Role of Project Management Offices in Improving Public Sector Project Delivery in Oyo State, South West Nigeria

Project Management Offices (PMOs) provide standardization, oversight, and governance support that can significantly improve public sector project delivery, yet their adoption in Nigerian state governments is nascent and understudied. This study examines the role of PMOs in improving public sector project delivery in Oyo State, South West Nigeria. A descriptive survey will recruit 170 civil servants, project coordinators, and ministry heads from the Oyo State Ministries of Works, Education, and Health. A structured questionnaire will assess PMO structural characteristics, functions performed, standardization contribution, and perceived impact on project delivery outcomes. The PMO Maturity Cube will frame maturity assessments. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis will identify functions most strongly associated with improved delivery. Evidence from other Nigerian states suggests that PMO-like functions are sporadically performed by multiple offices without coordination, reducing efficiency. Findings will support the Oyo State government in designing a fit-for-purpose PMO model aligned with its project portfolio needs. Keywords: project management office, public sector, Oyo State, project delivery, PMO maturity