Socio-Technical Dynamics of Election Technology Adoption in Nigeria: A Comprehensive Analysis

Abstract

This thesis examines the socio-technical dynamics of election technology adoption in Nigeria, employing mixed-methods research to understand how technological innovation intersects with socio-political factors in electoral processes. Drawing on socio-technical systems theory, the study investigates the complex relationships between political, cultural, infrastructural, and social factors shaping election technology implementation.

The research surveyed 550 stakeholders across Nigeria and analyzed election technology publications from 2002-2025. Findings reveal that while 74.6% report moderate to high technology familiarity, trust remains predominantly moderate (46.9%), with 29.5% expressing low or no trust. Ordinal regression identified political influence as the strongest trust inhibitor (OR=0.153), while voter education emerged as a critical enabler (OR=2.670). Document analysis confirmed socio-technical dynamics dominate discourse (70.7%), surpassing technical considerations (62.5%).

Key challenges include frequent technical failures (experienced by 78.1% of respondents) and perceived political interference (75.9% report moderate to strong influence). These factors significantly impact trust and adoption. However, 80.9% emphasize voter education's importance, while 74.9% support increased infrastructure funding, indicating pathways for improvement.

The study contributes to socio-technical theory by demonstrating how election technologies are socially constructed rather than neutral tools. Evidence-based recommendations include strengthening legal frameworks, implementing independent audits, establishing stakeholder consultation forums, and comprehensive voter education. A phased implementation approach is proposed: optimizing current systems short-term, piloting emerging technologies (blockchain, AI) medium-term, and considering e-voting only after addressing infrastructure and trust deficits.

The findings underscore that successful election technology requires holistic approaches addressing political independence, stakeholder engagement, infrastructure reliability, and public trust. This research provides critical insights for policymakers and electoral bodies seeking to leverage technology for credible, inclusive elections in Nigeria's evolving democracy.