An Evaluation Of Public Policy And Public Trust An Examination Of Mohammadu Buhari’s Administration

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between public policy and public trust in Nigeria, with particular focus on the administration of Muhammadu Buhari (2015–2023). The central concern of the study is to evaluate how major public policies implemented during the period influenced citizens’ confidence in government institutions. The study adopts a descriptive research design with a qualitative approach supported by simple quantitative analysis using mean scores and standard deviation. Data were obtained from secondary sources, including academic journals, government policy documents, international reports, newspapers, and credible online publications. The analysis focuses on key policy areas such as anti-corruption, economic management, security, and social intervention programs. Findings from the study reveal that although several significant public policies were introduced such as the Treasury Single Account (TSA), Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), whistleblowing policy, and social investment programs, the overall impact on public trust was mixed. While some policies recorded moderate achievements in improving governance structures, their effectiveness was limited by poor implementation, economic hardship, insecurity, and perceived lack of transparency in governance. The statistical analysis further indicates that public perception of policy effectiveness and trust in government institutions remained generally low to moderate throughout the period under review, with noticeable variations in citizens’ opinions. This suggests a gap between policy formulation and actual policy outcomes. The study concludes that public trust is strongly influenced not only by the existence of public policies but more importantly by their implementation effectiveness and tangible impact on citizens’ lives. It recommends improved transparency, accountability, consistent policy implementation, and stronger institutional capacity as key strategies for rebuilding and sustaining public trust in Nigeria.