DIGITALIZATION AND EDUCATIONAL MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA: IMPLICATIONS FOR ADMINISTRATIVE EFFICIENCY, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND SUSTAINABLE EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Digitalization has become a critical driver of transformation in educational systems across the world, offering innovative approaches to improving governance, service delivery, and institutional performance. In Nigeria, educational management continues to face challenges such as inefficient administrative processes, weak accountability mechanisms, poor data management, and limited stakeholder engagement. This chapter examines the role of digitalization in enhancing educational management, accountability, and administrative efficiency in the Nigerian education sector. It explores the conceptual foundations of digitalization and educational management, analyzes how digital technologies improve planning, coordination, monitoring, and resource utilization, and discusses the implications for institutional governance and sustainable educational development. The chapter also highlights key challenges associated with digital transformation, including infrastructural deficits, limited digital capacity, financial constraints, and resistance to change. It concludes that while digitalization offers significant opportunities for strengthening educational management in Nigeria, its effectiveness depends on strategic policy frameworks, institutional readiness, and sustained investment in digital infrastructure and human capacity.