CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT AND EVIDENCE-BASED POLICYMAKING: LEVERAGING SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH FOR EFFECTIVE GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA

Abstract

In Nigeria, there is a significant disconnect between citizen engagement, evidence-based policymaking, and social studies research, which limits their collective impact on effective governance. Although each factor has independently influenced governance, their integration remains weak and inconsistent in the public sphere. This study examines the individual contributions of citizen engagement, evidence-based policymaking, and social studies research to governance in Nigeria. It will also analyse the existing gaps and limitations in integrating these factors within Nigeria's governance framework. This study employs a content analysis methodology, focusing on the review of secondary data sources. The findings of the study elaborate on the importance of citizen engagement, evidence-based policymaking, and social studies research in Nigeria's governance. Despite efforts to improve citizen participation, challenges like electoral fraud and voter apathy persist. Evidence-based policymaking has made strides, but implementation is hindered by insufficient funding and weak institutional coordination. Social studies research, particularly on poverty and inequality, informs policies like the National Social Investment Programme. The study recommends enhancing citizen engagement through a participatory budgeting system, fostering evidence-based policymaking through government investigations, incorporating regular referendums and town hall meetings in Nigerian governance, and seamless integration of citizen engagement, evidence-based policymaking, and social studies research.