Corporate Governance and Public Project Performance in Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between corporate governance and public project performance in Nigeria using a structured desk review approach. The aim was to identify the key challenges related to public sector project delivery and to understand how governance impacts on projects, project performance measures and public project outcomes, as well as to assess the corporate governance mechanisms in place. The study used a qualitative research design in accordance with the PRISMA principles to identify, select and analyze the literature relevant to the study systematically. Peer-reviewed journal articles, institutional reports and reliable databases were used as sources for data. Thematic analysis was used to integrate results along the various aspects of governance: accountability, transparency, procurement regulation and institutional oversight. It has been found that while the governance structures in Nigeria are formally established, there are challenges of weak enforcement, political interference, and institutional constraints in their effectiveness. It was also found that the public projects are evaluated mainly on the basis of cost, time and quality measures and there is not much integration of governance variables. Most importantly, the study concluded that good governance, including clear procurement processes, good checks and balances, and digital monitoring systems, significantly enhance project performance, whereas poor governance can drive inefficiency and project failures. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher posits that a robust corporate governance framework is critical to enhancing the performance of public projects in Nigeria. It suggests improved governance mechanisms, institutional development, digital governance tools, and embedding governance indicators in project performance measurement systems.