Civil Service Efficiency and National Development in Nigeria: Evidence from Selected Ministries, Departments and Agencies in Delta State

Abstract

This study examined Civil Service Efficiency and National Development in Nigeria: Evidence from Selected Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in Delta State. The study specifically sought to determine the effect of administrative effectiveness on national development in Nigeria and the extent to which service delivery efficiency affects national development in Nigeria. A survey research design was adopted, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to civil servants in selected MDAs in Delta State. A sample size of 396 respondents was used for the study. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Cronbach's alpha, Pearson Product Moment Correlation and multiple regression analysis. The reliability results established satisfactory internal consistency of the research instrument, with Cronbach's alpha coefficients exceeding the recommended threshold of 0.70. The findings revealed that administrative effectiveness had a positive and statistically significant effect on national development (β = 0.438, t = 10.683, p < .001). Similarly, service delivery efficiency had a positive and statistically significant effect on national development (β = 0.405, t = 9.854, p < .001). The two predictors jointly explained 62.6% of the variation in national development (R² = 0.626), while the overall regression model was statistically significant (F = 319.02, p < .001). The study concluded that administrative effectiveness and service delivery efficiency are significant dimensions of civil service efficiency that contribute substantially to national development in Nigeria. The study therefore recommended that government should strengthen administrative effectiveness through simplified bureaucratic procedures, performance management, staff capacity development and accountability, while service delivery should be improved through digitalisation, clear service standards, adequate resources, continuous staff training and regular performance monitoring.