WAEC Government 2018 Theory question 108

Theory question 108

Constitutional Development in Nigeria

Highlight five functions of the President in the 1989 Constitution of Nigeria.

Show the model answer
Model answer

Any five (1989 Constitution, made for the Third Republic; it was never fully operated because of the 1993 annulment and military take-over):
1. Head of State, Head of Government and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces.
2. Executes and maintains the constitution and federal laws.
3. Appoints ministers, ambassadors and other federal officers (with Senate confirmation).
4. Assents to or vetoes bills.
5. Prepares and presents the budget to the National Assembly.
6. Exercises prerogative of mercy.
7. Conducts foreign relations.
8. Declares war/state of emergency with National Assembly approval.
9. Chairs the Federal Executive Council.

Explanation

Note that the 1989 Constitution was never fully used; Nigeria now runs on the 1999 Constitution with similar presidential powers.