Dasuki Seeks Integration of Research Findings into Nigeria’s Policy Formulation
By Nafiu Muhammad Lema
The Deputy Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Abdussamad Dasuki, has called for the institutionalisation of strategic research findings in Nigeria’s national policy formulation, development planning and governance.
Dasuki, who represents Tambuwal/Kebbe Federal Constituency of Sokoto State, made the call while moving a motion on the floor of the House of Representatives, stressing the need to establish a stronger link between research institutions and government decision-making processes.
He noted that institutions such as the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), the National Defence College (NDC) and the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) regularly conduct extensive research and develop recommendations to address Nigeria’s economic, security and governance challenges.
According to him, however, the country must examine the extent to which the findings and recommendations produced by these institutions are translated into government policies, programmes and practical decisions.
“We cannot continue to invest public resources, time and expertise in producing excellent research without establishing a deliberate mechanism to ensure that its recommendations are properly considered and, where appropriate, implemented,” Dasuki said.
The lawmaker called for a structured framework that would require relevant government institutions to formally review research recommendations and provide responses on their consideration and implementation.
He further proposed that findings from strategic research institutions should inform national development plans, the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), annual budgets and other critical policy decisions.
Dasuki emphasised that Nigeria’s development challenges cannot be effectively addressed without making evidence-based decisions and utilising the expertise available within its academic, security, military and professional institutions.
“We do not lack brilliant minds or well-researched solutions in Nigeria. What we must strengthen is the connection between research, policymaking and implementation,” he stated.
He added that national development efforts should be guided not only by good intentions but also by evidence, knowledge and the collective expertise of the country’s best minds.
The motion seeks to strengthen the role of strategic research in governance and ensure that resources invested in research produce tangible outcomes for national development.
