Improving the Organizational Management Systems of Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria: Overview of the Challenges and Solutions in Ensuring Sustainable Development

This research work delves into the challenges faced by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Nigeria in effectively managing their organizational systems and explores potential solutions to ensure sustainable development. CSOs play a vital role in driving positive social change and development in the country. However, inadequate organizational management systems often impede their ability to achieve their missions. This study comprehensively examines the primary challenges, including non-availability of business models, limited financial resources, weak governance structures, inefficient communication channels, and inadequate capacity building opportunities. To address these challenges, the paper proposes a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, it advocates for establishment of business model for CSOs, enhanced financial strategies, encompassing diversified funding sources, improved budgeting practices, and transparent financial reporting. Secondly, the importance of establishing robust governance structures is highlighted, encompassing clear roles, effective leadership, and accountability mechanisms. Thirdly, the paper emphasizes the need for efficient communication strategies, both internal and external, leveraging modern technological tools and fostering stakeholder engagement. Lastly, the study underscores the significance of continuous capacity building through training, mentorship, and networking opportunities to empower CSO personnel and improve their effectiveness. Because of the complexities associated with the organizational management systems of CSOs in Nigeria, the study combined quantitative and qualitative methods. For the quantitative component, CSO staff were randomly sampled from a list of 3000 CSOs in Nigeria, the researcher utilized email platforms and listservs to request CSO staff to complete the questionnaire. After 4 weeks period and two reminders, 346 respondents completed the questionnaire, and this became the total number of participants for the quantitative aspect of the study. For the qualitative study, 10 Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of the CSOs were purposively selected and semi-structured interview was administered to elicit and garner their understanding of what the organizational management systems were, its challenges and how business administration model could help improve the systems. Exploratory Factorial Analysis (EFA) was used to analyze the quantitative data whilst Thematic Analysis (TA) was adopted for the qualitative data. The researcher used one-phase convergent design for the mixed methods analysis as this allowed for side-by-side comparison of qualitative/quantitative results against the research questions and provided lead for the business administration model that has emerged from the study. By addressing these issues and implementing the proposed solutions, CSOs in Nigeria can enhance their operational efficiency, increase their impact on societal development, and contribute to the achievement of sustainable development goals. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by offering practical insights into strengthening the organizational management systems of CSOs, with the aim of fostering a more sustainable and equitable future for Nigeria.