Functions of government in a state:
(i)Defence and Security: This is the preservation of lives and property of the citizens and the defense of the nation against foreign attack.
(ii) Maintenance of law and order: Maintains law and order in the state.
(iii) Maintenance of unity: Uniting all ethnic groups, all sections, and all people of different religious beliefs into astable, harmonious and peaceful community.
(iv) Settlement of disputes: Settles disputes between individuals, groups and government.
(v) Social welfare: This is the provision of education, medical and health services, pipe-borne water to the people.
(vi) Provision of infrastructure: Construction and maintenance or roads and bridges, electricity, communication system, etc.
(vii) Economic functions: Ensures economic growth, boosts industrialization and agricultural development, regulates and controls the economy.
(viii) Political functions: Establishes machinery for smooth and peaceful change of government through the conduct of regular, free and fair elections.
(ix) Foreign relations: The promotion of friendly inter-state relations and co-operation, international trade and maintenance of world peace.
(x) Raising of public revenue: imposition of taxes, fines, fees, earnings, etc in order to get funds for its services.
(xi) Law making: Makes laws to regulate social behaviour.
(xii) Provision of jobs: Provides job opportunities for citizens in a state.
(xiii) Formulation and implementation of policies.
(xiv) Protection of fundamental human rights.