Intergovernmental Relations and Infrastructure Development in Kebbi State

This study analyses the nature and impact of intergovernmental relations on infrastructure development in Kebbi State, a predominantly agrarian state in Nigeria's North West geopolitical zone. Infrastructure deficits, including poor road networks, inadequate water supply, and limited power infrastructure, continue to constrain economic growth and human development in the state. The study adopts a descriptive design using structured questionnaires and documentary analysis to gather data from 250 state and local government officials, federal programme officers, and community leaders. Quantitative data were analysed using correlation analysis, while qualitative data from interviews were subjected to thematic analysis. The Cooperative Federalism Theory underpins the study, arguing that productive intergovernmental collaboration is essential for addressing collective action problems in infrastructure provision. Findings reveal that poor coordination among the three tiers of government, duplication of projects, and political rivalry between elected officials at different levels have undermined infrastructure investments in the state. The study further observes that federal constituency projects are often poorly aligned with state development plans, reducing their developmental impact. Recommendations include the establishment of a formal intergovernmental coordination council for Kebbi State, joint infrastructure project planning mechanisms, and the harmonisation of state and federal capital expenditure frameworks. Keywords: intergovernmental relations, infrastructure development, Kebbi State, federalism, capital expenditure.