INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY AND NEW PUBLIC MANAGEMENT PROCESSES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA 2015-2025

The application of digital innovations in public organizations’ management practices has gained traction in public discourse. This study examined the impact of information and communication technology (ICT) on new public management (NPM) processes at the University of Port Harcourt between 2015 and 2025. The study is anchored on Socio-Technical Systems Theory, which explains the interaction between technological systems and organizational structures in achieving effective performance outcomes. A descriptive survey research design was adopted with, a population of 42,000 students and staff. Using Yamane’s formula, a sample size of 396 respondents was determined. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire on a four-point Likert scale, and reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.884. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s moment correlation with SPSS. ICT significantly enhanced administrative efficiency by streamlining processes, reducing paperwork and bureaucratic delays, improving coordination, and facilitating faster decision-making. This was supported by a strong positive correlation (r = 0.712, p < 0.01). The study also found that ICT strengthened accountability and transparency through digital record-keeping, online reporting, and effective staff performance monitoring, with a significant relationship (r = 0.689, p < 0.01). The study concluded that ICT serves as a strategic driver of administrative reform and aligns with NPM principles of efficiency, transparency, and POG. Increased investment in ICT infrastructure and continuous staff training are recommended to sustain improved administrative outcomes.