Evaluating the impact of presidential visitation panels on university library development and governance in Nigerian public universities: Library of the Federal University of Technology, Minna.

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of Presidential Visitation Panels (PVPs) on university library development and governance in Nigerian public universities, with a focus on the Federal University of Technology, Minna Library. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 23 academic librarians through structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics revealed moderate agreement (overall weighted mean = 2.83) that visitation panel recommendations are being implemented, particularly in staffing ( = 3.17) and infrastructure ( = 2.83), though implementation of ICT - related recommendations was rated lowest ( = 2.35). The perceived positive impact of PVPs on library governance and policy development was the highest ( = 3.26), while service delivery lagged ( = 2.78). Major implementation challenges identified included inadequate funding ( = 3.87), bureaucratic delays ( = 3.70), and poor follow-up mechanisms ( x¯ x¯ x¯ = 3.48). However, respondents strongly agreed on effective strategies to enhance PVP outcomes, including timely implementation ( x¯ x¯ x¯ = 3.91), earmarked funding ( = 3.87), and institutionalized follow-up ( = 3.78), with an overall strategy mean of 3.76. The findings suggest that while PVPs have the potential to influence university library reform, their effectiveness is undermined by systemic administrative inefficiencies and weak accountability. The study recommends enhanced policy frameworks, stronger stakeholder engagement, and implementation tracking mechanisms to ensure library focused recommendations are operationalized effectively.