International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: Effective institutional communication is central to academic delivery and administrative efficiency in tertiary institutions. However, the integration of digital media tools in emerging Nigerian polytechnics remains inconsistent, limiting their transformative potential.
Objective: This study examined the impact of digital media tools on academic delivery and administrative efficiency at Federal Polytechnic, Orogun, with a view to assessing usage patterns, benefits, and constraints.
Method: The study adopted a descriptive survey design using a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected from academic staff, administrative personnel, and students through structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and document analysis. A stratified random sampling technique ensured adequate representation of stakeholder groups, while data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Results: Findings revealed that WhatsApp, Google Classroom, Zoom, institutional email, and portals enhance timely information sharing and lecturer–student engagement. Nevertheless, adoption remains uneven due to unreliable internet connectivity, limited digital literacy, inadequate ICT infrastructure, and absence of structured policy implementation.
Conclusion: The study concludes that although digital media tools significantly improve communication processes, their effectiveness is constrained by infrastructural, policy, and capacity gaps, thereby limiting optimal institutional performance.
Unique Contribution: The study provides empirical evidence on digital transformation within a newly established Nigerian polytechnic and advances understanding of how organizational readiness and media suitability shape digital adoption in higher education.
Key Recommendation: Institutional leaders should develop comprehensive ICT policies, invest in sustainable digital infrastructure, and implement continuous capacity-building programmes to ensure coordinated and effective integration of digital communication systems.