INFORMATION GOVERNANCE STRATEGY: ASSESSING THE ADMINISTRATIVE ACCOUNTABILITY REFERENTS IN PUBLIC SECTOR INSTITUTIONS IN RIVERS STATE

Abstract

The escalating complexity of public administration in the 21st century has necessitated the adoption of sophisticated information management frameworks to ensure that government institutions remain transparent, efficient, and answerable to the citizenry. This study investigates the relationship between Information Governance Strategy and Administrative Accountability in public sector institutions in Rivers State, Nigeria. The conceptual framework operationalizes Information Governance Strategy through the lens of process automation, data integration, and information ethics, while Administrative Accountability is measured using transparency and answerability.
Grounded in the Agency, Stewardship, and Weberian Bureaucratic theories, the study explores the mechanisms through which structured information systems mitigate bureaucratic inertia and institutional opacity. A descriptive survey research design was utilized, collecting data from a sample of 450 administrative and academic personnel across ministries and tertiary institutions in Rivers State. Data were analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation and Multiple Regression analysis. The results indicate a significant positive correlation between Information Governance Strategy and both measures of Administrative Accountability. Specifically, the integration of digital
information systems facilitates real-time tracking of administrative actions, thereby enhancing the answerability of public officials. Furthermore, process automation was found to reduce the opportunities for administrative discretion, thereby promoting institutional transparency. The study concludes that the institutionalization of a robust information governance framework is a prerequisite for successful administrative reforms in the Rivers State civil service. Recommendations include the development of a comprehensive state-wide digital information policy and the implementation of continuous capacity-building programs for administrative officers to enhance digital literacy and information ethics.