National Dialogue on Independent Monitoring of Nigeria’s National Social Investment Program
Date: June 2025
Author(s): Fatai A. Aremu, Oluwayomi Owoseye, and Maymunah O. Adeyemo
Publication type: ARC Learning Exchange Report
Published by: Accountability Research Center
The Federal Government of Nigieria’s National Social Investment Program, designed to alleviate poverty and promote social inclusion, ran between 2016 and 2024.
The scale and complexity of the NSIP required reliable data to inform policy decisions, improve program delivery, and ensure accountability. In light of this, the government introduced independent monitoring (IM) as a mechanism to provide real-time feedback from the field, track implementation, and strengthen transparency. The IM program brought in large number of citizens to monitor and report on the implementation of the NSIP.
The National Dialogue on Independent Monitoring of the NSIP was convened in November 2024 as part of a study that aimed to document the large-scale monitoring of the social investment program. This learning exchange was convened to provide a platform for front-line duty bearers—including independent monitors and program coordinators—to share their experiences, analyze implementation barriers, and explore mechanisms for more effective monitoring.
This Learning Exchange Report summarizes their discussions and distills lessons to bring the experience of independent monitors to bear on designing resilient and responsive monitoring frameworks in the future.
Dr Fatai Ayinde Aremu is a Professor of Political Science at the University of Ilorin, Nigeria and the Executive Director of Research Enterprise Systems (RES). Previously, he led the Socio-Political Unit at the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, National Assembly, Abuja. He has facilitated policy retreats for Nigerian ministries and National Assembly committees. He has authored and co-edited multiple publications.
Owoseye Oluwayomi is a Senior Program Officer and Research Fellow at RES, where he leads research and programmatic initiatives aimed at strengthening public sector development and promoting social impact. He holds a Master’s degree in Educational Technology, and diplomas in mass communication and project management.
Maymunah Oloruntosin Adeyemo is a Program and GEDSI Officer at RES, where she supports inclusive research,
policy development, and community-based interventions. She holds a Master of Public Health in Reproductive
and Family Health from the University of Ibadan and a diploma in social and behavioral research. Her expertise
spans community engagement, gender equality, social inclusion, and maternal and child health.