INTERROGATING THE PROBLEMS OF INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN BAYELSA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Infrastructural development in any society cannot be glossed over. Infrastructure such as airports, seaports, electricity, roads, water facility, hospitals, bridges, schools, and telecommunication are very important elements that characterize and sustain the general wellbeing or development of modern States. However, the inadequate presence of these development artifacts in Bayelsa State since creation on October 1, 1996, has become a great source of worry. Consequent upon the above, this work aims at interrogating the problems of infrastructural development in Bayelsa State and makes attempt at providing certain recommendations that will aid to avert the present scenario. With the use of survey research design, we analyzed data gotten from both primary and secondary sources. The theoretical model adopted in this work is system theory. The paper in its findings shows that, the problem of infrastructural development in Bayelsa State among others include difficult topography for development, political and bureaucratic corruption, budgetary template that negates capital expenditure and favours recurrent expenditure. As a result of these findings, the paper finally recommends that, since conviction could not serve as deterrent, public officers who have been convicted of corruption charges should not enjoy pardon either at the state or national levels. We equally recommend that a scientific approach should be adopted in dealing with the difficult topography of Bayelsa State. This should be in conformity with global best practice.