ESUT JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

ASSESSMENT OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY DISCLOSURE ON RETURN ON ASSET AND SHARE PRICE OF SEPLAT ENERGY PLC IN NIGERIA

Abiola Olubukola Olorunnisola — 2024-06-24

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is considered an instrument for improving a company's reputation with key stakeholders, generating revenue, and improving bottom-line results; however, rather than corporate organizations, most studies concentrated on Nigeria, a sovereign state. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate the specific relationship between corporate social responsibility disclosure and its effects on asset returns and share prices, with specific reference to an oil firm such as Seplat Energy Plc in Nigeria. Nigeria. Ex-post facto or causal comparative designs were utilized because the study's data came from the annual reports of Seplat Energy Plc on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) and regression analysis were used to analyze this study. The results showed that corporate social responsibility indices are positively related to ROA, except size. Additionally, it was observed that the corporate social responsibility index explains 46.8% of the variance in ROA. Because the size and donation values on the t-calculated values of -1.089 and 0.620, respectively, are less than the t-tabulated value of 1.833. Based on the research findings, Seplat Petroleum Development Plc was found to have acknowledged the value of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and to be fulfilling its commitments to both internal and external stakeholders as well as the broader community. It was recommended that a law be enacted that will fix the minimum percentage of profit that organizations should spend on corporate social responsibility.

DIGITAL MEDIA TOOLS AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT IN ANAMBRA STATE

Nnaemeka Hillary Anikeze — 2024-06-24

This study empirically investigated Digital Media tools and Youth Empowerment in Anambra State. The study was carried out in Onitsha the capital of Anambra State. The reason for choosing Onitsha is because Onitsha is the largest commercial city in South East with highest population of young entrepreneurs. Specifically the study aims to; ascertain the effect of Youtube on youth skills acquisition and development, examine the effect of facebook on youth accessibility of credit facilities for startup business. The population for the study comprised current metro area population of Onitsha in 2024 which is 1,695,000 residents. However a sample of 400 youths was sampled for the study using Taro Yamane Sampling Techniques. A structured questionnaire designed by the researchers served as the instrument for data collection, data gotten from the respondents were analyzed using simple percentage while chi-square was used for testing of the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that youtube have positive significant effect on youth empowerment in South East Nigeria, facebook has also positive significant effect on youth empowerment in South East Nigeria. Based on the findings, the following recommendations were made; youths should be encouraged to utilize digital tools for self development so as to relevant in today’s world driven by technology, educational centers and skills acquisition training centeres should embrace the use of social media tools in their training curriculum.

Foreign Aid, Donor Financing and Literacy Rate in Nigeria

A. E Eze — 2024-07-08

While debates continues on the best way to deliver assistance, there is little doubt that Nigeria will continue to need significant aid to achieve development goals. Moreover, despite criticisms, aids has had many successes in Africa and Nigeria. This paper examined foreign aid, donor financing and literacy rate. This paper is anchored on the human capital theory and utilized the error correction model and the Granger causality approached over the period of 1985 to 2023. The variables of the paper are foreign aid, gross fixed capital formation, exchange rate, and inflation. The data for these variables were sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria and National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The result showed that foreign aid has a positive but insignificant impact on human capital development in Nigeria (P-values of t – statistics (0.058663) >Sig-value (0.005); trace statistic and the Max-eigenvalue statistic of Johansen co-integration test indicates 2 co-integrating equation(s) at the 5 percent level of significance indicating that there is a long-run relationship between foreign aid and literacy rate in Nigeria; also there is a uni-directional relationship between foreign aid and literacy rate. The paper recommended among others a policy framework that would guide against the country's dependence on foreign aid beyond a point that may not be healthy for the economy.

Monetary Policy Pass-Through to Unemployment Reduction in Nigeria

A.U Eyone — 2024-07-08

The Nigerian economy has witnessed several structural changes with varying impacts on the level of unemployment which is one of the major threats to macroeconomic stability in the economy. This paper examined the impact of monetary policy mechanisms and unemployment reduction in Nigeria from 1986 to 2022. The theoretical framework of this paper was anchored on the job search and Keynesian theories of unemployment, and the data used in this paper are unemployment, broad money supply, prime lending rate, foreign direct investment, private sector credit, and population growth and inflation rate. The analytical techniques of this paper included the dynamic autoregressive distributed lag and the Granger causality approaches. The data for these variables were sourced from the Statistical Bulletin of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the National Bureau of Statistics. The result showed that the prime lending rate was positive and significant at the 5 percent level of significance, while broad money supply was negative and significantly correlated with unemployment. The lagged value of inflation rate were positively and significantly correlated with unemployment. Furthermore, the Granger causality test showed that there is no causality between broad money supply and unemployment rate, while unidirectional causality existed between unemployment and private sector credit. This paper recommended among others that macroeconomic stability is necessary through employment generation by enhancing the productivity of the Nigerian economy through accessibility of credit by the private sector.

Tomophobia and Professionalism among Nurses in Public Health Institutions in Anambra State

Godwin Chekwubechukwu Obidigbo — 2024-07-13

This paper investigates the impact of Tomophobia on professionalism among nurses in public health institutions using Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital Amaku, Anambra state as focus. A cross-sectional survey method was adopted for data gathering and supplemented by qualitative data, which was generated through review of literature. From a population of 185 the research sampled all the 130 nurses present during the 4 days field work for data gathering. SPSS version 20.0 tools were used for data analysis. The results of analysis reveal the prevalence of compassion fatigue and burnout, indifference to patients care, retarding zeal for work and apprehension, and retardıng interest for knowledge and more professional skills acquisition among the nurses due to tomophobic experiences. These tend to undermine general healthcare and successful surgeries. Among others, the paper recommends the employment of professional counsellors to address the rising tide of tomophobia, and quick adminıstrative response to nurses demands for the review of their conditions of service.

Political Interference and Effectiveness of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, 2010-2020

Ugochukwu Mmaduabuchi Onwunyi — 2024-07-29

The establishment of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in 2002 was generally seen as a major step to eradicating corruption and other related illicit practices in Nigeria’s political space. The EFCC act of 2004 enhanced its existence and served as a legal framework that ensured full operation of the agency in Nigeria. Since its establishment, the EFCC has struggled to battle financial crimes and to a considerable extent has recorded some remarkable achievements in Nigeria. In spite of this effort, corruption has become very monstrous and obviously permeated into the very fabrics of Nigeria’s socio-economic and political life. The aim of this study is to determine the extent the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has reduced if not completely eradicated political corruption in Nigeria between 2010 and 2020. The study also examined the operations of the EFCC, political interference on the EFCC operation and whether its activities have reduced the mismanagement of public funds by public office holders in Nigeria between 2010 and 2020. The study relied on documentary method of data collection and used content analysis and logical deductions to arrive at the conclusion of the study. We adopted structural functional theory as our theoretical framework of analysis. It argued that against the assumptions that the EFCC can stamp out political corruption in Nigeria, political corruption has assumed a worrisome dimension and has even permeated the EFCC, which is saddled with the mandate of eradicating political corruption. The study concluded that the inability of EFCC to end the increasing manifestation of political corruption over a decade of its operation can be inextricably linked to the nature and character of the Nigerian State, and more so with the question of leadership. The study, therefore, recommended radical reforms that would make EFCC more effective in tackling the menace of political corruption in Nigeria.

Seasonal Occurrence and Distribution of Thunderstorm over Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria

E.B Audu — 2024-08-26

The aim of the study was to ascertain the seasonal occurrence and distribution of thunderstorm (TS) in Lokoja. Data on monthly TS occurrence from 1980-2020 were obtained from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Abuja and analysed for this study. Various statistical methods were developed and applied. Results showed the total monthly and inter-annual mean TS was 78 with 6 as the mean of mean. The major monthly mean occurrence was between April (average of 06) and October (average of 09). Lowest occurrence was observed in January and December, while highest of 14 was recorded in August and September. Highest positive mean deviation was 08 (August and September); least was 03 (May and October); highest negative mean deviation was -6 (January, February & December) with the least of -5 (March & November). Highest inter-annual mean TS of 08 occurred in 10 years with lowest of -2 (1997). Highest positive mean TS occurred in 10 years; while the least positive mean occurred in 1982 (04). Frequency count of mean TS occurrence showed 7 has the highest (17 years); while the least was 4 and -2 occurring once each. On inter-annual mean deviation, positive deviation occurred most frequently (18 years), followed by zero (0), 14 years; and lastly, negative deviation (9 years). Highest inter-annual positive mean deviation was 2; lowest was 1; while highest negative mean deviation was -9 with -1 as the least. Dry season percentage (%) occurrence was 4.8 % and 95.2 % for rainy season. Mean decadal TS signified 82.4 (2000-2009) as highest, while 75.3 (1990-1999) was the least; a projection to the 5th decade, 2020-2029 was 77.8. In conclusion, wet TS is the major type in this area. It was therefore recommended that, TS forecast should be included in the Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) and daily weather forecast by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet); and TS occurrence should serve as early warning system of severe weather.

Religious Extremism and Poverty Keys to the Spread of Insurgency in Lake Chad Basin.

Lucy Chinwe Umeh — 2024-08-26

This study investigated Religious extremism and Poverty as keys to the spread of Insurgency in the Lake Chad Basin. Regional Security complex Theory propounded by Barry Buzan and Ole Waever, ex-post facto research design, documentary method of data collection and descriptive qualitative method of data analysis were employed in the analysis. This study found that the grievance of religious intolerance and high rate of poverty within the Chad basin paved way for easy spread of insurgency in the region, and that the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgency has eroded the foundation of the Lake Chad Basin's security governance leading to the socioeconomic decline. The researcher therefore recommends that Governments within the Chad Basin should direct a large portion of their resources toward human capital development, capacity building and elimination of socioeconomic challenges in order to wall off poverty and religious extremism.

Boardroom Dynamics and Firm Performance in Nigeria

Michael Tonbraladoh Sinebe — 2024-08-26

This study investigated the relationships between boardroom dynamics and firm performance among non-financial Nigerian firms using an ex-post facto research design and data from a sample of 58 firms over a ten-year period (2013-2022). The coefficients are estimated using a Random Effects GLS Regression model and utilizing STATA 14 software. The regression analysis reveals that the overall model is significant at the 5% level (Wald chi-squared = 13.85, p-value = 0.0166), though individual predictors, except for board independence, do not significantly impact firm performance as measured by Tobin's Q. Specifically, board size, board meetings and board ownership show no significant effect on Tobin’s Q. However, board independence exhibited a significant negative impact on firm value, suggesting that higher board independence is associated with lower firm value. This study provides valuable insights for corporate governance practices in Nigerian firms, emphasizing the need for a redefined approach to boardroom dynamics, consider industry-specific guidelines to determine the optimal mix of independent and executive directors and encouraging it to develop meeting agendas that focus on strategic issues and long-term planning.

The Impact of Corruption on the Socio-Economic Development of Nigeria

James Urien — 2024-08-26

Corruption is a relatively recent phenomenon that affects all facet of activities in Nigeria. However, corruption is rarely mentioned. There are many unresolved problems in Nigeria, but the issue of the upsurge of corruption is troubling. And the damages it has done to the polity are astronomical. In fact, the major factor obstructing her path towards sustainable development is corruption. It was concluded that corruption has had a profoundly debilitating, impact on Nigeria’s socioeconomic development, exacerbating poverty, inequality and social injustice. The effects of corruption in Nigeria includes; stunted economic growth and development, reduced government revenue and public resources, inefficient allocation of resources and mismanagement of public funds, undermined trust in institutions and governance, encouragement of illegal activities and organized crime and disproportionate impact of vulnerable population. Based on the conclusion, it was therefore recommended that the government to strengthen anti-corruption agencies: empower and resource agencies like EFCC and ICP to effectively investigate and prosecute corruption cases. Implement treasury single account (TSA): Consolidate government revenues to reduce mismanagement and embezzlement. Conduct regular audits: ensure transparency and accountability in government finances and contracts.

Mitigating Supply Chain Vulnerabilities in Nigeria

Akeem F. Olatunji — 2024-08-26

This study investigates the role of insurance as a financial risk control strategy in mitigating supply chain vulnerabilities in Nigeria, a country characterized by significant infrastructural, political, and regulatory challenges. Employing a survey research design, the research integrates quantitative analysis of survey data from 366 respondents with insights from relevant literature. The survey utilized a 5-point Likert scale to assess perceptions of key supply chain vulnerabilities and the effectiveness of insurance in addressing these risks. Results reveal that the most significant supply chain vulnerabilities in Nigeria are regulatory uncertainty (mean = 3.21), political instability (mean = 3.19), and infrastructure inadequacies (mean = 3.13). These factors were ranked as the top concerns, reflecting their substantial impact on supply chain efficiency. In contrast, issues related to insurance, such as high premiums (mean = 3.00) and limited coverage options (mean = 3.08), were perceived as less significant. Regression analysis further elucidates the relationship between insurance effectiveness and supply chain vulnerability mitigation. The model shows a strong positive correlation (R = 0.78), with insurance effectiveness explaining 60.8% (R² = 0.608) of the variance in supply chain risk mitigation. The ANOVA results confirm the significance of the regression model (F = 90.00, p-value = 0.0000), indicating that insurance effectiveness significantly contributes to reducing supply chain vulnerabilities. The coefficient analysis reveals that for each unit increase in insurance effectiveness, there is a 0.70 increase in vulnerability mitigation, highlighting the substantial impact of effective insurance coverage.

Socio-demographic Predictors of Quality of Life among Frontline Army Officers in Nigeria

Kayode J FAKOREDE — 2024-09-07

Frontline army officers are the bulk manpower frequently deployed to fight the insurgent groups in Nigeria. While studies have investigated psychological predictors of quality of life among frontline army officers, studies linking socio-demographic variables with quality of life among these officers are lacking. Therefore, this study examined the predictive ability of socio-demographic factors on quality of life among frontline army officers in Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted while purposive sampling technique was used to select Abuja and Maiduguri cantonments. Data were collected from 207 frontline army officers using validated questionnaires and analyzed using multiple regression analysis and independent samples t-test. Two hypotheses were tested and accepted at p =.001 level of significance. The result indicated that socio-demographic factors of age, religion, marital status, educational level and income level jointly predicted quality of life among study participants [R²=.27, F(5, 201) = 14.99, p =.00]. In addition, the result revealed that gender did not significantly influence quality of life among study participants [t(205) = 1.33, p >.05].The study concluded that socio-demographic factors tend to moderately predict quality of life among frontline army officers. It is recommended that military authority should regularly profile frontline army officers to ascertain their quality of life status.

Availability, Awareness and Utilisation of Offline e-book Platforms and Other Online Databases in University Libraries

Joseph Chukwusa — 2024-09-07

This study was carried out to examine availability, awareness and utilization of offline e-book platforms and other online databases in Delta State University and Federal University of Petroleum Resources libraries. The descriptive survey design was adopted for the research. Purposive sampling technique was adopted. The researcher purposively visited the libraries studied and randomly selected 70 students each from the two universities. This brings the population of the study to 140 students; and all were administered the questionnaire which was retrieved and found usable. The data collected were analyzed using percentage and descriptive mean statistical tools. The study revealed that most of the students don’t know that there are dedicated offline e-book platforms available in the e-libraries; but availability of other online resources is not in doubt; that most of the students are not aware of e-book platforms in the e-libraries as a result not utilizing them; but are aware of other online resources and making effective use of them amongst other challenges. The major challenges limiting the utilization of databases by students are lack of awareness, inadequate facilities, epileptic power supply and poor internet services. The study recommended strong awareness campaign concerning the availability of offline e-book platforms, and subscription and open access databases by librarians in the study area.

Effects of Cannabis on Aggressive Behaviour and Dental Health

Jackson Iheukwumere Osuh — 2024-09-07

Cannabis sativa, commonly known as cannabis, has been a subject of extensive research due to its psychoactive properties and potential therapeutic applications. Recent studies have explored its effects on various physiological and behavioural parameters, but the effects on aggressive behaviour and dental health remains under-investigated. This study aims to address this gap by examining the effects of different dosages of cannabis on aggressive behaviour and dental health in albino rats.A total of 80 albino rats were used in this study, divided into four experimental groups: 10 mg cannabis, 20 mg cannabis, 50 mg cannabis, and a placebo group. Each group consisted of 10 males and 10 females. The rats were administered their respective dosages of cannabis or placebo daily for a period of 4 weeks. Aggressive behaviour was assessed using standardized behavioural tests, including the Resident-Intruder Test and the Aggression Test. Dental health was evaluated by examining the presence of dental plaque, gingival inflammation, and tooth decay using the Modified Community Periodontal Index (CPI). A two-way ANOVA was employed to analyze the result. The analysis revealed a significant dose-dependent increase in aggression and deterioration in dental health with higher cannabis doses (p < 0.001). Specifically, animals administered the highest dose exhibited the most severe aggressive behaviour and dental issues, including increased plaque accumulation and gum inflammation. Gender was found to significantly influence aggressive behaviour, with males showing higher aggression compared to females (p < 0.01). However, gender did not significantly affect dental health (p = 0.268), and the interaction between cannabis dose and gender was not significant for either outcome (p = 0.798).The findings indicate that higher doses of cannabis exacerbate both aggressive behaviour and dental health deterioration in an animal model. While aggression is influenced by gender, the adverse effects on dental health are consistent across sexes. There is the need for further research on the long-term effects of cannabis and suggestion that public health measures should address both behavioural and dental health risks associated with cannabis use.

THE UNITED NATIONS HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR REFUGEES (UNHCR) AND CHALLENGES OF EFFECTIVE HUMANITARIAN RESPONSE IN NORTHEAST NIGERIA

Chiedozie P. Nwosu — 2024-09-24

In recent times, the globe has witnessed unimaginable humanitarian crisis. People have been forced to flee their homes in the most unusual circumstances, massive displacements and food insecurity have taken centre stage and all these have affected humanity adversely. The African continent is not left out in all of this as it has also been plagued by several humanitarian crisis-- from the horn of Africa, down to Sub-Saharan Africa. In all, Northeast Nigeria has been devastated by the activities of Boko Haram insurgents since 2009, leading to a seemingly intractable humanitarian catastrophe in the region. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees stepped in 2014 to render humanitarian assistance and services to communities in this troubled zone. The study employed the Complex Humanitarian Emergencies (CHEs) theory as an analytical framework. Methodologically, the descriptive research design was used and data was gotten through primary and secondary sources. The primary sources of data were sourced using Key Informant Interviews, where structured questions were purposively administered to key officials of the UNHCR and International Committee of the Red Cross. Secondary data were gotten from documentary sources as journal articles, books, internet blogs, etc., and analysed using content analysis. The study uncovered the fact that UNHCR’s humanitarian response in Nigeria’s north-east has not yielded the desired results as the agency is currently bedeviled with so much challenges, ranging from insecurity of UNHCR staff, lack of access by the agency to remote areas, to funding shortfall and a host of others. It recommends, among others, the need for inter-agency collaboration, adequate protection of the agency’s staff and proper funding of the agency’s activities in the area.

Effects of Nicotine on Reaction Time among Albino Rats

Jackson Iheukwumere Osuh — 2024-09-24

Nicotine, a primary addictive compound in tobacco, is known to impact cognitive functions, including reaction time. While studies have been conducted on human subjects, animal models, such as Albino rats, provide valuable insights into the neurobehavioral effects of Nicotine. This study investigated the effects of Nicotine on reaction time in Albino rats. A factorial design was employed, involving a sample size of 20 Albino rats randomly assigned into four groups: two experimental groups and two control groups, with each group comprising male and female rats. The experimental groups were administered 5 mg of Nicotine solution, while the control groups received distilled water. Reaction time data were collected by placing each rat in a T-maze, with a food reward (mouse cube) positioned on a path for the rats to see and move toward. The data were analyzed using factorial ANOVA and independent samples t-test. Two hypotheses were tested and accepted at a significance level of p = 0.001. The results indicated that Nicotine significantly reduced reaction times in the experimental groups compared to the control groups. Additionally, the findings revealed that female Albino rats exhibited longer reaction times than male Albino rats. The study concludes that Nicotine influences the physiological, behavioral, and cognitive functions of both male and female Albino rats. It is recommended that the government and health sector stakeholders intensify efforts to inform and educate the public on the health risks associated with the continuous consumption of Nicotine-containing products.

Impact of Digital Marketing on Aviation Businesses in Nigeria

Tiamiyu Hammed Olakulehin — 2024-09-24

The aviation industry encompasses almost all aspects of air travel and the activities that help to facilitate it. The blooming internet usage among the consumers has forced companies to target the market digitally. Social media marketing is a form of digital marketing that influences the power of widespread social media networks to reach the marketing and branding goals of the company. Airline industries are rigorously applying digital marketing tools and techniques to gain the ground among the competitors and serves as a crucial aspect for meeting consumer requirements and reinforce the relation among consumers in the airline industry. The study employed ex-post facto research design to analyze the impact of digital marketing on aviation businesses which will in turn lead to economic growth in Nigeria. Data for the study were sourced from Nigeria Civil aviation Authority (NCAA). The period of data collected covered for twenty-three years from 2000 to 2023. The results of the findings revealed that social media reach and website trafficking are stable in Nigeria, as all the variables seen by relatively high standard deviation. The outcome of the findings suggested that there are long run co-movement among aviation business and the e-ticketing among others as well as advert performance in Nigeria. Finally, there is a long-run causality jointly running from the digital marketing instruments at an adjustment speed of 25.74% annually.

Motivating Local Government Workers in Nigeria

Cornelius O. Okorie — 2024-09-24

This study explores the impact of digital transformation on motivating local government workers and enhancing service delivery in Nigeria through a systematic thematic literature review. Digital technologies have been highlighted for their potential to improve governance efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement. However, challenges such as inadequate technological infrastructure remain significant barriers in local government settings. The research reveals that digital tools can enhance employee motivation by facilitating improved communication, streamlined service delivery processes, and increased access to information. These advancements empower local government workers and contribute to organizational effectiveness and citizen satisfaction. Strategic investments in infrastructure development and capacity building are crucial to fully harnessing the benefits of digital transformation in Nigerian local governments. By synthesizing insights from diverse perspectives, this study contributes to understanding organizational behavior and public administration dynamics. It provides actionable recommendations for policymakers and organizational leaders to implement tailored digital strategies that foster a motivated workforce and improve service delivery outcomes. Ultimately, these efforts aim to enhance governance effectiveness and societal impact in Nigerian local government contexts.

Knowledge and Attitude of Student Nurses of University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu towards carrying out Research

Afam Ndu — 2024-10-20

Research is defined as the creation of new knowledge and/or the use of existing knowledge in a new and creative way so as to generate new concepts, methodologies and understanding. This study was guided to study the knowledge and Attitude of Student Nurses of University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu towards carrying out research. The study was guided by three specific objectives from where three research questions were formulated. The target population of the study was 195 students from where a sample size of 131 was selected using simple random sampling technique. A well structured self administered questionnaire containing 22 items was the instrument used for data collection which was validated by an expert and found reliable. Data collected was analyzed using tables, chart, frequency and mean. The findings of the study showed a good knowledge of research, 2.76 grand mean showed the students had a positive attitude towards carrying out research and 2.88 grand mean showed that they were aware of the factors affecting their attitude towards research like time consuming, lack of proper guidance, lack of statistical materials. Based on the findings, it was recommended that the school tutors should put in more effort in guiding the student nurses towards carrying out research so as to promote their attitude.

AFRICAN UNION (AU) AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION IN AFRICA

Chinonye Nnenna Nwokoroeze — 2024-10-20

This study focused on the African Union and conflict resolution in Africa with particular reference to the Darfur conflict in Sudan. The Darfur conflict has become a global problem and a test-case for Africa Union’s capacity in dealing with intractable conflicts in Africa. Two research questions were posed, to wit, what factors account for the nature and pattern of AU response to conflicts in Africa particularly to the crisis in Darfur region of South Sudan? And what indigenous mechanisms of conflict resolution can the AU leverage on to respond to conflicts in Africa instead of relying on external forces? The objectives of the study include determining the factors that define the nature and pattern of the AU response; and determining what indigenous mechanisms the AU can rely on to solve conflict situations in the continent. The study is anchored on the social identity theory developed by Henri Tajfel. Two research hypotheses were posed. The study adopted the descriptive research design. It relied on secondary sources of data and data were collected from textbooks, journals, and the internet. We adopted content analysis as our method of analysis. Among the findings are that the AU response to the Darfur conflict has been greatly impacted by the differences between sub-Sahara and North African states, external pressures and the indictment of former President al-Bashir by the International Criminal Court greatly; and that the AU has the capacity and latitude to leverage on indigenous knowledge of African history to develop mechanisms of conflict resolution instead of relying on external prescriptions. It is this context that we recommended that the AU should be more assertive in its peacekeeping initiatives by critically reassessing its Afro-Arab relations and exploring ways of enhancing the partnerships. Secondly, it is recommended that the AU should consider the adoption of African traditional conflict resolution Mechanisms since the Western prescription, despite their laudable intentions have always resulted in conflict relapse.

The Impact of Western Culture on Nigeria Family structure

Ngozi Blessing Agwu — 2024-10-20

The culture and family structure of a society is a means of their identification as it affords them due recognition. Over centuries it has been vivid that the old Nigeria traditions are gradually fading away as we absorb western traditions and slowly conform to western influence. This research therefore is aimed at examining the impact of western culture on Nigeria family structure. This study was carried out in Ugwuaji community, with a sample size of 400. The theoretical framework of this study is the Functionalist Theory of Social Change. The theory suggested that both family structures (western and indigenous) should be practiced to avoid conflict in the society, but the demerits of both needs to be cut off; Adekorede and Abiondun (2016). Cross-sectional survey research design was adopted for the purpose of this study. Systematic random sampling technique was used to select the villages in Ugwuaji community to be studied. Questionnaire was used as an instrument for data collection. Simple statistics like frequency distribution and simple percentage method were used for the presentation and analysis of the research questions. Chi-square statistics was used in testing the hypotheses. One of the key findings of this research is that the indigenous family structure is going on extinction due to the penetration and acceptance of the western family structure. This research thereby recommends that parents should properly socialize and integrate their young ones into the indigenous cultural practices, and strengthen the extended family bond. And the government should add an extra credit curriculum in school activities to teach pupils/students about their origins and family structures. Teachers should also give pupils/students assignments to take home to their parents/guidance, elders and traditional ruler(s) to inquire about their original family structure. This should really be put into consideration as it could help to preserve cultures and traditions which are on the verge of going on extinction.

Clicktivism and the #EndBadGovernance Campaign in Nigeria

Olusegun Abimbola Odunlami — 2024-10-20

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of clicktivism as a tool for political engagement in the #EndBadGovernance movement in Nigeria, addressing the challenges of sustaining civic participation and achieving tangible political outcomes through digital activism. Anchored on Habermas’ public sphere theory and Castells' network society theory, the study employed a survey design by focusing on social media users in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State - a region characterised by its high population density and active online political discourse. A sample size of 384 respondents, determined through the use of Cochran’s formula, was selected through purposive sampling to capture those actively engaged in online activism. Data collection was conducted via structured questionnaire administered through google forms, and the analysis utilised descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that while clicktivism significantly enhances political engagement and awareness, its impact on long-term civic participation and political change is mixed, with notable concerns about inclusivity. The study concludes that clicktivism is most effective when combined with traditional activism. The study recommended, among others that, activists and organisers should develop strategies that move beyond online engagement, integrating digital actions with on-the-ground efforts to ensure that clicktivism leads to tangible political changes; and that, efforts should be made to reach and involve a more diverse demographic, particularly those in rural areas and older generations, by providing digital literacy training and expanding access to technology.

Mitigating Work Alienation through Workplace Spirituality among Bank Employees in Delta State, Nigeria

Augusta Mary Onyebuchi Ojobu — 2024-11-18

This study examines the role of workplace spirituality in mitigating work alienation and enhancing work engagement among bank employees in Delta State, Nigeria. In the context of Nigeria's evolving banking sector, where reforms and competitive pressures demand high levels of employee engagement, alienation poses a significant barrier to optimal work performance. The research investigates how the dimensions of work alienation—powerlessness, meaninglessness, and self-estrangement—affect employee engagement and how workplace spirituality can serve as a moderating factor in reducing these negative effects. By integrating workplace spirituality into the organisational culture, banks may foster a more supportive environment that enhances employees' sense of belonging, purpose, and connection to their work. Data were collected from bank employees using structured questionnaires that measured levels of work engagement, work alienation, and workplace spirituality. Findings indicate that workplace spirituality significantly moderates the negative impact of work alienation, suggesting that spiritual practices in the workplace can play a crucial role in improving employee well-being, engagement, and overall organisational productivity.

A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 STRESS AND CONFINEMENT ON THE EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING OF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

Florence Omumu — 2024-11-18

This quantitative study examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the emotional well-being of 950 high school students in Delta State, Nigeria. This study was done after the lockdown period, it investigates students' attitudes, behaviours, and emotional experiences, stress levels, emotional health, and coping mechanisms. The findings reveal that while most students believed in the existence of COVID-19, there are varying levels of doubt and uncertainty, with awareness of preventive measures but decreasing adherence over time. Students aware of COVID-19-related mortality in their community exhibited significantly lower emotional well-being, increased stress, and depression. The study highlights the importance of context-specific insights and recommends targeted interventions, including health literacy development, improved mental health support in schools, and investment in community-based mental health services.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LONELINESS, IDENTITY FORMATION, AND SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTION AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

Chiamaka Esther Obodo — 2024-11-18

The study investigated the relationship between loneliness, identity formation and social media addiction among undergraduate students, one hundred and Forty-Six (146) undergraduate students comprising of 44 males and 102 females with a mean age of 20.78 and S. D of 2.197 were drawn using multi-stage (cluster, simple random: by balloting and purposive) sampling techniques as participants from Enugu state university of science and technology, Enugu. The ulcla loneliness scale, ego identity process questionnaire and bergen social media addiction scale were used for data collection. The researcher adopted a correlational design, a Pearson Moment Coefficient correlation with the aid of the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 27. Findings revealed that loneliness r= .133 and identity formation r= .101 at p< .05 did not relate to social media addiction. Therapists should work with students to help them understand that as they grow older, there are specific tasks and responsibilities they need to address.