CHALLENGES TO EFFECTIVE ICT IMPLEMENTATION IN NIGERIAN CORRECTIONAL CENTRES: IMPLICATIONS FOR RECORD MANAGEMENT AND INMATE TRACKING

Abstract

This study examined the challenges associated with the implementation of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and their implications for record management and inmate tracking in Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre, Abuja. The study was guided by two objectives, two research questions, and two null hypotheses. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) provided the theoretical basis for the study. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population comprised 360 correctional personnel, while a sample of 100 respondents was selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-developed instrument titled Challenges of ICT Implementation, Record Management and Inmate Tracking Questionnaire (CIIRMITQ). The instrument was validated by experts, and a Cronbach's Alpha reliability coefficient of 0.82 was obtained. Data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, mean scores, and standard deviations to answer the research questions, while simple regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses at the 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that inadequate ICT infrastructure, limited staff training, weak institutional support, and poor system maintenance significantly affected record management and inmate tracking in the custodial centre. The regression results showed that ICT implementation challenges accounted for 60.8% of the variation in record management effectiveness (R² = 0.608) and 56.2% of the variation in inmate tracking and security operations (R² = 0.562). The study concluded that the effectiveness of record management and inmate tracking depends largely on the availability and proper utilization of ICT facilities. The study recommended improved ICT infrastructure, regular staff training, strengthened institutional support, and enhanced use of digital technologies for inmate monitoring and records administration in correctional centres.