Legislative Research and Knowledge Management for Evidence Informed Policy Making

Abstract

Abstract

In contemporary governance, the demand for policies that are not only politically legitimate but also socially effective has elevated the importance of evidence-informed policy making (EIPM). Legislative research and knowledge management emerge as critical pillars in achieving this objective, particularly in developing democracies such as Nigeria. This paper examines the interrelationship between legislative research, knowledge management, and evidence-informed policy processes, highlighting how these elements can strengthen the quality of lawmaking and policy outcomes. Legislative research provides lawmakers with data, analysis, and comparative insights necessary for drafting and evaluating laws, while knowledge management ensures that information is systematically captured, organized, and made accessible to decision-makers. Findings reveal that although Nigeria possesses growing data infrastructure and research capacity, systemic barriers, including weak knowledge-sharing systems, political interference, and limited demand for evidence, undermine effective policy use. The paper argues that integrating legislative research with robust knowledge management frameworks can transform policymaking into a more transparent, participatory, and outcome-oriented process. Ultimately, the study underscores the necessity of building institutional capacities, fostering political will, and embedding a culture of evidence use within Nigeria’s governance structures to advance sustainable and inclusive development, Methodologically, adopting the doctrinal approach.