Abstract:

This paper is a discourse analysis of Nigerian government’s introduction and application of technology-driven governance tools and processes in the management of the economy in the last three years; drawing on the public perception, acceptance, adoption and diffusion of these technological management tools. Situated within the public sphere and diffusion of innovation theories, the paper examines extant public opinion leaders’ assessment against the crucial role of the media in the society as agents of change and influence - in relation to the perceived need, adoption level and diffusion of these innovative techniques. Years after getting into power on the strength of its anti-corruption philosophy, and war against corruption mantra, the present Nigerian government has translated part of that philosophy into innovative, transparent measurable principles. Treasury Single Account (TSA); the Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS); and Bank Verification Number (BVN), are three of the key tools of public finance management with which government has hoped to improve transparency in governance processes, ensure accountability and raise revenue for the execution of government’s business. Against the notion that innovation passes through stages of adoption, and that information trickles down from opinion leaders to the masses, the paper examines the extent of congruity of these extant cases with the theoretical concepts. It analyses how these innovations were received, adopted and diffused into the system and over what period. It aims to determine the role communication can play in creating positive perception, acceptance, adoption and diffusion of innovations among citizens in the society. It is hoped that conclusions from the discourse would form a basis for evaluating the relevance of the theory to reality as well as assist leaders in determining when and how to introduce innovations into the system for easy acceptance and absorption by the people.