IMPACT OF GOVERNMENT REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE ON THE EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the impact of government revenue and expenditure on the educational development of Plateau State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, utilizing a structured questionnaire administered to 100 education stakeholders comprising officials from the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance, school administrators, and teachers. Stratified random sampling technique was employed to ensure balanced representation of key stakeholders. Data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, including regression analysis and ANOVA, with hypotheses tested at 0.05 significance level using SPSS version 26.The findings revealed significant positive relationships between government revenue and educational development (F = 42.682, p < 0.05), with revenue explaining 30.4% of variations in educational outcomes. Similarly, expenditure trends showed a significant positive relationship with educational development (F = 61.494, p < 0.05), accounting for 39.7% of variations. The study concluded that government revenue and expenditure significantly influence educational development in Plateau State. Based on the findings, it was recommended that a dedicated education trust fund should be established by the Plateau state government and the Plateau state government should increase its education budget allocation to 15-20% of total state budget.