Public Policy and Governance Integration: Explaining the Gaps in Nigeria’s International Politics

Abstract

The integration of public policy and governance structures is a crucial factor for a state’s effectiveness in international politics. Countries that maintain coherence between domestic policy frameworks and governance institutions are better positioned to pursue their diplomatic objectives and protect national interests in global affairs. In Nigeria, persistent gaps exist between public policy formulation and governance implementation, particularly in relation to international political engagement. These gaps often manifest in policy inconsistency, weak institutional coordination, governance challenges, and limited strategic planning. This study examines the relationship between public policy and governance integration in Nigeria and identifies structural factors responsible for the disconnect between policy design and policy execution. A qualitative research design based on secondary data was adopted, drawing on scholarly literature, policy documents, and institutional reports. The findings reveal that institutional weakness, corruption, bureaucratic inefficiency, and inconsistent leadership priorities significantly impede effective policy implementation in Nigeria’s foreign policy framework. The study concludes that strengthening governance institutions, improving policy continuity, and enhancing accountability mechanisms are necessary steps toward bridging the gap between policy formulation and governance practice in Nigeria’s international politics.