Nnamdi Azikiwe University Journals
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REMOVING THE ‘IRON CURTAIN’ OF DISCRIMINATION IN BUSINESS: ARIGHTS APPROACH TO WOMEN INCLUSION IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP INNIGERIA
No full textA considerable percentage of women engage in entrepreneurship in Nigeria and contributesubstantially to the economic and social structure of the country, yet their activities areunderestimated and undervalued. Women have continued to be excluded economically andfinancially in business thereby negatively impacting their entrepreneurial success in Nigeria. Thissituation is more prevalent in the informal sector where women play a dominant role, because ofthe ease of doing business in the sector. Entrepreneurship thrives on fairness and equality in tradeor business, and on the idea that trade or business can and should alleviate poverty and bringdevelopment to the business owner. Nevertheless, barriers such as gender bias, financial exclusion,cultural inhibitions, and other difficulties have created \u27iron curtains\u27 to exclude women fromentrepreneurship, thereby negatively impacting their rights to equality and development. Usingdoctrinal research methodology, this article examines the participation of women in entrepreneurship in Nigeria. It further examines the challenges of women in entrepreneurship, exposing their difficulties in this regard. This article determines whether a \u27rights-based approach\u27to women inclusion in entrepreneurship would yield the desired result since human rights are universal and governments respect, protect, and fulfill the rights of all citizens. It proposes a targeted language model in its regulatory instruments, which is more intentional with women inclusion in business legislations and policies. It is expected that the rights-based approach would yield the desired result in ensuring that women are included in entrepreneurial policies in Nigeria
THE IMPERATIVES OF A LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY IN NIGERIA
No full textThis paper discusses the imperativeness of a legal framework for renewable energy in Nigeria, principally to discourage dependence on Fossil fuel, which has remained the main stay of energy supply in Nigeria and across the globe. It is a truism that dependence on fossil fuel has invariably led to emission of greenhouse gases which are unsustainable globally, causing environmental pollution and climate change. Its broad objective is to identify the lacunae in the existing legal framework, with a view to reviewing and making it more effective to cushion the effects of the harsh economic condition in the country engendered by increase in the price of petroleum products.Renewable energy sources are cheaper, more effective and environmentally friendly than the fossil fuel. The problem with the legal framework for renewable energy would be examined, in addition to other issues such as lack of unison and clarity of roles of institutions relevant to the promotion of renewables, high cost and lack of funds, inability of consumers to bear the cost of subsidies, lack of priority access and connection to the national grid, short licensing duration, and lack of adequate and reliable information, which consumers, investors and the government can rely upon, amongst others. Therefore, there is the need to develop a holistic and an effective framework that will address these issues. The paper recommends a more effective legal framework for renewable Energy in Nigeria, implementation of laws on renewable energy, and building up knowledge base solutions to tackle the challenges. The research adopts doctrinal legal approach, consistent with legal research in Nigeria. In the main, the paper recommends a need for a comprehensive legal framework in Nigeria on renewable energy to encourage investment in it and discourage fossil fuel with its attendant consequences on human health and the environment
PLEDGE OF LAND IN NIGERIA: A CALL FOR LEGAL REFORMS
No full textIn many developing countries, including those in Sub-Saharan Africa, the use of land as an economic asset to attract and generate capital for development remains underutilized. This study examines the legal devices available in Nigeria for using land as security to access loans, with particular emphasis on the pledge of land. It provides an overview of the concept of land pledge as a form of security for obtaining small- and medium-term credit and identifies the key challenges associated with its use in the context of sustainable land use and planning. Adopting a doctrinal research methodology, the study draws on both primary and secondary legal sources. The findings reveal that both customary and common law conceptions of land regard it holistically, encompassing the physical land and all fixtures permanently attached to it. However, the legal framework governing land-based securities faces numerous challenges, particularly regarding the customary pledge system, which requires significant reform to align with the provisions of the Land Use Act of 1978. Moreover, the Land Use Act itself is fraught with structural deficiencies that hinder its effectiveness in promoting land as a viable security for commercial development. The study concludes by recommending comprehensive legal reforms to the laws governing mortgage, pledge, and charge in Nigeria to enhance the accessibility and utility of land as collateral for financial lending
THE BEIJING PLATFORM FOR ACTION AT 30: MARKING PROGRESS AND ADDRESSING CHALLENGES IN PURSUIT OF GENDER EQUALITY AND WOMEN EMPOWERMENT IN NIGERIA
No full textThe Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, adopted in 1995, marked a significant milestone inthe global pursuit of gender equality and women’s empowerment. Over the past 30 years, Nigeria hasmade notable progress in advancing women’s rights through legal reforms, policy interventions, andincreased advocacy efforts. However, persistent challenges continue to undermine these gains,particularly in areas such as political participation, economic empowerment, access to education, andprotection against gender-based violence. This study critically assesses the progress and challenges inthe implementation of women’s rights in Nigeria since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration.Employing a doctrinal research methodology, the study analyzes relevant legal instruments, policyframeworks, and case law to evaluate the extent to which Nigeria has met its obligations under theBeijing Platform for Action. The study highlights the role of international conventions, constitutionalprovisions, and domestic laws in shaping gender rights in Nigeria while identifying socio-cultural andinstitutional barriers that hinder full gender equality. Findings reveal that despite the enactment ofgender-focused legislation, enforcement gaps, societal resistance, and political marginalizationcontinue to impede progress. The study recommends strengthened legal enforcement, enhanced politicalwill, public sensitization, and strategic policy reforms to bridge the gender gap and achieve sustainablewomen’s empowerment. Conclusively, while strides have been made, achieving the full realization ofwomen’s rights in Nigeria requires a concerted effort from government institutions, civil society, andthe international community
Application of Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis in Determining Suitable Waste-To-Energy Technology for Awka, Anambra State
No full textThis paper explored use of multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) to select waste-to-energy (WTE) technology for Awka, Nigeria necessary for addressing urgent urban solid waste issues. Urbanization has intensified waste generation, yet conventional waste management remains unsustainable despite government efforts. The study sought to identify suitable waste-to-energy (WtE) options through waste characterization, review of current practices, and identification of WtE choices. A survey design combining literature review data and primary data from questionnaires was used. Data was analysed through descriptive statistics and analytical hierarchy process (AHP) methodology. The AHP methodology was used to evaluate the WtE technologies and select the most appropriate technology for Awka. The WtE technologies were assessed through pairwise comparison of three main criteria and nine subcriteria assessed by 10 experts. Findings indicate that food waste is the most common waste type in Awka, followed by polyethylene/sachet water waste. The AHP-based pairwise comparison revealed that landfill gas is the most suitable WtE technology for Awka, followed by anaerobic digestion. The study portends the effectiveness of AHP for selecting sustainable waste management solutions and for resolving Awka’s waste challenges while promoting urban sustainability. The study recommends implementing WtE technology, adopting improved waste management methods, enhancing public engagement, and ensuring government support and policy enforcement towards circular economy in the State. 
SELF-EFFICACY AS A PREDICTOR OF ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT IN BASIC SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AMONG STUDENTS IN ANAMBRA STATE
No full textThe study examined self-efficacy as a predictor of academic achievement in basic science and technology among students in Anambra State. The study was guided by two research questions, and two hypotheses (tested at 0.05 level of significance). The study is a correlational research which adopted a predictive design. The study population comprised of 6250 Upper Basic 8 Students from 20 public schools from 267 schools in the state. Using multistage, purposive sampling technique, proportionate stratified random sampling technique and simple random sampling technique, an education zone and a total sample size of 376 (170 males and 206 females) were drawn from the population. One research instrument, Self Efficacy scale for Basic Science and Technology instrument (SESBST) adapted from Gafoor and Ashraf’s (2006) Self- Efficacy Scale was given out to respondents. Academic achievement was measured using Basic Science and Technology test score of students provided by the teachers. Research instrument was validated by three experts; two from the Department of Science Education and one expert in Measurement and Evaluation unit of the Department of Educational Foundations, all in Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, and internal consistency was established using Cronbach’s alpha. The overall reliability coefficient of the instrument was found to be 0.99 for SESBST. Data collected from respondents were analyzed using regression statistical method and Hayes Process. Linear Regression was used to answer the research question one while Hayes Process was used to answer research question two. ANOVA Regression was used to test null hypothesis one at 0.05 level of significance while Hayes process was used to test hypothesis two at 0.05 level of significance. Findings show that self-efficacy significantly predict academic achievement among upper basic 8 Basic Science students in Awka Education Zone. Further analysis revealed that the moderating influence of gender on students’ self-efficacy in predicting their academic achievement in basic science and technology is significant. This implies that teachers should prioritize the development of students’ self efficacy while future researchers could examine whether increasing self-efficacy causes improvements in achievement. Based on research findings, it was recommended that Basic Science and Technology teachers should provide mastery experiences by designing hands-on activities and experiments that students can successfully complete to boost their beliefs in themselves (self-efficacy) and also show students examples of peers and role models successfully engaging in science and technology so as to boost self-efficacy. 
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TOOLS AS CORRELATE OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ECONOMICS OF EDUCATION CURRICULUM IN PUBLIC TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN ANAMBRA STATE
No full textThis study investigated Artificial Intelligence tools as correlate of the implementation of Economics of Education curriculum in public tertiary institutions in Anambra State, Nigeria. To guide the study, two research questions were raised and two hypotheses were formulated and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study adopted a correlational research design involving simple linear method. The population of the study is 2,657 lecturers from 9 tertiary institutions in Anambra State. A sample of 133 Economics of Education lecturers from 5 selected tertiary institutions offering Economics of Education in the study area was determined through Taro Yamane formula using purposive sampling technique. The research instruments used were two rating scales titled: Artificial Intelligence Tools Scale (AITS) and Implementation of Economics of Education Curriculum Scale (IEECS) which contained 20 items and 10 items respectively. The instruments were validated by five research experts. Reliability coefficients of 0.88 for AITS and 0.83 for IEECS were obtained using Cronbach Alpha statistics. Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (PPMCC) was used to answer the research questions while the hypotheses were tested using t-test of the significance of Pearson “r” statistics. The result revealed that intelligent tutoring systems and chatbots as AI tools have substantial and positive significant coefficient of relationship with the implementation of Economics of Education curriculum in tertiary institutions in Anambra State. It was concluded that institutions and lecturers who leverage on intelligent tutoring systems and chatbots can optimize curriculum delivery, reduce workload, and focus on highimpact teaching activities. It was recommended amongst others that intelligent tutoring system as AI tool has a substantial and positive significant coefficient of relationship with the implementation of Economics of Education curriculum in tertiary institutions in Anambra State
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE AND CUSTOMER REACH FOR MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES IN ANAMBRA STATE
No full textThe relationship between social media usage and customer reach for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in Anambra State was examined in this study. This study made use of a survey research design and the population consisted of 1399 MSMEs from the study area and a sample size of 301 was arrived at using Krejcie and Morgan\u27s formula. The questionnaire used for data collection was validated using face and content validity while the reliability was ascertained using the Cronbach Alpha technique (.873). The data analysis was carried out using both descriptive and inferential statistics and the hypotheses were tested at a 5% level of significance. The findings showed that social media usage has a statistically significant relationship with customer reach (r = .952; p-value = .000 < .05). Based on the findings, it was recommended that the usage of social media should no longer be taken unserious as it is assumed to, or seen as an avenue to only make friends, while away time and have fun, but needs to be taken as a place to meet new customers, close deals and expand the reach of the products and services of MSMEs in Anambra stat
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
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TECHNOLOGIES AND BUSINESS PROCESS OPTIMISATION OF COMMERCIAL BANKS IN NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA
No full textThe adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies has transformed the banking sector in various aspects, including operational efficiency. This study aims to investigate the impact of AI technologies on business process optimization in commercial banks in Nasarawa State. A descriptive research design was employed, with a population of 1,399 managerial staff, IT personnel, and operational staff directly involved in the implementation and use of AI technologies and business processes. A sample of 311 staff was obtained using the Taro Yamani formula. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, which were analysed using frequency, percentages, mean, standard deviation and regression analysis. The results showed a significant positive effect of machine learning algorithms, natural language processing, robotic process automation, virtual assistants, and decision support systems on the efficiency of operations in commercial banks. Specifically, the regression analysis revealed that: Machine learning algorithms accounted for 23% of the variations in operational efficiency. Natural language processing contributed 18.8%. Robotic process automation contributed 26.3%. Virtual assistants accounted for 21% while Decision support systems contributed 24.5%. These findings suggest that commercial banks can significantly improve their operational efficiency by adopting and integrating AI technologies. The study thus concludes that AI technologies have a significant positive effect on business process optimization in commercial banks in Nasarawa State. The study recommends among others that management of commercial banks in Nasarawa State should invest in high-quality datasets and skilled AI professionals to develop robust machine learning models that can analyse vast amounts of data, detect patterns, and make accurate predictions. This is to improve risk management and operational efficiency and that management should deploy natural language processing-powered chatbots and virtual assistants to enhance customer service by providing real-time responses to inquiries, processing transactions, and assisting with complaints. This will reduce the workload on human agents, minimize response times and improve customer satisfaction