@article{CRSIJ26000139,
                  author = {Dr Shukura M Bello, Dr Shukura M Bello, Ahmed Jibrin Abdullahi, Stanley E. Okechukwu},
                  title = {Public Policy and Governance in Relation to Nigeria's Electoral Reform: An Analysis through Intent-Focused Management Theory},
                  journal = {Cosmo Research and Science International Journal},
                  year = {2025},
                  volume = {1},
                  number = {6},
                  pages = {113-126},
                  issn = {3108-1584},
                  url = {https://cosmorsij.com/published/CRSIJ26000139.pdf},
                  abstract = {This paper investigates the Nigerian electoral reform using the lens of Intent-Focused Management Theory (IFMT) and finds that the problem with electoral reforms is not only a lack of legislation, but also the lack of clarity of articulation of electoral reform intent, misaligned incentives for stakeholders, or a lack of feedback mechanisms. Despite the innovations incorporated in the Electoral Act 2022 which featured some new technologies and transparency in the electoral process, the 2023 general elections revealed challenges in coordination between stakeholders, preparedness of institutions, and operational alignment between INEC, political parties, security agencies and civil society organisations. This analysis shows how the three axes of IFMT (intent definition, intent alignment, and intent realization) can help address the intent-implementation gap that has always hindered electoral governance in Nigeria: by breaking down broad electoral goals into operational targets, creating participatory forums for deliberation and engagement, and institutionalizing adaptive feedback mechanisms. Combining election reports, assessments from civil society, and election management scholarship, the study proposes sustainable electoral reform to move beyond reactive, incremental ‘muddling through' to strategic, proactive, intent-oriented governance, incorporating legal, institutional, resource allocation and political dimensions to the collective democratic purpose of credible and inclusive elections.},
                  keywords = {Public Policy, Electoral Reform, Intent-Focused Management Theory, Political Institutions, Transparency },
                  month = {May}
        }