Capacity Building in the Nigerian Library and Information Profession: Issues and Challenges

This study examines capacity building within the library and information profession in Nigeria, focusing on the issues and challenges that hinder professional development and institutional effectiveness. The transformation of the global information environment, driven by digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and evolving user expectations, has significantly expanded the roles of librarians beyond traditional responsibilities. Nigerian libraries, however, continue to face structural and systemic barriers that limit their ability to adapt to these changes. The study adopts a qualitative descriptive and analytical research design, relying on a systematic review of relevant literature, policy documents, and professional reports to explore capacity building gaps within the sector. Findings reveal that inadequate funding, weak institutional support, outdated Library and Information Science (LIS) curricula, poor information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure, and ineffective policy implementation constitute major impediments to capacity development. The research further identifies limited access to training opportunities, low professional motivation, and insufficient collaboration among stakeholders as factors that exacerbate these challenges. The study is anchored on Human Capital Theory and the Capacity Development Framework, which emphasize investment in professional competencies and institutional strengthening as critical to service delivery and innovation. The findings highlight the urgent need for strategic reforms, including increased funding for professional development, curriculum modernization, improved ICT infrastructure, and stronger enforcement of continuing professional development policies. The study concludes that sustainable capacity building is essential for enhancing the relevance, efficiency, and global competitiveness of the Nigerian library and information profession.