The role of Community Involvement to Ethical Governance and Sustainable Development in an Emerging City in Southern Nigeria

Abstract

Asaba, as an emerging urban centre in Southern Nigeria with rapid population growth, diverse socio-cultural dynamics, and governance challenges, provides a compelling case for studying the role of community involvement on ethical governance and sustainable development. This study examines the role of community involvement in fostering ethical governance and sustainable development in Asaba, an emerging city in Southern Nigeria. Utilizing a mixed-methods design, data were collected from 266 residents via stratified surveys and 20 stakeholder interviews, supplemented by policy document analysis. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis revealed that 72% of respondents perceived community participation as critical to transparent governance (β=0.41, p<0.01), while 65% linked it to sustainable urban outcomes. Thematic analysis identified weak institutional accountability and limited community empowerment as barriers. Notably, active community engagement correlated with a 15% reduction in reported governance lapses (p<0.05). Findings underscore the necessity of inclusive decision-making for ethical governance. In order to promote ethical governance and sustainable development in Asaba, the research recommends strengthening inclusive decision-making through the creation of community-led monitoring committees and improved participatory budgeting.