Abstract
This study examined the relationship between the use of legal databases and user
satisfaction among law undergraduate students in selected universities in North -Central
Nigeria. A descriptive survey design of a correlational type was adopted for the study. The
population comprised law undergraduates from selected universities in North-Central
Nigeria, including the University of Abuja, University of Ilorin, and University of Jos, with
177 valid responses. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to
respondents. Findings revealed that a variety of legal databases such as Law Pavilion,
LexisNexis, and HeinOnline were available, while the level of use of legal databases was
generally high. User satisfaction was also generally high. Pearson Product-Moment
Correlation analysis indicated a strong, positive, and statistically significant relationship
between use of legal databases and user satisfaction (r = 0.72, p < 0.05). The null
hypothesis was therefore rejected. The study also identified inadequate internet
connectivity, lack of constant power supply, inadequate training, technical problems,
limited devices, and subscription costs as major challenges affecting effective use. Based on
these findings, the study recommends that university management and law libraries should
strengthen internet and power infrastructure, provide adequate computers and devices,
organise regular user training and awareness programmes, and sustain or expand
subscriptions to relevant legal databases to support effective use and user satisfaction.
Keywords: Legal databases; use; user satisfaction; correlational relationship; law
undergraduate students; North-Central Nigeria.
Publication Date: 2026-10-31