OPTIMIZING PROJECT TIMELINES: THE IMPACT OF E-PROCUREMENT IN ACCELERATING PUBLIC SECTOR PROJECTS IN NIGERIA

Purpose: E-procurement is recognized globally as a tool for enhancing efficiency and transparency, with major intergovernmental bodies advocating its adoption. This study investigates the impact of electronic procurement (e-procurement) on project completion times in the Nigerian public sector. The research focuses on e-tendering, e-invoicing, and e-sourcing, hypothesizing their effects on project completion times.   Theoretical Framework: The study employs a conceptual framework highlighting the interplay between e-procurement practices and government policies. Theoretical frameworks, including Innovation Diffusion Theory and Technology Acceptance Theory guided the study.   Design/Methodology/Approach: The study adopted a descriptive survey research design to collect primary data from 361 procurement staff from four agencies in Abuja using a structured questionnaire. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis.   Findings: The results indicate a positive relationship between e-procurement practices and project completion times, with e-invoicing having the most significant impact. However, the introduction of government e-procurement policies as a variable diminishes the individual effects of e-tendering, e-invoicing, and e-sourcing.   Research, Practical & Social Implications: The study established a positive relationship between electronic procurement practices and project completion times, with higher implementation levels resulting in shorter project durations. However, organizations should evaluate their impact, balance oversight and efficiency.   Originality/Value: By focusing specifically on the Nigerian public sector, testing clearly defined e-procurement elements, collecting robust primary data, and generating new context-specific evidence, this study makes an original, timely and valuable contribution to knowledge on the impact of e-procurement adoption.