Critical Success Factors for e-Government Records Management Implementation in Nigeria: A National Longitudinal Study

This study conducts a national longitudinal investigation of the critical success factors (CSFs) for e-government records management implementation in Nigeria, producing the first time-series empirical dataset tracking implementation progress and success factor dynamics across a four-year period. E-government records management sits at the intersection of public sector digitalisation, accountability requirements, and information governance, making the identification and monitoring of success factors essential for policy and investment decisions. The research employs a longitudinal mixed-methods design across three measurement waves (2022, 2023, 2024) in thirty-six government institutions (six per geopolitical zone) including federal ministries, state ministries, and local government authorities. Quantitative surveys (n=420 per wave) track twelve hypothesised CSFs over time, while qualitative interviews (n=40 per wave) provide implementation narrative context. Latent growth curve modelling and panel regression analysis identify how CSF importance and influence evolve across implementation stages. The Technology-Organisation-Environment Framework, the e-Government Success Model, and the Records Management Implementation Theory provide the analytical scaffolding. This study makes a dual original contribution: it advances longitudinal methodology in e-government research and produces a dynamic CSF model accounting for temporal variation. Recommendations target NITDA, the National Archives Commission, and the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. Keywords: e-government records management, critical success factors, longitudinal study, Nigeria, implementation