Evaluation of the quality of science, technology and innovation advice available to lawmakers in Nigeria

Maruf Sanni,Adedamola Adeyeye,Omolayo Oluwatope,Abiodun Egbetokun

doi:10.1057/palcomms.2016.95

Maruf Sanni, Adedamola Adeyeye + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1057/palcomms.2016.95

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Abstract

AbstractAccess to quality science, technology and innovation (STI) information by lawmakers, as one of the key determinants of the effectiveness of policies in sub-Saharan Africa, has generated much debate. The main objective of this article therefore is to examine the sources of, and access to, STI information available to lawmakers in Nigeria. We also investigate factors associated with the use of STI information from experts and other sources in the policymaking process in Nigeria. Data were collected from lawmakers in both the state and national assemblies across Nigeria. Those selected from the states are those with an active S&T structure, such as a fully fledged Ministry dedicated to S&T. The sample was drawn from legislators in S&T committees and other cognate ministries. Our findings reveal that most lawmakers do not use evidence-based STI information on a regular basis. We also note that the use of expert opinion is one of the main sources of STI information, while academic journals and public opinions are some of the least utilized sources. Some of the major factors that affect the use of information from experts are the law makers’ level of education, number of years spent in the committee and duration of period as members of a committee. We recommend regular capacity-building programmes for legislators and their scientific advisers and personal assistants. This article is published as part of a collection on scientific advice to governments.

Highlights

Science, technology and innovation (STI) are the basis upon which a sustainable economy can be developed
We work with the assumption that majority of the legislative staff employed as political experts, consultants or personal assistants by many law makers in developing countries, especially Nigeria are partisan
This paper examined access and utilization of scientific information in lawmaking process among legislators in Nigeria

Summary

Introduction

Technology and innovation (STI) are the basis upon which a sustainable economy can be developed. This has even become more important as many nations are beginning to move toward knowledge-based economies (Enderby, 2008). Developing countries are often confronted with many challenges, from funding of scientific research, engaging skilled research personnel to communication of the research outputs and specific scientific information for policymaking. Policymakers and other stakeholders must consistently advance policies that link natural resources and topical research agenda to national priorities and facilitate demand driven innovation activities. STI as an instrument of choice for sustainable economic development is still not being given the desired role within the national agenda. Some of the reasons for this have been traced to political instability, policy inconsistencies and lack of capability of the policymaking community (Siyanbola, 2011)

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