Corporate Governance, Accountability and Cyber Risk Oversight
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between corporate governance, accountability, and cyber risk oversight in contemporary organisations. The rise of cyber threats has transformed cybersecurity from a technical concern into a strategic governance issue requiring effective board oversight and transparent accountability. The study used a descriptive survey design guided by four research objectives and hypotheses. Data were collected through purposive sampling technique from a sample of 200 respondents, including board members, senior management, internal auditors, compliance officers, risk managers, and IT professionals, using a structured questionnaire. The data were analysed with descriptive statistics, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, and Multiple Regression Analysis using SPSS Version 29.0. The findings showed that corporate governance significantly influences cyber risk oversight, while accountability mechanisms strengthen organisational resilience and cybersecurity governance. Board governance practices also positively and significantly influence effective cyber risk oversight. The study concludes that strong governance structures, transparent accountability systems, and active board engagement are essential to enhance organisational cyber resilience, improve stakeholder confidence, and promote sustainable performance. It recommends integrating cybersecurity into corporate governance frameworks, strengthening accountability mechanisms, and enhancing board capacity for proactive cyber risk oversight and resilience.