Building strong, virile and dynamic public institutions in Nigeria: A case of Nigerian public service

Background: This study examines the critical factors influencing the development of strong, virile and dynamic public institutions within the Nigerian public service. Objectives: The primary objective is to explore existing challenges and identify strategies for institutional strengthening that can enhance public sector performance. The study employs thematic content analysis to analyse the collected secondary data. Themes related to institutional virility, dynamism, leadership, reform challenges and governance are identified, coded and synthesised to construct a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing the strength of Nigerian public institutions. Method: Employing a qualitative research design based exclusively on secondary data analysis, the study reviews academic literature, policy documents and institutional reports to synthesise insights on leadership, bureaucratic efficiency, institutional adaptability and governance. Results: Key findings reveal persistent issues, such as bureaucratic inefficiency, corruption, political interference and limited leadership capacity that undermine institutional effectiveness. Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of visionary leadership, structural reforms promoting autonomy and flexibility, and a supportive policy environment to foster institutional virility and dynamism. Contribution: By integrating institutional and bureaucratic theories, the research contributes to the understanding of institutional reform dynamics in Nigeria and highlights practical pathways for sustainable public sector transformation. The findings offer valuable implications for policymakers, public administrators and scholars interested in governance and institutional development in developing countries.