Autobiography

Early Life & Background

I was born on the 15th of March, 1978, in Agojeju-Ajocheji, a serene community along the Anyigba-Abejukolo Road in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. Growing up in a modest family, I learned early the values of hard work, perseverance, and the pursuit of knowledge. My early education began at L.G.E.A. Primary School, Agojeju-Ajocheji, where I obtained my First School Leaving Certificate in 1988. I then proceeded to Government Secondary School, Egume, Kogi State, where I completed my West African Senior School Certificate (WAEC) in 1996.

Educational Journey

My quest for higher education took me to Bayero University, Kano, one of Nigeria's premier institutions. I earned a Diploma in Public Administration in 2000, followed by a Bachelor of Library & Information Science / Economics (BA/BSc) in 2006. Driven by a passion for library technology and digital systems, I pursued a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) at Bayero University Kano, completing it in 2014. My academic journey culminated in a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Library and Information Technology from the Federal University of Technology, Minna, in 2023. This journey has been one of continuous learning, research, and professional growth.

Academic Career & Teaching

My academic career began with a deep commitment to library and information science education. I have been a Lecturer and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Library and Information Science, University of Maiduguri, since 2018. I teach at Ph.D, MLS, and BLIS levels, covering courses such as Data Processing in Library and Information Science, Advanced Research Methodology, Advanced Indexing and Abstracting, Advanced Information Organization, Advanced Reference and Information Services, Media Librarianship, and Digital Information Systems. I have supervised three Ph.D students, six MLS students, and over fifty BLIS students. I serve as Director of the Departmental Laboratory, SIWES Coordinator, and previously served as Undergraduate Level Coordinator (2020–2024).

Research Philosophy & Interests

My research philosophy is anchored in the belief that libraries are the bedrock of knowledge dissemination and that technology should serve as an enabler for equitable access to information. My research focuses on digital libraries, library automation, artificial intelligence in libraries, digital competencies, electronic information resources, metadata and bibliographic control, research data management, and open science. I have published over 38 journal articles, one book, and several conference papers. My work on artificial intelligence and machine learning for metadata generation, cloud computing implementation in libraries, and digital information resources management has contributed to the discourse on library modernization in Nigeria and beyond.

Professional Achievements & Projects

Throughout my career, I have executed significant library technology projects across Nigerian institutions. These include deploying the Integrated Library Management System (Koha) at the University of Maiduguri Library, designing and implementing Digital Library Management Systems, developing library portals and journal websites, and installing campus networks. I have managed integrated library systems, digital libraries, library portals, and web-based information services. My certifications span network infrastructure (Leviton, C-Tech), database development (MySQL), and network fundamentals (CCNA). I am a registered practising librarian with the Librarians' Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN Reg. No. 03011) and an active member of the Nigerian Library Association.

Community Service & Impact

Beyond the classroom and research lab, I am deeply committed to community development through technology training and capacity building. I have delivered training programs on library networking, file sharing, network configuration, intercom (SIP-VOIP) implementation, and advanced network administration at JSIIT Kazaure. I have also conducted empowerment training on computer skills for graduating students at Bayero University Kano. Through Wavedone Digital Solutions Ltd., I continue to provide digital solutions and technology services that empower individuals and institutions. My goal is to bridge the digital divide and make information resources accessible to all.

Vision & Future Goals

Looking ahead, my vision is to continue advancing the frontiers of library and information science through research, innovation, and mentorship. I aim to contribute to the development of AI-powered library systems, promote open science and research data management practices in Nigerian institutions, and foster international research collaborations. I am committed to nurturing the next generation of library and information professionals who will leverage technology to transform knowledge access and dissemination. My sabbatical at Federal University Gashua, Yobe State, represents an opportunity to extend my impact and contribute to academic development in another institution.

Dr. Ibrahim Wada

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