CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Government as a concept is conceived by scholars in different perspectives. Government can be viewed as a body of persons or authority vested with the sole authority to pilot or control the affairs of a given country for the welfare of the governed. The study of government helps students to understand how the society is being governed as well as enable them to know when a country is being ruled well or not (Amadi, 2006). Dibie (2008) defined government as an academic field of study which involves the study of political institutions in the state. Lawrence and Murray (2009) viewed government as a group of people that governs as well as administers public policy and exercises executive, political and sovereign power through institutions and laws within a state. While, Ukaegbu, Mezieobi, Ajileye, Abdulrahaman and Anyaoha (2009) defined government as a course of study geared towards helping students to acquire a sense of loyalty, honesty, and patriotism which ultimately inculcates in them the spirit of nationalism, values and attitudes. In the context of this study, Government is defined as machinery established to organize the state, manage its affairs and administer its functions and duties for the ultimate well being of the individuals in the society.

The importance of studying Government at the secondary school level cannot be over-emphasized. The study of Government is an effective means of building national loyalty and the adaptation of young ones to the system in which they live in. It is through the study of Government that the spirit of nationalism and patriotism are inculcated into the young ones whereby they are taught about their civic duties and obligations to the state and the role of the state to their security and welfare. It is also through the study of Government that students are taught the national anthem, national pledge, national symbols and the flag which are considered as powerful instruments for national unity and identity (Onoguere, 2007).

1. 1. This material content is developed to serve as a GUIDE for students to conduct academic research work
2. 2. As a source for additional understanding of the subject.
3. 3. As a source for ideas for your own research work (if properly referenced).
4. 4. For PROPER paraphrasing (see your university definition of plagiarism and acceptable paraphrase)
5. 5. Direct citing (if referenced properly)
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