Thesis Abstract

The history of Aguata Local Government Area in Nigeria is a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, political evolution, and socioeconomic development. Aguata LGA is located in Anambra State, Southeast Nigeria, and is home to a diverse population with a deep sense of history and tradition. This research project delves into the historical evolution of Aguata LGA, exploring its pre-colonial origins, colonial experiences, and post-independence development. The pre-colonial history of Aguata LGA is marked by the presence of various indigenous communities such as Nanka, Ekwulobia, and Isuofia, each with its own unique cultural practices and governance structures. These communities played vital roles in shaping the early history of Aguata, engaging in trade, agriculture, and inter-community relations that laid the foundation for the modern local government area. Colonial rule significantly impacted Aguata LGA, as British colonialists established administrative structures and introduced Western education and Christianity to the region. The imposition of colonial rule altered traditional power dynamics and economic systems, leading to both resistance and adaptation among the local population. The legacy of colonialism continues to influence Aguata's governance and socio-economic landscape to this day. Following Nigeria's independence in 1960, Aguata LGA experienced rapid urbanization, infrastructural development, and political changes. The transition to local government administration brought new challenges and opportunities for the people of Aguata, as they navigated the complexities of post-independence nation-building and governance. Political developments at the state and national levels also impacted Aguata's local politics and development agenda. In recent decades, Aguata LGA has witnessed efforts to promote grassroots development, improve social services, and enhance local governance. Various administrations have implemented policies aimed at addressing infrastructure deficits, promoting education, healthcare, and agriculture, and fostering community participation in decision-making processes. Challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, unemployment, and environmental degradation persist, requiring sustainable development strategies and effective governance mechanisms. This research project adopts a historical approach to analyze the multifaceted evolution of Aguata Local Government Area, highlighting the interplay of tradition, colonialism, and contemporary governance in shaping the local community's identity and development trajectory. By understanding Aguata's history, policymakers, researchers, and community stakeholders can gain insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the local government area and formulate evidence-based strategies for sustainable development and inclusive growth.

Thesis Overview

This work is an attempt to trace the History of Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra state. In this attempt, the various stages of Local Governments in Igboland andve been dealth with.              

Moreso, in the course of the research, the desire for local government reforms in Igboland as a whole has been seen to be natural desire of human beings to desire something better than what was existing, In this case, the old models of local government have been shown to be largely inadequate to meet these aspirations of the people.                                                                             sp;          The work is divided into five chapters, each dealing on specific aspect of the history. Chapter one introduces the area under study. The background information about the lands and people are also contained in this chapter. Chapter two, opens with the recognition of the warrant chief system in 1933. It also shows, through time perspective, the progression of other  reforms and their impacts on the people. Chapter three treats the 1976 reforms of local government system in Nigeria, with particular emphasis on Aguata local Government area system.          

In the Chapter four of this work, the problems and prospects of this local government system are also treated. With particular emphasis on Aguata local government area, these various problems are treated. The prospect of the local government, and its achievements are also highlighted in chapter four. The last Chapter which is the Chapter five concludes and proffers some recommendations.