Abstract:

This research is set out to study the relationship between public policy and democratic governance in Nigeria. The methodology adopted is descriptive and content analysis. The research used elitist model to explain the problem under investigation. It is generally accepted that the process through which public policy is conceived, formulated and implemented is one of the most important processes of governance and societal development. Its relevance lies in the fact that it serves as the political, legal, economic and administrative framework within which government operates. Under democratic governance, public policies are potent tools toward the realization of good governance. These days, it is not uncommon for people discussing or believing in public policies of government probably due to the failure of government in the past to improve considerably the living standards of the people. This is due to several challenges on the side of government and the public. These myriads of problems range from policy somersault, lack of political will and poor financing. The paper posits that government has to be accountable and responsive to the people, work hard on public enlightenment in order to gain support for any policy from the people and solve problem of political apathy of citizens and their loss of confidence on the processes of governance.