Empowering African Librarians: The AfLIA's Role in Enhancing Wikipedia through #1Lib1Ref in Nigeria

Since 2020, AfLIA (African Library and Information Associations and Institutions) has been encouraging librarians across Africa to embrace Wikipedia through the #1Lib1Ref campaign. Sharing knowledge and information is core to the work of librarians, faculty, and other professionals. Wikipedia, with its research and learning tools, provides a valuable platform for this purpose. AfLIA's training programs have empowered Nigerian librarians to become "Wikipedians" and integrate Wikipedia into their work. This study investigated the impact of the #1Lib1Ref campaign in Anambra State, Nigeria. While some academics hesitate to use Wikipedia for research, the study aimed to address these concerns and promote wider acceptance. Focusing on the period 2020-2023, the research explored how AfLIA, the Wikimedia User Group Nigeria (WUGN), and the Igbo Wikimedia User Group created opportunities for Anambra librarians to participate in Wikipedia. The study used a survey design, involving 15 participants from libraries, universities, and other academic institutions in southeast Nigeria. Activities included workshops, training sessions ("edit-a-thons"), and language translation. Data collection methods included focus group discussions, observations, and interviews. Analysis employed a Logical Framework Approach (LFA). The findings revealed that librarians and others joined Wikipedia through AfLIA's #1Lib1Ref campaign in 2020. Training built their capacity to become facilitators, raising awareness and encouraging participation among faculty and other professionals. Over 20 Wikipedia training sessions were held in public libraries and faculties at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, both in-person and online. Participants reported increased knowledge of Wikipedia, its benefits, and its sister projects. This study highlights AfLIA's success in expanding the horizons of African librarians regarding information sharing and collaboration. It emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and new initiatives to ensure the enduring relevance of libraries and librarians in the information age. The research recommends further capacity building and strategies to create strong libraries for the future.