The State of Public Administration in Nigeria

ABSTRACT This article discusses the state of Public Administration (PA) in Nigeria. Adapting the 2021 USAID higher education program framework, the article focuses on: (1) the ability of the field in Nigeria to provide quality and relevant education and training, (2) the progress of PA scholars at Nigerian universities in advancing knowledge through research, and (3) the engagement of scholars with local and international communities. The assessment finds that the number of PA departments and programs has increased considerably since the first full‐fledged department began at Obafemi Awolowo University in 1976. There is a limited but growing presence of research by scholars at Nigerian universities on international databases, and evidence of engagement between PA departments and surrounding communities. The article discusses the challenges facing the field in Nigeria, including weak identity, limited resources, and low perception of public value. Finally, the article presents a research agenda for the advancement of PA in Nigeria.