Definition and Scope of Government
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Lesson overview
What government is, and how it differs from a particular administration.
Go to lesson quiz →Exam guidance · WAEC WASSCE Paper 1 + Paper 2 Lens
Pacing
Objective speed on Paper 1 + structured step-by-step method marks on Paper 2 Theory/Practical.
How WAEC marks this
Examiners award method marks (M1) for stating the formula/definition and accuracy marks (A1) ONLY when SI units are written.
Watch out for
Writing bare numbers without working or omitting SI units loses up to 50% of Paper 2 marks even when the final value is right.
Lesson content
Overview — Definition and Scope of Government
What government is, and how it differs from a particular administration. This lesson is at the beginner level — by the end, you'll be able to recognise this question type, apply a reliable method, and avoid the traps that cost marks.
Key Concept
Government is the body of people and institutions with the authority to make, implement and enforce laws and policies for a state. It includes the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary — together, the machinery through which a state exercises power.
Why It's Tested This Way
WAEC/JAMB open the Government syllabus with this definition because every later topic (arms of government, systems of government, democracy) assumes you already know what 'government' actually refers to as an institution, not just a group of politicians.
Method
Distinguish 'government' (the ongoing machinery of the state) from 'the government' (the particular administration currently in office) — a change of administration does not end government itself, which continues under a new set of office-holders.
Worked Example
Worked example: When a Nigerian president's tenure ends and a new president is sworn in, 'the government' (the administration) has changed, but 'government' (the institution — Executive, Legislature, Judiciary) continues functioning without interruption.
Second Worked Example
Second worked example: A local government chairman being voted out does not mean local government as an institution ceases to exist in that area — a new chairman simply takes over the same institutional role.
Common Traps
Common trap: confusing government (the permanent institution) with the particular political party or individuals currently holding office.
Lesson Summary
Remember: (1) identify what is being asked, (2) apply the WAEC strategy, (3) check against the traps. Complete the 10-question quiz below to unlock the next lesson — you need at least 60% to pass.
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