Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Over the past decade, the relationship between digital literacy programs and information seeking behaviour has become a subject of considerable debate among scholars and industry practitioners alike, particularly within the context of Benue State where operating conditions differ markedly from more developed markets.

Benue State presents a useful setting for examining this relationship precisely because the conditions there — structural, regulatory, and behavioural — differ from those typically assumed in the broader literature, most of which draws on evidence from more developed economies.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

While digital literacy programs is widely discussed in policy and industry circles, empirical evidence on its actual effect on information seeking behaviour within Benue State remains sparse and, in places, contradictory. This lack of localized, rigorous evidence makes it difficult for decision-makers to know with confidence whether current approaches to digital literacy programs are helping or hindering information seeking behaviour — a gap this study sets out to close.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To examine the effect of Digital Literacy Programs on information seeking behaviour in Benue State.
2. To assess the extent to which digital literacy programs influences information seeking behaviour within the study area.
3. To identify the challenges associated with digital literacy programs in relation to information seeking behaviour.
4. To recommend strategies for optimizing digital literacy programs in order to improve information seeking behaviour.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the effect of digital literacy programs on information seeking behaviour in Benue State?
2. To what extent does digital literacy programs influence information seeking behaviour within the study area?
3. What challenges are associated with digital literacy programs in relation to information seeking behaviour?
4. What strategies can be adopted to optimize digital literacy programs in order to improve information seeking behaviour?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant to a range of stakeholders. For policymakers and regulators, the findings offer evidence to guide the design of frameworks that support healthier outcomes around information seeking behaviour. For managers and practitioners within Benue State, the study provides practical insight into how digital literacy programs can be better managed. Finally, it contributes to the academic literature on library and information science by extending existing knowledge into a specific empirical context, and offers a reference point for future researchers.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study is limited to an examination of Digital Literacy Programs and its relationship with information seeking behaviour within the context of Benue State. It reflects a clearly defined scope of analysis and relies on data and perspectives available within that scope; generalizing the findings beyond this specific context should therefore be done with appropriate caution.