Information Literacy Skills in the Digital Society Among Undergraduate Students of Public Universities in Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined information literacy skills in the digital society among undergraduate students at public universities in Benue State, Nigeria. Using a descriptive survey design, the population comprised 1,661 students from Joseph Tarka Sarwuan University and Moses Orshio Adasu University, both in Makurdi. A 10% sample of 166 students was selected using proportionate stratified and simple random
sampling techniques. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire covering students’ information literacy skills, use of digital information resources, extent of skill utilisation, and challenges encountered. Descriptive statistics, including means and standard deviations, were used to analyse the data. Findings revealed that undergraduate students possessed a high level of information literacy skills (cluster mean = 2.69), actively utilised these skills when accessing digital resources (cluster mean = 2.63), and frequently engaged with online journals, e-books, academic databases, and open-access platforms (cluster mean = 2.59). However, challenges such as limited training, poor access to digital devices, unstable internet connectivity, and insufficient library support significantly hindered the acquisition and application of these skills (cluster mean = 2.77). The study concludes that while students are generally competent in information literacy, institutional support and infrastructural improvements are essential to maximise effective utilisation.  Recommendations include introducing structured training programmes, enhancing digital infrastructure, integrating information literacy into curricula, and increasing library support services.