info@psin.gov.ng

Research

Research at the Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN)

Innovating Knowledge. Strengthening Institutions. Transforming Governance.

The Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN) serves as a national hub for advanced research and evidence based policymaking, dedicated to strengthening governance systems and improving public sector performance across the country. Our research work reflects a deep commitment to analytical rigor, practical relevance, and global standards of excellence, aligning with the traditions of world-leading institutions such as Harvard Kennedy School.

At PSIN, research is not an abstract exercise—it is a strategic instrument for national transformation. Our mission is clear: to generate insights, frameworks, and policy solutions that empower public leaders, strengthen institutions, and support sustainable development across Nigeria and beyond.

A Global, Interdisciplinary Approach to Public Sector Research

PSIN’s research agenda is shaped by the understanding that modern governance requires multidisciplinary

knowledge and forward-thinking frameworks. Our scholars, senior fellows, and research associates draw

from diverse fields, including:

  • Public administration and institutional reform
  • Public policy and strategic governance
  • Leadership and organizational development
  • Public financial management and accountability
  • Human capital development and workforce transformation
  • Digital governance, innovation, and emerging technologies
  • Service delivery improvement and performance management
  • Security, resilience, and socio-economic development

This interdisciplinary approach ensures that our research speaks to the real-world challenges facing governments in the 21st century.

Driving Policy Impact Through Applied Research

Our research is designed to influence practice, inform decision-making, and support long-term governance reforms. We conduct:

Policy Analysis & Advisory

We analyze national and subnational policies to provide evidence-informed recommendations that strengthen governance outcomes, improve service delivery, and support reform implementation.

Institutional & Sector Diagnostics

PSIN conducts institutional assessments and sector analyses that support reform planning in ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), as well as state and local governments.

Governance Innovation Research

We explore cutting-edge models in digital transformation, data governance, performance analytics, and public sector innovation.

Organizational Research & Leadership Studies

Our work examines organizational behavior, leadership dynamics, and public service culture in order to support strategic workforce planning and leadership development.

Cross-Government Comparative Studies

We benchmark Nigeria’s public service practices against global best practices from leading governance ecosystems to support alignment with international standards.

Collaborative Research with Global Partners

PSIN partners with national and international organizations to design research that drives sustainable transformation. Our collaborators include:

  • Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs)
  • State governments and civil service commissions
  • International development organizations (World Bank, UNDP, AfDB, EU, GIZ, FCDO)
  • Academic institutions and think tanks
  • Civil society organizations and private-sector partners

These partnerships ensure that our research benefits from global perspectives, comparative insights, and high-level scholarly engagement.

Publications, Outputs & Knowledge Products

PSIN disseminates research findings through a variety of formats, ensuring broad accessibility and practical

application. Our outputs include:

  • Research reports and analytical papers
  • Policy briefs and reform guidance notes
  • Working papers and technical assessments
  • Thought leadership articles and governance insights
  • Sectoral and thematic studies
  • Training curriculum informed by research findings 
  • Case studies documenting reform experiences

Each publication is designed to help policymakers, managers, reform teams, and development partners make

informed, evidence-based decisions.

Research Supporting National Transformation

As Nigeria advances its national development priorities, PSIN plays a pivotal role in:

  • Strengthening institutional capacity
  • Supporting public service modernization
  • Enhancing leadership capability
  • Driving innovation in governance
  • Promoting transparency and accountability
  • Advancing human capital development
  • Improving policy implementation across all levels of government

Our research serves as a bridge between knowledge and action, ensuring that evidence directly informs

national reform agendas.

A Center of Thought Leadership for the Future of Public Service

PSIN is committed to becoming one of Africa’s leading public sector research institutions—one that shapes discourse, supports reform, and inspires the next generation of public leaders. Guided by global standards and rooted in Nigeria’s realities, our research seeks not only to understand governance challenges but also to design bold solutions that transform them.

At PSIN, we believe that strong institutions build strong nations, and our research is a cornerstone of that belief.