African Journal of Social and Behavioural Sciences

IMPACT OF REMOTE WORK MODELS ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE IN MANUFACTURING FIRMS IN SOUTH- EAST NIGERIA

2026-07-13T14:32:09+00:00

The adoption of remote and hybrid work arrangements has altered how organisations
manage labour and measure output. Yet evidence from manufacturing settings in sub-Saharan
Africa remains thin, and the South-East Nigerian context is almost entirely unexplored in the peer-
reviewed literature. This study examines how remote work models affect employee performance in
manufacturing firms across the five states of South-East Nigeria: Anambra, Enugu, Abia, Imo, and
Ebonyi. Four specific objectives guided the inquiry: to assess the effect of hybrid models on
employee productivity; to determine the relationship between remote work autonomy and task
performance; to evaluate the influence of technological infrastructure on remote work
effectiveness; and to examine the effect of remote arrangements on operational efficiency. A cross-
sectional survey design was employed, with data collected from 312 employees across selected
firms using a structured questionnaire and supplementary organisational performance records. Data
were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlation, and multiple
regression analysis. Findings indicate that hybrid models significantly predicted administrative
productivity (β = .37, p < .001), that autonomy was positively correlated with task performance (r
= .62, p < .01), and that technological infrastructure was the strongest single predictor of remote
work effectiveness (β = .41, p < .001). Production-line efficiency gains were statistically negligible,
suggesting that the benefits of remote arrangements in manufacturing may be confined to non-
production functions. The paper argues for context-sensitive implementation strategies and prior
investment in digital infrastructure as conditions for any meaningful productivity gain in this sector.

THE ROLES OF GLASS CEILING BELIEFS AND ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENT ON SOCIAL LOAFING AMONG FEMALE EMPLOYEES

2026-07-13T14:56:10+00:00

Perception of obstacles to career advancement and psychological attachment to the
organization are employee attitudes that may influence negative discretionary work behaviour. This
present study aims to examine the contributions of perceived glass ceiling and organizational
commitment to workplace social loafing. Designed as a cross-sectional quantitative research, 271
female employees purposively selected from structured work organizations were surveyed. They
completed a self-report paper-and-pencil questionnaire that measured validated scales of glass
ceiling beliefs, organizational commitment, and social loafing. The research instrument was
completed anonymously by the participants. High level of coefficient alpha that ranged from α =
.78 to α = .85 was reported for the scales. Data were analyzed using bivariate correlation and
hierarchical regression tests. Results showed that the correlation coefficient between glass ceiling
beliefs (r = .33, p< .01), organizational commitment (r = .49, p < .01) and social loafing,
respectively, is positive and significant. Hierarchical regression analysis indicated that glass ceiling
beliefs significantly and positively predicted social loafing (β = .33, p < .01), accounting for 10%
of the variance in social loafing. Organizational commitment is positively related to social loafing
(β = .44, p < .01), and contributed 11% variance in social loafing. The study concluded that a
perceived high glass ceiling is associated with increased social loafing among female employees
who reported a higher level of organizational commitment.

BRAND AUTHENTICITY AND CUSTOMER LOYALTY IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY IN EDO STATE, NIGERIA

2026-07-13T15:11:25+00:00

This study investigates the relationship between components of brand authenticity
and customer loyalty within the hospitality industry in Edo State, Nigeria. Adopting a cross-
sectional survey research design, data were collected from a sample of 138 hotel customers selected
from a population of 210 using the Taro Yamane formula and simple random sampling. A
structured questionnaire was used to gather data measured on a five-point Likert scale. It was
validated for content and face validity and tested for reliability using the test-retest method. Data
were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analysis. The findings
revealed that brand message consistency (β = 0.165, p = 0.008), perceived customer value (β =
0.282, p = 0.000), brand transparency (β = 0.394, p = 0.000), and brand experience (β = 0.162, p =
0.040) all have significant positive effects on customer loyalty. The study concludes that brand
authenticity is a critical driver of customer loyalty in the hospitality sector. It recommends that hotel
operators should focus on consistent brand messaging, delivering customer value, enhancing
transparency, and improving customer experiences to build lasting customer relationships and
sustain competitive advantage.

IMPACT OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE ON CHILDREN WITHIN INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS HOST COMMUNITIES: A MIXED-METHODS STUDY IN MAIDUGURI METROPOLIS, NIGERIA

2026-07-13T15:17:15+00:00

Child sexual abuse (CSA) has severe and lasting impacts on victims, particularly
among vulnerable populations such as children in internally displaced persons (IDPs) communities.
This study examined the multidimensional impacts of CSA on children within IDP host
communities in Maiduguri Metropolis, Borno State, Nigeria. A mixed-methods design combining
quantitative surveys (N=331) and qualitative Key Informant Interviews (N=15) was employed.
Structured questionnaires assessed psychological, health, and social impacts of CSA. Descriptive
statistics and correlational analyses were used to identify associated impact factors, while thematic
analysis explored qualitative narratives. The study identified significant psychological impacts
including depression and sleep disturbance (36.6%), shame and stigma (26.3%), disappointment
and frustration (22.7%), fear and anxiety (10.0%), and anger (4.5%). Health impacts included
HIV/STD (29.3%), emotional disturbance (27.8%), infertility (22.7%), and mental instability
(20.2%). Social impacts comprised stigmatization (36.6%), low self-esteem (26.3%), alcohol
consumption (22.7%), drug consumption (10.0%), and interpersonal relationship difficulties
(4.5%). A descriptive correlational analysis revealed that most identified consequences showed
significant associations with overall CSA impact severity (p < 0.05), though depression approached
but did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.076). The model accounted for 67% of the variance
(R² = 0.67). Child sexual abuse has profound and multifaceted impacts on children in IDP host
communities, affecting psychological well-being, physical health, and social functioning. These
findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive, survivor-centred interventions addressing
the complex sequelae of CSA in displacement contexts.

HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABLE WORKPLACE IN THE ORGANIZED PRIVATE SECTOR: A STUDY OF TONIMAS NIGERIA LIMITED, ABA, ABIA STATE, 2020-2025

2026-07-13T15:28:56+00:00

This study examined the impact of human resource development on a sustainable
workplace in the organized private sector, using Tonimas Nigeria Limited, Aba, Abia State as a
focal point. The study sought to determine the impacts of employees’ training and development,
well-being, and performance management practices on a sustainable workplace in the company. A
survey research design was adopted. Using the “Taro Yamane formula,” 92 respondents were
randomly selected as the sample size out of 119 staff of Tonimas Nigeria Limited, Aba. A simple
random sampling procedure was used: every member had an equal chance of being selected by
lottery. An instrument titled Human Resource Development and Sustainable Workplace
Questionnaire (HRDSWQ) structured in a Four-point Likert format, with a reliability coefficient of
0.80 obtained using Cronbach’s Alpha, was administered for data collection. The data collected
were analyzed using percentages, mean, and the hypotheses were tested with Chi-square (x2). The
study is anchored in Resource-Based View Theory. It was revealed that employees’ training and
development, well-being, and performance management practices could enhance a sustainable
workplace in the company. It was recommended that the personnel officers should prioritize human
resource development indicators such as employees’ training and development, employees’
engagement and well-being, as well as employees’ performance management strategies, which are
capable of creating an attractive and sustainable workplace practice for organic productivity in
Tonimas Nigeria Limited, Aba, Abia State.

ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORDS AND HEALTHCARE QUALITY IN NIGERIA: A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF BENEFITS, CHALLENGES, AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS

2026-07-13T15:37:27+00:00

Electronic Health Records (EHRs) have become central to contemporary healthcare
reform because they improve the storage, retrieval, sharing, and use of patient information. In
Nigeria, where healthcare delivery is frequently constrained by weak infrastructure, fragmented
records, limited workforce capacity, and uneven data quality, EHRs offer significant opportunities
for improving clinical decision-making, patient safety, care coordination, and health system
planning. This paper adopts a narrative review method to examine the role of EHRs in improving
healthcare quality in Nigeria. Although relevant scholarly literature and policy-oriented sources on
EHR adoption, digital health, health information systems, and healthcare quality were reviewed and
thematically synthesized. The review shows that EHRs can enhance healthcare quality by
improving access to patient records, reducing documentation errors, supporting continuity of care,
strengthening health data management, and enabling evidence-informed policy decisions.
However, the effective adoption of EHRs in Nigeria remains limited by inadequate digital
infrastructure, high implementation costs, poor interoperability, insufficient training, data security
concerns, and resistance to technological change among healthcare workers. Using the socio-
technical approach as its theoretical lens, the paper argues that successful EHR implementation
requires more than technological investment; it also demands attention to users, institutions,
workflows, policy frameworks, and organizational culture. The paper concludes that EHRs can
significantly improve healthcare quality in Nigeria if implementation is supported by sustainable
funding, workforce training, interoperability standards, cybersecurity safeguards, and context-
sensitive digital health policies.

TOWARDS AI-DRIVEN GEOSPATIAL EDUCATION: A CURRICULUM REFORM FRAMEWORK FOR GEOMATICS PROGRAMS IN TRANSITION ECONOMIES.

2026-07-13T15:42:16+00:00

Geomatics Education in transition economies faces a dual challenge: maintaining
foundational skills in Surveying and Mapping while integrating disruptive technologies such as
artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and smart geospatial systems. As global industries
increasingly rely on AI-driven geospatial intelligence for urban planning, environmental
monitoring, disaster management, and sustainable development, geomatics programs must undergo
curriculum reform to remain relevant and effective. This paper proposes a curriculum reform
framework that embeds AI literacy, geospatial data science, and interdisciplinary collaboration into
traditional geomatics education. The framework rests on three pillars: integrating AI tools and
methods into core courses, encouraging partnerships between academia, industry, and government
to ensure applied relevance, and cultivating ethical and critical thinking to address data governance
and societal impacts. Utilizing a qualitative research design built upon the Context, Descriptor, and
Coherence (CDC) curriculum development model and a thematic analysis of international
initiatives, the framework demonstrates how transition economies can leapfrog developmental
barriers and produce graduates capable of harnessing AI-driven geospatial systems for evidence-
based decision-making. By situating geomatics education within the broader context of digital
transformation, the study positions these programs as catalysts for innovation, resilience, and
sustainable growth. Graduates trained under this model are prepared to meet the challenges of a
rapidly evolving geospatial landscape while upholding ethical standards and contributing to socially
inclusive, sustainable development.

COMMUNICATION APPROACHES FOR PROMOTING SCHOOL ENROLMENT IN RURAL COMMUNITIES: A STUDY OF ASA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

2026-07-13T15:59:23+00:00

In Nigeria, despite government efforts to achieve universal basic education,
enrolment rates in many rural areas remain below national expectations. Communication plays an
important role in influencing educational participation through community engagement,
behavioural change, and social mobilization; however, its effectiveness in rural Nigerian contexts
remains insufficiently explored. This study examined communication approaches used to promote
school enrolment in Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria. The study was guided
by the Diffusion of Innovations Theory and Social Mobilization Theory and adopted a sequential
explanatory mixed-methods design. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire
administered to 420 respondents selected using stratified random sampling, of which 384
questionnaires were successfully returned and found usable for analysis. In addition, in-depth
interviews were conducted with purposively selected community stakeholders. Quantitative data
were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and linear regression, while qualitative
data were analysed thematically. The findings showed that interpersonal communication,
particularly through community meetings and opinion leaders, was the most effective strategy for
encouraging school enrolment. In contrast, formal mass media campaigns had limited reach and
influence on parental decisions. The study also identified several barriers to enrolment, including
low parental literacy, economic hardship, cultural preferences for male education, and distrust of
government communication channels. Furthermore, community mobilization involving religious
leaders and traditional rulers significantly influenced enrolment decisions and improved community
participation in educational initiatives. The study concludes by recommending greater reliance on
community-based communication strategies and stakeholder engagement to improve school
enrolment and bridge educational gaps in rural Nigeria.

PERSONALITY TRAITS, ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS, AND SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS AS PREDICTORS OF MENTAL HEALTH OUTCOMES AMONG COUPLES IN IBADAN METROPOLIS, NIGERIA

2026-07-13T16:12:49+00:00

Mental health is a fundamental component of overall well-being, intricately linked
to the quality of life and interpersonal relationships, particularly among married couples. The
significance of mental health transcends individual experiences, as it affects the dynamics of
relationships, communication patterns, and emotional support systems within couples. This study
examined personality traits, environment and socioeconomic status as predictors of mental health
among couples in Ibadan metropolis. The research design is descriptive. Quantitative method of
data collection was adopted. A sample of 215 participants was selected using a simple random
sampling. A questionnaire focusing on demographic variables, personality traits, environmental
stress, socioeconomic status and mental health was administered to the participants. Data were
analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlation and regression analysis
at a 0.05 level of significance. Three hypotheses were tested. The findings of hypothesis one
indicated that there was a statistically significant positive correlation between personality traits and
mental health, r = 0.34, p = 0.000. Test of hypothesis two indicated there was a statistically
significant positive correlation between environmental factors and mental health, r = .32, p < .001.
Test of hypothesis three indicated that the combination of personality traits, environmental factors,
and socioeconomic status significantly predicts mental health outcomes (F(3, 211) = 140.26, p <
.001, with R² = 0.67). The practical implication of this finding is that the favourable environmental
factors and socio-economic factors are associated with improved mental health outcomes among
married couples when compared to their counterparts. The study recommended that couples should
engage in open and honest communication to address challenges related to personality differences,
environmental stressors, and socioeconomic pressures, as this will foster emotional closeness and
improve mental health outcomes. Couples should work together to build a nurturing and stable
home environment free from conflict and excessive stress, as a positive environment has been
shown to significantly improve the mental wellbeing of married partners. Couples facing persistent
challenges related to personality clashes or environmental and financial pressures should seek
professional help through marital counseling or therapy to gain coping strategies and strengthen
their relationship. Finally, since socioeconomic status influences mental health, couples should
engage in joint financial planning, budgeting, and goal-setting to reduce stress caused by economic
instability and improve their overall quality of life.

EFFECT OF TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF FEDERAL ROAD SAFETY CORPS, ABUJA

2026-07-13T16:16:11+00:00

The ever-improving global competition and increasing requests for more qualified
products by customers have caused organisations to understand that the only way to survive in the
market is to deliver better quality products to meet customers’ needs. Therefore, the study examined
the effect of total quality management on the performance of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Abuja.
The study adopted a descriptive research design, using survey method. The entire population of 594
officers and men of the Abuja Federal Road Safety Corps were used for the study. The data was
collected using a questionnaire and was analysed using correlation and regression techniques. The
results of the analysis revealed that TQM has a significant and positive effect on the performance
of FRSC, Abuja. Specifically, TQM components such as top management commitment and
employee involvement showed a significant positive effect on performance. The study therefore
recommended that the FRSC should channel more effort toward getting top management to be
committed to quality and also involve men and officers in the quality process.

AGING WITH DIGNITY: THE ROLE OF SOCIAL WELFARE PROGRAMS IN ENHANCING ELDERLY QUALITY OF LIFE IN IBADAN, OYO STATE, NIGERIA

2026-07-13T16:20:48+00:00

Nigeria’s rapidly aging population presents a formidable challenge to existing social
welfare architecture, particularly within rapidly urbanizing southwestern cities such as Ibadan, Oyo
State. This study examined the role of social welfare programs in enhancing the quality of life of
elderly persons in Ibadan, with specific attention to health care access, social support structures,
and economic security provisions. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 384
elderly respondents aged 60 years and older, selected using a multi-stage stratified random sampling
technique. Four validated instruments were used: the WHOQOL-BREF scale, the Social Support
Survey (SSS), the Economic Security Questionnaire (ESQ), and the Social Welfare Program
Accessibility Scale (SWPAS). Healthcare access significantly predicted quality of life (β = .48, B
= 0.62, p < .001), explaining 41% of variance (R² = .41). Social support showed strong positive
correlations with psychological well-being (r = .53), social relationships (r = .61), and overall
quality of life (r = .59), all p < .001. Economic security was significantly associated with
environmental quality of life (r = .58) and total quality of life (r = .54), p < .001. Quality of life
differed significantly by welfare participation level, F(2,381) = 18.43, p < .001, with means
increasing from low (51.4) to moderate (57.8) to high (65.3), confirming a dose-response effect.
These findings hold critical implications for policy reform, social work intervention, and the
reimagination of elderly care in Nigeria. The study recommends the expansion of the National
Home Care Programme, strengthening of the National Social Investment Programme, and
integration of gerontological social work competencies into professional training curricula.

IMPACT OF HUMAN CAPITAL FLIGHT ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF ABIA STATE UNIVERSITY, UTURU

2026-07-14T10:30:14+00:00

This paper examined the impact of human capital flight on the institutional
development of Abia State University, Uturu. The objective is to find out the causes of human
capital flight, its effects, and the various strategies to reduce it, as well as improve the institutional
development of the University. A survey research design was adopted for the study, utilizing a
mixed-method approach that combined both primary and secondary data collection. The study is
anchored in structural functional theory. The research instrument was tagged “Human Capital
Flight and Institutional Development Survey Questionnaire” (HCFIDSQ), and a reliability
coefficient of 0.80 was obtained. Data collected were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages
and mean. The hypotheses were tested using Pearson’s Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient at
a 0.05 significance level. The findings showed that there was a relationship between the causes of
human capital flight, its effects and the dwindling development in the University, and that the
institution management expressed interest in using the various strategies which could help them to
reduce the rate of brain drain, but could not effectively utilize them. Based on the findings, it was
recommended that the government should regularly organize workshops/seminars to educate the
university management on the need to effectively utilize the various strategies to reduce brain drain,
and create an effective and efficient institutional policy capable of establishing a platform for
entrepreneurship, as well as create opportunities to enhance development in the Abia State
University.

PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS INFLUENCING LEARNING OUTCOMES IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN EDO STATE, NIGERIA

2026-07-14T10:46:50+00:00

This study examined the influence of intrinsic motivation, self-efficacy, teacher-
student relationships, and parental involvement on learning outcomes among secondary school
students in Edo State, Nigeria. A mixed-methods sequential explanatory design was employed. The
quantitative phase involved 500 students selected through multi-stage sampling from 10 public and
private secondary schools across urban and rural areas. Data were collected using the Academic
Motivation Scale, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, the Student–Teacher Relationship Scale, and the
Parental Involvement Scale. Learning outcomes were measured by a composite of self-reported
grades and teacher ratings in English, mathematics, and science. Qualitative data comprised semi-
structured interviews with 20 teachers and 10 administrators, plus classroom observations in five
schools. Pearson correlation and multiple regression analyses showed significant positive
correlations between learning outcomes and intrinsic motivation (r = 0.62), self-efficacy (r = 0.58),
teacher-student relationships (r = 0.50), and parental involvement (r = 0.45). The four factors jointly
explained 36% of the variance in learning outcomes (R² = 0.36, F (4, 495) = 68.42, p < 0.001), with
intrinsic motivation the strongest predictor (β = 0.40). Qualitative findings explained these patterns:
teachers and administrators reported that rural parents were less able to support schoolwork because
of economic pressures and low literacy, while empathetic, feedback-rich teaching strengthened
student confidence and participation. The findings suggest that psychological factors are important
proximal influences on academic performance and that their effects are shaped by rural-urban and
socio-economic context. Recommendations include integrating motivation-enhancing and self-
efficacy-building strategies into teacher professional development, expanding community-based
parental engagement programmes, and deploying school counsellors to under-resourced rural
schools.

MIGRATION AND POPULATION MOVEMENTS IN AFRICA: CAUSES AND DEVELOPMENT IMPLICATIONS

2026-07-14T11:00:39+00:00

Migration and population movements have long characterised human societies,
driven by economic, political, social, and environmental conditions. Although migration can
promote development through remittances, knowledge transfer, and transnational networks, many
African migrants continue to undertake irregular migration under hazardous and exploitative
conditions. This paper examined the major determinants of migration and population mobility in
Africa and their implications for the continent’s development. It argued that migration is largely
shaped by persistent structural inequalities and the socio-economic and political conditions of both
origin and destination countries, which create push and pull factors influencing migration decisions.
South–North migration remains a significant aspect of Africa’s international migration, particularly
among individuals seeking improved employment opportunities, education, and security. The study
adopted a descriptive research design, using a documentary (desk review) approach based
exclusively on secondary data. Data are drawn from peer-reviewed journal articles, government
publications, institutional reports, and datasets from reputable organisations, including the
International Organisation for Migration, the United Nations, the United Nations Department of
Economic and Social Affairs, the African Union, the World Bank, and the African Development
Bank. These sources provide credible evidence for analysing the drivers, patterns, and development
implications of migration across Africa. The paper concludes that addressing the root causes of
migration requires comprehensive political, economic, and institutional reforms aimed at reducing
structural inequalities, expanding employment opportunities, strengthening governance, and
promoting inclusive and sustainable development across the continent.

THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN ALEXITHYMIA, SOCIAL SUPPORT AND QUALITY OF LIFE OF HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS IN OWERRI MUNICIPALITY, IMO STATE

2026-07-14T11:16:04+00:00

This study investigated the association between Alexithymia, Social Support and
Quality of Life of Hypertensive Patients in Owerri Municipality, Imo State. The study utilized a
cross-sectional survey design. The participants responded to self-report measures, such as the
Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) developed by Bagby, Parker and Taylor (1994); The WHO
quality of life (WHOQOL-BRIEF) questionnaire and the Multidimensional Perceived Social
Support Scale (MPSSS) developed by Zimet, Dahlem, Zimet and Farley (1988). Two (2)
hypotheses were postulated and tested. Three hundred and two (302) participants were drawn from
different private hospitals in Imo State, using both purposive and convenience sampling techniques.
The participants’ ages range between 35 and 74 years. The study used descriptive statistics and
Hierarchical Multiple Regression to analyze the data. The results showed that social support (β =
.24, t = 4.487, p < .01) significantly predicts the quality of life of hypertensive patients in Owerri
Municipality. On the other hand, alexithymia (β = .40, t = -7.446, p < .01) negatively and
significantly predicts the quality of life of hypertensive patients in Imo State. The study’s findings
contribute significantly to the understanding of how social support and alexithymia intricately shape
the quality of life of hypertensive patients in Imo State. The researcher recommends, thus, that
clinical psychologists be posted to every healthcare facility for the well-being of hypertensive
patients and others who may need their services.

THE CAUSAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ECONOMIC SERVICES EXPENDITURE AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN NIGERIA

2026-07-14T13:30:36+00:00

Numerous studies have examined the causal relationship between economic services
expenditure and economic growth, but it is difficult to say for sure if the direction of causality is
beneficial for economic growth. This study is crucial because prior empirical findings' conclusions
have not been universally accepted. The aim of this study, therefore, is to investigate the causal
relationship between economic services expenditure and the growth of the Nigerian economy for
the period of 1981 to 2022. The study applied VECM, ADF and the Granger causality test using
secondary data sourced from the CBN statistical bulletin. The study found that the components of
economic services expenditure and the rate of economic growth in Nigeria have long-term
correlations, and there is a causal relationship between economic services expenditure and the
growth of the Nigerian economy in line with Keynesian theory. The study therefore recommends
that the government increase its spending on roads and construction, transport and communication,
and the federal government's extra-budgetary allocation to stimulate economic growth. Also, a high
degree of transparency and accountability on government spending becomes a prerequisite in all
sectors of the economy in order to prevent mismanagement or misappropriation of funds.

RETHINKING MEASUREMENT IN EDUCATION: A CRITICAL EXAMINATION OF PROPERTIES IN EDUCATIONAL SCALES

2026-07-14T13:38:52+00:00

Educational measurement is essential to teaching, learning, assessment, curriculum
evaluation, and educational decision-making. As educational systems increasingly rely on
quantitative evidence to guide policy and practice, concerns have emerged regarding the quality
and psychometric adequacy of educational scales used to measure latent constructs such as
achievement, depression, locus of control, motivation, self-efficacy, engagement, attitude, and
learning outcomes. Traditional approaches to measurement often emphasize score generation while
overlooking critical scale properties that determine the trustworthiness and interpretability of
results. This position paper advocates a rethinking of educational measurement with a stronger
emphasis on validity, reliability, factor structure, measurement invariance, fairness, and
technological responsiveness. The paper argues that educational scales should be evaluated not
merely by their ability to produce scores but by the extent to which those scores accurately,
consistently, and equitably represent the intended constructs. Implications for educational research,
assessment practices, and curriculum evaluation are discussed.

WORK WITHOUT PROTECTIONS: THE SOCIAL DIMENSIONS OF EXPLOITATION AND PRODUCTIVITY IN NIGERIA’S INFORMAL ECONOMY

2026-07-14T13:46:43+00:00

Nigeria’s informal sector plays a vital role in sustaining livelihoods, providing
employment for a large share of the population and contributing significantly to everyday economic
survival. Yet, behind this importance lies a reality shaped by insecurity, weak protections, and
difficult working conditions. Many informal workers operate without stable contracts, social
security, or safe work environments, and these challenges often limit how productive they can be.
This study adopts a qualitative documentary research design, relying on secondary data drawn from
scholarly literature, policy documents, and institutional reports to examine how labour insecurity
influences productivity in Nigeria’s informal economy. Using Marxist Labour Theory as a guiding
lens, it explains that issues such as low wages, job insecurity, lack of social protection, and unsafe
workplaces are not random problems but part of a broader system that places workers in vulnerable
positions. As a result, many workers struggle not because they are unwilling or unskilled, but
because the conditions of their work reduce their capacity to perform effectively. The paper argues
that improving productivity in the informal sector requires more than short-term or technical
solutions. It calls for deeper reforms that prioritize fairness, protection, and inclusion in labour
relations. In particular, it recommends expanding social protection coverage to informal workers
through schemes such as the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), alongside simpler
pathways for gradual formalization. Ultimately, the study highlights the need to recognize informal
workers as essential contributors to Nigeria’s economy who deserve dignity, protection, and
support.

AN ASSESSMENT OF THE ROLE OF MASS MEDIA DURING THE PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC PARTY RULE IN NIGERIA (1999-2015)

2026-07-14T13:56:05+00:00

Nigeria’s media landscape shifted significantly when democratic rule was restored
in 1999, ending years of military control. This study examines the role of the mass media in
Nigeria’s democratic consolidation during the People’s Democratic Party’s 16-year rule, from 29
May 1999 to 29 May 2015. It tests the liberal democratic claim that expanded press freedom
automatically strengthens accountability. Using desk research and content analysis of laws, NBC
data, academic literature, and NGO reports, the paper applies Agenda-Setting Theory, Social
Responsibility Theory, and Political Economy of the Media to assess media performance. Findings
reveal that legal-institutional reforms were substantial: Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution restored
free expression, the NBC licensed 147 private radio and TV stations, and the 2011 Freedom of
Information Act gave journalists statutory access to records. Digital platforms after 2010 further
broadened public debate, with #OccupyNigeria and #BringBackOurGirls illustrating citizen-led
agenda-setting. Media exposure of corruption rose by 40% between 2011 and 2014. Yet watchdog
outcomes were limited. Of 312 major corruption cases reported from 1999–2015, only 7.7% ended
in conviction. Political economy constraints persisted: 11 of 15 national dailies had links to political
financiers; 60–70% of newspaper revenue came from government advertising; the NBC issued 147
fines and 12 closures, 81% targeting political content; and 74% of journalists earned below N50,000
monthly, entrenching brown envelope practice. The study concludes that Nigeria experienced
“liberalization without independence.” The media gained agenda-setting power and could mobilize
against policies like the Third Term bid, but could not ensure sanctions. The paper recommends
media funding reform, narrower NBC powers, stronger FOI enforcement, journalist welfare
standards, and institutional synergy between media and anti-graft bodies.

SACRED SOUNDSCAPES AND RELIGIOUS PEDAGOGY: REFRAMING CHURCH MUSIC AS A FOUNDATION FOR MUSIC EDUCATION AND PRACTICE IN NIGERIA

2026-07-14T14:12:23+00:00

This article discusses church music as having played a major role in giving members
opportunities to come in contact with music thereby laying a foundation for formal music education.
It therefore reconceptualized church music in Nigeria as a religious pedagogical system (RPS) and
not just a liturgical devotional and aesthetic practice. Forty articles were selected and analyzed.
This analysis combines literature on Nigerian church music, gospel music, Pentecostal worship,
hymnody, inculturation, decolonial music education, choir training, informal learning and religious
education. It creates the Sacred Soundscape Pedagogy Model, which outlines the five interrelated
ways in which church music impacts music education, namely, liturgical participation, informal
apprenticeship, doctrinal-musical memory, cultural translation and performative formation. The
article argues that the churches in Nigeria function as informal conservatoires where singers,
instrumentalists, conductors, composers and worship leaders are trained through the process of
participation, imitation, repetition, correction and public performance. Alongside this, it also
reveals that there are tensions related to the teaching of church music: the dominance of Western
music, the lack of a robust curriculum framework, commercialisation, lack of theological depth,
generational gap and lack of documentation of indigenous Christian sound. The article makes a
contribution to the fields of music education, African Christianity, religious pedagogy and
ethnomusicology by suggesting that the future of Nigerian music education cannot be oblivious to
the sacred soundscapes in which many musicians are first exposed to music, learn their craft, and
imagine music. It concludes from the articles analyzed that Nigerian church music historically and
presently serves as a significant musical learning ground, religious formation, cultural negotiation
and professional practice.

RESTRUCTURING NIGERIA INTO A ONE-PARTY STATE: ASSESSMENT OF THE FOURTH REPUBLIC

2026-07-14T14:15:23+00:00

The rate of pulling opposition political parties into the orbit of the party in control
of the centre by the (ruling party) federal power towards a one-party system has continued to raise
dangerous alarms and unanswered questions relating to Nigeria’s cultural and political diversity
and the future of the country’s multi-party democracy. In our attempt to address this phenomenon,
secondary sources of data were largely used while the descriptive method of data analysis was
adopted. The study anchors on Marxist theory of post-colonial state to postulate that pulling
opposition figures into the orbit of the party in control of the centre by the federal power to
guarantee diminished opposition representation is attributable to the character of Nigeria as a
postcolonial state. The study therefore concludes with recommendation that restructuring the
economy along socialist line (socialist transformation) is the ultimate measure against related
problems of postcolonial state Socialist method would enhance decentralization of power and as
well power distribution among multiple political parties suitable for Nigeria’s pluralistic nature.
Again, two- party system should be alternatively adopted for Nigeria in accordance with the
recommendation of 1988 political Bureau Report to strengthen democratic consolidation and
electoral stability.

EFFECT OF FIRM CHARACTERISTICS ON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF LISTED INDUSTRIAL FIRMS IN NIGERIA

2026-07-14T14:21:42+00:00

This study examined the effect of firm characteristics on the financial performance
of listed industrial firms in Nigeria, covering a ten-year period from 2015 to 2024. The study
specifically investigated the influence of firm size, firm age, and leverage on financial performance,
measured by return on assets (ROA). The population comprised all industrial firms listed on the
Nigerian Exchange Group, while a purposive sampling technique was employed to select five firms:
Berger Paints Plc, Beta Cement Plc, Dangote Cement Plc, Lafarge Africa Plc, and Premier Paints
Plc. Secondary data were obtained from the annual reports of the sampled firms, and an ex-post
facto research design was adopted. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics and
Pooled Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression technique. The results revealed that firm size has
a positive but statistically insignificant effect on ROA, while firm age and leverage have statistically
significant negative effects on ROA. The study concluded that although larger firm size may
enhance performance, excessive firm age and high leverage levels tend to reduce profitability. It
was recommended that industrial firms adopt efficient capital structure management practices and
maintain operational flexibility to sustain financial performance over time.

EFFECT OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY ON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF LISTED OIL AND GAS FIRMS IN NIGERIA

2026-07-14T14:27:00+00:00

This study investigated the effect of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) on the
financial performance of listed oil and gas firms in Nigeria from 2014 to 2023. Specifically, it
examined how funds allocated to human training, health and education; infrastructure and
development; and associations affect the net profit margin of these firms. The population of the
study comprised nine listed oil and gas firms in Nigeria. Employing an Ex-Post Factor research
design, the study used secondary data extracted from audited annual reports of five selected oil and
gas companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX). The data were analyzed using
descriptive statistics and ordinary least squares (OLS) regression with E-Views 11 software. The
findings are: Funds for human training, health, and education have a positive but non-significant
effect on Net Profit Margin of listed oil and gas firms in Nigeria (β = 0.00000008; p = 0.2027);
Funds for infrastructure and development have a positive and significant effect on Net Profit Margin
of listed oil and gas firms in Nigeria (β = 0.00000009; p = 0.0001); Funds for associations have a
positive but non-significant effect on Net Profit Margin of listed oil and gas firms in Nigeria (β =
0.00000002; p = 0.5319).In conclusion, CSR spending alone does not automatically translate into
enhanced profitability; rather, the economic effect of CSR appears to depend on the nature of the
investment and perhaps the visibility, scale, or strategic alignment of those activities with core
business goals. The study recommends that Executive Management should increase funding
allocations to infrastructure and development projects, especially those that serve both community
and operational needs (e.g., roads, energy access, water). These investments should be scaled and
strategically aligned with business operations to enhance both community goodwill and
profitability.