Digital Transformation and Sustainable Development in Tertiary Education: Evidence from Selected Tertiary Institutions in Lagos, Nigeria

Background Digital transformation has become essential for improving the sustainability of tertiary institutions; however, many Nigerian institutions continue to face inadequate digital infrastructure, limited digital capacity, and fragmented technology adoption. Objective This study examined the effect of digital transformation on sustainable development in selected tertiary institutions in Lagos State, Nigeria. Method A descriptive survey design with a quantitative approach was adopted. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, 400 respondents were selected from academic staff, administrative staff, and students across five tertiary institutions. A total of 346 valid questionnaires were retrieved, representing an 87% response rate. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire with reliability coefficients ranging from 0.82 to 0.90 and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, and multiple regression. Results Digital learning systems, digital administration, and research digitalization had significant positive effects on sustainable development. The regression model explained 66.1% of the variance in sustainable development (R² = 0.661, p < .05), with digital learning systems emerging as the strongest predictor. Conclusion Digital transformation significantly enhances academic productivity, institutional efficiency, innovation, and sustainability. Increased investment in digital infrastructure, continuous digital capacity development, and inclusive digital transformation policies are recommended.