AUTHOR=Onyeka Tonia C. , Olakunde Babayemi , Toyo Otoyo , Itanyi Ijeoma U. , Eyo Andy , Patel Dina , Olawepo John , Dakum Patrick , Okonkwo Prosper , Obiefune Michael , Oko John , Oyeledun Bolanle , Olutola Ayodotun , Gobir Bola , Adetiloye Oniyire , Torbunde Nguavese , Aina Muyi , Sampson Sidney , Salihu Hamisu , Olisa Joseph , Vedham Vidya , Parascandola Mark , Gravitt Patti , Aarons Gregory A. , Ezeanolue Echezona E. 

TITLE=Closing the gap between implementation science and policy in Nigeria: lessons from the Nigeria implementation science alliance using a nominal group technique

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Health Services

VOLUME=Volume 5 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/health-services/articles/10.3389/frhs.2025.1629317

DOI=10.3389/frhs.2025.1629317

ISSN=2813-0146

ABSTRACT=IntroductionKnowledge translation in healthcare has been of keen interest to researchers, practitioners, policymakers and administrators as it seeks to confront complex health issues within communities by closing the gap between knowledge generation through research and knowledge application. A paucity of information exists regarding nature of the relationship between Nigerian implementation science researchers and policymakers in the sphere of knowledge translation. This study aimed to identify and discuss barriers to successful engagement between implementation researchers and policymakers as well as to identify strategies for successful engagement between both parties in Nigeria.MethodsA modified Nominal Group Technique was conducted with 259 diverse health research stakeholders attending the 7th Nigeria Implementation Science Alliance conference in Abuja, Nigeria, to identify barriers to knowledge translation in Nigerian healthcare settings.ResultsLack of interest in non-aligned priorities of implementation researchers and policymakers, knowledge and capacity gap in stakeholder engagement, and non-existence of engagement framework were ranked as the top three barriers. Developing and sustaining an effective engagement framework, aligning researcher-policymaker interests through collaborative research projects, and joint capacity-building were ranked the topmost facilitators of researcher-policymaker engagement.ConclusionThis study highlights key barriers to research-to-policy engagement in Nigeria, namely the need for structured engagement frameworks, alignment of priorities, and targeted capacity development, and proposes actionable strategies to address them. Sustainable impact will depend on dedicated financing, governance reforms, and institutional changes, supported by long-term partnerships and robust evaluation systems to advance knowledge translation and improve health outcomes.