I obtained my PhD in Political Science from the University of California, Merced, where I also earned an M. A in Political science. I study the political economy of development in democratizing States, with a regional focus on Africa. Most of my work asks how political institutions, and (historical) events shape distributive politics comparatively.
My dissertation analyzes how colonial legacies shape state building in Nigeria. I theorize that institutions and elites influenced early entry into the bureaucracy. Those who gained employment into the civil service maintained their position by employing their co-ethnics. Thus the colonial state building process created inequality in the level of representation of various ethnic groups in the civil service. Additionally, I find that this has consequences for how civil servants provide public goods to the public, and how the public views civil servants and the government in general.
Previously, I earned an M.A and a B.A in Economics both from the University of Akron. I am Nigerian, and a proud supporter of the Super Eagles and Falcons!
You can find my work on Google Scholar. You can also get in touch with me on Twitter, and LinkedIn or through email at ajohnson-kanu@ucmerced.edu
My dissertation analyzes how colonial legacies shape state building in Nigeria. I theorize that institutions and elites influenced early entry into the bureaucracy. Those who gained employment into the civil service maintained their position by employing their co-ethnics. Thus the colonial state building process created inequality in the level of representation of various ethnic groups in the civil service. Additionally, I find that this has consequences for how civil servants provide public goods to the public, and how the public views civil servants and the government in general.
Previously, I earned an M.A and a B.A in Economics both from the University of Akron. I am Nigerian, and a proud supporter of the Super Eagles and Falcons!
You can find my work on Google Scholar. You can also get in touch with me on Twitter, and LinkedIn or through email at ajohnson-kanu@ucmerced.edu