Influence of Organisational Culture on Knowledge Sharing in Nigerian Law Firms

This study examined the influence of organisational culture on knowledge sharing practices in Nigerian law firms, with a focus on firms in Lagos (South West) and Abuja (North Central). Legal knowledge sharing is critical for maintaining quality of practice, onboarding new associates, and building institutional competitive advantage. A qualitative research design was adopted, and data were gathered from senior partners, associates, and legal information managers in twelve law firms through in-depth interviews and documentary analysis. The study found that hierarchical organisational cultures in most firms inhibited lateral knowledge sharing between junior and senior practitioners. Knowledge was predominantly shared through formal mentorship rather than structured knowledge management systems, and little formal documentation of legal research and case strategy existed. The study recommended that law firms cultivate a culture of psychological safety for knowledge sharing, invest in legal knowledge management platforms, and recognise knowledge-sharing behaviour in performance evaluations. Keywords: organisational culture, knowledge sharing, law firms, Lagos, Abuja.