The gap between research outputs and Nigeria’s policymaking process remains a serious concern.
According to Professor Tunji Olaopa, Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, there is a disconnect between local research and government decisions, which hinders development.
During a discussion with Professor Antonia Simbine, Director-General of the National Institute for Social and Economic Research (NISER), Olaopa expressed his concern that Nigerian experts’ research is becoming increasingly irrelevant to the country’s policymaking.
Olaopa pointed out that while researchers and academics generate knowledge, their work rarely influences government decisions.
The Nigerian government’s lack of collaboration with local researchers has limited the role of research institutes, think tanks, and universities in shaping public policy.
Despite the potential to improve Nigeria’s governance and development through data-driven policies, the authorities often ignore local research.
This problem stems from a longstanding anti-intellectual stance in government, where researchers are not seen as vital contributors to policy formation.
The failure to integrate research into policymaking results in poorly grounded policies, lacking data and statistics, which affects the nation’s development.
Nigeria’s public service has benefited from past collaborations between academics and policymakers, but this relationship has weakened. Without the analytical expertise of local researchers, government decisions often lack the depth and foresight necessary to address complex national challenges.
Olaopa argued that this disconnect needs urgent attention if Nigeria hopes to improve its governance and planning processes.
The continued neglect of research in policymaking could have serious long-term consequences for the country’s development.
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