Experts Advocate for Inclusive, Evidence-based Policymaking in Nigeria

Bennett Oghifo

There has been a call for a shift in policy-making approach in Nigeria by two policy experts, Chinenye Uwanaka and Lola Adekanye.

They made the call at a webinar hosted by the Do Right Awareness Initiative, recently.

They emphasised the need for policies that are inclusive, evidence-based, and user-centric, ensuring that the needs and perspectives of all Nigerians are considered.

Uwanaka, a Harvard-trained policy implementation expert, stressed the importance of citizen participation and holding leaders accountable for policy implementation.

She urged Nigerians to “get involved in governance” and hold leaders accountable to their promises.

Adekanye, the Nigeria Country Director at the Center for International Private Enterprise, highlighted the significance of localised advocacy and addressing corruption to drive positive change.

She emphasised that “the people who are the most impacted by the problems are the least vocal about how those policies should change.”

The experts urged policymakers to move away from copy-and-paste solutions and focus on developing policies that address the unique challenges and opportunities in different sectors and regions of Nigeria.

They also emphasised the need for stronger institutions and a collective vision for the nation’s future. Uwanaka stressed the importance of co-creation between the private sector, public sector, and civil society, stating that “all hands must be on deck.”

The Do Right Awareness Initiative, a non-partisan movement committed to promoting integrity and good governance in Nigeria, organised the webinar as part of its ongoing efforts to empower citizens and advocate for positive change. The movement’s vision is to “entrench uprightness in Nigeria” and foster a new mindset built around integrity, diligence, respect, compassion, justice, meritocracy, and courage.