ISSN: 3007-1690 (Online) ISSN: 3007-1682 (Print) NIU Journal of Social Sciences is an interdisciplinary journal published by Nexus International University, Kampala, Uganda. The Journal publishes empirical articles, critical reviews and case studies that are of interest to policy makers, scholars and practitioners in the era of social studies. It puts particular focus upon issues that are of concern to the Third World. It is the goal of the Journal to advance knowledge and debate in the field of social studies, by providing a platform through which scholars and practitioners can share their views, findings and experiences. Given the diverse nature of the social sciences, contributions are accepted from a wide range of disciplines and preference is given to articles that integrate multiple disciplinary perspectives. Contributions that examine developments at national, regional and continental level are particularly welcome. All the manuscripts received are subjected to blind review, by the Editor-In-Chief and two editorial consultants. The editorial policy of NIUJSS aims at giving authors timely and constructive feedback and the Journal is particularly interested in assisting able researchers but who may be inexperience in the area of publishing.
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This edition of NIU Journal of Social Sciences focuses on Development Administration and Social Psychology. The first part of the Journal addresses issues in Development Administration such as Sustainable Development, Pentecostal Entrepreneurship, Community Development, Service Charge Administration, Public Bureacracy, Human Security and Entrepreneurship Education. It is emphasized in one of the papers that service charge governance failures stem from systemic rather than isolated deficiencies, encompassing weak information disclosure, inadequate administrative systems, operational limitations, and regulatory fragmentation. It is therefore, suggested that structured governance reforms including digital accounting systems, utility metering, formal reserve funds, tenant engagement structures, and standardized regulatory frameworks should be put in place to address interconnected governance deficiencies in commercial property management. Papers in the second part are on Social Pyschology. It is revealed in one of the papers in this section that eventhough hierarchy influences authority in the academic workplace, social capital creates the conditions for cooperation. The study therefore, recommends structured mentoring, more inclusive committee systems, and deliberate trust-building efforts to strengthen collaboration across generations. Readers are advised to make proper use of the ideas presented by the various authors in this issue of NIU Journal of Social Sciences. Some of these papers are empirical in nature while others have theoretical base. Each of them focuses on one specific social and management problem or the other; trying to proffer solutions to them.
Contributions of Rural Women Farmers to Community Development in Ovia Northeast, Edo State, Nigeria
This study investigated the contributions of rural women farmers to community development in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select 120 respondents from four active farming communities. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires analyzed with descriptive statistics and regression models. Findings revealed that the mean age of respondents was 50 years and were active farmers and many possessed long farming experience (mean= 13 years). Majority (79.8%) were married and have large households of 6–10 persons (58.7%). They engaged in divers farming activities like: crop production, livestock rearing, fish farming marketing and few others which strengthen local food systems, stabilize household livelihoods, and stimulate grassroots development. Rural women contribution to community development are mainly in the areas of food production (96%), paying of taxes (76.0%) among others. Income was directed mainly toward household welfare with 98% spent on household needs, 75.96% on children’s schooling, 36.54% reinvested into farms, and 11.54% used for community dues, showing how women convert limited income into long-term community and household well-being. Regression analysis further indicated that monthly income (p = 0.001) and household size (p = 0.001) significantly influenced women’s contributions, explaining 40.8% of the variation in community development participation. The study therefore concludes that empowering rural women is essential for sustainable grassroots development. The study recommends that government and NGOs expand gender-responsive financial inclusion programmes targeting rural women farmers; extension services be redesigned to target rural women more; women’s roles in community decision-making be strengthened; and access to land, inputs, and supportive infrastructure be improved to enhance productivity and enable women to contribute even more meaningfully to community development. Keywords: Rural women, contribution, community development, constraints
Advanced KPIs in Tech Giants: A Comparative Study of Profitability, Innovation and Operational Efficiency at Apple and HPO
The eyeblink world of tech cannot have performance measurement more than a history of numbers. Even though more sophisticated KPIs are found in the literature, no empirical (side-by-side) insight is made as to how these might be identified in strategic models. The article unravels some of the conflicting characteristics of the closed and integrated environment of Apple and the open stable-these-horses developed KPIs like profitability, innovation and operational efficiency; what we do come to know of in correlation to strategy positioners and sustainability. Methods: A methodological pragmatism was employed in the design of a case comparison longitudinal study conducted from 2014 to 2023. We perform hybrid analysis, which is a combination of quantitative data in SEC filings and qualitative data in executive narratives and review of analysts. The entire set of nine Advanced KPIs that contains ROIC with R& D Efficiency Ratio was also analyzed as a time series and correlation. Apple also outshines HP in all aspects, and it is more profitable (ROIC 28.9% vs. 14.2%), more innovative (R&D Efficiency: 4.1 vs. 1.8) and quicker on its feet (Inventory Days: 8.5 vs. 45.2). The results of the correlative analysis also indicated that the financial position of Apple affects its R&D and its process index more as compared to that of HP. The tech giants also have strategies that are to their success. The integrated Ecosystem model will be capital efficient and leveraging innovation much better whereas the hardware centric model will be focused on a new performance profile (Stability!). Cash flow). in this paper we are a justification of too great a deal of absolutist rhetoric that appears in the guise of oh-puh-leeze hand-waving stuff that how can OMG you never bring in an ADVANCED KPI when you know like how can it be better than 100%! Keywords: Advanced Key Performance Indicators, Strategic Performance, Apple Inc, HP Inc.
Strategy for Promoting Mass Literacy for Sustainable Development of Rural Communities in Niger State, Nigeria
The study investigated strategy for promoting mass literacy for sustainable development of rural communities in Niger State. The objectives of the study were to investigate mass education, mass media, mass literacy campaigns and volunteerism as a strategy for promoting mass literacy for sustainable development of rural communities in Niger State. Three research questions asked and three hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design, while the study was carried out in Niger State. The population of the study was comprised of 34 adult education experts and 406 community development committee chairmen in Niger South Senatorial districts. Census was used to engage all adult education experts in the study. However, simple random sampling technique was used to select 267 community development committee chairmen in the eight local governments in Niger south senatorial district. The instrument for data collection was a closed ended questionnaire structured in fourpoint rating. The instrument was face and content validated by experts in adult education. The reliability of the instrument was established using Cronbach Alpha Reliability, which yielded an average coefficient value of 0.73. The data collected from the respondents were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. Finding of the study revealed that printed and non-printed information, adult education helps in achieving socio economic development for better status of rural people. Government, community heads and youth leaders should consistently carry out mass education programmes in their various communities. This will help to increase the rate of literacy among rural people. Keywords: Promoting, mass literacy, sustainable, development, rural, communities
Political Patronage and Interference in Recruitment into the Nigerian Public Bureaucracy: Fixing the Capacity Gap
Political patronage and systemic interference have long undermined merit-based recruitment in the Nigerian public bureaucracy, creating a capacity crisis that compromises service delivery and institutional effectiveness. This paper examines the mechanisms by which political patronage and interference distort public service recruitment, assesses the institutional damage inflicted, and proposes actionable reforms to restore capacity and legitimacy. Within the framework of neopatrimonialism and institutional theories, the paper adopts a qualitative approach, relying on secondary data sources which include recent scholarly studies on political patronage and policy implementation. The study reveals that patronage-driven recruitment, which manifests as ethnic monopolies in federal agencies, job racketeering, slot allocation, and a systematic disregard for merit and the federal character principle, has produced a public workforce characterized by skills deficits, low productivity, and diminishing public trust. The paper concludes that meritocracy and the federal character principle must be reconciled through transparency, data-driven processes that restore both institutional performance and the moral contract between the Nigerian state and the citizens. The suggested policy recommendations include: the establishment of a Federal Character Compliance Dashboard that publicly presents annual recruitment data for each MDA, disaggregated by state of origin, gender, qualification tier, and position type. A joint task force of the FCC and ICPC empowered to halt or invalidate recruitment exercises that fail minimum compliance thresholds; the strengthening of the whistleblower legal and security framework to ensure that insiders willing to expose patronage networks are protected, among others. Keywords: Recruitment, Interference, Political patronage, Capacity gap, Federal character, Meritocracy.
Pentecostal Entrepreneurship and Karl Marx’s Conception of Religion: Implication for Socio-Economic Development in Nigeria
The role of religion in socio-economic development has often been undermined in national discussion by some who simply dismiss it as mere irrational feelings with no tangible benefits. This conception of religion is rooted in Marx’s maxim that religion is the opium of the people. On the contrary, rehabilitators of religion like Weber thinks differently insisting that socio-economic development interlaces with religious beliefs and practices. Therefore, this paper examines the role of religion in socio-economic development against the backdrop of Pentecostal entrepreneurship in Nigeria. Using the methodologies of desk research and discursive analysis, the paper argues that recent socio-economic infrastructure like hospitals, schools, restaurants, hotels, fuel stations, vocational schemes, etc. of some Pentecostal churches in Nigeria strongly subscribe to the vital role of religion in socio-economic development. In essence, religion alleviates the socio-economic status of the people than worsen it as envisaged by the denigrators of religion like Marx. Moreover, the paper concludes that rather than see religion as providing a temporary sigh of relief or escape from the hardships and injustices in society, it should be seen as playing a crucial role in socio-economic development. In this light, the paper recommends a balanced understanding of the role religion plays in human society. It also reveals how religious beliefs and practices influence economic conditions. Keywords: Religion, Pentecostal entrepreneurship, Karl Marx, Max Weber, Socio-economic, and Nigeria
Revisiting Nnamdi Azikiwe’s Idea on Ethnicity and the Implication for Nation-Building in Nigeria
Nigeria continues to grapple with national integration, political instability, and calls for restructuring, often attributed to the country’s complex ethnic landscape. This paper revisits Nnamdi Azikiwe’s perspectives on ethnicity and assesses their relevance for nation-building in present-day Nigeria. Contrary to the view that ethnic diversity is inherently problematic, the study contends that the challenge lies in the political manipulation of ethnic identities. Drawing on Azikiwe’s speeches and writings, the paper examines his belief that ethnicity is a natural social reality that can be positively managed through constitutionalism, inclusive governance, federalism, and the protection of fundamental rights. Employing a qualitative and historical methodology, the analysis situates Azikiwe’s thought within Nigeria’s postcolonial experience and current political dynamics. The findings suggest that Azikiwe regarded ethnicity not as a barrier to national unity, but as a potential resource for promoting stability and cohesion, provided it is addressed with justice, equitable development, and democratic leadership. The paper concludes that Azikiwe’s ideas offer valuable insights for advancing national integration and fostering sustainable nation-building in Nigeria today. Keywords: Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ethnicity, Nation-Building, National Integration, Federalism
Human Security and Sustainable Development: The Role of Social Studies Education in Nigeria
This study examines the role of Social Studies education in addressing human security challenges and achieving sustainable development in Nigeria. Despite various policy efforts by successive government and leaders, Nigeria continues to face widespread issues such as poverty, insecurity, environmental degradation, and civic apathy, all of which have threaten national development and social stability. These persistent problems highlight the inadequacy of current educational approaches in equipping citizens with the knowledge, values, and skills necessary to respond appropriately to complex societal challenges. Employing a qualitative research methodology, the study analyzes data from scholarly literature, curriculum documents, and policy reports. The theoretical framework combines Human Security Theory and Constructivist Learning Theory, providing insights into how education can empower individuals to contribute meaningfully to peace, security, and development. Findings reveal that Social Studies, when effectively delivered, can foster civic responsibility, critical thinking, environmental awareness, and tolerance which are core components of human security and sustainability. However, the study identifies gaps such as outdated curricula, lack of teacher training, and insufficient linkage between classroom content and real-world challenges. It recommends a reorientation of Social Studies curricula to directly address human security and sustainability themes, professional development for educators, and the integration of participatory, inquiry-based teaching methods. Additionally, policy support is needed to strengthen civic education as a pillar of national development. In conclusion, Social Studies education holds significant potential to shape responsible, informed citizens capable of advancing human security and sustainable development in Nigeria, but this potential can only be realized through strategic reforms in content, pedagogy, and educational policy. Keywords: Human Security, Sustainable Development, Social Sustainability, Environmental Sustainability, Pedagogy, Policy, Social Studies Education.
The Intersection of Digital Inclusivity and Media Sustainability, Challenges and Opportunities in Marginalized Communities
This study examines the intersection of digital inclusivity and media sustainability in marginalized communities, with a focus on the barriers that prevent equal participation in the digital age and the opportunities that can strengthen community media. Using a qualitative approach based on secondary sources such as journal articles, policy documents, and reports from international development organizations, the paper explores how factors like poor infrastructure, high internet costs, digital illiteracy, weak policy support, censorship, and limited access to digital tools undermine both inclusion and the long-term sustainability of local media. The study argues that these challenges disproportionately affect rural, low-income, and underserved populations, limiting their access to information, civic participation, education, and economic opportunities. At the same time, it identifies promising pathways for change, including mobile technology, community networks, local content creation, partnerships among governments, NGOs, and the private sector, and the use of open-source and community-based media models. Guided by Development Communication Theory, the paper emphasizes that communication technologies can support social empowerment when access is equitable and local voices are included. The findings suggest that improving digital infrastructure, expanding digital literacy, and adopting inclusive policy frameworks are essential for building resilient media systems that serve marginalized communities. The study concludes that digital inclusivity is not only a matter of access, but a foundation for sustainable media, democratic participation, and inclusive development. Keywords: Digital Inclusivity, Media Sustainability, Challenges, Opportunities, Marginalised Communities.
Service Charge Administration in Commercial Properties: Governance and Operational Perspectives from Banex Plaza, Abuja
Service charge administration in multi-tenanted commercial properties represents a critical yet understudied dimension of property management governance in emerging markets. This study examines service charge administration at Banex Plaza, a major commercial complex in Abuja, Nigeria, using a sequential mixed-methods approach. The quantitative phase surveyed 162 tenants at the facility through systematic sampling of occupants, while the qualitative phase involved total enumeration of all five property and facilities managers (ESV1–ESV5) directly responsible for service charge administration in the plaza. Quantitative findings reveal pronounced governance deficiencies: 79 percent of tenants are not aware of the service charge components, while 82 percent do not understand how charges are apportioned. Consequently, 56.5 percent perceive administration as non-transparent and 81.5 percent deem cost allocation unfair. Service delivery dissatisfaction reaches 61.7 percent. Statistical analysis establishes a strong causal pathway wherein low awareness reduces transparency perception (r=0.58, p<0.001), which substantially determines service satisfaction (r=0.67, p<0.001). Qualitative findings illuminate underlying mechanisms: managers rely on verbal communication without documented systems, allocate charges through uniform floor-area methods without consumption metering, lack formal reserve funds for planned maintenance, and operate within fragmented regulatory environments. These constraints produce reactive rather than preventive maintenance systems and persistent tenant-management mistrust. The study concludes that service charge governance failures stem from systemic rather than isolated deficiencies, encompassing weak information disclosure, inadequate administrative systems, operational limitations, and regulatory fragmentation. The strong transparency–satisfaction relationship suggests that improved disclosure and accountability mechanisms can substantially enhance tenant satisfaction and compliance even when services are not substantially enhanced. The study recommends structured governance reforms including digital accounting systems, utility metering, formal reserve funds, tenant engagement structures, and standardized regulatory frameworks to address interconnected governance deficiencies in commercial property management. Keywords: Service Charge Administration, Transparency, Tenant Satisfaction, Cost Allocation, Commercial Real Estate, Nigeria.
Entrepreneurship Education and Career Choice of Secondary School Students in Lagos, Nigeria
This study examined the adequacy of entrepreneurship education and its influence on job perception and career choice among Senior Secondary School (SSS2) students in Mainland Local Government Area, Lagos State, Nigeria. Using a self-structured questionnaire, data was collected from 200 SSS2 students and analyzed with Pearson correlation and independent samples t-test at the 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed significant positive relationships between adequate entrepreneurship education and students’ career choice, job interest, and entrepreneurial outcomes. A significant gender difference was also found in job perception, with male and female students differing in their views. The study concludes that adequate entrepreneurship education significantly shapes students’ job perception and career choice. It recommends the inclusion of entrepreneurship education in the secondary school curriculum nationwide and urges guidance counselors to motivate and support students’ participation in entrepreneurial activities. Keywords: Entrepreneurship education, career choice, secondary students, job perception.
A Study of Impact of Westernization on Annang Fattening Room Culture of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Fattening room which means "Mbobo" in the Annang culture of Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria is a period of transition from adolescence to womanhood prior to marriage and childbirth. The process involves the seclusion of female adolescents for a period of three months. During this period of confinement, the female adolescent is taught how to be of good conduct and maintain good behavior with her husband and the in-law family. The fattening room was used as a beauty salon for young ladies to be educated on subjects that cover cosmetology, makeup, and fashion design. This important culture of the Annang people has been influence by westernization and has not been given adequate scholarly attention in Annang studies. This paper, therefore, is to fill these obvious gaps in Annang literature by using both primary and secondary data, such as IDI, as the source of data collection to examine the fattening room culture as an African beauty salon for the Annang girls. The study reveals that the Annang fattening room tradition is declining due to western influences like urbanization and globalization, causing youth to view it as outdated culture. The study recommends integrating the fattening room practice into western schools’ system, engaging youth in cultural events, and organizing festivals that blend traditional culture and elements to enhance youth participation in fattening room. Keywords: Annang, Culture, Fattening room, Westernization
Recovery from Traumatic Experiences among Children in Conflict-Affected Communities: The Role of Child-Centred Play Therapy and Psychoeducation Interventions
Communities in North Central Nigeria has persistently experience one form of conflict or the other. Children exposed to conflicts are mostly neglected in terms of intervention. The mental health and psycho-social needs of these young survivors are critical, yet there is inadequate data on child-centred evidence-based psychological interventions. This study employed a between-group, pretest-post-test quasi-experimental design to evaluate the effectiveness of a combined Child-Centred Play Therapy and Psychoeducation interventions on trauma-related symptoms among children. The sample consisted of 64 children drawn from selected conflict-affected communities of Bassa and Bokkos local government areas of Plateau state, Nigeria. The participants were equally divided into an intervention group (n = 32) and a control group (n = 32). Baseline assessments indicated no statistically significant differences between groups for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Disturbances in Self-Organization (DSO), establishing group comparability. Following the intervention, a Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) was conducted at significance level of p = 0.05. The results demonstrated that the intervention had a significant effect on post-test PTSD symptoms, F(1, 62) = 57.139, p < .001, η² = .480, representing a large effect size and a substantial reduction in PTSD symptoms. Similarly, a significant effect was found for post-test DSO, F(1, 62) = 47.481, p < .001, η² = .434. This large effect size indicates that the intervention significantly decreased DSO symptoms among participants. The findings suggest that integrating child-centered play therapy with psycho-education is an effective strategy for reducing trauma-related symptoms in children exposed to conflict affected communities. Keywords: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Disturbances in Self-Organization, Mental Health Intervention, Multivariate Analysis of Variance, Nigeria
Exploring Psychological Well-being as Determinant of Savings and Investment Behaviour among Civil Servants in Plateau State, Nigeria
The study explored psychological well-being as determinant of savings and investment behaviour among civil servants in Plateau State, Nigeria utilizing 275 participants (138 males and 137 females) with ages from 19 to 59 years drawn from Ministries, Departments and Agencies. Purposive sampling and cross-sectional design were utilized, and hypotheses tested using multiple regression analyses at 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed none of the psychological well-being dimensions significantly predicted savings behaviour among the participants. Specifically, autonomy (β = .002, t = .031, p > .05), environmental mastery (β = –.010, t = –.144, p > .05), personal growth (β = –.105, t = –1.393, p > .05), positive relations with others (β = –.087, t = –1.053, p > .05), purpose in life (β = .095, t = 1.316, p > .05), and self-acceptance (β = .052, t = .631, p > .05). Furthermore, only one dimension of psychological well-being (environmental mastery) significantly predicted investment behaviour among the participants. Specifically, autonomy (β = –.089, t = –1.218, p > .05), environmental mastery (β = –.201, t = –2.897, p < .05), personal growth (β = –.041, t = –.557, p > .05), positive relations with others (β = –.080, t = –.989, p > .05), purpose in life (β = .093, t = 1.313, p > .05), and self-acceptance (β = .114, t = 1.406, p > .05). This study concluded that none of psychological well-being dimension significantly predicted savings behaviour, but environmental mastery significantly predicted investment behaviour among participants. Keywords: Psychological Well-being, Savings Behaviour, Investment Behaviour, Civil Servants, Plateau State.
A Qualitative Approach to the Impact of Familial Discord and Social Environment on the Psychological Well-Being of Young Adults
The purpose of this study is to examine at the impact of familial discord and social environment on young people' psychological well-being. A qualitative research design was used, with data obtained via interviews with fifteen (15) respondents. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Findings indicated that familial discord leads to negative psychological states, with sibling rivalry being the most prominent aspect. Unbridled criticism and blame were found to reduce self-esteem and a sense of security. Experiences of familial discord strain interpersonal relationships but also help individuals handle conflicts better. Familial discord significantly affects academic performance, and those affected often rely on religion and spiritual beliefs for coping. The study concludes that familial discord is associated with emotional distress, decreased self-esteem, strained relationships, and impaired academic performance. Effective coping strategies, such as seeking social support and engaging in problem-focused, emotion-focused, avoidance, cognitive, and religious or spiritual coping mechanisms, are crucial for mitigating these negative effects. Keywords: Familial discord; psychological well-being; young adults; qualitative research
Readiness For Community Re-Integration Among Victims of Community Violence: Prognostic Functions of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Depression
Community violence remains a significant public health concern with profound psychological and social consequences for affected individuals. This study examined the prognostic functions of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression on readiness for community reintegration among victims of community violence. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design and was anchored on the Conservation of Resources Theory. A total of 368 participants were selected through a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using standardized measures of PTSD, depression, and readiness for community reintegration. Descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression, and moderation analyses were employed for data analysis. The findings revealed that PTSD significantly and positively predicted readiness for community reintegration (β = .227, t = 4.296, p < .001), whereas depression did not significantly predict readiness for community reintegration (β = .079, t = 1.491, p = .137). Furthermore, depression did not significantly moderate the relationship between PTSD and readiness for community reintegration (β = -.002, t = -0.148, p = .882). These findings suggest that PTSD may be associated with increased motivation to reconnect with community resources and social support systems following traumatic experiences, while depression appears to have limited influence on reintegration readiness. The study concludes that trauma-related experiences play a significant role in shaping readiness for community reintegration among victims of community violence. It is recommended that trauma-informed interventions be integrated into community reintegration programmes to facilitate psychosocial recovery and sustainable reintegration outcomes. Keywords: Posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, community violence, readiness for community reintegration, psychosocial recovery, trauma survivors.
Learning and Development (L&D) and Organisational Change in Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Exploitation and Production Limited
This study examined the relationship between learning and development and organisational change in NNPC Exploration & Production Limited, Benin City, Edo State. The study was motivated by the increasing need for organisations to adapt to technological advancement, competitive pressures, and changing operational demands through effective employee development initiatives. Specifically, the study sought to determine whether learning and development significantly relates with organisational change within the organisation. A survey research design was adopted for the study. The population comprised 1,116 staff members of NNPC Exploration & Production Limited, consisting of management, senior, and junior staff. Using the Taro Yamane formula, a sample size of 325 respondents was determined and questionnaires were administered across different departments and units of the organisation. Out of the questionnaires distributed, 292 valid copies were retrieved and used for analysis, representing an 89.8% response rate. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution, percentages, mean, and standard deviation, while regression analysis was employed to test the hypothesis with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24. The findings revealed that learning and development had a positive but statistically insignificant relationship with organisational change at the 5% level of significance [β = 0.105; t = 1.919; p > 0.05]. The study concluded that although learning and development contributes positively to organisational change, the existing programmes within the organisation may not be adequately aligned with organisational transformation objectives. The study therefore recommended that the organisation should redesign its learning and development programmes to focus more on change-oriented competencies, continuous employee development, technological adaptability, and regular evaluation of training effectiveness in order to enhance organisational change outcomes. Keywords: Learning and Development, Organisational Change, Human Resource Management, Employee Development, Oil and Gas Industry, NNPC Exploration and Production Limited.
Sociological Factors and Intergenerational Interactions in Academic Workplaces: Evidence from the University of Benin
This study explored how power dynamics and social capital shape intergenerational interactions among academic staff at the University of Benin. It addressed a clear gap in the literature, given the limited research on intergenerational relations in Nigerian universities, even as academic workplaces continue to bring together staff from multiple generations. The study adopted a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design, combining quantitative data from 500 full-time academic staff, gathered through structured questionnaires, with qualitative data from 20 purposively selected participants through in-depth interviews. It analysed the quantitative data using descriptive statistics and examined the qualitative data through thematic analysis. The findings revealed that seniority plays a major role in workplace interactions, with 59% of respondents stating that it significantly shapes how colleagues from different generations relate to one another. The study also found that more than 73% of respondents relied, at least sometimes, on colleagues from their own generation to manage workplace challenges. At the same time, 79.2% identified trust and interpersonal relationships as important for effective collaboration across generations. Overall, the study showed that while hierarchy influences authority in the academic workplace, social capital creates the conditions for cooperation. Thus, it recommended structured mentoring, more inclusive committee systems, and deliberate trust-building efforts to strengthen collaboration across generations. Keywords: Intergenerational, academic work place, interactions, University of Benin
Influence of Emotional Intelligence on the Military Training Performance among Military Trainees in Nigeria
The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of emotional intelligence on the military training performance of Nigerian military trainees. Using a cross-sectional survey design, a total of 142 participants were selected by convenience sampling technique from two military training institutions. Participants consisting of 134 males (94.4%) and 8 females (5.6 %) within an age range of 18-25 years across training years, arm of service and battalions made up the sample population. The Brief Emotional Intelligence Scale (BEIS-10) and the Self-rated Training performance Scale were used for data collection. The result of hypothesis one showed an insignificant relationship between all emotional intelligence dimensions and military training performance among military trainees while the second hypothesis was confirmed as it showed that demographic variables jointly predicted military training performance of trainees (R= .259; F= 1.953, P< .05) but only gender independently predicted military training performance of trainees at a significant level (β= .241; t= 2.791, P < .05). The findings were discussed and recommendations were made. Keywords: Emotional intelligence, Military Performance, Military Trainees, Military Training Performance, Nigeria
The Efficacy of Psychoeducation on Psychological Trauma Victims of Violent Communal Attack and Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria
Nigerian communities have experienced a succession of relentless and unending invasions stemming from banditry, communal violence, abduction and other types of insurgencies, leaving citizens in pain, devastation and despair. Undoubtedly, the readily accessible interventions mostly consisted of material support, which does not seem to focus on the mental and emotional aspects of the trauma. It is on this premise that this study investigated the interplay of community trauma incidents, psychoeducation and coping resources, together with the variability in the severity of traumatic experiences during the period of residence in internally displaced persons camps. An experimentation-based strategy was employed, with a total of N = 120 internally displaced individuals between the ages of 18 and 70 (mean age ≈ 44.00, SD = 15.01). A baseline test was administered to measure the severity of trauma among the participants; those with high scores were then randomly assigned to the control or intervention group. The result of an independent t-test for the difference in psychological trauma between the control and experimental groups at post-test showed a significant difference in mean scores of psychological trauma between the treatment and control groups: t (88) = 4.70, p < .001 (p < .05), with mean scores of 66.80 (control) and 60.71 (intervention). This implies that psychoeducation reduced psychological trauma for the victims of violent communal attacks. Also, a mediation analysis using Hayes’ PROCESS indicated lower levels of psychological trauma, suggesting that psychoeducation independently predicts reductions in psychological trauma, regardless of participants’ ages. In sum, psychoeducation intervention is a coping skill for managing psychological distress in a crisis-based situation. Therefore, employing a holistic approach that includes psychoeducation to manage traumatic conditions in Nigeria will help victims heal and recover from traumatic experiences.
Growing Pains: Socioeconomic Constraints and Students Coping Strategies in Nigerian Universities
The Nigerian universities is fast becoming boiling pots for students rather than a melting pots of decent academic enterprise and intellectualism where the human mind can be forged into dexterously skilful individuals. The likelihood that students will experience this reality is however froth with threats. This paper develops a prototypical conclusive causality in the Nigerian universities and highlights the issues of socio-economic constraints; the challenges it poses for students and the various coping strategies they deployed to survive. The study uses a mix method with a survey of 368 students. Inadvertently, results show that student experience constraints most of which bothers on economic matters and inabilities. To contest their estate, student often employ social support systems and work part job where opportunity avails in-order to cope. The study reveal that constraints induce anxiety that affects student overall welfare and suggest a student’ centred government interventions support programme, a vibrant university scholarship and a wider university economic reform programmes. Keywords: Constraint, University, Socioeconomic, Student, Survival/Coping strategy.
Private Cost of Journey to Work Place among Secondary School Teachers in Edo State, Nigeria
The study investigated the private cost of journey to work place among secondary school teachers in Edo State, Nigeria. Four research questions were raised and one hypothesis formulated that guided this study. The research questions were answered and the hypothesis tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study was a descriptive study that employed the ex-post-facto research design. The population of the study comprised all teachers in the one hundred and twenty-nine (129) public senior secondary schools in the seven (7) Local Government Areas of Edo South Senatorial District and three Local Government Areas representing 43% of the seven Local Government areas in the Senatorial District were randomly selected. Six schools were equally randomly selected representing 10% of the 60 schools in the Local Governments and all the 120 teachers comprised the sample for the study. A questionnaire titled Distance and cost of transportation of a teacher from home to workplace (DCTTHW) was validated and used to elicit data for the study. Percentage and ANOVA were used to analyze the data. The findings of the study revealed that teachers in the senatorial district commute less than 5Km to their workplace using car/bus/taxis as mode of transportation. They spend relatively less amount on transportation. There was a significant difference in their transportation cost along the variables of distance, location and gender. The study therefore recommends that the Ministry of Education should keep appointing/posting teachers within a short distance of their residence or schools close to their homes to reduce private cost. Keywords: Private Cost, Journey to work place, Transportation Cost.
The Art of Resilience: Post-Traumatic Growth in Selected Poems by Maya Angelou
In this study, the two most famous poems of Maya Angelou, “Caged Bird” and “Still I Rise” are analysed using Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) as developed by Tedeschi and Calhoun. The poem is usually interpreted in terms of resilience, but this present study posits that resilience is not the only aspect of Angelou's poem. Using the five domains of PTG (relating to others, new possibilities, personal strength, appreciation of life, and spiritual/Existential change), a close-reading methodology, the analysis illuminates the way Angelou's formal features (meter, stanzaic transformation, diction, and rhetorical address) reflect the shift from trauma to growth, rather than simply narrating it. In “Caged Bird” and the cumulative refrain in “Still I Rise,” the transformation from septet to quatrain, and the repetition of the refrain, respectively, provide literary correlates for PTG, placing Angelou's work in a literary genre that embodies growth. The study's implications are for trauma studies, cognitive literary studies and African American criticism, and provide a model which could be replicated in the reading of poetry using the PTG framework.
Role of Information Sources for Community Development among Poultry Farmers in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria
This study assessed the role of information sources utilization for community development among poultry farmers in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State. The specific objectives were to determine the socio-economic characteristics of the farmers in the study area, examine the level of availability of proven poultry technologies to the farmers, identify information sources through which farmers receive technologies. A multi-stage sampling techniques was used to solicit respondents from 120 poultry farmers with questionnaire. Data were analysed using frequency counts, percentages and means while hypothesis were test using PPMC and Chi-Square. Result showed that majority (57.5%) were males, most (81.7%) were married and a higher proportion (45.0%) stocked broilers. The most available technology to respondents was breed of a day-old chicks (=3.82). The highest perceived role of information sources was (=3.55). The most serious constraint faced by respondents was that the extension agent do not teach them at their levels. Household size (r=0.351) had significant association with their roles. It was thus recommended that farmers should be encouraged to form cooperative societies for easy access to credit facility and inputs so as to enhance their productivity level. Keywords: Information Source, Community Development, Poultry Farmers, Ikpoba-Okha
Attitudes of Couples towards Family Planning Methods in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria
Family planning plays a vital role in promoting maternal and child health, regulating population growth and enhancing the socio-economic stability of families. Despite the availability of various contraceptive methods, the attitudes of couples towards family planning remain influenced by multiple socio-cultural, religious and educational factors. The Objective of this study was to determine the attitudes of couples towards the use of family planning methods. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected using the structured questionnaire administered to a sample of married men and women. The findings suggest that efforts to improve family planning uptake must be context-sensitive, addressing not only individual knowledge gaps but also cultural norms, religious beliefs and socio-economic barriers that shape reproductive decisions. This study recommends that the Federal and State government should build reproductive health centers where family planning education would be given to couples on the choice of family planning for both educated and non-educated couples. Keywords: Family planning, Couple’s attitudes, Contraceptive methods, Reproductive health, Population control.
Administrative Organization and Its Role in Developing Professional Awareness among English Language Teachers
This study aimed to identify the impact of administrative organization on developing professional awareness among English language teachers by examining the levels of both administrative organization and professional awareness, and analyzing the nature of the relationship between them. The study employed a descriptive correlational approach and included a sample of 200 male and female teachers from schools in Dhi Qar Governorate. Two questionnaires were used to measure both administrative organization and professional awareness, and their validity and reliability were verified using appropriate scientific methods. The results showed that the level of administrative organization was high, with a mean score of 174, which is higher than the hypothetical mean of 120, indicating a clear and organized organizational environment. The results also showed that the level of professional awareness among teachers was high as well, with a mean score of 164, reflecting a high level of understanding and commitment to the requirements of the profession. Furthermore, the results revealed a statistically significant positive correlation between administrative organization and professional awareness, indicating that improved administrative organization directly contributes to enhancing professional awareness among English language teachers. This finding underscores the importance of the organizational environment in shaping teachers' professional behavior and performance. The study recommends developing administrative systems within schools, strengthening professional development programs, and improving communication channels to raise professional awareness and enhance the quality of the educational process. Keywords: Administrative Organization, Professional Awareness, English Teachers.
Health and Safety Trepidations of the Emerging Culture of Transactional Hookup in Nigeria
Transactional hookups are among the emerging public health threats worldwide. Its prevalence, particularly in developing nations such as Nigeria, has become a source of concern due to its attendant health and safety implications for the nation's population, predominantly among the young generation. However, the quest for material and non-material rewards linked with the hookup culture fuelled by risk factors such as poverty, peer influence and social media, including personal factors, often reinforces and beclouds participants' judgment of the significant long-term health and safety risks. The aftermath of such behaviour culminates in STIs, emotional and social risk, psychological regrets, and femicide linked with transactional hookup relationships. While it may be entirely impossible to eliminate transactional hookup culture, this paper stressed the need for interventional strategies focused on all-inclusive sexuality education, peer-led enlightenment campaigns, economic empowerment of youths through soft loans and entrepreneurial training, particularly for young women, including leveraging legal and institutional frameworks geared towards taming sexual exploitation and ritual femicide. Keywords: Health and Safety Trepidations, Emerging Culture, Hookups, Transactional hookups.
Intuitive Thinking and its Relationship to Mathematical Proficiency among Female Students in the Second Intermediate Grade
This study's overarching goal is to shed light on the association between second-intermediate-grade female students' levels of intuitive thinking and mathematical aptitude. Stratified random sampling was used to select 150 female students in the second intermediate grade from two schools affiliated with the Baghdad Directorate of Education, Al-Rusafa II: Itr Al-Ward and Al-Kawakib. Fifty students from each school made up the research sample. The research methodology followed a descriptive correlational approach. After ensuring their validity and reliability, the researcher administered a math competency exam and an intuitive thinking measure to the sample. The findings demonstrated that second-grade intermediate pupils outperform the theoretical mean for both intuitive thinking (mean of 72.84) and mathematical competency (mean of 30.38). Intuitive thinking and mathematical proficiency were found to be positively and statistically significantly correlated with one another (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.64), although there were no discernible differences in either variable between the two schools' students. Based on these findings, the researcher emphasized the need of exposing middle school children to a variety of mathematical settings in order to foster intuitive thinking rather than restricting mathematics instruction to rote memory and rule application. Keywords: intuitive thinking, mathematical proficiency, second-year intermediate stage, descriptive correlational approach.
Relationship between Communication Skills and Patient’s Aggressive Behavior among Nursing at Diwaniyah Teaching Hospital
Communication skills are essential for building effective relationships, whether in professional They enable individuals to exchange ideas, feelings, and information in a clear and respectful manner that leads to understanding and cooperation its human interaction so this study started with objectives: To determine the level of communication skills among nurses at AL Diwaniyah Teaching Hospital, to determine the association between nurses ‘demographic data and nurses’ communication skill and to explore the relationship between nurses' communication abilities and patient aggressive behavior and determination of the level of the patient aggressive behavior according to the nursing staff work place Methodology: A quantitative descriptive approach was used. Random sample of 291 nurses were chosen from those working morning and evening shifts at Al-Diwaniyah Teaching Hospital. A data was collected using questionnaire. An exploratory study was conducted among 30 nurses outside the sample between December 9 to December 10, 2025. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.72, and the questionnaire was subjected to validity confirmation by experts within a period of two weeks. Results: The study, conduct at Al-Diwaniyah Teaching Hospital from September 1st, 2025, to April 1st 2026, revealed that the level of communication skills was moderate. The results indicated evidence of a relationship between demographic variables and communication skills. The results indicated that 69.1% of participants had been exposed to aggressive behavior. The Person correlation coefficient between communication skills and exposure to aggressive behavior was (), indicating a very weak relationship between the two variables. Conclusion: The study results indicate a moderate relationship between communication skills and aggressive patient behavior (r = -.481**, p-value ≤ 0.01). It is recommended to enhance specialized training, create a favorable work environment, and study job stability indicators to ensure employee safety and improve service quality. Keywords: Communication skills, aggressive behavior, nursing staff, workplace safety.