Obstacles to the Utilization of Institutional Repositories by Academics in Higher Education in Nigeria

The purpose of this study was to identify the major barriers to the use of institutional repositories by academics in universities of Nigeria with a view to recommending ways of enhancing the utilization of institutional repositories. A descriptive survey was employed in the study. The research population consisted of 491 academics from 5 universities. A questionnaire was used as an instrument for data collection. The questionnaire was designed based on the objectives of the study. The results showed that the major barriers to the utilization of institutional repositories included inadequate infrastructure, a lack of awareness and sensitization of academics and a lack of technical skills. The researchers proposed that these problems may be overcome by formulating institutional policies on repositories, raising awareness among staff and promoting the involvement of management in projects relating to repositories. The study pointed to the need for a collaborative effort by the management of academic institutions and the academic community in working towards the successful use of institutional repositories.