An important characteristic of state is

1. Analyze the question The question asks for an important characteristic of a state in Government (Political Science). It is testing the defining features of a state.

2. Explain the concept In Government, a state is a political community with these classic characteristics:

• Defined territory: fixed boundaries
• Permanent population: people living in the territory
• Government: an organized authority to make and enforce laws
• Sovereignty: supreme, final authority over its territory and people, free from external control

Sovereignty is regarded as the most distinguishing feature of a state. It is what separates a state from other organizations, such as local governments, regional bodies, or associations.

3. Step-by-step solution

• A. Strong military: Many states have one, but it is not essential. Some small states have very weak armies or none (e.g. Costa Rica, Iceland), and they are still states.
• B. Treasury: This is a government institution that handles public funds. It is not a defining characteristic of a state.
• C. Sovereignty: Essential. Without sovereignty, a territory is a colony or a dependent unit, not a true state. Before independence in 1960, Nigeria was not a sovereign state.
• D. Homogeneous culture: Not required. Nigeria, with over 250 ethnic groups, is a state, and so are many other multi-ethnic countries.

4. Answer The correct option is C. sovereignty.

5. Exam tip Remember the four features with PTGS: Population, Territory, Government, Sovereignty. If a JAMB question asks for the characteristic of a state, pick one of these. Be careful with options that describe things states may have (army, wealth, a shared culture) but do not need to have.