Author(s): Chilaka Emmanuel Nwaimo, Charles Odinakachi Njoku, Kelechi Enyinna Ugwu, Jane Chinyere Akujor, Uzoamaka Gloria Chris-Ejiogu, Nnenna Mercy Nwoko, Benedict Anayochukwu Ozurumba,Chijindu Promise Ubah
The objective of this study is to identify and examine the barriers to the adoption of technology in Nigerian government institutions, with a specific focus on the Federal and Imo State Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Data for the study was collected through a questionnaire survey, with a total of 318 staff members participating out of the targeted 350 respondents. The collected data was then analyzed using the frequency analysis ranking method. The study's findings shed light on the primary barriers to technology adoption in Nigerian government institutions. These barriers encompass the absence of ICT infrastructure and resources, financial constraints and budgetary challenges, resistance to change and organizational culture, skill gaps and insufficient training, concerns regarding data security and privacy, as well as legal and regulatory obstacles. The study ranks these barriers based on their frequency of occurrence and their impact on technology adoption. In order to overcome these barriers, the study proposes various strategies for addressing each one. These strategies include the implementation of data protection and cybersecurity measures, the promotion of stakeholder engagement and participation, the execution of capacity building and training programs, the cultivation of top-down leadership and political commitment, the implementation of policy and regulatory reforms, as well as the establishment of public-private partnerships to mobilize resources. The study also evaluates the effectiveness of previous technology adoption initiatives in Nigerian government institutions. The findings indicate a moderate level of effectiveness, suggesting the need for continuous improvement and evaluation of these initiatives. Based on the analysis, the study provides a recommendation regarding the feasibility of implementing the proposed strategies. The recommendation emphasizes the importance of assessing resources, capabilities, and potential challenges associated with the implementation of these strategies to ensure the successful adoption and utilization of technology in Nigerian government institutions. This study contributes to the existing literature on technology adoption in government institutions by providing insights into the specific barriers faced by Nigerian MDAs. The findings can inform policymakers and stakeholders in Nigerian government institutions about the challenges and potential solutions for enhancing technology adoption.