African Journal of Social and Behavioural Sciences

THE SINO–US TRADE WAR AND GLOBAL ECONOMIC DISRUPTIONS: A NEO-MERCANTILIST ANALYSIS (2018–2023)

Christopher Chukwu Arua — 2026-03-25

Sino-US trade relations are a cornerstone of global economic dynamics, but in recent
years, they have been marked by escalating tensions, resulting in what is now known as the ‘trade
war.” This paper explores the ideological underpinnings and global economic consequences of the
Sino-US trade war. It also highlights the broader implications of trade wars in the context of global
crises, such as economic slowdowns, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical shifts. It adopts a
qualitative design, relying on secondary sources of data. By reviewing the economic theory “neo-
mercantilist theory” behind trade wars and analysing real-world data, this paper provides a
comprehensive understanding of the trade conflict and its role in shaping global economic crisis.
The study identified the following key findings: firstly, the increasing trade deficit of the United
States, coupled with China’s military expansion, was a primary driver of the US-China trade
conflict. Secondly, this trade war precipitated significant crises across global economic, financial,
market, and trade sectors. Against the backdrop, it recommends first, the need for US and China to
engage in sustained diplomatic negotiations to help de-escalate tensions, address trade imbalances,
and create frameworks for fairer global trade practices, thereby mitigating future risks of conflict;
Second, the necessity for businesses and nations to diversify their supply chains, thereby reducing
dependency on single markets, especially in high-risk areas.

REMOTE WARFARE AND FRAGILE ACCOUNTABILITY: ETHICAL AND LEGAL CHALLENGES IN NIGERIA’S DRONE COUNTERTERRORISM OPERATIONS

Chiedozie P. Nwosu — 2026-03-25

In recent times, global counterterrorism efforts and strategies have been reshaped by
drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The security architecture of Nigeria
has witnessed a significant shift owing to the deployment and use of drones in the present fight
against Boko Haram insurgents. Understandably, the use of drones reduces risks associated with
military personnel, accentuates precision strikes and enhances surveillance; their usage, however,
is associated with some complex ethical concerns. This paper critically examines the ethical
concerns surrounding Nigeria’s drone usage and operations, focusing on accountability and
transparency, civilian protection and adherence to International Humanitarian Law (IHL); and the
broader implications of remote warfare for state legitimacy. The research design of this study is a
qualitative, doctrinal, and normative research design, and the theoretical base is anchored on the
Just War Theory, International Humanitarian Law, and Moral Responsibility in Human–AI Drone
Warfare. The study examines operational and normative challenges associated with drone warfare
and concludes that, despite the tactical advantages of Nigeria’s drone programme, it is imbued with
intelligence limitations, a lack of adequate regulations and ineffective accountability mechanisms.
The paper recommends clearer legal frameworks, institutional restructuring and more transparency,
which suggests that institutional reforms, clearer legal frameworks, and greater transparency are
vital towards ensuring that drone deployment aligns with International Humanitarian Law, global
normative standards and offers adequate protection to civilian populations.

ROUTINE ACTIVITIES AND BURGLARY IN STUDENTS' OFF- CAMPUS SETTLEMENTS AT THE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY WUKARI, TARABA STATE

Abubakar Ahmadu — 2026-03-25

Over time, students in Nigeria's tertiary institutions have resorted to off-campus
accommodation due to limited on-campus hostel accommodation. Off-campus settlements are a
mosaic, housing students from various ethnic, religious and social groups, thereby creating fertile
ground for heightened routine activities that predispose students to burglary. This study explored
gaps in existing research by focusing on students' routine activities, their patterns, and their overall
implications for burglary. Using the broken windows theory and routine activity theory, the study
examined the variables that account for students' exposure to burglars. The survey design was
adopted given its effectiveness in collecting data from a sample of the population for generalisation.
Cochran's sample size formula was used to select 131 students from a sample frame. A multistage
sampling technique screened students across clusters of settlements, using a systematic approach
to have students complete a closed-ended questionnaire in their homes. Frequencies, percentages,
mean and standard deviation were used for descriptive analysis. Students' nighttime activities were
found to be the most strongly associated with burglary. Additionally, most burglaries occurred
during holidays, although there were troubling cases in which students went out for studies and
other engagements at night, including attending lectures in broad daylight. Accessories such as
laptops, radios, and televisions were the most frequently stolen items during the holidays. The
multiple linear regression results showed F [(2, 117) =6.419, P=0.002], suggesting a significant
effect of the pattern of routine activities on burglary. Also, the Pearson correlation results revealed
a significant overall relationship between students’ routine activities and burgled items. The study
recommends, among other measures, that university management and landlords work together to
ensure security, with landlords recruiting security guards and the University security unit
monitoring off-campus settlements.

INFORMAL INDUCEMENT PRACTICES AND PUBLIC SERVICE EFFICIENCY: A PRINCIPAL–AGENT ANALYSIS OF THE ‘10% SYNDROME’ IN THE IMO STATE CIVIL SERVICE

Chiemeka Onyema — 2026-03-25

This study investigated informal inducement practices (commonly referred to as the
“10% syndrome”) and their impact on service delivery efficiency within selected ministries at the
Imo State Secretariat Complex, Owerri, focusing on the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure and
the Ministry of Lands, Survey and Physical Planning. Specifically, the study examined the effect
of informal inducement demands on service turnaround time, assessed the relationship between
rent-seeking behaviour and service quality, and determined the influence of bureaucratic
bottlenecks on service accessibility. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were
collected from 207 civil servants using a structured four-point Likert-scale questionnaire. Data were
analysed using mean scores, standard deviations, and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation.
Findings revealed that informal inducements significantly delay service turnaround time, rent-
seeking behaviour undermines service quality, and bureaucratic bottlenecks restrict public access
to services. Hypothesis testing confirmed significant positive relationships among the key variables.
The study concludes that informal payment practices, rent-seeking, and procedural inefficiencies
collectively weaken civil service performance in Imo State. By empirically linking everyday
corruption practices to measurable service delivery outcomes, the study contributes to ongoing
debates on public sector efficiency and anti-corruption reforms in subnational governance.
Recommendations include stricter monitoring of informal payments, ethical reorientation of civil
servants, process simplification, and digitalisation of approval systems.

WORKPLACE CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEE RETENTION: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF COCA-COLA NIGERIA LTD

Adebayo Samson Odebode — 2026-03-25

Studies on conflict management strategies have gained greater attention in recent
times and have been shown to be a key factor in retaining employees. The study investigated
conflict management strategies and employees’ retention in Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd. The specific
objectives were to determine the influence of collaboration strategy on employees’ retention and to
examine the influence of confrontation strategy on employees’ retention. The descriptive survey
research design was adopted for the study. A total population of five hundred and eighty-one (581)
serves the study population. Two hundred and thirty-seven (237) respondents were selected using
Taro Yamane's formula for sample size determination; the study employed a simple random sample
technique, data were collected using a structured questionnaire, and were analysed using descriptive
and inferential statistics. Linear regression analysis was employed to test the stated hypotheses. All
the research hypotheses were tested at a 0.05 alpha level. The findings of the study revealed that
collaboration strategy significantly influenced employee retention (F(1,226) = 74.150, p < .000),
and that confrontation strategy significantly influenced employee retention (F(1,226) = 177.385, p
< .000). It was concluded that there was a significant and positive influence of conflict management
strategies on employees’ retention in Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd. The study therefore recommends that
the organisation should take into consideration conflict resolution strategies because it has a
significant influence on employees’ retention

AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF INFORMAL GROUP MEMBERSHIP AND ITS PERCEIVED BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES AMONG PRIVATE SCHOOL TEACHERS IN UYO METROPOLIS

Moses T. Imbur — 2026-03-25

This study examined private school teachers’ perceptions of the benefits and
challenges associated with informal group membership in Uyo Metropolis. Informal groups—
spontaneous, unofficial associations that emerge from personal relationships, shared interests, or
professional needs—play a significant role in shaping workplace dynamics within schools, yet they
are often overlooked in educational research. Anchored on Social Exchange Theory, Group
Dynamics Theory, and Systems Theory, the study adopted a mixed-methods exploratory design.
The population comprised private school teachers in Uyo Metropolis, from which a purposive-
random sample of 120 respondents was drawn across 10 private schools. Data were collected using
a structured questionnaire (quantitative) and semi-structured interviews and focus group
discussions (qualitative). Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while
qualitative responses were examined through thematic analysis. The findings revealed that teachers
perceive informal groups as beneficial for emotional support, professional advice, stress reduction,
and fostering a sense of belonging. These groups also facilitated collaboration in instructional
practices, serving as informal professional learning communities. However, the study also
identified notable challenges, including favouritism, exclusion, interpersonal conflict, gossip, and
occasional undermining of school authority. These dual outcomes suggest that while informal
groups positively impact teacher morale and collaboration, they can simultaneously create
managerial and organisational challenges. The study concludes that informal groups are integral
yet complex components of school life. It recommends that school administrators recognise and
engage with these groups constructively, promoting inclusivity, encouraging their professional
potential, and mitigating their negative tendencies. Policymakers and education stakeholders are
urged to strengthen teacher welfare and capacity-building programs to balance the influence of
informal networks. The study contributes to the limited body of knowledge on teacher workplace
dynamics in Nigeria and provides a foundation for further comparative and longitudinal studies.

MANPOWER PLANNING PRACTICES AND ORGANISATIONAL GROWTH: EVIDENCE FROM MTN NIGERIA, OWERRI

Chiamaka Euphemia Onyewuenyi — 2026-03-25

This study examined the influence of manpower planning practices on
organisational growth using MTN Nigeria, Owerri, as a case study. The research focused on four
dimensions of manpower planning: manpower forecasting, recruitment planning, development
planning, and succession planning. The study was anchored on Human Capital Theory. A
correlational survey design was adopted, and data were collected from 122 employees using two
structured questionnaires—the Manpower Planning Practices Questionnaire (MPPQ) and the
Organisational Growth Questionnaire (OGQ). Pearson correlation and simple linear regression
were used for analysis at a 0.05 significance level. The findings revealed that manpower forecasting
and development planning had strong positive relationships with organisational growth, while
recruitment planning and succession planning showed moderate positive effects. The study
concludes that effective workforce planning enhances organisational productivity and
sustainability. It recommends that organisations strengthen workforce forecasting, structured
recruitment, employee development, and leadership succession strategies.

THE EFFECTS OF CYBERCRIME ON NIGERIA’S NATIONAL SECURITY: EVIDENCE FROM GOMBE STATE, NORTH- EASTERN NIGERIA

Usman Ahmed — 2026-03-25

Cybercrime encompasses a wide range of illegal activities, including online fraud,
identity theft, hacking, cyber espionage, misinformation and cyber-attacks against individuals,
businesses, and government institutions. The challenges posed by cybercrime to Nigeria’s national
security are indeed worrisome and thus call for concerted efforts of the major stakeholders across
the government agencies. The menace is so obvious that it enormously affects Nigeria’s national
security. The study adopts a qualitative research method utilising both primary and secondary
sources of data. The primary data were obtained through key informant interviews with fourteen
(14) persons purposively selected from relevant agencies and institutions involved in cybercrime
and national security. The documentary analysis was equally utilized to augment data obtained from
the key informant interview in order to ascertain the validity and reliability of the data collected.
The secondary data consist of books, journals, and internet sources. Digital Ecosystem
Vulnerability Theory was utilized as a theoretical framework. The study findings reveal that
cybercrime is increasing rapidly in Nigeria undetected, affecting its critical national infrastructure,
causing prolonged terrorism, and affecting national security. The study recommends that raising
public awareness about cyber security risks and best practices ensuring adequate funding for cyber
security initiatives, fostering robust partnerships between the government, private sector, and civil
society organizations and by uniting these sectors, Nigeria can build a more resilient and secure
digital environment that not only protects the country's digital assets but also lays solid foundation
for a safer digital future.

IMPACT OF REMOTE WORK ON EMPLOYEES' JOB SATISFACTION IN SOME SELECTED REMOTE COMPANIES IN NIGERIA

Charles Chinedu Nnadozie — 2026-03-25

The survey was conducted to assess the impact of remote work on job satisfaction.
Given the importance of flexibility and technology in remote work, the study examines whether
technology use increases employee stress and whether employees' time management and work
policies affect work-life balance in remote work companies in Nigeria. Primary and secondary
sources of data where use to collect information for this study. A questionnaire was used to elicit
information from 323 respondents who constitute the sample for this study. The data were analysed
using the Chi-Square test to test the hypotheses formulated for the study. The findings revealed that
poor technological support increases employee stress levels and that work policies affect employee
autonomy. The study recommended that remote companies should provide their employees with
effective technological tools to enable them to carry out their duties without stress, and formulate
more favourable work policies that would enable employees to enjoy greater autonomy.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND THE QUALITY OF FIRM PERFORMANCE: EVIDENCE FROM LISTED NON-FINANCIAL FIRMS IN NIGERIA (2015–2024)

Jacob Martin Sigah — 2026-03-25

The study examined Corporate Governance and the Quality of Firm Performance:
Evidence from Listed Non-Financial Firms in Nigeria (2015–2024). Corporate governance remains
particularly relevant in emerging economies such as Nigeria. The business environment faced by
Nigerian companies can be characterised by a weak institutional setting, including weak regulation
enforcement, concentrated ownership, information asymmetry, and dynamic capital markets. The
research design used in this study is ex post facto, which is suitable for testing relationships between
variables based on historical data without controlling the study environment. The research
population includes all non-financial companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) as
of 31 December 2024. The study used the purposive sampling Technique. The study used secondary
data derived from various credible, publicly available sources. The findings revealed that board size
and quality of firm performance had a positive relationship. The study concluded that corporate
governance quality is a decisive factor in a firm's performance in emerging economies like Nigeria,
where institutional frameworks are still developing, and investor protection systems are still
ineffective. The research results of the study will have significant policy implications for the
regulators, corporate managers, investors, and other stakeholders in Nigeria. It was recommended
in the study that the ideal board size in non-financial firms should not be too large, as this would
increase access to diverse expertise and external resources whilst avoiding coordination
inefficiencies, especially in complex and uncertain operating environments.

HARNESSING BIOMETRIC SIM REGISTRATION IN FIGHTING INSECURITY AND CRIMINALITY IN SOUTH- EASTERN NIGERIA

Chinwendu Shedrack Njoku — 2026-03-25

The rising incidence of insecurity and criminality in Nigeria, particularly in South-
Eastern Nigeria, continues to threaten socio-economic stability, public safety, and national
development. Criminal networks increasingly exploit mobile communication technologies to
coordinate kidnappings, armed robbery, cybercrime, and other organized offenses, often relying on
anonymity enabled by weak Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) registration systems. This study
examines biometric SIM registration as a strategic intervention for combating insecurity and
criminality in the region. Adopting a qualitative research design based on secondary data and
theoretical interpretation, the study draws on criminological perspectives and biometric
identification frameworks to assess the policy’s effectiveness. Anchored in structural functionalist
theory, the analysis conceptualizes biometric SIM registration as a structural mechanism introduced
to restore social order by linking mobile subscribers to verifiable biometric identifiers such as
fingerprints and facial data. The findings suggest that biometric integration enhances traceability,
strengthens intelligence-led policing, and aligns with primary and secondary crime prevention
strategies by increasing the risk of detection and reducing opportunities for anonymous
communication. However, challenges relating to data protection, institutional coordination,
infrastructural deficits, and public trust limit its full potential. The study concludes that biometric
SIM registration can significantly strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture if supported by robust
governance mechanisms. It recommends that the National Identity Management Commission
(NIMC) ensure the integrity and security of the National Identity Database (NIDB) to prevent
breaches and fraudulent activities. Furthermore, the Nigerian Communications Commission
(NCC), NIMC, and security agencies must establish a unified and real-time data-sharing protocol
to enhance coordinated enforcement and investigative efficiency.

WORKPLACE BULLYING EXPERIENCE AND TURNOVER INTENTIONS AMONG NURSES IN HOSPITALS IN SOUTH- WEST NIGERIA

Kadijat Bolanle Lasisi — 2026-03-25

Bullying is a major issue affecting service delivery and the effectiveness of nurses
in Nigeria. However, the study examined workplace bullying experiences and turnover intentions
among nurses in hospitals in South-western Nigeria. The study data were collected using a
structured questionnaire. Purposive sampling technique was used to select hospitals in the South-
west region of Nigeria, in which a total of six hundred and twenty-two (622) nurses were randomly
selected for the study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data collected.
The collected data were analysed at 0.05 alpha level. The results of the study showed that bullying
significantly influenced turnover intentions among nurses in hospitals in South-western Nigeria
(F(1, 418) = 5.708, p < .005). It was concluded that workplace bullying experience was a predictor
of turnover intentions, and that selected hospitals should formulate and implement a comprehensive
workplace anti-bullying policy that clearly defines bullying behaviours and outlines its
consequences for perpetrators.

TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY AND SELF-DETERMINATION UNDER THE UNITED NATIONS CHARTER: THE RENEWED BIAFRA SECESSIONIST CLAIM IN NIGERIA

Ngene Innocent Aja — 2026-03-25

The tension between territorial integrity and the right to self-determination remains
one of the most contested issues in international law, particularly in post-colonial states confronting
renewed separatist movements. Yet, while international legal scholarship largely emphasizes the
primacy of territorial integrity under the United Nations Charter, less attention has been paid to how
domestic political grievances sustain secessionist mobilization even when legal claims lack
international validity. This study examines this dilemma through the resurgence of the Biafra
secessionist claim in Nigeria. Drawing on Relative Deprivation Theory, the study explains how
perceived political, economic, and representational marginalization can generate collective
grievances that sustain separatist agitation. Using qualitative documentary analysis, the research
interrogates whether the Indigenous People of Biafra’s (IPOB) demands align with international
norms of self-determination, the socio-political drivers of the renewed secessionist agenda, and the
implications for national stability. The findings indicate that, although international law strongly
protects Nigeria’s territorial integrity and does not legitimize unilateral secession, persistent
perceptions of marginalization among sections of the Igbo population contribute to a continuing
internal self-determination deficit. The study, therefore, argues that legal prohibition alone cannot
extinguish secessionist claims when governance grievances remain unresolved, highlighting the
need for inclusive governance, constitutional dialogue, and rights-based federal reforms.

MICROFINANCE SERVICES AND POVERTY REDUCTION AMONG RURAL ENTREPRENEURS IN ANAMBRA STATE, SOUTHEAST NIGERIA

Nkume Ugochukwu Okorie — 2026-03-25

This study examined the association between microfinance services and poverty
reduction indicators among rural entrepreneurs in Anambra State, Southeast Nigeria. Specifically,
the research investigated how access to microcredit, savings services, and financial literacy training
relates to income levels, business growth, and asset ownership. A descriptive survey design was
adopted, with a structured questionnaire administered to 320 rural entrepreneurs selected through
multistage sampling across six local government areas representing the three senatorial districts.
Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean scores and standard deviation), while
hypotheses were tested using Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA). Findings
revealed that access to microcredit was associated with higher income levels (mean = 3.44, SD =
0.78), with MANCOVA showing significant relationship (Wilks' Λ = 0.763, F = 6.295, p < 0.001).
Savings services were associated with business growth (mean = 3.36, SD = 0.84; Wilks' Λ = 0.815,
F = 5.017, p < 0.001). Financial literacy training was associated with asset ownership (mean = 3.41,
SD = 0.77; Wilks' Λ = 0.802, F = 5.588, p < 0.001). The study concluded that microfinance services
are positively associated with poverty alleviation and business sustainability indicators. It
recommended increased access to microcredit, incentivized savings schemes, and localized
financial literacy programs.

PEOPLE LIVING WITH DISABILITIES AND SOCIO- ECONOMIC WELL-BEING IN GBOKO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

Nguavese Ierve — 2026-03-25

This study investigated People Living with Disabilities (PLWDs) and their Socio-
economic Well-being with specific emphasis on the effect of Visual impairment on the Socio-
economic Wellbeing of PLWDs, and the influence of walking impairment on the Socio-economic
Wellbeing of PLWDs in Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. The study adopted
Medical Model of Disability and Eugenics and the Social Model of Disability as its theoretical
framework. Cross-sectional survey design was adopted for the study, and the multistage sampling
technique was used to reach the respondents. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and
an interview guide. Data was processed and analyzed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences
(SPSS) version 27. The results showed that 96.3% of the respondents agreed that people with partial
or complete loss of sight struggle to complete formal education, and that people with walking
disabilities face discrimination in social gatherings, 92.1% of respondents believe that having a
sight-related condition affects self-esteem. The study concludes that disabilities not only limit
access to education and employment opportunities but also intensify social exclusion for PLWDs
in Gboko Local Government Area. The study therefore recommends improved implementation of
existing laws that promote social inclusion, provision of adaptive learning materials in educational
institutions, creation of adaptive workspaces, and eradication of biases against disabled persons in
Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria.

COMMUNITY PERCEPTION AND SUSTAINABLE RURAL DEVELOPMENT IN OWERRI WEST, NIGERIA

Nkume Ugochukwu Okorie — 2026-03-25

This study examines the relationship between community perception and sustainable
rural development in Owerri West Local Government Area, Imo State, Nigeria. Grounded in
Participatory Development Theory and the Igbo philosophy of Igwebuike (collective strength), the
research investigated how community members perceive development interventions and how these
perceptions influence the success and sustainability of rural development projects. Using a mixed-
methods design (qualitative and quantitative), data was collected from 382 survey respondents
across ten autonomous communities, complemented by community dialogues and key informant
interviews. Findings reveal a significant gap between government planners and community
perception. The study shows that community perception is shaped by three main factors: the level
of inclusion in project planning, respect for local cultural values (Omenala), and the visible impact
of projects on daily livelihoods. Results indicate a strong positive correlation between positive
community perception and project sustainability (r = .68, p < .001). The study advances debates on
participatory development by demonstrating that cultural factors—specifically Igbo philosophical
concepts—mediate the relationship between participation and sustainability, challenging
technocratic assumptions in mainstream development theory. Recommendations were made based
on the findings.

SOCIAL INVESTMENT AND POVERTY REDUCTION: EDUCATIONAL ADVANCEMENT OF N-TEACH BENEFICIARIES IN BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

Ali Abiso — 2026-03-25

Poverty remains a persistent and complex global challenge affecting millions in both
developed and developing countries. Despite years of economic growth, policy reforms, and
international development efforts, many people still live below acceptable standards of living. To
address this problem, the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP), including initiatives such
as N-Power and N-Teach, was introduced to promote human capital development and poverty
reduction. This paper examines Social Investment and Poverty Reduction: Educational
Advancement of N-Teach Beneficiaries in Borno State, Nigeria. The research design is Survey
research, and the Sampling Technique is multistage sampling, which comprises cluster and simple
random Sampling. A total of 392 Questionnaires were distributed to the respondents, and 384 were
retrieved and used for the analysis. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were used to
present and analyse the data. The results indicate that the programme has a strong positive impact
on beneficiaries' willingness to continue their studies, reduces turnover rates, promotes the
development of entrepreneurial skills, and enhances working experience and workability. The
regression model shows that N-Teach is positively and significantly related to educational
advancement. The paper concluded that the N-Teach Programme enhances the educational
advancement of beneficiaries in Borno State and recommends that the Federal Government should
provide organised exit strategies, such as entrepreneurship and job placement services, to make the
beneficiaries economically sustainable in the long term.

"WE HAVE CODE WORDS FOR EVERYTHING": MAINTENANCE STRATEGIES OF WOMEN IN SAME-SEX RELATIONSHIPS IN KADUNA METROPOLIS, NORTH-WEST NIGERIA

Sani Abdullahhi — 2026-03-25

This study examines maintenance strategies among women in same-sex
relationships in Kaduna Metropolis, North-Western Nigeria, a context shaped by religious values,
legal prohibition under the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2014, and strict gender
expectations. Guided by symbolic interactionist theory, the qualitative study employed in-depth
interviews with 22 women in same-sex relationships across four Local Government Areas, plus ten
key informant interviews with community and religious leaders and civil society actors. Thematic
analysis revealed five maintenance strategies: coded communication systems (private languages,
pet names, and nonverbal cues); spatial and temporal management through orchestrated schedules;
financial interdependence via informal savings schemes (esusu/ajo) and joint business ventures;
selective disclosure to trusted allies; and spiritual reframing that situates relationships within
concepts of divine love and destiny. The study concludes these strategies represent adaptive
responses through which women sustain intimate partnerships despite structural constraints,
contributing to understanding relationship maintenance under legal and social prohibition