Onyeka TC, Olakunde B, et al.
Closing the gap between research evidence and policy remains a persistent challenge in global health, including in Nigeria. This study used a modified Nominal Group Technique with 259 health stakeholders at the Nigeria Implementation Science Alliance's 7th conference to identify barriers and solutions for bridging implementation science and policy. Three primary barriers emerged: misaligned priorities between researchers and policymakers, capacity gaps in stakeholder engagement, and the absence of structured engagement frameworks. The top recommended solutions were establishing structured engagement frameworks, aligning interests through collaborative projects, and implementing joint capacity development between researchers and policymakers. The authors conclude that sustainable impact on policy will depend on dedicated financing, governance reforms, and institutional changes that support ongoing collaboration between the research and policy communities in Nigeria.
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