Promoting Institutionalization of Research-Evidence Use in Maternal, Newborn and Child-Health Policymaking in Nigeria

The implementation of policies informed by research evidence in maternal newborn and child health (MNCH) is known to improve health outcomes. In this study we describe the process of the establishment of MNCH Research Days Event as a mechanism for the promotion of institutionalization of evidence-to-policy-to practice in MNCH in Nigeria. We also describe the current status of research evidence use in policymaking, level of policymakers-researchers interaction as well as identify the individual and organizational roles to promote evidence-informed policymaking in MNCH in Nigeria. The study was a cross-sectional survey carried out during a 3-day National MNCH stakeholders’ engagement meeting on Nigeria Research Days for MNCH, as part of the Implementation of Moving MNCH Evidence into Policy (MEP) Project. Data on the stakeholders’ perception regarding the study objective was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire administered in person. A total of 51 participants completed the questionnaire. Result showed low mean ratings (MNRs) for both research evidence use in MNCH policymaking (ranging from 2.23-3.14 in a 5-point scale) and policymakers-researchers interaction (2.98-3.43). Creating research capacity development platforms for individuals and institutions involved in policymaking (MNR 4.69) were among strategies that can enhance the evidence-to-policy process in MNCH. Sustainable interaction between policymakers and researchers can be achieved through the institutionalization of mechanisms such as ‘Research Day Event’ that will provide platform to consider issues around evidence-to-policy-to-practice. Urgent sustainable capacity development among stakeholders in the MNCH sector is highly recommended.