Impact of Decentralization and E-Administration on Organizational Performance

A Case Study of the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria

Abstract

The pre-reforms period of Nigeria's Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) was marked by inefficiencies, including the lack of a reliable system for tracking company compliance. To address these challenges and enhance its performance, the CAC undertook reforms incorporating the Contemporary Public Management (CPM) model. This study examines the impac t of two k e y components of the s e re forms (decentralisation and the adoption of e-administration) on the organisational performance of the CAC. Using public choice theory as the theoretical framework, the study employs both descriptive and survey methods to analyse the reforms. A total of 388 questionnaires were distributed to staff of the CAC and registered business owners. The findings reveal that decentralisation and the introduction of e-administration have significantly improved CAC's performance, as evidenced by streamlined company registration processes and increased operational efficiency. The study recommends further strengthening of compliance and enforcement mechanisms to ensure the sustainability of these improvements, thereby boosting investor confidence and public trust in the CAC.