Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Smarter Records and Archival Systems in Nigerian Public Administration

The efficiency of public administration in Nigeria is often hindered by outdated records management practices, including manual filing, paper-based storage, and fragmented digital systems. These methods compromise data security, accessibility, and accountability. This paper explores the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in transforming records and archival systems in Nigerian ministries. It examines the prospects of AI in automating data organization, improving information retrieval, enhancing transparency, and safeguarding sensitive government data. The study further highlights key challenges such as infrastructural deficits, data privacy concerns, funding limitations, and resistance to technological change. Recommendations are provided to guide policy formulation, capacity building, and sustainable adoption of AI in Nigeria’s public sector records management.