Impact of macro-policies on technology choice, development and employment : a Nigerian case study

An initial review of the various sectors of the Nigerian economy reveals a potential for increasing industrial output, productivity, and employment. Section two presents the results of a survey of the technological characteristics of equipment-using companies in Gongola State as an indication of the extent to which macropolicies are expected to affect technology choice and use. Section three examines the actual effect of macropolicies on technology choice, development, and employment through more in-depth, empirical surveys of technology-users in Gongola State and major technology-producers throughout Nigeria. Special attention is given to assessing the impact of Nigeria"s Structural Adjustment Program (SAP - 1986-88), which emphasizes self-reliance. A final section discusses political economy issues as they relate to technological transformation. It is concluded that existing macropolicies, especially the SAP, can help achieve self-reliant technological development provided certain inconsistencies - e.g., the ambiguity of trade liberalization initiatives, and the lack of specific technology choice criteria - are resolved.