Predatory Publishing and Research Integrity Crisis: Implications for Sustainable Educational Development in African Higher Education

Iyanuoluwa Samuel Adelakun; Togunloju Taiwo; Victoria Modupe Bankole; Olufemi Adewale Adedokun

doi:10.58709/niujed.v12i2.2519

Iyanuoluwa Samuel Adelakun Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria
Togunloju Taiwo Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
Victoria Modupe Bankole Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
Olufemi Adewale Adedokun Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, Nigeria

DOI: https://doi.org/10.58709/niujed.v12i2.2519

Abstract

Predatory publishing has become an increasingly worrying issue in contemporary academia, thereby raising serious concerns about research integrity and the sustainability of higher education, especially in Africa. This study explored the growing research integrity crisis that is associated with predatory publishing and examined its implications for sustainable educational development in African higher education institutions. The study adopted a systematic literature review and conceptual analysis approach, drawing from peer-reviewed journal articles, institutional reports, and policy documents published between 2020 and 2026. Guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, relevant studies were identified, screened, and critically analysed to establish current trends, drivers, and consequences of predatory publishing practices within the environment of African higher education. The review revealed that intense pressure to publish, limited research funding, weak institutional monitoring systems, and inadequate awareness of predatory journals have contributed significantly to the increasing patronage of questionable publishers among scholars. The study further found that predatory publishing undermines academic credibility, weakens peer-review processes, reduces the quality of scholarly output, and negatively affects the global visibility of African research and researchers. Beyond its impact on individual researchers, the crisis poses broader challenges to educational quality, institutional reputation, and evidence-based policymaking. The study concludes that strengthening research ethics education, improving institutional regulatory frameworks, and promoting credible regional publishing platforms are essential for safeguarding research integrity and advancing sustainable educational development in African higher education.

Keywords: Predatory publishing; Research integrity; Sustainable educational development; African higher education; Academic ethics; Research quality and Higher education sustainability