Posted by Chester Morton / Thursday, 19 April 2018 / No comments
The functions of the Prime Minister under the 1960 independent constitution of Nigeria
THE FUNCTIONS OF THE PRIME MINISTER UNDER THE 1960 INDEPENDENT
CONSTITUTION OF NIGERIA
Introduction
The independent constitution of Nigeria made provision for
the position of a Prime Minister. At independence, Tafawa Balewa emerged as the
leader of the largest party in the National Assembly and therefore was
appointed by the Governor-General as the country’s Prime Minister.
FUNCTIONS OF THE PRIME MINISTER
Head of Government
The Prime Minister was the Head of Government. He was
responsible for the day-to-day administration of the country. In fact, if this
was under a presidential system of government, the Prime Minister would have
been designated – President.
Appointment of
Ministers
It was one of the functions of the Prime Minister under the
1960 independent constitution to appoint ministers to serve in his government.
He could also assign them to various portfolios as he thinks their best
abilities could be well harnessed. He had the power to transfer them from one
ministry to the other or even to dismiss them if he thinks they are
under-performing.
Formulation of policies
With the assistance of his Cabinet Ministers, the Prime
Minister was responsible for the formulation of major policies. These policies were
to ensure that the social and economic development of the nation.
Implementation of
policies
As the Head of Government, he was responsible for the
implementation of the policies that are approved by the National Assembly. He
was assisted by the country’s Civil Service. He ensured that law and order was
enforced and he was assisted by the nation’s Police Force.
Coordinator of
ministries
As the Head of Government, the Prime Minister was responsible
for the coordination of the activities of the various ministers. The ministers
were appointed by him and he runs the government of the day so he had to ensure
that the activities of the various ministries gel into the over-all policy of
the government.
Reported to the
Governor-General
The Prime Minister was under an obligation to report to the
Governor-General about the things that government is engaged in. In other
words, he informed him about the activities of his government and also takes
the opinion of the Governor-General on important matters to his cabinet.
Spokesman of his party
As the leader of the majority party in the National Assembly,
he acted as the party's spokesman. He addressed the members of the party at very
important party ceremonies.
SAMPLE QUESTION(S)
1. Discuss six major functions of the Prime Minister under
the 1960 independent constitution of Nigeria.
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