Management of Open Government Data in Nigeria Academic Libraries: Status, Challenges and Strategies

Abstract

Globally, democratic principles revolve around transparency, accountability and greater involvement of the citizens in government programmes and activities for sustainable development. This can only be achieved if the people have access to government information and this is why agitations for freedom of information continue to heighten. Open government data (OGD) play major roles in democratization of information and a propeller of transparency and open governance. This paper explores management of open government data in Nigeria by examination of selected government websites in Nigeria in order to determine the status of OGD in Nigeria. Indications reveal a country with interest in implementing OGD, but there are several challenges that must be resolved. The paper provides strategies that will assist in mitigating these challenges and concludes that the global rating of the country will improve with full implementation of OGD in the country.