Transformational Leadership as A Catalyst for Digital Transformation in Nigerian NGOs: A Case-Based Perspective


Authors : Hassan Rengou Mfouakie

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 8 - August


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/2czhdwna

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/4pc6vswe

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25aug052

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Note : Google Scholar may take 30 to 40 days to display the article.


Abstract : There is high pressure on nonprofit organizations to adopt digital technologies which have intensified the need for effective leadership models capable of guiding strategic transformation in resource-limited environments. This study critically investigates the impact of transformational leadership on digital transformation processes in Nigerian non- governmental organizations (NGOs). Leveraging on a qualitative case study approach, primary data was collected using semi-structured interviews with two executive leaders from Almurad Charity Foundation and Lola Carter for the Needy Foundation, operating across community development and sustainable development goals respectively. Thematic analysis of the data collected revealed that transformational leadership traits such as intellectual stimulation, idealized influence, individualized consideration and inspirational motivation commonly known as four I’s, were crucial in promoting innovation, aligning organizational missions with digital tools and keeping going team engagement. However, evidence shows the practice of blended leadership, through transactional elements to complement transformational behaviors. These findings emphasize the adaptive nature of effective NGO leadership and point out the value of leadership flexibility in digital contexts. The study contributes to leadership and development literature by offering context-specific perceptions into how digital transformation unfolds under transformational leadership in West Africa, and Nigeria in particular. It also puts up to practical suggestions for NGOs leaders and stakeholders aiming to ameliorate digital resilience and performance.

Keywords : Digital Transformation, Transformational Leadership, Nonprofit Innovation, Leadership Adaptability, Case Study, Nigerian NGOs.

References :

  1. Abiola, R. P., Idowu, A., & Afolaranmi, A. (2024). Empowering Transformative Leadership and Institutional Development through Digital Innovations in Oyo State, Nigeria. Lead City Journal of the Social Sciences, 9(3).
  2. Adanri, A. A., & Singh, R. (2018). Transformational leadership: Towards effective governance in Nigeria. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 6(11), 1-12.
  3. Bass, B. M., & Avolio, B. (1994). Improving organizational effectiveness through transformational leadership. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
  4. Bass, B., & Riggio, R. (2006). Transformational Leadership (2nd ed.). Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
  5. Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2019). Reflecting on reflexive thematic analysis. Qualitative Research in in Sport, Exercise and Health, 11(4), 589–597.
  6. Burns, J. M. (1978). Leadership. New York: New York, NY: Harper & Row.
  7. Creswell, J., & Poth, C. (2018). Qualitative Inquiry & Research Design: Choosing Among Five Approaches. Sage Publications.
  8. Dahiya, R., & Gayatri, P. (2023). The influence of leadership style on digital transformation outcomes in nonprofits. Journal of Organizational Change and Innovation, 45(3), 241– 265.
  9. Gachugu, E. (2024). The role of transformational leadership on digital innovation and performance in large organizations. Journal of Strategic Management, 7(5), 81-92. doi: https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t2186
  10. Heeks, R., Ospina, A., & Arun, S. (2023). The principles of digital transformation for development (DX4D). University of Mnachester.
  11. Lincoln, Y., & Guba, E. (1985). Naturalistic Inquiry. Sage Publications.
  12. Ngongpah, G. (2025). Bridging the digital divide: How the Nigerian government can facilitate technology adoption in education. International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology.
  13. Qiao, G., Li, Y., & Hong, A. (2024). The strategic role of digital transformation: Leveraging digital leadership to enhance employee performance and organizational commitment in the digital era. Systems, 457.
  14. Sacavém, A., Cunha, M., Rego, A., & Clegg, S. (2023). Leading in the digital age: The role of leadership in organizational digital transformation. Administrative Sciences, 13(3). doi: https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13030081

There is high pressure on nonprofit organizations to adopt digital technologies which have intensified the need for effective leadership models capable of guiding strategic transformation in resource-limited environments. This study critically investigates the impact of transformational leadership on digital transformation processes in Nigerian non- governmental organizations (NGOs). Leveraging on a qualitative case study approach, primary data was collected using semi-structured interviews with two executive leaders from Almurad Charity Foundation and Lola Carter for the Needy Foundation, operating across community development and sustainable development goals respectively. Thematic analysis of the data collected revealed that transformational leadership traits such as intellectual stimulation, idealized influence, individualized consideration and inspirational motivation commonly known as four I’s, were crucial in promoting innovation, aligning organizational missions with digital tools and keeping going team engagement. However, evidence shows the practice of blended leadership, through transactional elements to complement transformational behaviors. These findings emphasize the adaptive nature of effective NGO leadership and point out the value of leadership flexibility in digital contexts. The study contributes to leadership and development literature by offering context-specific perceptions into how digital transformation unfolds under transformational leadership in West Africa, and Nigeria in particular. It also puts up to practical suggestions for NGOs leaders and stakeholders aiming to ameliorate digital resilience and performance.

Keywords : Digital Transformation, Transformational Leadership, Nonprofit Innovation, Leadership Adaptability, Case Study, Nigerian NGOs.

CALL FOR PAPERS


Paper Submission Last Date
30 - November - 2025

Video Explanation for Published paper

Never miss an update from Papermashup

Get notified about the latest tutorials and downloads.

Subscribe by Email

Get alerts directly into your inbox after each post and stay updated.
Subscribe
OR

Subscribe by RSS

Add our RSS to your feedreader to get regular updates from us.
Subscribe