We are Dr. Zakariyau Lawal, former Director of the M&E department at the National Planning Commission, and Denis Jobin, current Senior Evaluation Specialist at the Evaluation Office of UNICEF in New York. We are policy experts and development partners with experience in developing and implementing monitoring and evaluation frameworks in Nigeria and Canada. In this piece, we will share insights from our involvement in the establishment of Nigeria’s National Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Policy.
Background:
The need for a structured M&E policy in Nigeria became evident following a 2007 World Bank study. It highlighted the lack of a cohesive system, with existing practices focusing more on tracking inputs rather than outcomes.
The policy’s formulation was highly participatory, involving stakeholders across various sectors. This approach ensured diverse perspectives and a policy tailored to Nigeria’s governance style and cultural context.
The primary goal of the policy is to enhance institutional capacity for effective performance monitoring and evaluation. This aims to improve service delivery and promote accountability in government operations. The policy also seeks to differentiate evaluation from other assessment activities and establish it as a core government function.
Significant strides have been made since the policy’s implementation. These include the establishment of a National Council on Monitoring and Evaluation, the development of a National M&E Strategic Plan, the creation of a National M&E Department, and the production of monitoring and evaluation guides. Additionally, independent evaluations of key SDGs have been conducted, and innovative tools like the EYEMARK web application have been introduced for citizen participation in project tracking.
Lessons Learned
What is the point of being all dressed up if we have nowhere to go?!
Developing institutional, organizational, and individual capacities is a necessary condition for the establishment of the country-led monitoring and evaluation system but an insufficient condition, too. Our recent experience also shows that a greater focus on institutional capabilities is needed. Essentially, how do we implement a National M&E policy once it is adopted? Several strategies can be considered:
- Developing a skilled workforce.
- Effective use of technology.
- Stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
- Linking budget plans and allocation with evaluation.
- Policy integration and institutionalization of M&E performance and evaluative information.
- Building a culture of evaluation across MDAs.
Conclusion:
The journey of establishing Nigeria’s National M&E Policy underscores the importance of inclusive participation, strong leadership, and tailored strategies. While challenges persist, the progress made offers valuable lessons for other nations embarking on similar endeavors and the right balance between capacities and capabilities.
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