An informetric analysis of research output in Nigeria with special reference to universities: 2000-2010

Abstract

The need for sustainable evaluation of the research process and performance in Nigerian universities cannot be overemphasised. This research used bibliometric analysis, with publication output as a major indicator to evaluate research performance and productivity in Nigerian universities. The research results revealed that the fi rst generation universities owned by the federal government were the fi ve most productive universities in Nigeria. Biotechnology and Applied Microbiology was the most productive subject fi eld, while research in Basic Sciences (Physics, Mathematics and Chemistry) was low, since these courses were not among the top 20 subject fi elds in Nigeria. Research results also revealed signifi cant growth and progress in research and publications in Nigerian universities in the late 2000s. In terms of citation count and analysis, the University of Ibadan was ranked fi rst, with 7.5 cites per article and a 38 h-index. It is recommended that more resources should be provided for research in the Basic Sciences to enhance effective scientifi c/ technological development in Nigeria. It is further recommended that the National Universities Commission (NUC) should generate relevant parameters/indicators for national evaluation and ranking of Nigerian universities. Developing a national database of all the researchers, together with their publications, at Nigerian universities is highly recommended.