AN ANALYTICAL ASSESSMENT OF THE CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED IN NIGERIA'S POLICYMAKING PROCESS

Abstract

In Nigeria, policy-making process faces numerous challenges that significantly affect its policy outcome, leading to 
issues such as insecurity, deteriorating infrastructure, multi-dimensional poverty, high unemployment rates, and 
elevated inflation. Thus, this study aimed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the policy-making process and 
critically interrogated those challenges encountered in the policy making process of Nigeria. The theory of political 
systems served as a foundational framework for comprehending the intricacies of the policy-making process. This 
study adopted a qualitative methodology, employing content analysis to interpret non-numerical data from literature 
pertinent to the discussed theme. The analysis posited that the obstacles confronting policy making in Nigeria stem 
from institutional deficiencies, ineffective governance, self-serving decisions by executives, and inadequate legal 
frameworks that fail to regulate the misconduct of political actors. To address these challenges in Nigeria's policy
making landscape, the study advocated for the establishment of a comprehensive database, which is essential for 
effective national planning and development. Furthermore, it emphasised the importance of participatory 
governance in the policy-making process, ensuring that the beneficiaries of policies are not only consulted but also 
actively engaged. Additionally, it urged political actors, particularly those in executive positions, to demonstrate the 
requisite political will necessary to effectively navigate the policy-making process and realise the intended goals and 
objectives. Finally, there is an urgent need for a robust legal framework to regulate the actions of policy actors.