Constitution (1922)

• First constitution to introduce elective principle in Nigeria
• Established the Nigerian Legislative Council
• Allowed for election of four members (three from Lagos and one from Calabar)
• Named after Governor Sir Hugh Clifford

2. The Richards Constitution (1946)

• Named after Governor Sir Arthur Richards
• Introduced regionalism by dividing Nigeria into three regions: Northern, Eastern, and Western
• Established regional councils
• Increased Nigerian participation in governance

3. The Macpherson Constitution (1951)

• Named after Governor Sir John Macpherson
• First constitution developed with significant Nigerian input
• Introduced the principle of federalism
• Established central and regional legislatures
• Granted greater autonomy to regions

4. The Lyttleton Constitution (1954)

• Named after Oliver Lyttleton, British Secretary of State for the Colonies
• Established true federalism with exclusive, concurrent, and residual legislative powers
• Provided for a Council of Ministers at the federal level
• Granted regional autonomy in specific matters
• Created the office of Federal Prime Minister

Post-Independence Constitutions

1. Independence Constitution (1960)

• Came into effect on October 1, 1960
• Established Nigeria as a constitutional monarchy with the British Queen as ceremonial head of state
• Prime Minister as head of government
• Parliamentary system of government
• Three regions with significant autonomy

2. Republican Constitution (1963)

• Came into effect on October 1, 1963
• Transformed Nigeria into a federal republic
• Created the office of President as ceremonial head of state
• Prime Minister remained head of government
• Created the Mid-Western Region (fourth region)

3. The 1979 Constitution

• Introduced American-style presidential system
• Established executive presidency combining roles of head of state and government
• Created 19 states
• Introduced federal character principle to ensure equitable representation
• Established separation of powers among three arms of government
• Came into effect on October 1, 1979, marking the end of military rule

4. The 1999 Constitution (Current)

• Came into effect on May 29, 1999
• Similar structure to the 1979 Constitution
• Maintains presidential system of government
• Currently has 36 states plus the Federal Capital Territory
• Has been amended several times (notably in 2010, 2011, 2017, and 2018)
• Chapters include: General Provisions, Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles, Citizenship, Fundamental Rights, Legislative Powers, Executive Powers, Judicature, Federal Capital Territory, State Creation, Revenue Allocation, Public Revenue, Miscellaneous, and Interpretation

Rule of Law and Human Rights

The Concept of Rule of Law

Rule of law is a fundamental democratic principle stating that all persons, institutions, and entities (including the government) are accountable to laws that are publicly promulgated, equally enforced, and independently adjudicated.

Principles of Rule of Law:

• Supremacy of the law: The law is above everyone, including government officials
• Equality before the law: All persons are equal under the law regardless of status
• Protection of fundamental rights: Laws must protect basic human rights
• Access to justice: Courts must be accessible to all citizens
• Independent judiciary: Judges must be free from political pressure
• Procedural fairness: Legal processes must be fair and transparent
• Legal certainty: Laws must be clear, publicized, stable, and applied evenly
• Accountability: Mechanisms exist to hold officials accountable for violations

Enforcement of Fundamental Rights

Section 46 of the 1999 Constitution provides for enforcement of fundamental rights. Any person who alleges that their rights have been violated may apply to:

• High Court of a State in the state where the violation occurred
• High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja
• Federal High Court in appropriate circumstances

Remedies available include:

• Declarations that rights have been violated
• Injunctions restraining further violations
• Monetary compensation (damages)
• Orders for specific performance
• Writs of habeas corpus (for unlawful detention)

Legal aid: The Legal Aid Council of Nigeria provides free legal assistance to indigent citizens who cannot afford legal representation.

National Human Rights Commission

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) was established by Act No. 22 of 1995 to:

• Promote and protect human rights in Nigeria
• Monitor and investigate human rights violations
• Assist victims of human rights abuse
• Conduct human rights education and awareness programs
• Advise government on human rights matters
• Cooperate with international human rights organizations

National Values and Ethics

Core Nigerian Values

The Nigerian government has identified and promoted certain core values essential for national development:

• Discipline: Self-control, orderliness, and adherence to rules
• Integrity: Honesty, moral uprightness, and consistency in actions
• Dignity of Labour: Respect for all forms of honest work
• Patriotism: Love for and loyalty to Nigeria
• Social Justice: Fair treatment and equitable distribution of resources
• Religious Tolerance: Respect for diverse religious beliefs
• Self-Reliance: Individual and national economic independence
• National Unity: Solidarity across ethnic, religious, and regional divides

War Against Indiscipline (WAI)

Launched in 1984 during the Buhari military regime, WAI was a program aimed at:

• Curbing social vices and corruption
• Promoting punctuality and environmental sanitation
• Encouraging orderly conduct in public places
• Fostering national pride and discipline

The Anti-Corruption Campaign

Nigeria has established several agencies to combat corruption:

1. Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)

• Established in 2003
• Investigates and prosecutes economic and financial crimes
• Focuses on money laundering, advance fee fraud, cybercrime, and corruption

2. Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC)

• Established in 2000
• Prevents and prosecutes corruption in public service
• Conducts system reviews and corruption prevention measures
• Receives and investigates corruption complaints

3. Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT)

• Established by the 1999 Constitution (Part I of the Third Schedule and Fifth Schedule)
• CCB receives asset declarations from public officers
• CCT tries public officers for breaches of the Code of Conduct

Public Service and Civil Society

The Civil Service

The Civil Service comprises career administrative staff who implement government policies. It is characterized by:

• Permanence: Civil servants remain in service despite changes in political leadership
• Neutrality: Political impartiality in discharge of duties
• Anonymity: Ministers take responsibility for civil service actions
• Professionalism: Merit-based recruitment and promotion
• Hierarchy: Clear chain of command from Permanent Secretaries to junior staff

Structure:

• Federal Civil Service: Headed by the Head of Civil Service of the Federation
• State Civil Service: Headed by the Head of Service in each state
• Local Government Service: Administrative staff at local government level

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)

Civil society refers to non-governmental organizations and institutions that represent citizens' interests and advocate for social change. Examples include:

• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
• Community-Based Organizations (CBOs)
• Professional associations (Nigerian Bar Association, Nigerian Medical Association, etc.)
• Labor unions (Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress)
• Religious organizations
• Youth and student groups
• Women's rights organizations
• Human rights advocacy groups
• Media organizations

Roles of Civil Society:

• Advocacy and lobbying for policy changes
• Monitoring government performance and accountability
• Provision of social services (education, healthcare, poverty alleviation)
• Citizen education and awareness
• Mediation and conflict resolution
• Protection of human rights
• Promotion of democratic values

National Security and Defense

The Armed Forces

The Armed Forces of Nigeria comprise:

• Nigerian Army: Land-based military force
• Nigerian Navy: Maritime defense force
• Nigerian Air Force: Aerial defense force

Roles and Functions:

• Defense of Nigeria's territorial integrity
• Suppression of insurrection and maintaining national security
• Peacekeeping operations (domestically and internationally)
• Disaster relief and humanitarian assistance
• Support to civil authorities during emergencies

The President is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces (Section 130 of the 1999 Constitution).

The Nigeria Police Force

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) is the principal law enforcement agency in Nigeria, established under Section 214 of the 1999 Constitution.

Leadership:

• Headed by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), appointed by the President subject to Senate confirmation
• The Nigeria Police Council advises the President on police policy and organization

Objectives and Functions (Section 4 of the Police Act):

• Prevention and detection of crime
• Apprehension and prosecution of offenders
• Preservation of law and order
• Protection of life and property
• Enforcement of all laws and regulations
• Performance of military duties within or outside Nigeria as required

Police Ranks (in descending order):

1. Inspector-General of Police (IGP)
2. Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG)
3. Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG)
4. Commissioner of Police (CP)
5. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP)
6. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP)
7. Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP)
8. Superintendent of Police (SP)
9. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)
10. Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP)
11. Inspector of Police
12. Sergeant
13. Corporal
14. Constable

Other Security Agencies

• Department of State Services (DSS): Internal security and intelligence agency
• National Intelligence Agency (NIA): External intelligence gathering
• Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA): Military intelligence
• Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC): Protection of critical national infrastructure and civil defense
• Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS): Border control and immigration management
• Nigeria Customs Service (NCS): Border security and revenue collection
• Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC): Road safety and traffic management
• National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA): Drug trafficking prevention

International Relations and Organizations

Nigeria's Foreign Policy

Nigeria's foreign policy objectives include:

• Promotion of African unity and development
• Defense of Nigeria's sovereignty and territorial integrity
• Promotion of world peace and respect for international law
• Protection of Nigerian citizens abroad
• Economic diplomacy and trade promotion
• South-South cooperation

Principle of Afrocentrism: Nigeria's foreign policy is anchored on Africa being the centerpiece, emphasizing African solidarity, liberation, and development.

Nigeria's Membership in International Organizations

1. United Nations (UN)

• Nigeria joined on October 7, 1960
• Member of various UN agencies (WHO, UNESCO, UNICEF, UNDP, etc.)
• Active participant in UN peacekeeping missions (UNAMID, MONUSCO, UNIFIL, etc.)
• Advocates for Security Council reform and African representation

2. African Union (AU)

• Nigeria is a founding member (established in 2002, replacing the OAU)
• Actively supports AU's agenda for African integration
• Contributes to African peacekeeping through ECOWAS and AU missions

3. Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)

• Nigeria is a founding member (established May 28, 1975)
• Headquarters: Abuja, Nigeria
• Nigeria plays a leading role in ECOWAS peacekeeping (ECOMOG) and regional integration
• Promotes free movement of persons, goods, and services in West Africa

4. Commonwealth of Nations

• Nigeria joined upon independence in 1960
• Suspended in 1995 due to human rights concerns, readmitted in 1999
• Participates in Commonwealth programs and summits

5. Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)

• Nigeria joined in 1971
• One of Africa's major oil producers
• Participates in OPEC production quotas and pricing decisions

6. Non-Aligned Movement (NAM)

• Nigeria is a member, advocating for neutrality in major power conflicts
• Supports global South interests

7. Other Organizations

• G77: Group of developing countries in the UN
• World Trade Organization (WTO): Member since 1995
• International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank: Member states
• D-8 (Developing Eight): Organization of eight developing countries
• Lake Chad Basin Commission: Manages Lake Chad resources
• Niger Basin