AQUINO Journal of Philosophy

Many individuals and groups have made claims that Nigeria is the most populous black nation on earth blessed with both human and natural resources, and also the giant of Africa. But in Nigeria today, the reverse seems to be the case in terms of abuses on human rights, undue influences of government over her citizenry, resulting to inequality, hunger, poverty, servitude, subjection, lack of good governance and development. This plays out a scene where there has been issues of miscarriage of justice, lack of respect, insecurity, lack of freedom and the state capture by the government officials in Nigeria. Thus, this paper examines Robert Nozick’s concept of the state, with a view to guaranteeing equality, justice and development in the Nigerian state. It reflects on Nozick’s philosophy and Nigerian state, for the promotion of human rights, better governance and development. Through the method of analysis the issues of discussion will be clarified and better understood. The paper finds that undue influences of the state on the citizens, issues of poverty and inequality, are detrimental to the individual and societal development and growth. Hence, the works suggests Nozick’s philosophy as a panacea to problem of human rights abuses, poverty, inequality, and development in Nigeria.

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