Abstract
This study examined the acquisition of information literacy skills for information retrieval and
utilisation among undergraduate students of Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi
(MOAUM). Anchored on the ACRL Information Literacy Competency Standards, the research
adopted a descriptive survey design and involved a stratified random sample of 600 students
drawn from various faculties. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed
through mean and standard deviation. The findings indicated that students possessed a moderate
level of information literacy skills (cluster mean = 2.72), but lacked formal training opportunities
to enhance these competencies. Information retrieval abilities were fairly high (mean = 2.67), as
students were familiar with tools such as the Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) and
institutional digital repositories. Resource utilisation was frequent (mean = 2.80), with a notable
preference for internet-based sources. Despite this, several challenges persisted, including
inadequate training programmes, poor internet connectivity, limited access to academic
databases, and low awareness of library resources (mean = 2.83). The study bridged an existing
gap by offering a comprehensive overview of students' interaction with both print and electronic
resources, institutional support mechanisms, and practical application of information skills across
disciplines. Based on these insights, the study recommended the introduction of compulsory
information literacy training, enhancement of digital infrastructure, and integration of retrieval
and utilisation skills into the undergraduate curriculum. These recommendations aim to improve
students' academic performance and foster lifelong learning through better access, evaluation,
and use of information resources. The findings also contribute to ongoing conversations around
academic libraries' effectiveness in Nigerian higher education.
Publication Date: 2025-08-03