Nnamdi Azikiwe University Journals
Not a member yet
5579 research outputs found
Sort by
RE-EXAMINING THE SCOPE AND LIMITS OF THE PREROGATIVE OF MERCY UNDER THE NIGERIAN CONSTITUTION: A CASE STUDY OF RECENT PRESIDENTIAL AND OSUN STATE PARDONS
No full textOne of the most extensive discretionary powers granted to the Nigerian government is the prerogative of mercy, which is intended to address injustices, mitigate severe penalties, and uphold humanitarian principles within the criminal justice system. However, its use has often sparked controversy, especially when applied to infamous or politically linked criminals. With particular reference to the recent pardons granted by Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in October 2025, this essay re-examines the constitutional scope, procedural structure, and moral limits of Nigeria\u27s prerogative of mercy. Based on a doctrinal examination of Sections 175 and 212 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), pertinent court rulings, and a comparative analysis between India and South Africa, the study reveals that both acts of clemency highlight serious problems with Nigeria\u27s compassion system, despite their apparent procedural compliance. These include a lack of clear standards, shoddy consultation procedures, and a lack of consideration for victims\u27 rights. The results imply that moral responsibility and public opinion are now key considerations for determining whether executive pardons are legitimate. The paper argued that the prerogative of mercy must operate as a constitutional obligation rooted in justice, reason, and moral responsibility rather than as a political privilege. To rebuild public trust and guarantee a fair balance between compassion and justice in Nigeria\u27s democracy, the paper ended by recommending extensive reform through legislative regulation, the dissemination of advisory recommendations, conditional pardons, and limited judicial scrutiny.
Development of Sb2S3 as a double absorber layer with Sb2Se3 by Simple and Low Cost Chemical Bath Deposition Technique for Solar Cell Applications
No full textAntimony sulfide (Sb2S3) has been explored for its potential in optoelectronic applications. It was synthesized using a low-cost and facale chemical bath deposition (CBD) method. The resulting material showed an orange color, consistent with previous reports. This study focused on examining how varying concentrations of sodium thiosulphate (Na2S2O3) affect the optical and morphological characteristics of Sb2S3. Additionally, the impact of annealing on these properties was also analyzed. Comprehensive characterization was carried out to assess structural, optical, and surface features. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results indicated that the as-deposited Sb2S3 films were amorphous. However, annealing at 200 °C enhanced the crystallinity of the material. Optically, the film deposited with a 2.0 M concentration showed 99% absorption in the blue line (450–495 nm) of the visible spectrum, while the 2.5 M sample exhibited similar absorption in the UV range. An increase in Na2S2O3 concentration corresponds to a gradual rise in the energy bandgap. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) revealed that root mean square (RMS) roughness consistently decreased with increasing annealing temperature. However, changes in sodium thiosulfate concentration did not produce a clear trend in surface morphology. The surface roughness varied across different concentrations. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed the formation of large, mushroom-shaped grains around 8 µm in size, which reduced with annealing. The strong light absorption in both visible and ultraviolet regions suggests that Sb2S3 is a promising material for solar cell absorber layers and photodetector applications
HUMAN CAPITAL INVESTMENT AND PERFORMANCE OF QUOTED MANUFACTURING COMPANIES IN NIGERIA
No full textThe study investigates the influence of investment in human capital on the listed manufacturing firms\u27 financial performance in Nigeria. Adopting an ex-post facto design, the study examined the experience of 38 listed manufacturing firms during the period 2014-2023. The study specifically examined the influence of the efficiency of human capital and employees\u27 compensation on the return on assets and the operation expenses. The firms\u27 annual reports provided the source of the data that were analyzed using descriptive correlation analysis and least square regression analysis. The findings of the study identify that HCE has a positive and significant influence on the ROA (β = 1.5329, p < 0.05), indicating that firms with higher human capital efficiency experience good financial performance. The employees\u27 compensation also has a positive and significant influence on the ROA (β = 1.0265, p < 0.05), indicating that higher compensation yields higher profitability possibly with the aid of higher productivity and employees\u27 staff retention rates. HCE also has a marginally significant influence on the OPEX (β = 0.0631, p < 0.05), indicating that companies that invest in human capital might record higher operation expenses with the inclusion of training and staff development expenses. The findings emphasize the significance of strategic investment in human capital in influencing the performance of the firm while offsetting the associated expenditure. The study advises that manufacturing companies optimize human capital efficiency with the development of skills and the use of performance-based compensation schemes and adopt the use of optimization of expenditure strategies to enhance profitability
HEALTHY AND SUSTAINABLE BUILT ENVIRONMENT: THE ROLE OF ARCHITECTS
No full textIn the face of escalating climate change, rapid urbanization, and growing public health concerns, the need for healthier and more sustainable built environments has become increasingly urgent. Architects, as central actors in the shaping of physical spaces, are uniquely positioned to influence not only the environmental footprint of buildings but also the physical and psychological well-being of their occupants. This study critically examines the multifaceted role of architects in promoting a healthy and sustainable built environment, emphasizing their capacity as designers, innovators, policy influencers, and community advocates. Drawing upon a qualitative research approach, the study synthesizes insights from scholarly literature, architectural frameworks, case studies, and sustainability guidelines sourced from reputable academic databases, professional associations, and international organizations. The research explores the intersection of architectural practice with key dimensions of sustainability—including energy efficiency, material selection, waste reduction, biodiversity preservation, and climate responsiveness—as well as core health considerations such as indoor air quality, natural lighting, acoustics, ventilation, and spatial wellness. Through content analysis of influential documents and exemplary projects from both global and local contexts, the study identifies patterns, best practices, and persistent challenges in embedding health and sustainability into architectural design processes. Findings reveal that while there is growing awareness and technical capacity among architects, their efforts are often constrained by weak regulatory enforcement, inadequate interdisciplinary collaboration, limited client education, and gaps in sustainability-focused architectural curricula. The study concludes that achieving truly healthy and sustainable environments requires a paradigm shift in how architects are trained, supported, and engaged across the project lifecycle. It calls for systemic interventions including policy reforms, incentive structures, curriculum development, and greater synergy between architecture and public health disciplines. Ultimately, this research contributes to the evolving discourse on sustainable development and positions architects as critical stewards of human and environmental well-being. The insights generated are intended to inform professionals, educators, policymakers, and communities striving to build a healthier and more sustainable future
TEACHERS’ KNOWLEDGE AND USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN DEAF EDUCATION IN AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA
No full textArtificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping educational practice in ways that are especially consequentialfor deaf learners. Its ability to achieve desired results, however, depends on teachers’ knowledge,attitudes, and material conditions. This qualitative descriptive study examined how teachers in AkwaIbom State, Nigeria, understand and use AI in deaf education. Semi structured interviews wereconducted with fifteen teachers working in special and inclusive schools. The results were analyzedusing reflexive thematic analysis. Findings indicate a spectrum of awareness and emerging practice,broad belief in AI’s value for communication access, participation, and learner independence, andinterlocking infrastructural and pedagogical barriers, including unreliable electricity and internet,scarce devices and funding, limited training, and poor localization to Nigerian sign and classroomcontexts. The paper proposes a practical roadmap for responsible AI integration that emphasizes statesupported professional development, infrastructural investment, clear school-level implementationroutines, and codesign processes that localize tools for deaf learners. The study provides practicebased evidence to inform policy and guide responsible AI adoption in African deaf education
EFFECT OF FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATE FLUCTUATION ON PROFITABILITY OF LISTED MANUFACTURING FIRMS IN NIGERIA
No full textThe study determined the effect of foreign exchange rate fluctuations on the profitability of listed manufacturing firms in Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the effect of foreign exchange rate, foreign exchange supply and foreign exchange reserve on Return on Assets of listed manufacturing firms in Nigeria. The study used the ex-post facto research design and ten (10) listed industrial goods manufacturing companies in Nigeria spanning from 2013 to 2022. Hypotheses testing were conducted using Panel Data Regression estimates at 5% significance level which revealed the following findings: foreign exchange rate has a negative and insignificant effect on the Return on Assets of listed manufacturing firms in Nigeria (p-value = 0.7269); foreign exchange supply has a positive and insignificant effect on the Return on Assets of listed manufacturing firms in Nigeria (p-value = 0.9641); foreign exchange reserve has a negative and insignificant effect on the Return on Assets of listed manufacturing firms in Nigeria (p-value = 0.7659). The study recommends that manufacturing firms in Nigeria should develop and implement a robust currency risk management strategy as hedging mechanisms, such as forward contracts, options, or natural hedging through geographical diversification of revenue sources
EFFECT OF JOB BURNOUT ON EMPLOYEES’ PERFORMANCE IN STAR GLASS BEVERAGES NIGERIA LIMITED, OGUN STATE
No full textThis study examined the effects of job burnout—specifically workload and role ambiguity—on employee performance at Star Glass Beverages Nigeria Limited, Ogun State. Growing work pressures in the manufacturing sector have heightened concerns about employee well-being, productivity, and effectiveness. Using a survey research design, structured questionnaires were administered to 112 employees, out of which 101 valid responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis via SPSS. Findings revealed that workload has a significant negative effect on employee productivity (β = –2.729; R² = 0.452, p < 0.05), indicating that excessive job demands reduce employees’ ability to deliver optimal output. Similarly, role ambiguity showed a significant negative effect on employee effectiveness (β = –0.010; R² = 0.398, p < 0.05), suggesting that unclear job responsibilities contribute to confusion, stress, and diminished task performance. These results confirm that job burnout is a critical challenge that undermines both productivity and effectiveness within the organization. The study concludes that addressing burnout—by reducing excessive workload and clarifying job roles—is essential for improving employee performance. It recommends that management implement strategies such as task redistribution, clearer communication of job expectations, enhanced supervisory support, and possible recruitment of additional staff to strengthen employee well-being and organizational competitiveness.
 
EXTERNAL DEBT SERVICING AND INTEREST RATE IN NIGERIA 2000-2023
No full textThis study examines the effect of debt servicing on interest rates in Nigeria from 2000 to 2022. Time series data were obtained from the Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin, and the analysis was conducted using the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression technique. The findings reveal that external debt servicing exerts a negative and significant influence on interest rates in Nigeria during the study period. This suggests that rising external debt obligations constrain financial resources and limit the government\u27s borrowing capacity. The study concludes that the persistent burden of external debt servicing may hinder economic stability and fiscal flexibility. It therefore recommends that the government enhance domestic revenue generation through improved tax administration and an expanded tax base to reduce dependence on external borrowing. Additionally, debt financing should be strategically directed toward promoting economic diversification beyond the oil sector to mitigate vulnerability to external debt pressures
Re-Envisioning Gender Equity in Students\u27 Achievement in English Vocabulary using Bingo Games Strategy
No full textThe study examined the influence of gender on academic achievement of Upper Basic II students taught English vocabulary with Bingo games strategy in Okura District of Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State. The study adopted a pretest- post-test quasi experimental research design. One research question and two null-hypotheses guided the study. The population of the study was 732 Upper Basic II students drawn from 11 public schools in Okura District. Using Krejcie and Morgan\u27s table of sampling, a sample size of 248 students (128 males and 120 females) was used for the study. Data was generated through English Vocabulary Development Achievement Test (EVDAT). The instrument for data collection was subjected to both face and content validation. For the face validity, the instrument was validated by two experts in the field of Language Education, Department of Arts Education, and one expert from Measurement and Evaluation, Department of Educational Foundation, all from Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Kogi state. The content validity was ensured through the use of a table of specification. A reliability index of 0.75 was realized using Kuder Richardson formula 20 (KR20). Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions while analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 alpha level of significance. The finding of the study revealed that the female students achieved higher than their male counterparts. However, the test of hypotheses show that statistically, gender is not a significant factor influencing students\u27 achievement when taught English vocabulary using Bingo games instructional technique. Based on this finding, the study recommends, among others, that both male and female students should be properly guided by the teachers of English in terms of helping them to develop high interest and promote their academic achievement in English vocabulary
Perception of Counsellors’ Behaviour on the Treatment of Drug-Addicted Clients in Minna Rehabilitation Center, Niger State
No full textThis study investigated the perception of counsellors’ behaviour on the treatment of drug-addicted clients in Minna Rehabilitation Center, Niger State. Guided by two objectives, and two null hypotheses, the study adopted a descriptive survey research design, which enabled the collection of information from both counsellors and clients without manipulating variables. The population comprised 261 respondents, consisting of 106 counsellors and 155 registered drug-addicted clients. From this, a sample size of 155 was determined using Krejcie and Morgan’s sampling table and selected through simple random sampling technique to ensure representation. Two researcher-developed instruments were used for data collection: the Perceived Influence of Counsellors’ Behaviour Questionnaire (PICBQ) and the Treatment of Drug-Addicted Clients Questionnaire (TDACQ). These measured counsellors’ behavioural attributes such as empathy, and non-judgmental attitude, along with treatment outcomes including adherence, coping ability, craving reduction, readiness to change, and relapse control. The instruments were validated by experts, yielding a strong Content Validity Index of 0.89, and reliability was confirmed with a Cronbach Alpha coefficient of 0.82 from a pilot study. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse demographic data and research questions, while Chi-square tested the hypotheses at 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that counsellors’ interpersonal qualities greatly shaped recovery outcomes. Empathy enhanced adherence, and non-judgmental attitudes promoted openness to change. The study concluded that effective rehabilitation outcomes depend largely on counsellors’ professional conduct and interpersonal skills. It recommended regular training to enhance counsellors’ behavioural attributes, consistent ethical practice, avoidance of stigmatization, and prioritizing counsellor-client relationship quality in evaluating treatment effectiveness. It further emphasized integrating counsellors’ behavioural qualities into drug rehabilitation programmes as essential components for improving recovery outcomes