Exploring Information Literacy Competencies and Utilization of Electronic Information Resources among Postgraduate Students in Nigerian Universities

Background: The study explored how information literacy skills empower postgraduate (PG) students to effectively use electronic information resources (EIRs), focusing on universities in Northern Nigeria. It aimed to understand the relationship between students' literacy skills and their ability to access, search, evaluate, and use electronic information for academic and research purposes.

Method: A quantitative research approach was adopted. A total sample of 324 PG students was purposively selected from a population of 62,078, using Krejcie and Morgan’s sample size determination table. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire designed to assess various aspects of information literacy and EIR usage.

Findings/Results The responses provided insights into students' competencies, strategies, and preferences in handling digital resources. The study revealed that PG students possessed a strong foundation in information literacy and demonstrated high levels of technical competence. They were able to use electronic resources effectively for academic and research tasks. The findings also showed that students applied suitable search strategies and made informed decisions when evaluating and selecting information from digital platforms.

Implications: The results highlight the growing importance of strengthening digital literacy among PG students to support academic excellence. It also suggests the need for institutional support in the form of continuous training and infrastructure to maximize the benefits of electronic resources in higher education.

Conclusion:  The study concluded that information literacy plays a crucial role in enabling PG students to utilize electronic resources effectively. The combination of solid technical skills and access to relevant digital tools significantly enhances students' research productivity and academic performance.

Recommendations: The study recommends that universities provide advanced training in search strategies through tutorials and interactive modules. Libraries should offer workshops on source validation, citation practices, and ethical information use. Additionally, management should ensure broader access to e-resources and improve ICT infrastructure, including stable internet, reliable power supply, and financial and technical support for students