E-PAYMENT SYSTEM AND THE FIGHT AGAINST FINANCIAL MISAPPROPRIATION IN PRINCE ABUBAKAR AUDU UNIVERSITY, ANYIGBA

ABSTRACT This study explore E-payment system in Prince Abubakar Audu University and the fight against financial misappropriation in Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba-Kogi State. Financial misappropriation remains one of the most critical challenges facing public institutions, particularly in developing countries. Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, is no exception. The mismanagement of funds, fraudulent practices, and inefficiencies in financial transactions have had severe consequences for the institution, including delayed salaries, insufficient funding for critical projects, and a lack of trust among stakeholders. These issues not only compromise the institution’s operations but also undermine its capacity to deliver quality education and services. Despite efforts to address financial irregularities through traditional oversight mechanisms, manual and cash-based financial systems continue to provide opportunities for corruption and fraud. At PAAU, challenges such as the prevalence of ghost workers, diversion of tuition fees, and non-transparent procurement processes have persisted. The study employed the survey descriptive research design. A total of 266 responses were used for the survey. The findings revealed that the implementation of the E-payment system in Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, significantly contributed to the fight against financial misappropriation. The study also found that despite its effectiveness, the implementation of the E-payment system faced several challenges. The study further found that the E-payment system brought notable benefits to the university’s financial management structure. The study revealed that 75% of the respondents experienced improved trust in the financial operations of the institution since the adoption of the E-payment policy. Based on the findings, the study recommended that the university management should invest in upgrading ICT infrastructure and ensure stable internet connectivity and power supply to facilitate the smooth operation of the E-payment system across all departments. Regular training and capacity-building workshops should be organized for all finance and administrative staff to improve technical know-how and promote effective use of the E-payment platform. The university should implement a structured change management strategy that includes clear communication, staff involvement, and gradual transition plans to reduce resistance and promote broader acceptance of the E-payment system. The university management should prioritize investments in upgrading the ICT infrastructure, including internet connectivity and computer access, and provide regular training and technical support to staff members to enhance their proficiency in using the E-payment system. To sustain the successes recorded through the E-payment system and overcome implementation challenges, the management of Prince Abubakar Audu University should invest in upgrading the institution’s ICT infrastructure.