EDUCATIONAL PROGRESS IN RIVERS STATE: A STUDY OF FISCAL FEDERALISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (2015–2022)

This study examined the interplay between fiscal federalism and sustainable development in Rivers State, Nigeria, with a specific focus on infrastructural, educational development, technological development, and healthcare delivery. The theoretical framework of the study drew on fiscal federalism theory and systems theory, highlighting the importance of resource allocation and interconnectedness in achieving sustainable development goals. A descriptive survey research design was employed, and primary data were collected through structured questionnaires from a purposive sample of 400 respondents. Pearson Product Correlation Coefficient analysis was conducted to analyze the data. The findings indicate a significant and positive relationship between fiscal federalism and sustainable development in Nigeria. Specifically, the level of financial responsibility and autonomy accorded to state and local governments significantly influenced infrastructural and educational development. The study concludes that fiscal Federalism structures and transparent governance mechanisms are crucial for promoting sustainable development. It recommends enhancing fiscal transparency, integrating sustainable development goals into fiscal policies, allocating a significant portion of resources to critical infrastructure development, and decentralizing fiscal responsibilities to sub-national governments. Strengthening fiscal institutions and promoting accountability in resource allocation are also important factors. These findings contribute to the understanding of the role of fiscal federalism in sustainable development and provide insights for policymakers and stakeholders in Rivers State and other similar contexts