The Impact of Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs) on Sustainable Development Projects in Katsina Metropolis

Abstract

Nigeria is facing profound social, economic and environmental impact of population growth, development and environmental constraints. It is apparent that government alone has limited capacity to deal with all these problems. NGOs being one of the most effective partners have been playing supportive roles with the government, in some cases, they are considered more effective to get attached with the grass root level developmental initiatives. However, despite the role NGOs played, their presence and impact is not fully evaluated, recognized and appreciated by many governments and community members. It is for this reason this article attempts to examine whether projects executed by NGOs have any impact on sustainable development in Katsina Metropolis, given special emphasis on projects that dealt with environmental protection, poverty alleviation and health care services. The study further look at whether efficiency of NGOs officials has any impact on success of sustainable development projects execution.  A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 150 NGOs beneficiaries in five (5) selected political wards of twelve (12) in Katsina metropolis. Interviews was used to collect relevant data using a structured questionnaire from NGOs officials which include; development officers and facilitators in five (5) selected NGO offices operating in Katsina Metropolis namely; Save the Children, Service to Humanity Foundation, Murna Foundation, Katsina Friends of Environment and Makudawa Skills Acquisition. Frequency and chi-square analysis was used to present the results. The findings revealed that NGOs are complementing government efforts towards achieving sustainable development through their projects, and efficiency of NGOs officials has significant impact on success of sustainable development projects executed in the area. The findings of the study can benefit government and NGOs in creating more areas of collaboration in order to achieve sustainable development.