Abstract:

Intergovernmental relation implies the nature and level of relationship among the tiers of government that exist a country. Studying and assessing this level of relationship and interconnectedness between two or more country is of tremendous benefits, since the two (or more) countries will have different operations of IGR in place; and one can learn from the other. Thus, this paper aims to critically and comprehensively assess the intergovernmental relation patterns that exist in Nigeria and Switzerland. The essence of which is to particularly investigate how each country’s historical background has influenced the nature of IGR it operate, the provision of its Constitution in establishing an effective IGR, the structure and system of government and the fiscal relations that exist among the tiers of government in each country. The study reveals a (theoretically) simplified federal structure with over dependent lower tiers of government in Nigeria; while Switzerland has a complex federal structure but with accommodating intergovernmental relations which gives room for lower tiers of government to make inputs into policy making process. This paper therefore recommends a review of Nigeria constitution to provide for coordination and interconnectedness among the three tiers, which will consequently enhance citizen quality life and even-development throughout the federation of Nigeria.