Open and distance learning models and management: Assessing the Nigerian diversity issues

Nigerian experience of open and distance learning (ODL) serves as a pace setter for many emerging ODL institutions in most African countries, especially the West African sub-region. The paper therefore investigates institutional models and management practices with respect to some critical aspects of ODL in the seven frontline institutions that engage in distance learning programmes in Nigeria. A descriptive comparison study of these practices reveal notable diversities, most of which are critical to the characteristic philosophy of open and distance learning. The paper discusses these issues with a proposal for unifying the good practices in various institutions in order to enhance management and delivery of ODL programmes in Nigeria.