Impact International Journals and Publications
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IMPACT INTERNATIONAL JOURNALS AND PUBLICATIONS
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LINEAR AND SEPARATE CALIBRATION METHODS OF EQUATING 2018 AND 2019 ENGLISH LANGUAGE BASIC EDUCATION CERTIFICATE EXAMINATION SCORES
The study examines efficient techniques for the comparison of students’ performance in the English Language Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) scores. The study adopted an Ex-Post facto research design. The population for the study comprised 123,441 Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS 111) students who sat for the 2018 and 2019 English Language BECE conducted by the Ondo State Ministry of Education. The study sample consisted of 4,320 Junior JSS 111 students, selected from the population using a multistage sampling technique. The instruments for the study consisted of the students’ responses to 60 multiple-choice items from the 2018 and 2019 English language Ondo State BECE, extracted from the Optical Marks Record (OMR) sheet. Data was coded and analyzed using (BILOG-MG and Linear Equating framework implemented through the R language package environment for statistical packages. The research showed that the standard error of equating for the linear method was 0.6, which was lower than the separate calibration method of 0.7 across the obtainable scores. The study further revealed that the 2019 OSBECE English test was more difficult than the 2018 version by about 0.4 units. The research concluded that the linear method was better for equating 2018 and 2019 OSBECE English language tests. Also, the 2018 and 2019 OSBECE English language tests were not equivalent. The research recommended that the Ondo State government and Nigerian examination organizations should utilize the most suitable test theory model to verify the statistical equivalence of their examination test items before administration.
Copyright (c) 2026 This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, adaptation, and reproduction in any medium, provided that the original work is properly cited. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
COMMUNITY RADIO AND PARTICIPATORY COMMUNICATION IN LASSA FEVER PREVENTION AND CONTROL IN TARABA STATE, NIGERIA: A CRITICAL DESK REVIEW
Lassa fever remains a recurrent public health challenge in Nigeria, underscoring not only biomedical vulnerabilities but also persistent weaknesses in epidemic communication systems. As of Epidemiological Week 49 in 2025, Nigeria reported 9,041 suspected cases, 1,069 confirmed cases, and 195 deaths, with a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 18.2%, higher than the 16.5% in the comparable period of 2024 (Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), 2025). Taraba State contributed approximately 12% of confirmed cases, among the top hotspots alongside Ondo (36%), Edo (24%), and Bauchi (12%). Although community radio has been widely promoted as a participatory platform for risk communication and community engagement in Lassa fever prevention and control, existing scholarship often treats its effectiveness as self-evident. Much of the literature relies on descriptive accounts and institutional evaluations, with limited critical engagement with theory, methodology, and evidence claims. This qualitative desk review undertakes a comprehensive synthesis of peer-reviewed journal articles, institutional reports, and grey literature published between 2010 and 2025, with a primary focus on Taraba State, Nigeria. Guided by Participatory Communication Theory and Convergence Communication Theory, the study critically interrogates how participation is conceptualized and operationalized, how effectiveness is measured, and how knowledge about community radio interventions is produced and legitimized. Particular attention is paid to methodological transparency, the dominance of donor-produced evidence, the tendency to conflate interaction with meaningful participation, and post-COVID hybrid models integrating radio with digital tools. The review indicates that while community radio is consistently framed as accessible and participatory, most interventions remain grounded in top-down communication logics that prioritize message dissemination and behavioral compliance over sustained dialogue and community agency. Participation is frequently reduced to call-in programs and feedback mechanisms that rarely influence agenda setting or institutional practice. Moreover, claims of effectiveness are often based on self-reported exposure and short-term indicators, with limited engagement with context, sustainability, or communication failure. Taraba-specific KAP studies show moderate knowledge but gaps in practices amid ethnic and socioeconomic disparities. It highlights the need for more theoretically grounded, methodologically rigorous, and critically reflexive research on community radio and participatory communication, particularly in under-studied contexts such as Taraba State.
INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE ON METACOGNITIVE AWARENESS AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AMONG BIOLOGY EDUCATION STUDENTS OF FEDERAL UNIVERSITY GASHU’A
This study examines the influence of social media usage on metacognitive awareness and academic performance among Biology Education students at Federal University Gashu’a. Social media platforms are widely used by students for various purposes. These platforms can affect how students think about their own learning processes. This is called metacognitive awareness. The problem is that excessive or unguided social media use may distract from academic work. This study used a mixed-method research design. A sample of 200 students was selected through random sampling. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data from questionnaires were analyzed using mean scores. Qualitative data from interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings showed that social media usage has a complex relationship with metacognition and academic outcomes. High levels of social media use for entertainment were linked to lower academic performance. However, using social media for academic purposes was associated with higher metacognitive awareness. The study concludes that the purpose of social media use is a key factor. It recommends integrating digital literacy into the curriculum. This can help students use social media more effectively for learning.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN USER INTERFACE DESIGN ON STUDENTS’ ONLINE REGISTRATION CHALLENGES AT TARABA STATE POLYTECHNIC, SUNTAI
This study investigates the relationship between user interface design in shaping students’ online registration experiences at Taraba State Polytechnic, Suntai, with a focus on usability, technical challenges, digital literacy, and suggested improvements. Digitalization has transformed administrative processes in Nigerian tertiary institutions, yet online registration systems often present usability barriers that hinder task completion and reduce user satisfaction. A descriptive survey design was adopted, targeting 350 students across five schools, with data collected from 332 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Analysis involved descriptive statistics and thematic interpretation of open-ended responses. Findings reveal that students face significant usability challenges, including difficulties navigating the portal, locating information, and understanding instructions, which reduce registration efficiency. Technical and interface design deficiencies, such as slow page loading, system errors, unclear layout, complex navigation, and limited mobile responsiveness, further impede successful registration. Students’ digital literacy levels moderated their interactions, with higher skills facilitating smoother registration, while lower skills increased reliance on assistance. Students recommended interface simplification, improved server performance, clearer error messages, and the addition of a help or FAQ section, reflecting strong support for user-centered design improvements. The study concludes that addressing usability, technical, and digital literacy challenges through targeted interface redesign and student training is essential for enhancing registration efficiency, reducing frustration, and promoting equitable access. These findings provide institution-specific insights to inform system upgrades, optimize user experience, and support effective digital transformation in academic administration.
Department of Accounting, Taraba State Polytechnic, Suntai
SOCIAL MEDIA ATTITUDE AND USAGE AS CORRELATES OF SUICIDAL TENDENCIES AMONG COLLEGES OF EDUCATION STUDENTS IN PLATEAU STATE
The study was carried out on Social Media Attitude and Usage as Correlates of Suicidal Tendencies among Colleges of Education Students in Plateau State. In order to achieve the purpose of the study, four research questions and two hypotheses were formulated. The study used the correlational research design and the population of the study was two thousand, six hundred and eighty-five students (2,685) of NCE 3 across Colleges of Education in Plateau State. However, the researcher selected 268 NCE 3 students as sample through proportionate stratified and simple sampling techniques. Primary data were collected through the use of two questionnaires titled “Multi-Attitude Suicidal Tendency Scale (MASTS) and Social Media Attitude and Usage Scale (SMAUS)”. The study utilised the descriptive and inferential statistical methods of analysis. Specifically, percentage, frequency, mean were used to answer the research questions and to determine which of the questionnaire items is to be rejected or accepted based on the decision point of 3.0. Also, Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (PPMC) was used to test the hypothesis formulated at the 0.05 significance level. The research findings showed that there was a relationship between social media attitude and suicidal tendencies amongst students of Colleges of Education in Plateau State and there was significant relationship between social media usage and suicidal tendencies amongst students of Colleges of Education in Plateau State. It was therefore recommended among others that it is crucial to prioritise mental health support services for college students in Plateau State.
EUPHEMISM IN HAUSA AND YORUBA: A COMPARATIVE SOCIOLINGUISTIC DESCRIPTION OF POLITENESS STRATEGIES
This paper analyses euphemism in Hausa and Yoruba as a sociolinguistic and cultural phenomenon, in terms of the functions of indirect expressions in politeness, moral discretion, and social intercourse. A qualitative research design was used in collecting the data by conducting semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and an examination of media texts and daily conversations based on the selected communities of the Kano and Oyo States. They came up with about forty-five euphemistic terms and divided them into thematic areas which included death, sexuality, religion, body functions and social relations. Hymes SPEAKING model and Politeness Theory by Brown and Levinson provide the framework of the analysis to consider the use of context and face management. The results indicate that the application of euphemism in both languages is socially structured based on the sociolinguistic variables such as age, gender, religion, and social status. Although euphemism is used in both languages to lessen face-threatening behavior, Hausa euphemism are more consistent with Islamic standards of humility and respect, and Yoruba euphemism are more of a blend of indigenous and Christian beliefs. The paper has shown that the application of euphemism in both cultures is a pragmatic practice that is anchored in cultural practices and not a simple substitution of words. It suggests the need to conduct more comparative studies on the euphemism of other Nigerian languages and its incorporation into language teaching and intercultural communication.
PHILOSOPHICAL INQUIRY AS A TOOL FOR DEEPENING RELIGIOUS UNDERSTANDING IN EDUCATION
Discourse in education has been informed by the intersection of philosophy and religion, producing tools for deeper comprehension, respect, and mental connectivity. The rational and reflective and dialogically critical aspects of philosophical inquiry strengthen and enrich the methodology of education in religion. The development of critical thinking, moral reasoning, and hermeneutic sensitivity shows learners ways of studying a religious tradition and texts beyond mere doctrinal transmission. This study uses philosophical inquiry in deepening a learner understands of a religion. It considers the early ideas, history, and contemporary approaches and implications for teaching the religion. It is posited that teaching religion with a philosophy of religion will strengthen inter- religious relations, and a sophisticated understanding of religions, and will encourage civil appreciation of the multi- religious and culturally diverse world we live in today.
Copyright (c) 2025 This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, adaptation, and reproduction in any medium, provided that the original work is properly cited. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
MORAL EDUCATION AND RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION; A PHILOSOPHICAL PERSPECTIVE
The development of consciousness and identity of individuals and communities on ethical and moral issues requires moral education along with the instruction of religion. In the current societal conditions, the philosophy of moral education constitutes moral education’s focus on the transmission, internalization, and practice of values. While both moral education and moral formation along with instruction and integration of religion pivots on spiritual and theological narratives, the present research attempts to delineate the philosophical perspectives of that integration. It investigates the historical dimensions and foundations of moral education considering the influence of religion on moral evolution, the philosophical rationales both for and against the debated integration of religious education within the framework of formal education, and education’s implications on integrated and overall development of the human person. This study is anchored in virtue ethics theory as articulated by Aristotle, complemented by Lawrence Kohlberg’s theory of moral development. Virtue ethics emphasizes character formation through habituation, moral exemplars, and community values, aligning with the moral and spiritual aims of religious instruction. Kohlberg’s developmental theory provides a psychological dimension, explaining how individuals progress through stages of moral reasoning—from externally imposed norms to autonomous ethical judgment. Together, these theories provide a philosophical and developmental framework for understanding how moral education and religious instruction contribute to ethical maturity and social responsibility. In addressing the issues, integrating arguments from the writings of the ancients and more recent authors, the author presents the case for a pluralistic dialogical approach as a means of constructive moral engagement.
HUMAN RESOURCE COST AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF LISTED DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS IN NIGERIA
This study examined the effect of human resource cost on financial performance of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria. The population of the study consisted of thirteen (13) deposit money banks listed on Nigerian Exchange Group as at 31st December, 2024. Nine (9) banks were taken as sampled. Secondary data was collected from the sampled banks for the period from 2018 to 2024. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics where panel corrected standard error regression estimation technique was used. Panel corrected standard error regression was used to correct autocorrelation, cross-sectional dependence and heteroskedasticity with panel data model. The result of the study revealed total personnel cost has positive and significant effect on financial performance of deposit money banks in Nigeria. The study also discovered training and development cost has negative insignificant effect on financial performance of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria. The study recommends more spending in total personnel costs as it affect financial performance. Deposit money banks should reduce spending on employee training and development but rather spend on hiring skilled and talented employees from the onset.
EFFECTS OF BANDITRY ON ACCESS TO EDUCATION IN ZAMFARA STATE, NIGERIA
Banditry in Zamfara State, has affected thousands of school-aged children leading to educational exclusion and disrupting access to formal schooling. This study employs a qualitative research design and relied purely on secondary data, synthesizing peer-reviewed articles, institutional reports, and conflict monitoring databases to examine the patterns and extent of displacement, trends in primary and secondary school enrolment, and the effects of banditry on educational quality between 2020 and 2025 as the main objectives of the study. The study adopted the State Fragility Theory and interprets banditry as both a symptom and amplifier of state weaknesses, where authority deficits has contributed to violence, disruption of service delivery, which undermines community trust in education. Findings reveal that banditry displacement pattern is concentrated in the rural area of the state there by affecting 40 to 50% of internally displaced children leading to fragmented access to education. The study also discovered that primary and secondary school enrolment trend declined from 30 to 50% due to pre-existing cultural and economic factors with banditry acting as the major driver. The study proffered the following recommendations: The government should set up school protection committees comprising parents, teachers, and traditional leaders to monitor and report any suspicious activities to the security agencies; introduce mobile and radio-based learning programs for displaced children; and integrate technical and vocational education to curb banditry by providing skills for self-reliance for unemployed youths.
School Enrolment, Educational Quality, Zamfara State.
AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERTISE AND FINANCIAL REPORTING QUALITY OF LISTED MANUFACTURING FIRMS IN NIGERIA: THE MODERATING ROLE OF GENDER DIVERSITY (2010–2023)
Financial reporting quality (FRQ) remains a core concern in corporate governance due to its implications for transparency and investor confidence. This study examines the effect of audit committee financial expertise on the financial reporting quality of listed manufacturing firms in Nigeria, with audit committee gender diversity considered as a moderating variable. The study adopts an ex post facto research design and relies on secondary data extracted from the annual reports of thirty-five listed manufacturing firms over the period 2010 to 2023. Financial reporting quality was measured using a content-analysis-based index constructed from qualitative reporting characteristics. Generalized Least Squares (GLS) regression was employed to account for the panel structure of the data and the presence of heteroskedasticity. The results show that audit committee financial expertise has a positive and statistically significant effect on financial reporting quality. In contrast, audit committee gender diversity and its interaction with financial expertise exhibit negative but statistically insignificant effects. These findings suggest that, within the sampled firms and given the low level of female representation on audit committees, gender diversity does not exert a measurable moderating influence on the expertise FRQ relationship. The study therefore emphasizes the importance of financial expertise on audit committees, while cautioning against strong inferences regarding the effect of gender diversity in situations where representation remains limited.
IMPACT OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEFICIT ON YOUTH RURAL-URBAN MIGRATION AND AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
This study investigates the impact of infrastructure deficits on youth rural-urban migration and agricultural productivity in Delta State's Local Government Areas (LGAs), Nigeria, a key agricultural region facing socio-economic vulnerabilities from urbanization and environmental degradation. Drawing from push-pull migration theory, the research highlights how poor roads, unreliable electricity, and limited irrigation act as push factors, depleting rural labour and constraining farming outputs. The aim was to analyse these associations, with objectives to assess deficit extents, examine migration influences, evaluate socio-economic effects, and propose governance reforms. Research questions focused on deficit impacts on productivity, migration decisions, rural communities, and policy effectiveness. A mixed-methods design was employed, with stratified random sampling of 540 respondents (aged 15–29) across six LGAs (Bomadi, Burutu, Patani, Oshimili North, Uvwie, Warri South West), selected for agrarian dominance and high migration rates. Data included surveys, 12 FGDs, and secondary policy reviews, analysed via descriptive statistics, logistic/multiple regression (with controls for age, education, income; VIF < 3), and thematic analysis. Results showed poor roads and electricity associated with 65% higher migration odds (OR = 1.65, 95% CI [1.42–1.92], p < .001). Irrigation deficits linked to 15% productivity decline (β = -0.32, 95% CI [-0.41 to -0.23], p < .05). Perceptions rated adequacy below 90% (electricity M = 1.51, SD = 0.78). Themes emphasized energy poverty hindering agro-processing. Findings suggest associations between deficits and outcomes, enriching migration literature without implying causation. Recommendations include participatory infrastructure upgrades to retain youth and boost agriculture, advancing sustainable rural goals.
DEVELOPMENTAL AND PSYCHOSOCIAL OUTCOMES OF CHILDREN IN INSTITUTIONAL CARE IN OBIO-AKPOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA
Nigeria's institutional foster care system continues to be a standard response to child vulnerability, but limited systematic evidence exists about its developmental and psychosocial impacts. The study was aimed at finding out the cognitive, emotion, behaviour and psychosocial patterns of some children in foster care homes in River State. In this research, a cross-sectional mixed-methods design was adopted including adapted standardized child assessments, structured observations of caregiving practices and semi-structured interviews with caregivers and administrators. The quantitative data was descriptively analysed and subjected to bivariate correlation analysis to examine the associations between institutional characteristics and child outcomes. The qualitative data contextualised the patterns observed. No relationships of cause and effect were drawn. The results show significant differences in their developmental performance among institutions as observed in cognitive ability, emotional adaptation, social interaction and academic performance. Psychosocial indicators were generally low or moderate in relation to emotional stability and attachment-related behaviours, and moderately adaptive coping. Changes in family structure do affect a child’s development but not as much as the quality of care he/she receives. Studies show that children in institutions with greater consistency of care; lower staff turnover; and more opportunities for learning and stimulation show better developmental and psychological outcomes. Naturally occurring contextual comparisons with outcomes for family-based care suggest much better emotional security, behavioral regulation and placement stability in family settings; however, such comparisons are treated cautiously given the absence of matched sampling and comparable measurement procedures. In a nutshell, institutional care may ensure the satisfaction of basic custodial requirements. But it imposes a huge burden of retarded development and psychosocial malady which is directly related to the quality of care and environment. According to the findings, relational continuity, emotional response and enriched environment improves child wellbeing. Besides, there is the need for methodologically rigorous, feasible ethical research that will inform child welfare policy and practice in Nigeria.
A GIS-BASED SPATIAL ANALYSIS OF BASIN MORPHOLOGY, SURFACE FLOW ACCUMULATION AND LAND-COVER PATTERNS IN ONDO STATE, NIGER DELTA REGION OF NIGERIA
This study presents a GIS-based spatial analysis of basin morphology, surface flow accumulation, and land-cover associations in Ondo State, located within the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. In the absence of officially delineated basin boundaries, the drainage basin was derived exclusively from digital elevation data, allowing for an objective terrain-based definition of the hydrological unit. The analysis was guided by established geomorphometric principles proposed by Horton and Strahler and implemented through digital terrain processing using the D8 flow direction algorithm. A Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) Digital Elevation Model with 30 m spatial resolution was employed to generate basin boundaries, slope, relief, flow direction, and flow accumulation grids. In addition, a single-date Sentinel-2 land-cover dataset at 10 m spatial resolution was integrated with the hydrological outputs to examine spatial associations between surface characteristics and zones of flow convergence. The results reveal a predominantly convergent drainage configuration towards a central low-lying area, indicative of terrain-controlled runoff organisation and potential surface water retention. Areas characterised by bare or degraded land cover show notable spatial coincidence with high flow accumulation zones, whereas densely vegetated areas are generally associated with more diffuse flow patterns. These observed relationships indicate spatial association rather than direct causative links between land-cover distribution and hydrological behaviour. The study is constrained by reliance on a single-date land-cover dataset, the absence of rainfall and discharge records, and the lack of field-based validation. Based on the findings, the study recommends targeted vegetation restoration in high-convergence zones, the incorporation of flow-accumulation maps into land-use planning, and the integration of multi-temporal remote sensing and hydrometeorological data in future research. Notwithstanding these limitations, the analysis demonstrates the utility of GIS-based terrain modelling for preliminary morphometric and surface-flow assessment in data-scarce regions.
STOCK MARKET RESILIENCE AND ECONOMIC GROWTH: EVIDENCE FROM NIGERIA
This study investigated the relationship between stock market resilience and economic growth in Nigeria from 1981 to 2023. Using time series data sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria bulletin, 2023. Specifically, the All-Share Index, Market Capitalization and Trade Volume were used to proxy stock market resilience, while Real Gross Domestic Product (RGDP) was used to measure Economic Growth in Nigeria. The Augmented Dickey-Fuller test found that the All-Share Index, trade volume, and RGDP were stationary at first difference 1(1), while market capitalization was stationary at level 1(0). The ARDL bound test revealed a long-run association between stock market resilience and economic growth. Key findings include a positive but insignificant relationship between the All-Share Index and economic growth, a negative and insignificant relationship between market capitalization and economic growth, and a positive relationship between trade volume and economic growth. The study recommends that monetary authorities should formulate policies to sustain stock market share prices and attract foreign investment, enhance market capitalization to reverse its negative effect, and introduce innovative financial instruments to increase market participation and trading volumes.
DEM-BASED GIS ANALYSIS OF HYDROLOGICAL BEHAVIOUR IN THE ENUGU BASIN, SOUTH-EASTERN NIGERIA
This study applied Digital Elevation Model (DEM) based Geographic Information System (GIS) hydrological modelling to analyse terrain-controlled hydrological behaviour within the Enugu Basin, southeastern Nigeria. Unlike earlier studies that relied largely on descriptive geomorphology, this research employs reproducible GIS procedures to quantify drainage organisation, flow convergence and terrain influence on runoff processes. A 30-m resolution Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) DEM was processed in ArcGIS 10.8 using sink filling, Deterministic Eight-node (D8) flow-direction, flow-accumulation and watershed delineation algorithms. The results reveal structurally controlled drainage patterns, distinct runoff convergence zones and a strong topographic control on hydrological response across the basin. Flow-accumulation outputs highlight potential runoff concentration corridors rather than direct erosion magnitudes, consistent with established hydrological theory. These patterns indicate areas of heightened hydrological vulnerability linked primarily to terrain configuration and drainage connectivity, corroborating previous studies in southeastern Nigeria. The findings demonstrate that DEM-derived hydrological layers provide an objective basis for identifying erosion-prone zones, guiding flood-risk screening and informing land-use suitability assessments in data-scarce environments. The study further underscores the need to integrate DEM-based hydrological modelling into environmental planning, erosion-control strategies and watershed-scale management frameworks within the Enugu Basin. It also highlights the importance of field validation, institutional capacity building and the future adoption of higher-resolution elevation data to improve micro-scale runoff characterisation. Overall, the research confirms the analytical value of DEM-based GIS hydrological modelling as a cost-effective and scientifically robust approach for sustainable land-use planning and environmental management in developing regions.
THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY’S ROLE IN NIGERIA’S ANTI-CORRUPTION CRUSADE: LEGISLATIVE OVERSIGHT
This paper explores how the 9th National Assembly (2019-2023) contributed to Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, focusing on both legislative oversight and legislative complicity. While the Constitution designates the legislature as a key accountability body, public discussions indicate that its actions during this period revealed considerable shortcomings in oversight, prompting doubts about its efficiency and independence. Employing a qualitative documentary research approach, this study analyzes secondary data from Auditor-General Reports, NEITI audit findings, Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearings, civil society publications, and legislative records. These materials were chosen for their credibility, relevance, and ability to be verified. The Principal–Agent Theory serves as the analytical framework, enabling an evaluation of legislative performance through indicators of control (oversight), shirking (weak enforcement), or collusion (complicity). Findings reveal that the legislature frequently exhibited selective oversight, inconsistent follow-up on investigations, inadequate enforcement of committee resolutions, and hesitance to penalize executive agencies with documented corruption. Key anti-corruption legislation remained blocked, while many investigative hearings yielded no significant institutional results. The analysis indicates that political alignment, patronage networks, and executive dominance heavily hindered legislative independence. The study concludes that the 9th National Assembly showed more signs of complicity than effective oversight. It advises enhancing institutional independence, enforcing committee resolutions, improving public access to legislative processes, and instituting legal protections that diminish political motivations for collusion.
ECONOMIC TERRORISM AND NATIONAL SECURITY IN NIGERIA: THE IMPACT OF FINANCIAL DISRUPTION ON STATE STABILITY
Economic terrorism has increasingly emerged as a critical yet overlooked aspect of Nigeria’s national security issues. Unlike traditional forms of violence, economic terrorism occurs through intentional disruptions to financial systems manipulation of public revenue streams, misappropriation of state funds, obstruction of budgetary processes, cyber-attacks on banking entities and distortions in resource allocation. These actions take advantage of weaknesses in Nigeria’s financial infrastructure to weaken state capability, compromise economic independence and diminish citizens’ faith in government. Grounded in Political Economy Theory and Securitization Theory, this study explores how patterns of financial sharing especially leaks, unfair distribution, corruption and poor management create structural weaknesses that jeopardize Nigeria’s security framework. Using a qualitative research design and backed by real-world examples from Nigeria’s banking, oil, agricultural and public finance sectors, the study shows that economic terrorism worsens unemployment, inflation, fiscal pressure, institutional instability and social discord. Results reveal that Nigeria’s vulnerability is amplified by poor regulatory oversight, established patronage systems, unclear financial transactions and insufficient technological protections. The study concludes that economic terrorism poses a serious long-term danger to Nigeria’s national stability, akin to standard security threats. It suggests improving financial governance, boosting transparency measures, enhancing coordination between agencies, and establishing strong systems to protect the integrity of financial distribution.
impact international journals of Social Sciences
RELIGIOUS INFLUENCES ON THE TEACHING OF CIVIL LIBERTIES AND DEMOCRACY THROUGH ENGLISH LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN PLATEAU CENTRAL SENATORIAL DISTRICT, PLATEAU STATE
The study examines the influence of religious beliefs on the teaching of civil liberties and democracy through English language instruction in public secondary schools in Plateau Central Senatorial District, Plateau State. The Secularization Theory, propounded by Bryan Wilson (1966) and further developed by Steve Bruce (2002), served as a theoretical framework for this study. The study used descriptive survey research design. The population of the study consisted of 1,532 teachers of English and CRS in the selected Senatorial District. The study sampled 280 respondents from 70 public secondary schools. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using mean scores and chi-square statistical tools. Findings indicate that religious beliefs significantly influence teaching materials, classroom discussions and students' understanding of democratic principles. Teachers perceive religious influences as both reinforcing and hindering democratic education and they face challenges such as student resistance, parental opposition and institutional restrictions. The study concludes that religious beliefs play a critical role in shaping the delivery of democracy and civil liberties education through English language instruction. It recommends strategies for balancing religious perspectives with democratic principles to foster effective civic education in secondary schools.
ASSESSING AUDIT CREDIBILITY AND INVESTOR CONFIDENCE AMONG SELECTED OIL AND GAS COMPANIES IN SOUTHERN REGION OF NIGERIA
This study examines the relationship between audit credibility and investor confidence in the oil and gas sector in Southern Nigeria. The need for this study comes from the importance of trust in financial markets. Investors rely on audited financial statements to make informed business decisions. When audits are not credible, investor confidence can fall. This can reduce investment in the sector. This study used a descriptive survey research design. A sample of 250 investors and financial analysts was selected. They were selected from those dealing with Shell, Chevron, Exxon Mobil, Total Energies and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed using mean scores and chi-square tests. Findings showed that audit credibility significantly influences investor confidence. Factors like auditor independence, audit quality and regulatory oversight were found to be very important. However, challenges such as corruption, weak regulations and opaque reporting hinder trust. The study concludes that improving audit credibility is crucial for attracting investment. It recommends stronger regulatory bodies, stricter enforcement of auditing standards and more transparency in corporate reporting.
EFFECTS OF PORTFOLIO ASSESSMENT TECHNIQUE ON SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS’ ATTITUDE TOWARDS ECONOMICS IN PANKSHIN, PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA
The study investigated the effect of portfolio assessment technique on students’ attitude towards Economics in Pankshin, Plateau State, Nigeria. The population of the study consisted of all the 544 Senior Secondary Two (SSII) students offering Economics in the 16 public and private secondary schools in Pankshin, Plateau State. The used of public and private schools in Pankshin determine if the students’ will differ in their attitude to and achievement in Economics. The sample of the study consisted of 160 students in four senior secondary schools made up of two public and two private schools out of the 16 senior secondary schools in Pankshin. The study adopted the multi-stage sampling, where more than one sampling technique was employed for the study. The instrument used for data collection in the study was title Students' Attitude to Economic Questionnaire (SAEQ). The descriptive statistics of frequency distribution tables, simple, graphs, means and standard deviation were used for answering the research questions, while the Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) was used for testing the hypotheses formulated for the study at 0.05 level of significance. The choice of ANCOVA test statistic was used to help control for the effects of pre-test on the posttest scores collected from the same groups. Findings showed that students exposed to portfolio assessment demonstrated a significant improvement in attitude toward Economics compared to those in the control group, whose attitudes remained largely unchanged. The study further revealed no significant difference in the effectiveness of the technique based on gender or school type, indicating that portfolio assessment benefits all categories of learners. The results suggest that portfolio assessment promotes increased engagement, reflective learning and ownership of academic progress, thereby fostering more positive perceptions of Economics. The study concludes that portfolio assessment is an effective strategy for enhancing students’ attitude toward Economics and recommends its integration into secondary school instructional and evaluation practices.
Students’ Attitude, Economics Education,
PERCEPTION OF FARMERS ON THE IMPACT OF GAS FLARING ON CROPS IN ETCHE, RIVERS STATE
The study examined the perception of farmers on the impact of gas flaring on crops in Etche, Rivers State. Two (2) research questions were posed for the study while cross-sectional survey design was adopted. The population of the study comprised 249,939 adult between the ages of 18-50 in Etche Local Government of Rivers state and the sample for the study was three hundred 300 farmers drawn from 30 villages in Etche LGA. A multistage sampling procedure was applied. In Stage 1, 30 villages were selected from the 104 villages in the study area using simple random sampling. In Stage 2, lists of farmers in each selected village were compiled. From each village list, 10 farmers were selected using simple random sampling, giving a total sample of 300. To ensure representation across key demographics, a proportionate stratified sampling approach was applied. Instrument for data collection was a self-constructed closed ended questionnaire titled Gas Flaring and Negative Impact on Crops and Vegetation Questionnaire (GFNICV).” The instrument was validated by the two experts in the Department of Geography and Environmental Management and the reliability of 0.89 was established using the Cronbach Alpha which shows high internal consistency. Data were presented in tables and chart and mean score were used to answer the research questions while the Chi-Square statistical tool was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 significance level. The results revealed that farmers perceive that gas flaring negatively affects cassava and yam yield in Etche, Rivers State among other findings. It was concluded that gas flaring negatively affects both cassava and yam yield in Etche, River State as it directly impact soil fertility, crop yield and destroys their vegetation which impoverish farmers. It was recommended among others that federal and state environmental agencies should increase monitoring and issue penalties for illegal flaring.
Environmental Implications of Gas Flaring and Climate Change.
DIGITAL OPENNESS AS A MEDIATOR: LINKING MARKET AND ENTREPRENEURIAL ORIENTATIONS TO SME PERFORMANCE IN NIGERIA
This study examines the mediating role of digital openness in the relationships between market orientation, entrepreneurial orientation, and SME performance in Northwestern Nigeria. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 512 SME owners/managers across Katsina, Kano, and Kaduna states using stratified random sampling. The study employed PLS-SEM to test relationships among constructs measured with validated scales: Market Orientation (15 items), Entrepreneurial Orientation (9 items), Digital Openness (12 items), and Firm Performance (10 items). Results indicate that market orientation (β=0.215, p<0.001) and entrepreneurial orientation (β=0.224, p<0.001) significantly influence SME performance. Digital openness partially mediates both relationships (MO→DO→FP: β=0.216; EO→DO→FP: β=0.214), explaining 67.3% of variance in performance. The findings suggest that SMEs should invest in digital infrastructure, adopt cloud-based collaboration tools, and integrate digital analytics into strategic decision-making to enhance performance outcomes.
SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHICS AND HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF AIRBORNE POLLEN AND SPORES IN IBADAN METROPOLIS, SOUTHWEST, NIGERIA
Airborne pollen and spores of certain plants elicit allergic reactions in hypersensitive humans. These allergic reactions cause health and socioeconomic problems for nations. To evaluate the effects of these aeropalynomorphs, an aeropalynological study was conducted with a demographic survey in the metropolis of Ibadan, Southwest Nigeria, from November 2012 to February 2013, in three strategic locations. Demographic variables evaluated were the gender, allergic responses, location of respondents, season of occurrences of symptoms, sources and choices of relief from allergies. Collected aerosamples were palynologically treated using Erdtman (1969) acetolysis method. Pollen counts were integrated with weather parameters and clinical data. Pre-tested and validated questionnaires and oral interview approaches were adopted among inhabitants for the demographic survey. Clinical data were sourced from local hospitals and pharmacy outlets. The symptoms of allergies experienced by respondents included catarrh, runny nose, eye, and skin itching. Out of all the symptoms, catarrh was the most prevalent, followed by eye itching. The highest percentage of sufferers of recorded symptoms prefer local drug stores known as ‘chemists’ to prescriptions by medical doctors or pharmacists. The results also showed that symptoms are not gender-specific. High frequency and severity of cases occurred during the drier and harmattan periods, which coincided with the highest pollen counts. Notable allergenic pollen of interest include Poaceae (Zea mays), Asteraceae, Anacardiaceae, and Euphorbiaceae (Alchornea cordifolia), as well as Fungal spores. This work documents the first combined approach of demography, meteorological parameters, and aeropalynology in a palynological research study in Nigeria.
CORRUPT PRACTICES AND SERVICE DELIVERY OF STAFF IN NIGERIAN UNIVERSITIES
The persistent rise in cases of corrupt practices has given meaningful Nigerians a cause for deep concern in recent times. This presents itself among several factors that pose as challenges to service delivery of staff in education system including the Nigerian universities. This study examines how corrupt practices including financial mismanagement, nepotism, academic fraud and weak leadership undermine efficiency. The study highlights the mechanisms through which corrupt practices manifest and its impacts on service delivery. The study particularly discussed the nature of corrupt practices, causes of corrupt practices in Nigerian universities, impacts of corrupt practices and ways of eradicating corrupt practices in Nigerian universities. The findings of the study reveals that corrupt practices impede greatly on academic quality, institutional credibility and service delivery of staff in Nigerian universities. It therefore concluded that corrupt practices can be eradicated by strengthening oversight including regular audit system to ensure transparency and accountability, introduction of ICT platforms, ensuring equitable and fair recruitment and promotion of staff, ensuring ethical value education, enactment and strengthening of anti-corruption laws and enforcement of the justice system among others.
THE IMPACT OF MEDIA IN EDUCATION FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
This study empirically assesses the role of mass media in promoting education for the environment a transformative process that upgrades people from environmental awareness to practical action and behavioral change. The research embraces a mixed-methods approach involving a structured survey of 300 university students and a content analysis of 120 environmental media items across television, radio, newspapers, and social media platforms. Findings reveal that mass media significantly contribute to education for the environment, with social media emerging as the most influential platform for driving pro-environmental intention and behavior. Regression results indicate that exposure to environmental content on social media (β = .28, p < .001) and perceived message credibility (β = .31, p < .001) were strong predictors of behavioral intention. Furthermore, content that included calls-to-action and efficacy-based guidance (such as “how-to” environmental tips) showed a stronger correlation with self-reported behavior than purely informational messages. The content analysis supports these findings, showing that 65% of social media posts containing direct action prompts achieved higher audience engagement than traditional media outputs. The study concludes that mass media, particularly digital and participatory forms, play a crucial pedagogical role in fostering environmental responsibility and sustainability. It recommends that educators, policymakers, and media practitioners integrate credible, action-oriented, and participatory communication strategies into environmental campaigns to enhance behavioral outcomes. The paper also emphasizes the need for continuous collaboration between educational institutions and media organizations to strengthen environmental literacy and sustainability practices in society
ASSESSMENT OF SOURCE-SPECIFIC TOXICITY WEIGHTING OF FINE PARTICULATE MATTER (PM2.5) IN IKWERRE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA
This study assessed the chemical constituent, sources, and toxicity-related health risks of fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅) in two urban communities: Aluu and Isiokpo, within Ikwerre Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria. PM₂.₅ samples were collected using low-volume air samplers fitted with size-selective PM₂.₅ inlets and pre-weighed quartz-fiber filters during both dry and wet seasons, and subsequently analyzed for particulate mass, trace metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and water-soluble ions. The results revealed elevated PM₂.₅ concentrations, with mean values of 46.0 µg/m³ in Aluu and 48.4 µg/m³ in Isiokpo, exceeding the World Health Organization 24-hour guideline and indicating degraded air quality with increased potential for adverse respiratory and cardiovascular effects. The level of trace metals, including Pb (0.10–0.11 µg/m³), Cd (0.005–0.006 µg/m³), and Zn (0.07–0.08 µg/m³), reflected significant contributions from vehicular traffic, industrial activities, and fuel combustion sources.The concentrations of Total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons ranged from 0.028 to 0.035 µg/m³, with benzo[a]pyrene levels suggesting the presence of carcinogenic combustion-derived pollutants. Water-soluble ions (SO₄²⁻, NO₃⁻, NH₄⁺, and Cl⁻) occurred at moderate levels, while an ionic imbalance (−44%) indicated anion dominance and the likely presence of unmeasured alkaline cations. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) as a source apportionment tool, identified two dominant components explaining 81.2% of total variance, representing primary combustion-related emissions and secondary inorganic aerosol formation. Toxicity was assessed using toxic equivalency factor (TEF)-based modelling, including toxic equivalent (TEQ) and mutagenic equivalent (MEQ) approaches. The results implied moderate carcinogenic and mutagenic potentials, while non-carcinogenic risks remained below acceptable thresholds. Overall, this study provides important baseline data on PM₂.₅ toxicity in Ikwerre LGA, underscoring the need for continuous air-quality monitoring and targeted emission-control smechanisms in the Niger Delta region.
impact international journals of Sciences
YOUTHS AND YAHOO TRENDS, IMPLICATION EFFECTS AND SOLUTIONS
The rising incidence of internet fraud, sometimes termed "Yahoo," has become a substantial socio-economic, ethical, and spiritual dilemma among Nigerian young. This study investigates the participation of Anglican youths in Yahoo activities, emphasising the socio-economic, cultural, and peer-related elements that influence engagement, the ethical and developmental consequences, and possible remedies. The study utilised a qualitative exploratory phenomenological approach to collect data from 20 purposefully selected participants, comprising juveniles engaged in cyber fraud, community members, and moral or religious mentors, via in-depth semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to discern repeating patterns and analyse the data via the lenses of Social Learning Theory and Rational Choice Theory. Research indicates that socio-economic factors, including unemployment, poverty, and restricted educational prospects, alongside peer influence, social media exposure, and skewed cultural perceptions of riches, significantly drive teenage participation in Yahoo activities. The research indicates that participation in cyber fraud adversely impacts moral integrity, spiritual development, and socio-economic advancement, while eroding familial and communal values. Moreover, the Anglican Church and society at large encounter difficulties in confronting these habits due to weak preventive strategies, insufficient ethical direction, and societal acceptance of illegal wealth. The report advocates for a holistic strategy that incorporates economic empowerment, moral and spiritual education, digital literacy, mentorship programs, and community engagement activities to reduce teenage involvement in internet fraud. This study enhances comprehension of denominational viewpoints on cybercrime and provides pragmatic ways for fostering ethical behaviour, young development, and social integrity
impact international journals of education
ATTITUDE OF HEALTH WORKERS TOWARDS CARE OF HIV/AIDS PATIENTS ATTENDING CLINIC AT FEDERAL MEDICAL CENTRE, MAKURDI, BENUE STATE
This research work was carried out on attitude of health workers towards care of HIV/AIDS patients attending clinic at Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi, Benue State. The objectives of the study are: to assess the attitude of health workers towards care of HIV/AIDS patients, determine factors influencing the attitude of health workers towards care of HIV/AIDS patients and identify ways of enhancing the attitude of health workers towards care of HIV/AIDS patients attending clinic. The study was anchored on the Dorothy Orem’s Theory of Self-Care. A descriptive design was adopted for the study. Taro Yamane’s Formula was used to select a sample size of 271 respondents from a target population of 841 health workers which were used to collect relevant data. The data collected through a questionnaire drafted to measure variables of the study with the aid of closed-ended questions and questions designed on a 4-point Likert scale. Findings revealed that out of 271 health workers, 243 (89.7%), 237 (87.5%), 259 (95.6%) and 251 (92.6%) said they are not am afraid of taking care of HIV positive patients, they will treat patients with HIV if given a choice, HIV and AIDS patients are not a waste of medical resources, and they believe HIV and AIDS patients deserve special treatment, respectively. Also, 147 strongly agreed that level of medical education, 132 strongly agreed that knowledge about HIV and perceived infection risk at work, and 123 strongly agreed with exposure to people living with HIV as factors influencing the attitude of health workers towards care of HIV/AIDS patients. The study recommended that regular, comprehensive training on HIV/AIDS for all healthcare staff should be organized to improve knowledge, foster positive attitudes and correct misconceptions. Also, education should aim to shift attitudes from fear and stigmatization to empathy and professional care, ensuring that all patients receive the same quality of service regardless of their HIV status.
ANALYSIS OF LABOUR USE IN SMALLHOLDER IRRIGATED RICE FARMS IN KANO STATE, NIGERIA
The study analyzed the determinant of labour use among irrigated smallholder rice farmers in Kano state, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select 211 respondents from three local governments in the study area. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, partial factor productivity, and multiple regression. The results revealed that hired labour (adult male) was found to be the most used labour across the three LGAs of Kura, Bagwai and Warawa. The cost of labour for rice production in Kura is generally higher than that of Bagwai and Warawa for all farming activities. This is evident with the mean total cost of labour of Kura was ₦370,816 naira, this was followed by Bagwai (₦261,162) and Warawa (₦231,592). The results further shows that farm size (β=12.059; P<0.05) and farm income (β = 4.788; P<0.05) were all positive and significant, and wage rate (β = -2.091; P<0.05) has negative impact. Poor farm wages (labour payments) 92.3% ranked as the highest labour constraint to irrigated rice production in Kano state. Therefore, in order to sustain irrigated rice production in Kano state, the State government should therefore subsidize the price of farm inputs to enable farmers to increase their farm size for large scale production.