IDR has three main organs that help it meet its obligations. These are: the Board, the Directorate and the Networks.
The Board provides broad policy guidelines and monitors the overall programme and activities of the Institute. The Board is composed of specialists and notable researchers and administrators. This is constituted by the University Administration.
The Directorate is responsible for the day to day management of the Institute. The Directorate, as constituted by the Board is headed by a Director. The Director is usually a senior and very experienced member of the research community in Ahmadu Bello University. The Director is responsible for giving strategic direction to research activities of the Institute. He is also in charge of the general administration of the Institute ensuring that it meets the stated objectives and works towards achieving its vision.
The Networks function as the research hub of the Institute