Participatory Budgeting Mechanisms and Public Accountability in Nigeria

Abstract

There is limited empirical research on the extent to which participatory budgeting mechanisms contribute to improved public accountability, in the context of Nigerian subnational governments like Kwara State. This study investigates the relationship between participatory budgeting and public accountability in Kwara State, Nigeria. Participatory budgeting is an increasingly popular approach to democratic governance, aiming to enhance citizen engagement in the budgetary process. This study adopted the survey research design; the Primary source was used researcher-designed questionnaire which consisted of the information to be elicited from the sampled respondents. 200 respondents were selected through the Taro Yamane formula; line regression was used to test the hypotheses. It shows that the significant coefficient r which indicates that there exists a very strong linear
relationship between preparation and submission and public accountability (predictors or independent variables) preparation and submission and public accountability is significant since the alpha level of. 05 is greater than the p-value. This study examines the participatory budgeting in the budget circle and public accountability: a case study of Kwara state, Nigeria. This study became essential due to the fact that citizens have been given the right to add to the budget process. Participatory budgeting is now a trending technique adopted by governments all over the world which gives the citizens chance to express their needs which
is then converted to the yearly plan budget. Participatory budgeting in the budget circle plays a crucial role in promoting public accountability. When citizens have the opportunity to participate in budget planning and decision-making, it enhances transparency, fosters trust, and strengthens the overall accountability of public officials.