Records Management in Non-Governmental Organisations Operating in Gombe State, North East Nigeria

This study evaluates records management practices in non-governmental organisations (NGOs) operating in Gombe State, within Nigeria's North East geopolitical zone. NGOs play a critical role in humanitarian and development service delivery in the North East, where conflict-induced displacement has created complex administrative demands. However, records management in this sector remains inconsistently practised, raising concerns about accountability, donor compliance, and programme continuity. Using a descriptive survey design, the study targets programme officers, administrative managers, and records officers in twelve registered NGOs in Gombe State. Structured questionnaires and records system audit checklists are the primary data collection instruments. The study is anchored on the Records Management Lifecycle Model and accountability frameworks relevant to the non-profit sector, with literature from 2020 to 2024 providing contextual support. Dimensions examined include programme record creation, donor reporting documentation, staff file management, and compliance with NGO Board registration requirements. Recommendations target the Gombe State government NGO regulatory office and the National NGO Community. Keywords: records management, non-governmental organisations, NGOs, Gombe State, North East Nigeria