Nnamdi Azikiwe University Journals
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Process Parameters Optimization in Plastic Manufacturing Industry using Machine Learning
No full textThis research is aimed at optimizing the process parameters in plastic manufacturing industry using machine learning. Taguchi L27 orthogonal array was employed in the design of experiments and small-the-better signal to noise ratio was used in the analysis of volumetric shrinkage variation (VSV) of the plastic tray. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the significant parameters affecting VSV of the product. Artificial neural network (ANN) was employed in optimization of the machine process parameters settings and prediction of the quality characteristic. The results showed that the optimal VSV occurred at mould temperature of 440C, melt temperature of 2100C, holding pressure of 41MPa, injection time of 6 seconds, and packing time of 8 seconds. The ANOVA results showed that the mould temperature was the dominant factor influencing VSV of the plastic product. The optimization of the machine process parameters and quality characteristic using ANN model reduced the shrinkage value of the product by 29.9%. This study concludes that the optimal process parameters settings determined using ANN are better than the settings being used in the industry
Evaluating the Role of Community-Based Organizations in Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Education and Early Pregnancy Prevention in Makoko, Yaba LCDA
No full textAdolescent reproductive health remains a pressing public health challenge in low and middle income countries, where early pregnancies contribute significantly to maternal and neonatal mortality. Despite global efforts, barriers such as stigma, financial constraints, and cultural restrictions continue to limit adolescents\u27 access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. This study evaluates role of community-based organizations in adolescent sexual and reproductive health education and early pregnancy prevention, focusing on Yaba Local Council Development Area (LCDA) Makoko. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 372 adolescent girls (aged 10–19) through structured questionnaires. Findings revealed a moderate level of SRH knowledge among respondents, with notable gaps in contraceptive awareness (mean score = 2.60) and service accessibility (mean = 2.39). While CBO-led programs improved awareness (mean = 2.74), participation rates remained low (mean = 2.37), and persistent barriers including fear of judgment (mean = 3.03), cost (mean = 3.18), and cultural restrictions (mean = 2.87) hindered service utilization. The study underscores the potential of CBOs in bridging SRH education gaps but highlights the need for enhanced community engagement, youth-friendly services, and policy integration to address structural barriers. Recommendations include expanding peer-led education, subsidizing SRH services, training healthcare providers in adolescent-friendly care, and advocating for inclusive national policies. By leveraging CBOs\u27 community trust and adopting multi-sectoral strategies, stakeholders can significantly improve adolescent SRH outcomes in Nigeria
Influence of Mass Media on Academic Performance of Secondary School Students in Nigeria and Strategies for Improvement
No full textThis paper discussed the influence of mass media on academic performance of secondary school students in Nigeria and strategies for improvement. Mass media are various channels or tools used to communicate information, news, and entertainment to a large audience. These channels or tools can be traditional or modern, and they play a crucial role in shaping public opinion, influencing culture and providing information to the masses. The paper explored the various forms of mass media accessible to secondary school students in Nigeria, the patterns and frequency of media consumption among students, the perceived positive and negative influences of mass media on students’ academic performance, and the sociocultural factors that shape students’ media habits. The study recommended that students should have limited access to mass media. Parents and teachers should be their controllers and encourage them to watch and listen to programmes that are educative. Parents should be aware of the positive and negative impact of access to mass media on their children. Parents, teachers and guardians should ensure that children spend most of their time reading, playing with others and doing their homework in order to ensure high performances. Keywords: Addiction, Academic Performance, Students, Mass media
Community Participation and its Impact on Sustainable Educational Infrastructure Development in Rural Areas of Niger State
No full textThis study investigated the role of community participation in fostering sustainable development of educational infrastructure in rural areas of Niger State. Using quantitative method, data were collected from community leaders, school heads, parents, and government officials across selected rural communities in Niger State. The sample size was determined using the Taro Yamane formula, resulting in 349 respondents. A multistage sampling technique was employed. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire designed on a 5-point Likert scale. For data analysis, descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, means, and standard deviations was used to answer the research question. The findings revealed that community involvement in planning, construction, and maintenance of school infrastructure significantly influenced the sustainability of such projects. In communities where resources—such as labor, land, and local materials were contributed, projects exhibited higher levels of maintenance and utilization. Based on these findings, the study recommended that government and educational authorities should institutionalize participatory frameworks that involve communities from the planning to execution stages of school projects. Adequate funding, training, and policy support should be provided to communities. This includes grants or matching funds for community-led school projects and strengthening School-Based Management Committees [SBMCs] through training and recognition. Targeted sensitization campaigns should be launched to raise awareness about the importance of community involvement in school infrastructure
Impact of Financial Management Practices on Poverty Reduction among Young Adults in Low-Income Communities in Lagos State, Nigeria
No full textThis study examines the effects of financial management practices on poverty reduction among young adults in low-income communities in Lagos State, Nigeria. Two research questions and two hypotheses were raised and tested to guide this study Employing a descriptive research design, the research targets young adults aged 18–35, with a sample of 385 participants selected using multi-stage sampling including, stratified proportional sampling from four communities: Epe, Ikorodu, Oshodi, and Badagry. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire. Frequency tables, mean scores, Pearson product moment correlation and simple linear regression were used to analysed the data. The analysis revealed a significant lack of financial literacy, with many participants struggling to engage in effective budgeting and saving practices, contributing to their vulnerability to poverty and limiting access to basic necessities such as food, education, shelter, and healthcare. Findings indicate that effective budgeting and proactive saving habits are directly correlated with improved access to essential resources. Based on these findings, the study recommends that stakeholders including the Nigerian government, financial institutions, and NGOs enhance financial literacy programmes and improve access to financial services to empower young adults and equip them with the skills to make informed decisions, ultimately supporting poverty reduction in Lagos State
Challenges Affecting the Effectiveness of Women Organizations in Community Development in Niger State
No full textThis study investigates the challenges affecting the effectiveness of women organizations in driving community development initiatives across Niger State, Nigeria. Women organizations are vital stakeholders in grassroots mobilization, socio-economic empowerment, and civic participation, yet their contributions are often hindered by contextual limitations. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issues. The population comprised registered women organizations across Niger State, from which a sample of 360 participants was drawn using stratified and purposive sampling techniques to ensure representation across six local government areas within the three geopolitical zones. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and in-depth interviews. The questionnaire items were validated by experts in community development and gender studies, while reliability was established through a pilot test that yielded a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.82. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, and chi-square tests, while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. The findings revealed that financial limitations, cultural and religious restrictions, weak leadership structures, and inadequate government support significantly reduce the operational effectiveness of these organizations. The study recommends policy reforms, sustainable funding mechanisms, and community-based sensitization to strengthen the capacity of women organizations in promoting inclusive development
THE NIGERIAN DIASPORA SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT CREATORS AS JAPA AMBASSADORS
No full textJapa has become one of the most used words in the Nigerian migration lexicon. Generally substituting migration in the context of international migration in Nigeria, the word simply describes the robust disposition of youths to international migration in Nigeria. Social media content creation has become a viable means of achieving both information campaigns and economic livelihood. The Nigerian diaspora latching on the socio-economic gains of the social media are using the platform to bridge the information gap in migration and educating younger Nigerians on country specific migration policies and practices. This research analyzed the contributions of Nigerian diaspora migration themed social media content creators to international migration promotion and education in Nigeria. Using Noxacomedy, an American based Nigerian as a case study, this study argued that Nigeria diaspora migration themed content creators are Japa ambassadors who through their contents impact on younger Nigerians seeking information on safe, orderly and regular migration. The study hinged on the digital diaspora framework to analyze selected contents of Noxacomedy in light of his efforts to provide migration education to intending Nigerian migrants.
STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP AND TURNAROUND MANAGEMENT OF FOOD AND BEVERAGE FIRMS IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
No full textThis study examines the relationship existing between strategic leadership and turnaround management of food and beverage firms in Delta State, Nigeria. The study was based on Upper Echelon Theory which affirms that the cognitive capability, knowledge, experience and skills possess by an executive determine the nature of leadership and decisions he can make to influence the performance of the firm. Descriptive survey research method was employed for primary data in executing this study. A structured questionnaire was adopted as research instrument for gather data. Sample size was determined using a statistical method devised by Borg & Gall and the hypotheses were tested with Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 27 was used to test the hypotheses at a 5% level of significance. The results revealed that there is a significant positive relationship between visionary leadership and crisis management in food and beverage firms in Delta State, Nigeria. Results further indicated that there is a positive relationship between strategic decision-making and strategy formulation. The study\u27s findings revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between strategic leadership and turnaround management in food and beverage firms in Delta State, Nigeria. Total population of the study was 600 made up of management and non-management employees of three (3) selected registered food and beverage firms in Delta State. Hypothesis one revealed that there is a significant positive relationship between visionary leadership and crisis management in food and beverage firms in Delta State, Nigeria, with r=0.573, n=600 and (p<0.05). Hypothesis two indicated that there is a statistically positive relationship between strategic decision-making and strategy formulation in food and beverage firms in Delta State, Nigeria with r=0.611, n=600 and (p<0.05). The study, therefore, concluded that strategic leadership influences and drives turnaround management for business sustainability in food and beverage firms in Delta State. The study recommended that food and beverage firms in Delta State should invest in leadership development programs that cultivate visionary thinking and that organisation need to establish structured frameworks for strategic decision-making, incorporating data-driven insights and stakeholder input
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN NIGERIA: A CONCEPTUAL REVIEW
No full textArtificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly evolving technology that has the potential to revolutionize various sectors globally. In the context of sustainable development, AI plays a pivotal role by offering innovative solutions to some of the most pressing environmental, social, and economic challenges. The integration of AI in sustainable development goals is gaining momentum, particularly in developing countries like Nigeria, where there is a need to balance economic growth with environmental preservation and social equity. The aim of this paper x-rayed the contributions and the potential influence of AI to sustainable development goals in Nigeria, and effects of AI on sustainable development in Nigeria, Challenges and Ethical Considerations. The study is anchored on Machine Learning Theory credited by Arthur Samuel, an American pioneer in the field of computer gaming and artificial intelligence in 1959. The study concluded that integration of AI into sustainable development initiatives in Nigeria holds great promise. AI can drive innovation in key sectors like agriculture, healthcare, energy, and urban planning, enabling Nigeria to meet its sustainable development goals. However, this potential can only be realized if there is a concerted effort to address the challenges related to infrastructure, data governance, and equitable access to AI technologies. Sustainable development strategies must include policies that ensure the ethical and inclusive use of AI, balancing technological advancement with social and environmental considerations. Also AI has the potential to accelerate progress toward Nigeria’s sustainable development goals. However, addressing key challenges such as inequality, job displacement, and data privacy is crucial to ensuring that AI contributes positively to the country\u27s long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability
SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES FINANCING AND POVERTY REDUCTION IN NIGERIA
No full textThis study examined how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) financing affects poverty reduction in Nigeria. This followed the understanding that SMEs play a critical role in the process of economic development. The datasets obtained from the CBN Statistical Bulletin and World Bank were analysed using the error correction model (ECM) Technique. The parsimonious ECM result showed that bank credit to SMEs significantly reduced poverty during the study period. This finding highlights the critical role played by SME financing in promoting economic development in Nigeria. The results further showed that private sector credit affected poverty headcount negatively indicating that the availability of credit to the private sector has not contributed to poverty reduction in Nigeria. On the contrary, the result also showed that interest rate contributed positively to poverty in Nigeria. This finding could be attributed to the continuous increase in interest rates which limits investments in critical sectors of the economy that have the potential for poverty reduction. Owing to the findings, this study concludes that SME financing provides a sustainable road map for poverty reduction in Nigeria. Hence, it is recommended that the Central Bank of Nigeria and deposit money banks should prioritize SME financing to create more opportunities for sustainable poverty reduction strategies