This comprehensive guide covers crucial topics for SSS 3 students in their Government subject for the second term. Each topic is explained in detail, followed by likely exam questions to enhance understanding and preparation.
1. Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
Formation of ECOWAS
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) was established on May 28, 1975, in Lagos, Nigeria, following the Treaty of Lagos. It comprises 15 West African countries, aiming to promote economic integration and cooperation.
Aims and Objectives of ECOWAS
- Foster economic integration and trade among member states.
- Promote industrial development and cooperation.
- Encourage free movement of people, goods, and services.
- Strengthen peace and security in the region.
- Enhance infrastructure development across member states.
Organs of ECOWAS
- Authority of Heads of State and Government: The highest decision-making body.
- Council of Ministers: Supervises ECOWAS policies and programs.
- Community Parliament: Provides advisory services and ensures representation.
- ECOWAS Commission: Implements decisions and policies.
- Court of Justice: Resolves disputes among member states.
- ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID): Provides financial support for projects.
Achievements of ECOWAS
- Implementation of a regional passport for free movement.
- Establishment of ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) for peacekeeping.
- Trade liberalization programs.
- Development of regional infrastructure projects.
Problems Confronting ECOWAS
- Political instability and conflicts.
- Poor infrastructure across member states.
- Economic disparities among countries.
- Language barriers due to colonial legacies.
2. Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)
Formation of OPEC
OPEC was founded on September 14, 1960, in Baghdad, Iraq, by five founding members: Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela. It now includes 13 countries and aims to regulate oil production and stabilize the oil market.
Aims and Objectives of OPEC
- Stabilize oil prices in the global market.
- Coordinate petroleum policies among member countries.
- Ensure a steady income for oil-producing nations.
- Secure regular oil supply to consuming nations.
Organs of OPEC
- Conference of Ministers: Supreme authority for decision-making.
- Board of Governors: Supervises the budget and policy implementation.
- Secretariat: Handles the organization’s daily administration.
Achievements of OPEC
- Regulation of oil supply to maintain market stability.
- Influencing global oil prices.
- Encouraging cooperation among oil-producing countries.
Problems Confronting OPEC
- Fluctuations in global oil demand.
- Competition from non-OPEC oil producers.
- Internal conflicts among member countries.
3. Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
Meaning of MDGs
The MDGs were eight global development goals established in 2000 to address issues like poverty, education, and health. These goals aimed for significant achievements by 2015.
Achievements of MDGs in 2015
- Reduction in extreme poverty rates.
- Increased access to primary education.
- Improvement in maternal health and reduction in child mortality.
- Global progress in combating diseases like HIV/AIDS and malaria.
4. New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD)
Meaning of NEPAD
NEPAD is a strategic framework adopted by African leaders in 2001 to promote sustainable development and economic integration in Africa.
Aims of NEPAD
- Eradicate poverty and promote sustainable growth.
- Foster regional and international cooperation.
- Enhance Africa’s capacity in science and technology.
5. E-Government, Leadership, and Fellowship
Meaning of E-Government
E-government refers to the use of digital tools and systems to deliver public services, enhance governance, and improve citizen engagement.
Examples of E-Government
- Online tax filing systems.
- Digital voter registration platforms.
- E-payment systems for public utilities.
Advantages of E-Government
- Improves efficiency in service delivery.
- Reduces corruption.
- Enhances transparency and accountability.
Disadvantages of E-Government
- Limited access to technology in rural areas.
- Cybersecurity threats.
- High implementation costs.
Leadership and Fellowship
- Leadership: The ability to guide and influence others toward achieving goals.
- Fellowship: Supporting and cooperating with leaders to achieve collective goals.
Qualities of a Good Leader
- Integrity and accountability.
- Visionary and inspiring.
- Strong communication skills.
- Decisiveness and empathy.
Roles in Politics and Government
- Leaders formulate and implement policies.
- Followers ensure accountability and provide support.
Revision Questions
ECOWAS
- When was ECOWAS established, and where?
- Mention three aims of ECOWAS.
- List three organs of ECOWAS and their functions.
- Highlight two achievements of ECOWAS.
- Discuss two challenges facing ECOWAS.
OPEC
- What is the primary aim of OPEC?
- Name two founding members of OPEC.
- Explain the role of the OPEC Conference.
- State two achievements of OPEC.
- Identify two problems confronting OPEC.
MDGs and NEPAD
- Define the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
- Mention three achievements of the MDGs by 2015.
- What is NEPAD?
- State two aims of NEPAD.
- Explain how NEPAD promotes regional cooperation.
E-Government, Leadership, and Fellowship
- Define E-government and provide an example.
- Mention two advantages of E-government.
- List two disadvantages of E-government.
- Describe three qualities of a good leader.
- Explain the role of followers in governance.