The Strategic Role of Library and Information Professionals in Mitigating the Factors Responsible for Non-Commercialization of Research and Development Results in Nigeria

Abstract

The quest for commercialization of research and development results (products or services) has been one of the major challenges of Nigerian government. Preliminary observation in various research institutes and institutions like universities, polytechnics etc. reveals that majority of the ground breaking R&D results does not see the light of the day due to lack of interest of those that should finance, manage, adopt, advance and promote the commercialization process. This study was conceived to examine the strategic role the library and information professionals can play in mitigating the factors responsible for non commercialization of research and development results in Nigeria. It seeks to re-examine, re explain and to provide a new model that will conceptualize and make the commercialization of research and development results a sure bet in Nigeria based on the underpinning that sufficient information flow can enhance adequate communication, collaboration and connections among and between the five (5) stakeholders involved in the research and development process.