IMPACT OF INVESTMENT AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) ON THE PERFORMANCE OF MICROFINANCE BANK (A CASE STUDY OF ATBU MICROFINANCE BANK)

ABSTRACT This study examines the Impact of Investment and Communication Technology (ICT) on the Performance of Microfinance Bank, using ATBU Microfinance Bank as a case study. The primary objective was to assess how the adoption and utilization of ICT tools influence operational efficiency, service delivery, customer satisfaction, and overall financial performance. The study employed a descriptive research design, and data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to staff and management of the bank. Statistical tools such as descriptive analysis and multiple regression were used to analyze the data with the aid of SPSS software. The findings revealed that ICT investment has significantly improved the performance of ATBU Microfinance Bank by enhancing transaction speed, accuracy, record keeping, and communication between the bank and its customers. Moreover, the integration of ICT in banking operations has led to increased profitability and reduced operational costs. However, challenges such as inadequate technical skills and high maintenance costs were identified as factors hindering optimal ICT utilization. The study concludes that ICT plays a vital role in improving the performance and competitiveness of microfinance banks in Nigeria. It recommends that microfinance institutions should increase their investment in modern ICT infrastructure and continuous staff training to ensure sustainable growth and effective service delivery. Keywords: Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Microfinance Bank, Performance, Investment, ATBU Microfinance Bank, Nigeria.