Pages: (91-101 )
Abstract
Political Leadership of democratic states are reputed to have the ability to mobilize the various sectors for attainment of economic development. However, Nigeria has experienced three economic recessions over the last fifteen years, in spite of its enormous natural resources. The study therefore examined the impact of political leadership on economic development in selected states in South East, Nigeria. The study adopted survey research design and utilized validated questionnaire for collection of data from 400 respondents selected using stratified random sampling from Abia State, Anambra State and Imo State. The study found that Political leadership has significant effect on employment generation in Abia State, Anambra State and Imo State. Political leadership has significant effect on diversification of economy in Abia State, in Anambra State and Imo State. The study concluded that political leadership has significant effect on economic development in the selected states. The study recommended that political leadership in the states should create the enabling environment for achievement of economic development.
Keywords: Diversification of economy, economic development, employment generation, political leadership,