Evaluating the Sustainable Development Goal Two (Zero Hunger) in Nigeria: Challenges and Lessons from the MDGs

Abstract

In-spite of the progress recorded under the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the enthusiasm towards the ongoing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria, stakeholders in Nigeria have expressed concerns on the adequacy of the existing evaluation system to communicate accurate results, facilitate learning, effectively measure performance and feedback stakeholders premised on evidence. This paper therefore reviewed and identified evaluation related challenges under the MDGs and proposed innovative approaches for evaluating the SDG 2. The article covered the Nigerian nation and in-depth review and content analysis of relevant secondary data, available locally and from development sources. The study identified numerous factors which limited MDGs’ evaluation to include late take-off of implementation, restricted focus on performance measurement and individual projects, limited deployment of innovations, negative competition, duplication and limited coordination by donors, uncertainty of funding, weak capacity and focus. Given the peculiar and inter-linked nature of SDG 2, the article recommended for the deployment of adaptive innovative practices to measure this Goal, premised on systems, principled and multi-stakeholder analyses, juxtaposed within the framework of a holistic results-based M&E approach. The Nigerian Association of Evaluation, Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Development Partners and National Planning Commission should step-up arrangement for the development of a national evaluation policy and effectively synergize to stimulate the introduction and adaptation of best practices in support of SDG 2 evaluation in Nigeria.