Keywords: Federalism, Intergovernmental Collaboration, Security Management, Resource Sharing, Oyo State

Abstract

Evidences from empirical studies have shown the escalating complexity of security threats in Nigeria, ranging from organized crime to communal clashes, has necessitated a shift from isolated security operations to more integrated approaches, despite the constitutional centralisation of security powers at the federal level, sub-nationa, regional and state. This paper examined the effect of intergovernmental collaboration on security management in Oyo State, Nigeria. The paper adopts a descriptive survey design, utilising both primary data and secondary data.Primary data were collected through questionnaire and structured interview from personnel of the Nigeria Police (127), Civil Defence (87), Amotekun Corps (84), and members of Community Development Associations (87), totalling a sample size of 385 drawn from a study population. Findings revealed that intergovernmental collaboration had a limited effect on security management in the State. While joint security operations involving state and federal agencies improved patrol effectiveness (mean = 2.68) and enhanced rapid response capability (mean = 2.96), these gains were not substantial enough to significantly influence overall security outcomes. Despite these efforts the existence of collaborative mechanisms such as statutory support to federal law enforcement agencies (mean = 2.92) and regular meetings of state-local government joint security committees (mean = 2.94). The study concluded that intergovernmental collaboration has a minimal effect on security management in Oyo State, Nigeria. The study recommends establishing joint intergovernmental security structures, unified communication protocols, a centralized intelligence database, and a clear legal framework to strengthen coordination among security agencies.

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Published: 2026

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