Rethinking Mandatory Impact Factor Journal Publication in Nigerian Universities as Symbol of Post-Colonial Self-Enslavement

Over the past decade, some Nigerian universities have increasingly mandated Impact Factor (IF) journal publications for faculty promotion, with a preference for Western-edited or IF-ranked journals. This practice, though varying across institutions, results in significant capital outflow and knowledge transfer to the West, perpetuating a scholarly dependency reminiscent of colonial times. This study aims to stimulate discourse on this phenomenon. Utilizing online surveys, the opinions of university faculty are collected regarding mandatory IF journal publication. The investigation delves into several critical dimensions, including decolonial ideologies, economic ramifications, intellectual ownership, scholarly autonomy, and the pursuit of balanced perspectives of intellectual exchange. By exploring these facets, the study seeks to illuminate the complexities of integrating Western-centric publication standards within Nigerian academia. It endeavors to prompt critical reflection and foster debate among scholars concerning the implications of such practices. This examination is imperative for advancing an understanding of the broader dynamics shaping academic evaluation and knowledge dissemination in Nigeria, while also advocating for greater agency and autonomy within the scholarly community.