Civil Society in Digital Governance: Building Advocacy Capacity for Technological Transformation in Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71435/Keywords:
Civil Society , Digital Governance , Advocacy CapacityAbstract
Purpose: The rapid advancement of digital technologies has significantly transformed governance systems worldwide, creating both opportunities and challenges for inclusive policy development, particularly in developing nations such as Nigeria. This study explores the role of civil society organizations (CSOs) in digital governance, focusing on their capacity to advocate for equitable and transparent technological transformation.
Subjects and Methods: Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combined quantitative surveys of 30 Nigerian CSOs with qualitative interviews involving civil society leaders, policymakers, and digital governance experts.
Results: The findings reveal that while 72% of CSOs actively engage in digital governance advocacy, their effectiveness is limited by insufficient funding, weak institutional capacity, restricted access to decision-makers, and inadequate technical expertise. Nonetheless, CSOs have developed innovative strategies, including coalition-building, digital platform utilization, and grassroots mobilization, to enhance their advocacy influence. The study further identifies that collaboration with government agencies, international organizations, and the private sector can amplify civil society’s role in shaping inclusive digital policies.
Conclusions: It concludes that empowering CSOs through capacity-building, access to digital tools, and participatory policy frameworks is essential to ensure that digital transformation in Nigeria promotes social justice, equity, and democratic accountability. The research contributes to the growing discourse on digital governance by emphasizing the strategic importance of civil society in bridging the gap between technology and inclusive policy-making.
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