ISSN: 3007-1712 (Online) ISSN: 3007-1704 (Print) NIU Journal of Humanities is an interdisciplinary journal published by Nexus International University, Kampala, Uganda. As a theoretical and empirical Journal, the aim is to challenge, provoke and excite positive thinking in the areas of Arts and Social Sciences such as media studies, methodology, philosophy, political science, population Studies, psychology, public administration, sociology, social welfare, linguistics, literature, performing arts (music, theatre & dance), religious studies, visual arts, gender studies, onanthropology, communication studies, criminology, cross-cultural studies, demography, development studies, education, ethics, geography, history, industrial relations, information science, international relations, linguistics, library science and so on. The journal puts particular focus upon issues that are of concern to the Third World. NIU Journal of Humanities will only publish articles that have not been previously submitted to, or published by any journal. In addition, the journal will only publish articles that have been thoroughly assessed and adjudged to be fully or partly accepted for publication. It is the sole responsibility of the author(s) to ensure that articles submitted are new, original and have not been published fully or partly any media. Such article(s) to be submitted must not violate the copyrights of others and must not contain plagiarized contents/materials. Author(s) will be solely responsible for the violation of such ethics of academic publication. Contributions that examine developments at national, regional and continental level are particularly welcome.
Nexus International University, Kampala, Uganda.
This issue of NIU Journal of Humanities touches on Development Administration, Educational Management, Religious Studies as well as Language and Literary Studies. The first part of the Journal focuses on Development Administration. One of the papers in this section examines the problem of flooding in several communities in Niger State which is becoming more worrisome and provides efforts and strategies at reducing the impact have become more costly with unsatisfactory outcomes. Findings in the study reveal that that various mitigation strategies have been used over the years but without much impact due to poor awareness and community engagement and responses during flood disasters. These consistent findings underscore the need for comprehensive community awareness, engagement and quick responses during flood disasters. It is further suggested that the communities should be productively engaged in the administration of the various flood mitigation strategies for quick and adequate responses during flood disasters. The second part is on Language and Literary Studies. One the papers in this Section reveals that there are potential problems encountered by students in their bid to get or guess the correct French equivalent of Yoruba idiomatic expressions because of their background in the French language, their non-familiarity with the idiomatic expressions, poor knowledge of the French idiomatic expressions, the degree of the idiomacity. This paper therefore, recommends that there should be a course on French idioms that will expose learners the more to French culture, and conventional phrases that will improve their vocabularies. One of the papers, in the third section on Educational Management, argues that the School Feeding Programme (SFP) has had a positive impact on pupil enrolment, attendance and academic performance, as perceived and affirmed by the pupils themselves, teachers, and parents. The study therefore, recommends government should ensure that there is an increase in the number and quality of teachers to accommodate the potential increase in enrolment. Additionally, there should be sufficient physical facilities, such as classrooms and other learning spaces, to avoid overcrowding and provide a conducive environment for effective teaching and learning. Papers in the last section deals with issues in Religious Studies. One the papers in this Section investigates how Islamic principles, legal frameworks, and scholarly connections influenced foreign relations, alliances, and conflict resolution between Sokoto and other Hausa land such as Zauzau, Kano, Rano, Katsina, Daura and other Hausa States. And the Results indicate that Islam acted not only as a spiritual foundation but also as a diplomatic tool that validated authority, governed warfare through the jihad concept, and enabled peaceful resolutions. This paper therefore, suggests that modern African nations reconsider the ethical aspects of Islamic diplomatic traditions such as justice, accountability, and peaceful conflict resolution to enhance contemporary methods of resolving disputes, fostering regional cooperation, and engaging in interfaith dialogue. On the whole, this issue of NIU Journal of Humanities features many empirical and theoretical based articles which can be of great benefit to every reader.
Assessment of the Structure, Conduct and Performance of Timber Markets in Southwest, Nigeria
The timber industry in Southwest Nigeria plays a vital role in socio-economic development, yet constrained by inadequate access to reliable and timely market information. This study assessed the structure, conduct and performance of timber marketing business in Southwest, Nigeria with a view to improve the performance of timber market in the region. Primary data were obtained from timber marketers across the six states of Southwest Nigeria, using structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and the result was presented using tables and charts. Findings revealed that there was more male gender (62.8%) than female gender (37.2%) in timber marketing business in the region. The result of the ages of the respondents showed that 27.7% of the respondents were between the ages of 41-50, 26% were 51-60 years, 19.2% were 21-30, 16.1% were between 31-40 while 7.3% and 3.4% respectively of the respondents ages ranged between 60-70 years and above 70 years. There are diverse in size, specialisation, and market reach, with most operating through traditional marketing channels. Most timber marketers belonged to group of association and the association are paying vital roles in assisting their members. The Southwest Timber market is monopolistic in nature. It is recommended that effective Timber Marketing Information System be developed to enhance performance of timber marketing in Southwest, Nigeria in order to giving an easy access to vital timber marketing information. Keywords: Assessment, Structure, Conduct, Performance, Timber market, Southwest, Nigeria
Youth-Led Initiative in Re-Building Education in Crises Zone: Challenges and Innovation (A Case Study of Borno State, Nigeria)
The study examined Youth-led initiative in re-building education in crises zone: challenges and innovation. Three objectives guided the study. The study adopts a descriptive survey research design. The population of this study comprises youth leaders, volunteers, NGO staff, educators, and beneficiaries involved in youth-led education initiatives in Borno State. The population of the study is 350 youths. A sample size of 200 respondents was drawn from the target population using a purposive and stratified random sampling techniques. The instrument for Data Collection was questionnaire. Each item was measured using a five-point Likert scale, ranging from Strongly Agree (5) to Strongly Disagree (1). Data was collected using Kobo Collect, a digital data-gathering tool developed for field-based research in humanitarian and development settings. The questionnaire was designed and uploaded to the KoboToolbox server, which allowed respondents’ information to be collected efficiently using smartphones or tablets. The instrument was validated by experts in Adult and Non-Formal Education and Educational Research from the University of Maiduguri. Reliability coefficient of .849 was obtained for the instrument using Cronbach Alpha Coefficient method. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as means and standard deviation was used to answer the research questions. Findings from the study shows that; Center for Advocacy, Transparency and Accountability Initiative (CATAI) plays an important role in rebuilding education and promoting youth participation in crisis-affected areas of Borno State. The organization enhances educational opportunities for vulnerable and displaced youths through literacy, skills training, and mentorship programs. Innovative approaches such as digital learning, community-based education, and psychosocial interventions are key strategies used by CATAI to sustain learning. Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations were made; The Borno State Government and the Federal Ministry of Education should provide financial, logistis, and policy support to youth-led organizations like CATAI. CATAI should invest in continuous capacity development for its staff and volunteers in areas such as digital pedagogy, psychosocial care, monitoring and evaluation, and humanitarian education management to improve program delivery. Development partners, donor agencies, and private organizations should collaborate with CATAI to establish long-term funding mechanisms that ensure sustainability of youth-led education programs beyond short-term humanitarian cycles. Keywords: Youth-led, Initiative, Re-building, Education, Crises Zone, Challenges, Innovation
Politics, Violence, and Historical Change in Ekiti: A Study of Aramoko-Ekiti from the First Republic to the Fourth
From time immemorial, violence has manifested in various ways and has had a severe impact on human existence. Several aspects of human life, such as economy, infrastructure, and migration, are accompanied by violence, and political activities are not exempt. The peaceful conduct of elections is an indispensable component of democratic governance. However, the Nigerian electoral process has been marred by recurring incidents of political violence. Ekiti State, in particular, and Aramoko-Ekiti by extension, has witnessed significant episodes of political violence during the 2007, 2011, 2015, and 2019 general elections. This article, which is of significant importance, employs a mixed-methods approach, incorporating surveys, interviews, and secondary sources, to gather data and investigate the causes and consequences of political violence in Aramoko-Ekiti. The article provides an analysis of the deep-rootedness of political violence, its causes, such as Ethnic and religious tensions, use of inflammatory language, fierce competition for resources and power among political actors. As a unit and focus of analysis, the Aramoko area in Ekiti is examined in the context of the political violence that erupted following the 2007 general elections and continued up to the 2023 general election. The article presents practical recommendations, including strengthening traditional institutions, robust voter education, and scaling up community security to prevent the repetitive pattern of political violence, particularly during electioneering periods. Keywords: Violence, Resolution, Politicians, Political Violence, Ekiti
Strategies for Effective Wardrobe Management amid Socio-Economic Challenges among Women in the Ondo West Local Government Area
This study investigates strategies for effective wardrobe management amid socio-economic challenges among women in the Ondo West Local Government Area. Relevant Literature was reviewed. The study employed Survey Research Design, the study area was Ondo West Local Government Area, while the total number of women in the study area formed the population for the study. Five wards out of the twelve wards in Ondo West local Government Area were randomly selected using purposive sampling technique. One Hundred respondents were randomly selected from the five wards and a well structure questionnaire was the instrument for data collection. Mean, Standard Devotion and T- test were employed to analyze the Data collected. The findings reveal that women predominantly engage in practices such as seasonal wardrobe rotation, clothing decluttering, and strategic clothing preservation. Socio-economic challenges significantly impact wardrobe management, with women prioritizing household needs, relying on second-hand clothing, and adapting to economic pressures. Cultural factors, particularly traditional beliefs and the need for specific attire for cultural events, play a crucial role in wardrobe organization. Notably, the study found that effective wardrobe management contributes to women's self-esteem, particularly through the ability to have suitable clothing for various occasions and managing wardrobes despite financial limitations. The research recommends Rotational preservation of cloth should be done regular by women to better manage their wardrobe in current economic Incorporate culturally relevant wardrobe management practices, emphasizing the preservation of culturally significant attire for special occasions. Keywords: Wardrobe Management, Women, Socio-Economic Challenges, Cultural Factors, Self-Esteem.
The Urhobo-Ndokwa Relations: Analysing the Core Delta Claims in an era of State Creation Agitation
The research examines the relationship between the Urhobo and Ndokwa ethnic nationalities in Delta State. Throughout history, the Urhobo have asserted that the Ndokwa ethnic minority is part of what they define as the core Delta. Consequently, they argue that Ndokwa should be incorporated into the authentic Delta State, thereby excluding the other Western Igbo groups (Enuani and Ika) known as Anioma, with whom they share socio-cultural connections. This study seeks to examine the origins of the Ndokwa and Urhobo peoples and their connections that may have led to such assertions. The research relies on a combination of primary and secondary sources to achieve its objectives. The approach utilises a descriptive historical reconstruction methodology for data analysis. The research posits that there is a lack of evidence indicating a connection between the Urhobo and Ndokwa; instead, the association leans towards the Western Igbo groups, all of whom trace their origins to the Igbo east of the Niger, primarily due to linguistic factors and other elements of cultural heritage. The research further reveals that the enduring relationship between the adjacent Urhobo and Ndokwa communities, alongside colonial influences, likely contributed to the emergence of such a claim. Of greater significance, the presence of crude oil deposits in Ndokwa land raises the possibility that, should the core Delta aspiration materialise, the Urhobo would seek to assert control over this wealth, particularly in light of the mono-cultural economic framework currently in operation in Nigeria. Keywords: Urhobo, Ndokwa, Origin, Core Delta, State Creation.
Administration of Flood Disasters Mitigation Strategies in Riverine Communities in Niger State, Nigeria
The problem of flooding in several communities in Niger State is becoming more worrisome and efforts and strategies at reducing the impact have become more costly with unsatisfactory outcomes. This study therefore, seeks the assessment of the administration of flood disaster mitigation strategies in riverine communities in Niger State. The specific objectives of the study were to identify the flood mitigation measures adopted in the study area, find out if the administration of flood mitigation methods have been effective in the study area; and know the challenges and prospects of effective administration of flood mitigation measures in three selected riverine communities of Mokwa, Rijau and Shiroro from the three Senatorial Zones of the State, with a total population of 983623 and a sample size of 400. The sample size was determined using 1967 Taro Yamane sample size determination formula. Findings from the study revealed that various mitigation strategies have been used over the years but without much impact due to poor awareness and community engagement and responses during flood disasters. The study concludes that the rate and impact of flood disasters in the selected riverine communities could be reduced if effectively administered through productive community awareness, engagement and quick responses during flood disasters. The recommendations are that, the communities should be productively engaged in the administration of the various flood mitigation strategies for quick and adequate responses during flood disasters. Keywords: Flood, Disaster, Mitigation Strategies, Disaster Administration and Productive engagement
The Implication of Government Bias on the Resolution of Communal Conflict in Nigeria
The incidence of communal conflicts in Nigeria has been on the rise since the 1990s. these conflicts cut across all sections of the country, from the North to South. Interestingly, these conflicts are mostly anchored on disputes over land and the dichotomy between indigene and settlers. As one with the monopoly of force, the state, through the government is expected to be an effective arbiter but this has not been the case in terms of government intervention in communal conflict in the country. The reason for this is the perceived bias by the parties on government intervention. The implication of such perceived bias is that it is difficult to resolve such conflicts. This study argued that there are standard procedures that the government is expected to follow if its intervention will sail through. The study maintained that these procedures would help in building trust in government by the parties for a smooth resolution of communal conflict. Keywords: Conflict, conflict resolution, communal conflict, land, communal bias.
Conceptualising Odova (Alias) Within the Context of African Oral Performance
Africa's communal nature is deeply rooted in its cultural heritage, with social activities like festivals and ceremonies incorporating performative elements for education and cultural transmission. However, Westernization threatens these valuable oral traditions, leading to their marginalization. Preserving these traditions is crucial for maintaining African identity and cohesion. The study explores the concept of Odova (alias) within the Okpe nationality of Nigeria, a call-and-response performance demonstrating authority, marking identity, and transmitting cultural knowledge. The research combines interviews and ethnographic research within Okpe communities to understand how these traditions are sustained across generations. The study highlights the profound connection between orality and cultural significance, illustrating how Odova encapsulate individual identity, achievements, and social standing. These aliases are dynamic elements within Okpe traditional performances, serving as vehicles for transmitting history, values, and societal norms. Through the study of Odova, we gain insights into the complex interplay between language, performance, and cultural identity in Okpe society, underscoring the enduring power of oral traditions in preserving and celebrating cultural heritage. Keywords: Call-and-response, Cultural preservation, Odova, Okpe traditions, Oral performances
Symbolic Interactionism and Feminist Readings of Women in Igbo Folktales
Gender discourse has assumed a prominent position in contemporary African scholarship, with many scholars attributing women’s challenges to entrenched patriarchal ideologies within African societies. In Igboland, these perspectives often highlight male dominance as the root cause of female marginalization. However, this study re-examines women’s representations in Igbo folktales to uncover other underlying factors contributing to women’s experiences beyond patriarchy. Anchored on feminist literary theory, Principle of Female Mortification and symbolic interactionism, the paper investigates how women’s portrayals in selected Igbo folktales reflect individual agency, internalized gender dynamics, and social attitudes that sometimes perpetuate female subjugation. The study adopts a qualitative research design, employing purposive sampling to select and analyze relevant folktales from written anthologies. Through critical textual and thematic analysis, the findings reveal that while patriarchal structures influence women’s conditions, certain negative experiences are also self-engendered through women’s complicity, rivalry, and moral failings as depicted in the tales. These narratives illustrate that Igbo oral tradition serves both as a mirror and a moral compass, using storytelling to instruct, critique, and reform social behavior. The study concludes that meaningful gender transformation in Igbo society requires a dual approach: confronting structural patriarchy while encouraging individual introspection, self-assessment, and moral mortification among women. It recommends renewed attention to folktales as educational tools for promoting self-awareness, mutual respect, and societal harmony. Keywords: Women, Igbo Folktales, Patriarchy, Feminist Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, Self-Mortification.
Interactional Sociolinguistics: A Comparative Analysis of Contextual Miscommunication in British / American and Nigerian Institutional Discourse
This paper examines the vital role context plays in Interactional Sociolinguistics (IS) especially as it relates to cross-cultural miscommunications exemplified in British/American and Nigerian data. This study, therefore, critically investigates the intricate dynamics of how context shapes interactional communication, highlighting how cross-cultural differences, linguistic norms and societal expectations and contextualization cues often lead to semantic misrepresentation, misunderstandings and miscommunications. Drawing on empirical data from complex and linguistically diverse cultural background, the study demonstrates how Gumperz IS and contextualization theories can lighten-up the complex interplay between language, culture and context in cross-cultural sociolinguistic interactions. The study drew from purposively selected structured interviews involving electricians, bricklayers, teacher/pupils exchange and Head of Department/staff conversations, which were subjected to discourse analysis. The data reflect work environment across different regions, including USA, UK and Nigeria. The findings reveal that language is consequential in sociocultural context in which communication takes place, and also brings to the fore that effective cross-cultural communication requires not only linguistic competence but also a deep understanding of the cultural nuances and contextual factors that shape interactional dynamics. This paper also contributes to the unburdening of age-long perception that pragmatic context alone rather than cross-cultural differences often lead to miscommunication and distortion of intended meaning in interactional communication in an increasingly globalized world. Keywords: Interactional Sociolinguistics, Cross-Cultural Miscommunication, Contextualization Cues, Context, Cultural Differences.
Satire as Postcolonial Critique: National Disillusionment and Rhetoric in Chuma Nwokolo’s How to spell Naija Volume 2
This paper interrogates satire as a tool of postcolonial critique in Chuma Nwokolo’s How to Spell Naija Volume 2. By situating satire within African literary traditions from oral to contemporary forms, the study examines how Nwokolo employs humour, irony, and parody to expose societal dysfunctions in Nigeria. Drawing on postcolonial and rhetorical theories, the paper foregrounds satire as both a literary and socio-political weapon for addressing issues of religious hypocrisy, materialism, corruption, and national disillusionment. Through close readings of selected short stories such as “Godforaday”, “Re-vision”, “Tansi & Banker”, and “We Have Been Paid to Kill You”, the study highlights Nwokolo’s strategies in depicting the contradictions of modern Nigerian society. These narratives ridicule the excesses of politicians, clergy, and everyday citizens, revealing how institutional and individual corruption intersects with social inequality. The analysis underscores satire as a corrective and purgative force, reflecting the tradition of African writers who deploy literature as a social conscience. Ultimately, Nwokolo’s satirical art exemplifies how postcolonial writers interrogate failed leadership, cultural disillusionment, and moral decay, while reinforcing the enduring role of literature in shaping public discourse and national self-examination. Keywords: Postcolonial, Satire, Rhetoric, Disillusionment, Nigeria
Gender Attitudes and Domestic Violence against Men in Literature
Domestic violence remains a burning issue within the family and indeed in society. It has become common in society to see women, rather than men, being beaten, abused, and murdered by their intimate partners. Consequently, several scholarly works dwell more on domestic violence against women while ignoring or paying inadequate attention to the male experience. As a result, the present study examines domestic violence against men perpetrated by women through the lens of literature in Igbo. Ofomata’s novel, Ihe Ọjọọ gbaaAfọ… (1999), was purposively selected. Dollard et al.’s (1939) Frustration-Aggression Theory was employed as an analytical guide. The result shows that men suffer domestic violence, as epitomized in the protagonist Ikenna, who suffered constant abuse from his wife, Nkemdilim. Ikenna was subjected to verbal abuse, public scorn and humiliation, as well as physical attack, all by his wife. As a result, he suffered isolation from his family and friends, started avoiding his home, and resorted to drunkenness as a coping mechanism. In the end, Ikenna suffered low self-esteem and depression as a result of his wife’s aggressive tendencies. The paper argues that women, like men, are perpetrators of domestic violence. However, men hardly cry out or report the abuse on them due to social stigma. Domestic violence against men should be condemned or eliminated, just as violence against women, because of its negative consequences on the abused and collateral effects on society. Keywords: Igbo Literature, Igbo Novel, Igbo Culture, Gender Attitude, Domestic Violence, Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), Gender-Inclusive Violence (GIV), Male Victim, Female Perpetrator, Theories of Domestic Violence
Film Dialogue as Pragmatic Performance: A Socio-Cultural Analysis of Tunde Kelani’s Thunderbolt and Narrow Path
Film dialogue functions as a dynamic communicative event where language is used not only to advance narrative but also to perform actions, negotiate meaning, and reflect socio-cultural realities. Although previous studies on Nigerian films have examined their thematic, moral, and ideological elements, limited attention has been given to how characters’ utterances operate as context-driven pragmatic acts. This study investigates the influence of context on conversational exchanges in selected Mainframe Films, Thunderbolt (Magun) and Narrow Path, with a view to identifying the pragmatic acts performed and determining how these acts contribute to meaning-making within the films. The study adopts a modified version of Mey’s (2001) Pragmatic Acts Theory, which emphasises activity parts (dialogue acts) and contextual features such as inference, reference, relevance, metaphor, shared situational and shared cultural knowledge, which form an integral part of movies, situating utterances in appropriate contexts to produce practs. Dialogues purposively selected from Thunderbolt (2001) and Narrow Path (2006) were analysed for their thematic and communicative significance. Each utterance was examined in relation to its contextual parameters to determine the practs generated and their contributions to interactional meaning. Findings reveal that the contexts of culture, conflict, morality, and social expectation serve as dominant backgrounds of conversational exchange in both films. The pragmatic acts identified include authenticating and disclaiming, condemning and substantiating, advising and warning, imploring and appealing, cautioning and challenging, pacifying and substantiating. These acts demonstrate how characters engage with Yoruba cultural norms, negotiate moral accountability, validate belief systems, and resist or reinforce societal expectations. Moreover, acts such as imploring, cautioning, challenging, mocking, and substantiating affirm the embeddedness of Yoruba communicative logic within cinematic discourse. The study concludes that film dialogue operates as pragmatic performance where meaning emerges from the interaction of linguistic action and contextual knowledge. It affirms that pragmatic acts in Yoruba-rooted films are culturally motivated and serve as important resources for constructing social relations, validating worldviews, and interpreting human experience. Keywords: Film Dialogue, Pragmatic Acts, Context, Thunderbolt, Narrow Path, Yoruba Culture
The Grammar of Appearance: How Clothing Constructs Identity Narratives
This study investigates how clothing functions as a ‘grammar of appearance’ through which female undergraduates in Nigeria construct and communicate identity narratives. Drawing on a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 300 respondents across the six geopolitical zones, representing federal, state, and private universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Findings reveal that clothing operates as a symbolic language through which young women express individuality, negotiate cultural expectations, and manage social impressions both offline and within digital spaces. Respondents consistently reported that dress communicates confidence, cultural belonging, social status, and personal values. Cultural norms, peer influences, institutional environments, and increased digital visibility significantly shaped clothing meanings. The study concludes that clothing is a dynamic semiotic system that mediates identity formation in contemporary Nigeria. It recommends culturally sensitive dress policies, enhanced fashion education, and further research on appearance-based identity narratives across broader populations. Keywords: Clothing, Identity Narratives, Grammar of Appearance, Female Undergraduates, Semiotics, Cultural Meaning, Digital Self-Presentation, Nigeria.
Strategies of Maintaining Immigrant Language in a Mega Cosmopolis: The Case of Idoma in Lagos State, Nigeria
As a result of the presence of numerically dominant languages in mega cities in Nigeria, such as Lagos, maintenance of minority home languages is a huge challenge. Several studies have been carried out on maintenance of native languages in urban centers, but none has been undertaken on Idoma in Lagos, Nigeria. Consequently, this study examines the state of Idoma language in Lagos where the Idoma are a minority group with a view to estimating the strategies adopted by Idoma to maintain their language. This is with a view to evaluating home-based strategies, culture-based strategies, community-based strategies, network-based strategies and entertainment-based strategies. Through snowball samplig, a total of 200 families were selected for the study, and the questionnaire was used to elicit information from respondents, in addition to interviews. The result shows that few participants utilized home-based, culture-based strategies and entertainment-based strategies, while more participants adopted community-based and network-based strategies. Generally, it was found that the Idoma participants in the study were not taking proactive steps towards maintaining their heritage language, even when it was evident that their children had already shifted to English and Yoruba, the host community language. The result provides the need for holistic and sustained effort towards preserving Idoma, especially in multilingual spaces such as Lagos where its existence is precarious. Keywords: Idoma, Heritage language, Heritage language maintenance, Yoruba, Lagos State,
Semantic Relativism in Terminological Expressions in French and Yoruba Languages: Idiomatic Expressions
Idiomatic expression, which is the object of our focus in this study is a powerful educational tool in any foreign language learning. It serves as an additional instrument for learners in obtaining L2 competence, acquiring conversational fluency skills and understanding the culture of the target language. It is quite obvious that, idiomatic expressions could have similar meaning in different languages but the identification of the equivalence is the problem except one has come across it before. The objective of this paper is therefore, to find out whether the students were aware or not of their French equivalents with similar meanings. It is discovered that, semantically, this type of terminology can be used to describe similar realities in the two languages with different lexical or linguistic variations. The study is both qualitative and quantitative one, where fifty (50) students were asked to pick from the options provided, the French equivalents of their Yoruba counterparts. The idiomatic expressions concerned are fifteen in number, taken from authentic textbooks: Yoruba Idioms by M.A. Fabunmi and Asayan Akanlo Ede Yoruba by Ademola Olopade. The paper hinges on Conceptual Metaphor Theory be idiomatic expressions are metaphorically motivated. Findings revealed that there are potential problems encountered by students in their bid to get or guess the correct French equivalent of Yoruba idiomatic expressions. And these could be due to their background in the French language, their non-familiarity with the idiomatic expressions, poor knowledge of the French idiomatic expressions, the degree of the idiomacity, etc
Effect of Standardized Listening Skills Test on Students` Listening Comprehension and Self-Efficacy
The study examined effect of standardized listening skills test on students` listening comprehension and self-efficacy. A quasi-experiment design was used. The population of the study comprised all junior secondary school two (JSS II) students of a selected school in Maiduguri Metropolis, Borno State, Nigeria. Two intact classes of the same level from the selected school were targeted. Seventy (70) students were selected to participate in the study using purposive sampling technique. This technique was chosen due to easy-access to the participants and the nature of the study. A standardized test entitled ‘English Language Listening Skills Test’ (ELLST) was administered to determine the group`s homogeneity in the pretest and the effect of the treatment in posttest. The instrument was validated by experts in English language teaching and teachers of English in secondary schools. The reliability of the instrument was achieved through Cronbach Alpha's reliability index at 0.82, indicating a high level of reliability. Additionally, a self-efficacy scale adapted from existing validated instruments by Mills et al., 2006; Rahimi & Abedini (2009) was used to measure students’ beliefs in their listening abilities. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and independent sample t-test. The treatment group received regular listening skills tests, while the control group did not. Results showed that the treatment group demonstrated significant improvements in self-efficacy, as measured by the Listening Self-Efficacy Scale. Furthermore, the treatment group outperformed the control group on a standardized listening comprehension test. The findings suggest that regular listening skills tests can enhance students' self-efficacy and listening comprehension. It is, therefore, recommended that schools and language programmes should include standardized listening assessments as a regular part of instruction to improve students’ comprehension skills and build test familiarity. Keywords: Standardized Listening Skills Test, Listening Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar, pronunciation & self-efficacy.
Assessing the Impact of National Home-Grown School Feeding Program on Pupils Enrolment, Attendance, and Academic Performance of Some Selected Public Primary School Pupils in Niger State, Nigeria
Over the years, successive governments at different levels have been directing efforts in the areas of increasing pupil/student enrolment and reducing dropout rates and the provision of infrastructural facilities to aid both learning and teaching but the desired result has not been achieved. In order to compliment the above menace, the Nigerian Government recently revived the Home-Grown School Feeding Program (HGSFP) termed the National Home-Grown School Meal Program (NHSMP). Social Cognitive theory was used as a theoretical framework to guide this study. This paper adopted quantitative method. The study used a multistage sampling technique including non-probability sampling technique (purposive sampling technique) to select two (2) local government and two schools from the selected local government area in each of the three senatorial districts in the state. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 240 pupils and their parents from the selected schools. Each of the teachers was selected to represent the school and questionnaire administered to them aggregating to (12) head teachers. The instruments for data collection were structured questionnaire based on the research objectives. The study reveals that the School Feeding Programme (SFP) has had a positive impact on pupil enrolment, attendance and academic performance, as perceived and affirmed by the pupils themselves, teachers, and parents. However, it was recommended amongst other that government should ensure that there is an increase in the number and quality of teachers to accommodate the potential increase in enrolment. Additionally, there should be sufficient physical facilities, such as classrooms and other learning spaces, to avoid overcrowding and provide a conducive environment for effective teaching and learning. Keywords: Home Grown, School Feeding Program, School Enrolment, Academic Performance
Assessing Adolescents’ Perception of Sources and Barriers to Sexual Reproductive Health Information and Services in Metropolitan Lagos, Nigeria
This study examines adolescents' perceptions of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information and services in Metropolitan Lagos, Nigeria, addressing gaps in access influenced by cultural, educational, and systemic barriers. A survey of 228 adolescents (83.8% female; 82% aged 18–19 years) revealed significant challenges: 38.2% reported no maternal communication on SRH, and over 50% cited insufficient school-based SRH education. Privacy concerns, fear of judgment, financial constraints, and healthcare provider stigma emerged as critical barriers, with 54.8% highlighting confidentiality fears. Gender analysis showed no significant differences in perceptions of SRH sources or barriers, though females demonstrated greater awareness of available services. Post-secondary educated adolescents perceived higher systemic barriers than their secondary-educated peers. The study underscores the impact of cultural taboos, inadequate parental engagement, and poorly implemented SRH curricula. Recommendations include integrating comprehensive SRH education into school programs, establishing youth-friendly health services prioritizing confidentiality and affordability, leveraging media for awareness campaigns, and enhancing parental communication. Community outreach and technology-based interventions are proposed to bridge gaps for out-of-school adolescents. Addressing these barriers is vital to improving SRH outcomes, reducing unintended pregnancies, and empowering adolescents to make informed health decisions, necessitating collaborative efforts among policymakers, educators, healthcare providers, and families. Keywords: Adolescents, Perception, Barriers, Sexual reproductive health, Nigeria
Tertiary Education and Strike Actions in Nigerian Universities: Quest for Development and Quality Education
Advancement of human society is tied to scientific knowledge derivable through quality education that encompasses the transformation of the human mind and translate into socioeconomic development. Any action therefore that inhibits the functional capacity and operational efficiency of the educational system is inimical. This paper elucidates the functionality of education system in Nigeria and how strike has impacted severely the propensity of tertiary education to deliver on its mandate. It argues that education in Nigeria has been faced with myriad of challenges, the consequences of which have consistently result in strike actions, disruption of the academic calendar, extended graduation time for students and underdevelopment. Using a historical perspective and secondary data, the paper content analyses on one hand, the controversies associated with strikes and work-life of employees in Nigerian universities and on the other hand, traces strikes to the ills associated with government lackadaisical attitude towards education. It highlights the problems suffered by the Nigeria Universities, its plausible causes and effects and point that Nigeria government and the academic community are at a critical cross-road. Marx labour-conflict theory bears the burden of explanation and suggests the importance of synergy between gown and town and the adoption of a lasting solution to the incessant feuding. Keywords: Academic/academia, Education/educational system, University/strikes, Development/growth
Impact of TETFUND Intervention on Academic Staff Training and Development of Selected Universities in North Central Nigeria
Over the years, the educational sector has suffered criminal neglect due culminating to a myriad of challenges like lack of qualified manpower among others. This study examined the impact of TETFUND intervention enhanced staff training and development in north central Nigeria University. The study adopted a combination of ex-post facto and survey research designs, utilizing both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires, interviews, and observation, while secondary data were drawn from textbooks, journal publications, university records, and TETFund reports. The study population comprised 2,397 academic staff from Benue State University, Makurdi; Nasarawa State University, Keffi; and the University of Jos. A sample size of 352 respondents was determined using Taro Yamane’s formula, and proportional sampling was employed to allocate the sample across the universities. Data were analyzed using descriptive and tabular methods, with results presented textually. Findings revealed that TETFund interventions positively impacted academic staff training and development, particularly through sponsorship for international and local conferences, institutional-based research, Ph.D. programmes, book publications, and scholarly manuscript publications.it was recommended that should strengthens its monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure transparency, accountability, and sustainability of interventions across beneficiary universities, in order to enhance equity in the allocation of resources to bridge disparities in staff development opportunities. Training opportunities should be expanded beyond Ph.D. sponsorship and conferences to include emerging areas such as digital pedagogy, leadership, and specialized professional certifications. Keywords: TETfund intervention, Staff Training, Staff Development, North Central Universities
The Hermeneutics of Θεραπερεια (Healing) in John 9:1-12 and Its Application in the Christ Apostolic Church, Ibadan, Nigeria
This study explores the physical, spiritual, and symbolic dimensions of healing performed by Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospel of John. Healing occupies a central place in Jesus’ earthly ministry. In obedience to Christ’s directive to his followers to preach the gospel and heal the sick, the Christ Apostolic Church (C.A.C.) has made healing one of its core practices. The various healing methods employed by Jesus—through touch, faith, prayer, anointing with oil, distance healing, and the use of water—form the foundational principles upon which the healing ministry of the C.A.C. is built. The healing narrative in John 9 was chosen for analysis because it features the use of natural elements such as water, clay, and saliva—methods that resonate with the healing practices found within the C.A.C. However, the study observes that the healing practices of some ministers within the Church fall short of the biblical model exemplified by Jesus. The questionable character of certain healers often casts doubt on the authenticity of their ministry, leading some believers to question whether such individuals are truly called by God. Reports of immoral behavior, such as adultery, fornication, or involvement with familiar spirits, undermine the credibility of divine healing. θεραπεύω means “to heal,” “to cure,” or “to restore to health.” This study is motivated by the need to undertake an exegesis of θεραπεύω to extract healing principles from the ministry of Jesus and its application in the Christ Apostolic Church. Employing the historical-exegetical method of biblical research, the text of John 9:1–12 was examined alongside qualitative data collected through structured interviews analyzed descriptively. Findings reveal that Christ Apostolic Church upholds, to a significant extent, the principles of healing reflected in the Gospel of John. Nonetheless, the study recommends continuous improvement in aligning healing practices with biblical standards. Keywords: θεραπεύω (therapeuo), Health, Miracle, Salvation, Christ Apostolic Church (C.A.C.
The Impact of Islam on Pre-Colonial Diplomatic Relations between the Sokoto Caliphate and Neighbouring States
This research explores the influence of Islam on diplomatic interactions between the Sokoto Caliphate and its neighbouring states during the nineteenth century Jihad. The primary aim is to investigate how Islamic principles, legal frameworks, and scholarly connections influenced foreign relations, alliances, and conflict resolution between Sokoto and other Hausa land such as Zauzau, Kano, Rano, Katsina, Daura and other Hausa States. The study utilizes a qualitative historical approach, drawing upon primary materials including correspondence from the caliphate, chronicles from the emirates, and records from the Sokoto archives, alongside secondary literature from existing academic work. Textual and content analyses were performed to interpret diplomatic communications, religious decrees, and reports from emissaries in order to pinpoint Islamic tenets that guided diplomatic engagements. Results indicate that Islam acted not only as a spiritual foundation but also as a diplomatic tool that validated authority, governed warfare through the jihad concept, and enabled peaceful resolutions. Clerical intermediaries and written exchanges developed a shared diplomatic language, while a common Islamic identity opened paths for forming alliances and negotiating autonomy. Nonetheless, in certain instances, religious principles were set aside in favour of political interests, as demonstrated by Sokoto’s practical interactions with non-Muslim neighbours. The conclusion highlights that Islam equipped the Sokoto Caliphate with both normative legitimacy and institutional mechanisms that transformed pre-colonial interstate dynamics in the central Sudan. The paper suggests that modern African nations reconsider the ethical aspects of Islamic diplomatic traditions such as justice, accountability, and peaceful conflict resolution to enhance contemporary methods of resolving disputes, fostering regional cooperation, and engaging in interfaith dialogue. Keywords: Conflict Resolution, Interstate Relations, Islamic Diplomacy, Sokoto Caliphate, Pre-Colonial West Africa.
Urhobo Cosmological and Theological Contents of Udu Songs: A Vehicle for Preservation of Tradition and Culture in Nigeria
This research examines Urhobo cosmology and theology as expressed in traditional songs. These songs reveal the intimate connection between cosmology and theology, showing that the two concepts are interrelated; theology often helps to explain aspects of cosmology. Urhobo cosmology encompasses beliefs in Oghene (God), edjo (divinities), ega ese emo (ancestral veneration), the realities of the physical and spiritual worlds, and the relationship between the here and now and the hereafter. Theology, understood as the discourse on God, and cosmology, which represents the total worldview of a people, is clearly articulated in Urhobo traditional songs. The purpose of this study is to investigate Urhobo cosmology and theology as revealed in the songs of Udu traditional musicians. The project focuses on selected songs and analyzes them to highlight the codified and systematic worldview embedded within them. The musicians whose works are examined include Chief Amos Ogute Ottan, Chief Gometi Oyibo, Sir Juju Debala, Mr. Udjabor Okololo, and Don Francis Egbeku Kenairu. These musicians, who were born and nurtured within deeply religious environments, naturally reflect in their songs the cosmological and theological beliefs of the Urhobo people. To achieve this purpose, the study adopts phenomenological, hermeneutical, and participant-observation approaches. These involve pre-field preparations, actual fieldwork, and post-field (desk) analysis. After the field process, the selected songs are examined and interpreted to reveal the underlying cosmology and theology of the Urhobo. Keywords: Cosmology, Theology, Nigerian culture, Traditional beliefs and Morality.
Blasphemy Laws and Female Vulnerability in Northern Sharia States in Nigeria
This paper examines the intersection of religion, gender, and justice in Northern Sharia states in Nigeria. It investigates how patriarchal interpretations of Islamic law and weak state institutions combine to expose women to mob violence, extrajudicial killings, and systemic discrimination. Using the methodology of desk-based analysis, the research explains how four theoretical frameworks: liberal, radical, intersectional and vulnerability feminist theories reveal the risk faced by the female gender in highly patriarchal context. The research also explains how law, culture, and faith interlock to sustain gendered oppression. Juxtaposing this with empirical evidence drawn from documented cases between 1999 and 2025, the work reveals that accusations of blasphemy serve as instruments of control over women’s expression and moral autonomy. The study finds that moral absolutism, theological distortion, and legal pluralism have collectively eroded justice and human dignity. It concludes that safeguarding women’s rights requires harmonizing religious and constitutional laws, strengthening gender-responsive justice systems, promoting interfaith moral education, and institutionalizing accountability mechanisms. Ultimately, the research calls for a renewed moral and legal consciousness where faith coexists with freedom, and the sanctity of human life becomes the truest expression of religion. Keywords: Blasphemy laws, Female vulnerability, Northern Sharia states, and Nigeria.