House of Representatives Moves to Enhance Research in Policy

The House of Representatives has moved to institutionalise the consideration and utilisation of strategic research findings in national policy formulation, development planning, and governance. This initiative follows a motion sponsored by Deputy Minority Leader Rep. Abdussamad Dasuki (Rep, Tambuwal Kebbe), representing Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency.

The motion aims to establish a coordinated framework for reviewing, referring, and monitoring strategic research recommendations from key institutions such as the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, the National Defence College (NDC) in Abuja, and the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS). The lawmakers acknowledged the role of these institutions in producing comprehensive reports and policy recommendations to address Nigeria’s challenges.

They cited existing legal frameworks, including the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which support the integration of research findings into national economic planning. The House expressed concerns about the lack of a systematic mechanism for the formal consideration of these recommendations by relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), which could hinder effective public investment in research.