This paper critically examines the ongoing developmental challenges confronting Nigeria by investigating external global economic structures within the dialectical framework of internal governance dynamics and colonial and neo-colonial legacies. Through an interdisciplinary lens, the study synthesizes historical, political, and economic perspectives on Nigeria’s developmental challenges. It examines the legacy of colonialism, domestic governance problems, corruption, and public policy constraints that sustain dependency and undermine economic development. The study contributes to debates on post-colonial development by providing contextual recommendations for addressing Nigeria’s underdevelopment.
