Mapping the Impact Trajectory of Mathematics Education Research in Nigeria (1960–2025): A Bibliometric Analysis Using Web of Science

Source abstract

Mathematics education research in Nigeria has evolved considerably since independence, reflecting changing educational priorities, institutional capacities, and global scholarly influences. This study presents a bibliometric analysis of the impact trajectory of mathematics education research in Nigeria from 1960 to date, using publications indexed in the Web of Science database. Adopting a quantitative bibliometric research design, the study analyzed publication output, growth patterns, authorship productivity, institutional contributions, journal outlets, citation impact, and collaboration networks. The findings reveal a prolonged period of low research output between the 1960s and late 1980s, followed by steady growth from the 1990s and a marked exponential increase from 2010 onwards, indicating heightened research activity and international visibility. A small number of prolific authors and universities account for a substantial proportion of publications, while leading journals and citation patterns reflect increasing alignment with global mathematics education discourse. Collaboration networks show growing co-authorship, though international collaboration remains concentrated among a limited group of institutions. Overall, the study demonstrates that mathematics education research in Nigeria has transitioned from a marginal and fragmented field to a more structured and impactful domain, albeit with persistent inequalities in research participation and output. The study underscores the value of bibliometric evidence for informing research policy, capacity building, and strategic collaboration aimed at strengthening mathematics education scholarship in Nigeria.