THE IMPACT OF COVID 19 ON PUBLIC POLICY IN NIGEIRIA: A STUDY OF MINISTRY OF BUDGET AND ECONOMIC PLANNING, BAUCHI STATE
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted governance systems worldwide, particularly affecting public
policy formulation and implementation in developing countries. This study investigates the impact
of the COVID-19 pandemic on public policy within the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning
in Bauchi State, Nigeria. The research specifically examines how the pandemic influenced food
security, education, and livelihood policies, while assessing the ministry’s preparedness and
responsiveness. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected through
structured questionnaires administered to 127 staff members of the ministry. The study employed
descriptive statistics and regression analysis to interpret the data and test hypotheses.
Findings reveal that COVID-19 significantly influenced public policy decisions in the ministry,
prompting budget reallocations, the adoption of digital solutions, and the introduction of
emergency response strategies. Respondents acknowledged that while the ministry made notable
efforts to ensure continuity in service delivery, several challenges persisted—especially in
resource distribution, inter-agency coordination, and public awareness. The regression results
further confirmed a significant relationship between COVID-19-related disruptions and changes
in policy outcomes, particularly in education and livelihood support initiatives.
The study concludes that despite institutional constraints, the Ministry of Budget and Economic
Planning in Bauchi State made important policy adaptations during the pandemic. However, there
remains a need for stronger crisis preparedness, social protection systems, and data-driven policy
formulation. Recommendations include the establishment of emergency response funds, digital
infrastructure development, and enhanced inter-sectoral collaboration.
This research contributes to the broader discourse on pandemic governance and offers practical
insights into how sub-national governments can enhance policy resilience in the face of global
health crises.
Keywords: COVID-19, public policy, Bauchi State, budget planning, education, food security,
livelihoods, Nigeria.
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