Good Governance in Nigeria

'This seminal work takes a new look at the long-contested terrain of 'good governance' and suggests a renewed focus on the subject as a socially embedded activity. Rich in methods, theory, and data, it examines the Nigerian case to show how an experience long on bad news could produce promising opportunities and resources for good governance and democracy in Nigeria - and beyond.' Adigun Agbaje, University of Ibadan 'Portia Roelofs has written a bold contribution to ongoing debates on governance quality and democracy. Challenging ontological and epistemological assumptions in the mainstream literature, Roelofs' approach to socially-embedded good governance is an excellent, empirically grounded and locally sensitive understanding of home-grown governance principles in Nigeria.' Wil Hout, International Institute of Social Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam 'Roelofs is to be commended for taking the terms of Nigerian political life seriously, reading them not as evidence for a theory generated elsewhere, but as serious theoretical and ethical contributions to global and local discussions about accountability and transparency in politics. Paired with her refreshingly clear and direct writing, this book is as readable as it is compelling.' Leigh K. Jenco, London School of Economics and Political Science 'A grounded and nuanced argument for alternative, locally shaped and socially embedded models of governance.' Stephanie Wanga, LSE Review of Books