INFLUENCE OF DIGITAL LEADERSHIP PRACTICES ON EFFECTIVE EDUCATIONAL PLANNING AND ADMINISTRATION IN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA
Abstract
Digital transformation is increasingly reshaping the governance, planning and administration of tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Contemporary tertiary institutions generate large volumes of academic, financial, personnel, student and institutional data, creating a growing need for effective digital leadership. This study examines the influence of digital leadership practices on effective educational planning and administration in tertiary institutions in Bauchi State, Nigeria. The study is anchored on Transformational Leadership Theory, which emphasises leadership vision, innovation, motivation and organisational change. A correlational survey research design is proposed. The population will comprise academic and administrative leaders in tertiary institutions in Bauchi State, including universities, colleges of education and polytechnics. A representative sample will be selected using multistage sampling procedures. Data will be collected using a structured questionnaire titled Digital Leadership Practices and Educational Planning and Administration Questionnaire (DLP-EPAQ). The instrument will be validated by experts in Educational Administration and Planning, Measurement and Evaluation, and Educational Technology. Cronbach's alpha will be used to establish internal consistency. Data will be analysed using mean, standard deviation, Pearson Product Moment Correlation and multiple regression analysis. The study focuses on five dimensions of digital leadership: digital vision and strategic planning, digital communication and collaboration, digital professional development, digital resource management, and digital data-driven decision-making. Recent Nigerian studies indicate that digital transformation can improve administrative efficiency, communication, data use and institutional performance, although inadequate infrastructure, digital skills, funding and governance remain important challenges. The study is expected to provide empirical evidence for strengthening digital leadership and improving educational planning and administration in tertiary institutions in Bauchi State.