Phronesis and library selection: Dilemmas in Nigerian faith-based universities

Abstract

Nigeria is a religiously diverse country, home to between 250 and 400 different ethnolinguistic tribes with three prominent religious beliefs. Except for the southwest, which has a large population of Christians, Muslims, and indigenous African religions, the southern regions are predominantly Christian. Islam is widely practiced by the Hausa-Fulani in the northern areas, whereas Christianity is practiced by numerous minority ethnic groups in the region. This diversity can also be found in universities, as religious organizations control many private institutions.

Christian groups own the most well-known and prestigious private institutions in Nigeria. Among these universities are Babcock University, which the Seventh-day Adventist Church owns; Covenant and Landmark University, which the Living Faith Church owns; Bowen University, which is owned by the Nigeria Baptist Convention; Redeemer’s University, which is owned by the Redeemed Christian Church of God; and Joseph Ayo Babalola University, which is owned by the Christ Apostolic Church. Other faith-based universities include Crawford University, which is owned by the Apostolic Faith Mission; Mountain Top University, owned by the Mountain of Fire Ministry; Madonna University, owned by the Catholic Church; and Ajayi Crowder University, which the Anglican Communion owns.