Nexus International University NIU Journals
Not a member yet
2050 research outputs found
Sort by
Corruption in Governance and its Effect on National Security: The Nigeria Experience in the Fourth Republic
No full textThis study examines the impact of corruption in governance on national security within the context of Nigeria's Fourth Republic. Employing a qualitative research approach, the study relies exclusively on secondary data sourced from government reports, scholarly analyses, media publications, and institutional records. The theoretical framework underpinning this investigation is Elite Theory, which posits that a small group of influential individuals wields disproportionate control over political power and state resources, often to the detriment of the broader population. Through this lens, the study explores how corrupt practices among political elites have undermined the integrity and effectiveness of national security institutions. Findings reveal that first, corruption among government officials has led to the diversion of critical resources intended for security operations, weakening the capacity of security agencies to respond effectively to threats. Second, the patronage networks fostered by elites perpetuate a cycle of impunity that erodes public trust in governance structures and security apparatuses. Third, systemic corruption has contributed significantly to the proliferation of armed groups and criminal enterprises that exploit governance weaknesses to destabilize the nation. Based on these findings, the study recommends: (1) strengthening institutional checks and balances to promote transparency and accountability among political elites; (2) enhancing the independence and operational capacity of anti-corruption agencies to pursue high-profile cases without political interference; and (3) implementing civic education programs to empower citizens to demand better governance and security provisions, thereby reducing the socio-political space for corruption to flourish. Ultimately, addressing corruption through an elite perspective provides critical insights into the intersection of governance and national security challenges in Nigeria's Fourth Republic.
Keywords: Governance, Corruption, Transparency. Accountability. National Security and Legitimacy Crise
Editorial
No full textThis edition of NIU Journal of Social Sciences focuses on Development Administration, Social Philosophy and Organizational or Personnel Management.
The first part of the Journal addresses issues in Development Administration such as Rural Farming, Anti-Corruption Policies, National Security, Civil-Military Cooperation, Government Empowerment and Decentralization in Development Decision-Making. It is argued in one of the papers that meaningful decentralization is essential for sustainable development and democratic consolidation in Nigeria. It is therefore, suggested amongst others, that Federal government must enforce the 2024 Supreme Court judgment, initiate constitutional amendments, establish support programs, and strengthen monitoring. State governments must respect local autonomy, conduct credible elections, support capacity building, and enable revenue generation.
Papers in the second section are on Social Philosophy. One of the papers in this Section explores how parental income, education, and family structure influences youth behaviour, propensity and predisposition to internet crime. Anchored on Relative Deprivation Theory, the study finds that although youths engage in internet crime, socio-economic conditions and family dysfunction are an indirectly influence that shapes such behavioural tendencies while pointing that deprivation and societal glorification of wealth act as motivating factors. The paper concludes that addressing youth unemployment, improving parenting quality, and reshaping societal values are crucial in mitigating internet crime.
In last section on Organizational and Personnel Management, one of the papers explores the effects of leader-member exchange, job satisfaction and motivation on organizational commitment in public service with major focus on National Examinations Council Offices in Nigerian North-Central States of Niger, Benue and Nasarawa. These findings of the paper highlight the importance of positive leader-member relationships, meaningful job roles, and both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in fostering strong organizational commitment. Specifically, the paper suggests that the agency must invest in recognition programs, employee empowerment, improved health and safety provisions, and clearer leader–employee communication pathways in order to strengthen commitment. This is because enhancing these job satisfaction dimensions is likely to yield a more motivated, committed, and productive workforce.
On the whole, this issue of NIU Journal of Social Sciences features many interesting research papers. Some of these papers are empirical in nature while others have theoretical base. Each of them focuses on one specific social and management problem or the other; trying to proffer solutions to them. Readers are therefore advised to make proper use of the ideas presented by the various authors
An Ethnographic Study of the Roles of Age Grade in South Ibie, Etsako West Local Government of Edo State, Nigeria
No full textThe age grade institution, locally known among the people of South Ibie as "Otu," is a dynamic system deeply embedded in the cultural fabric, facilitating communal cohesion, governance, and development over centuries. This study is a field based sociological investigation of the multifaceted roles of age grade institution among the people of South Ibie, Etsako West Local Government, Edo State. Drawing on fieldwork conducted between 2023 and 2025, the research examines how the age grades have functioned as mechanisms for cultural preservation, social cohesion, conflict resolution and community development. Sociological theoretical insights of structural-functionalism and conflict theory were applied for the study. Qualitative ethnographic instrument using participant observation, in-depth unstructured interviews, and analysis of historical and archival records were used to gather data. Findings indicate that age grades in South Ibie have achieved institutional adaptability in the face of modernization and has contributed to South Ibie societal cohesion and community development, though challenges like urbanization and youth migration were observed to be threatening its sustainability. Recommendations include policy support for integrating age grades into contemporary governance structures for policy makers seeking to leverage indigenous systems for sustainable rural development in Nigeria.
Keywords: Ethnographic Study, Roles of Age Grade, South Ibie, Etsako West Edo State, Nigeria
Effect of Standardized Listening Skills Test on Students` Listening Comprehension and Self-Efficacy
No full textThe study examined effect of standardized listening skills test on students` listening comprehension and self-efficacy. A quasi-experiment design was used. The population of the study comprised all junior secondary school two (JSS II) students of a selected school in Maiduguri Metropolis, Borno State, Nigeria. Two intact classes of the same level from the selected school were targeted. Seventy (70) students were selected to participate in the study using purposive sampling technique. This technique was chosen due to easy-access to the participants and the nature of the study. A standardized test entitled ‘English Language Listening Skills Test’ (ELLST) was administered to determine the group`s homogeneity in the pretest and the effect of the treatment in posttest. The instrument was validated by experts in English language teaching and teachers of English in secondary schools. The reliability of the instrument was achieved through Cronbach Alpha's reliability index at 0.82, indicating a high level of reliability. Additionally, a self-efficacy scale adapted from existing validated instruments by Mills et al., 2006; Rahimi & Abedini (2009) was used to measure students’ beliefs in their listening abilities. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and independent sample t-test. The treatment group received regular listening skills tests, while the control group did not. Results showed that the treatment group demonstrated significant improvements in self-efficacy, as measured by the Listening Self-Efficacy Scale. Furthermore, the treatment group outperformed the control group on a standardized listening comprehension test. The findings suggest that regular listening skills tests can enhance students' self-efficacy and listening comprehension. It is, therefore, recommended that schools and language programmes should include standardized listening assessments as a regular part of instruction to improve students’ comprehension skills and build test familiarity.
Keywords: Standardized Listening Skills Test, Listening Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar, pronunciation & self-efficacy
The Implication of Government Bias on the Resolution of Communal Conflict in Nigeria
No full textThe incidence of communal conflicts in Nigeria has been on the rise since the 1990s. these conflicts cut across all sections of the country, from the North to South. Interestingly, these conflicts are mostly anchored on disputes over land and the dichotomy between indigene and settlers. As one with the monopoly of force, the state, through the government is expected to be an effective arbiter but this has not been the case in terms of government intervention in communal conflict in the country. The reason for this is the perceived bias by the parties on government intervention. The implication of such perceived bias is that it is difficult to resolve such conflicts. This study argued that there are standard procedures that the government is expected to follow if its intervention will sail through. The study maintained that these procedures would help in building trust in government by the parties for a smooth resolution of communal conflict.
Keywords: Conflict, conflict resolution, communal conflict, land, communal bias
Menace of Poverty and Education on the Mental Health Outcomes of Children in Benin Metropolis
No full textThe primary aim of the study is to examine the menace of poverty and education on the mental health outcomes of children. It equally considers the impact of socio-economic status of the parents’ education, and family environment. Ecological theoretical framework was adopted in this study. The literature established that children growing up in poverty are at a higher risk of experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression; it can retard their opportunities for rapid growth and development; and the lack of access to basic necessities and opportunity for education and personal development can further exacerbate mental health issues among children. The research design that was adopted in this study was the phenomenological research design and a qualitative methodology. A purposive sampling technique was employed, and 10 participants were recruited for this research study. Data was gathered through interviews and was thematically analysed. The study revealed inability of the parents to take care of their wards/children’s basic needs, pushed the parents to engage them in child labour to augment income in their families and such labour increased their vulnerability and negatively impacted their overall quality of wellbeing. Similarly, it was also noted well-trained teachers are paramount to be able to manage children mental health issues. The study recommends the implementation of policies and programs aimed at enhancing the socio-economic conditions of families in Benin Metropolis. These initiatives could include providing financial aid, creating job opportunities for parents, offering educational support for children.
Keywords: Children, Education, Poverty, Mental health, Benin Metropoli
The Role of Law in Ensuring Equitable and Sustainable Use of Water in Africa
No full textThe article examines the role of law in regulating water quality as a mechanism for achieving sustainable development in Africa. Water remains a vital yet increasingly scarce resource, strengthening public health, food security, energy production, and socio-economic development. However, inequitable distribution, pollution, governance inefficiencies, and the escalating impacts of climate change have intensified water insecurity across the continent. Using a doctrinal research approach, the study highlights the importance of sustainable water use for human needs while safeguarding ecosystems for present and future generations. The paper argues that effective legislation and governance are key to ensuring water quality suitable for different purposes. The article concludes by highlighting how legal frameworks can strengthen water governance, improve resource allocation, and guide policy reforms. It therefore recommends planning, development, implementation, and administration of water quality management policies and effective legal instruments for adequate protection of surface water for sustainable development through legislation guided by empirical facts.
Keywords: Water quality, Legislation, Africa, Climate Change, Public health, Sustainable development
From Restiveness to Responsiveness: The Role of Education in Transforming Youth Identity and Purpose in North-East Nigeria
No full textThe study examined the Restiveness to Responsiveness: The Role of Education in Transforming Youth Identity and Purpose in North-East Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to examine; the influence of vocational educational on the reduction of youth restiveness in North-East Nigeria, how Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes contribute to reshaping the identity and social behaviour of youths in the region and the challenges hindering the effective use of education as a tool for transforming youth attitudes and purpose in North-East Nigeria. The study adopts a descriptive survey research design. The total population is estimated at 2,000 respondents drawn from selected educational institutions and training centers. A sample of 400 respondents were selected for the study. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire titled “Education and Youth Transformation Questionnaire (EYTQ)”. The items were designed on a four-point Likert scale ranging from Strongly Agree (4) to Strongly Disagree (1). The questionnaire was validated by experts in Measurement and Evaluation. A reliability coefficient of 0.70 and above was considered acceptable for the study. Data collected was analyzed using both descriptive statistics such as frequency count, percentage, mean and standard deviation was used. Findings of the study shows that: Vocational education significantly contributes to reducing youth restiveness through skill acquisition and self-reliance. Adult Basic Education (ABE) programs play a major role in reshaping youth identity, improving moral values, and promoting social behaviour. The effectiveness of education in transforming youth attitudes is constrained by insecurity, poor funding, lack of teachers, and socio-cultural barriers. Based on the findings, the following recommendations were made: The government should strengthen and expand vocational education programs to equip youths with relevant skills. The government should address insecurity, improve funding, recruit qualified teachers, and counter socio-cultural barriers to enhance education’s transformative impact on youth attitudes.
Keywords: Restiveness to Responsiveness, Role, Education, Youth Identity and Purpos
Application of SWOT Analysis for Increased Secretarial Productivity
No full textThis work on Application of SWOT Analysis for increased Secretarial Productivity was approached from professional, rather than academic angle. The purpose was to highlight how honestly conducted SWOT analysis can increase productivity of secretarial staff in any organization. Relevant literature, personal experience and observation methods were adopted and various concepts in the topic reviewed. The article X-rayed the contents of each letter in SWOT and their effects on productivity of secretarial professionals. It was revealed that the strengths of secretarial profession lie on its indispensability in any organization, among others. Many weaknesses, like poor mindset, low esteem and inferior complex mostly generated by the practitioners and opportunities to improve the general outlook and efficiency of the practitioners abound in the external environment of secretarial practitioners were identified. Threats to the profession include: economic, technology and environment, among many others. It was concluded that to advance secretarial profession to a new pinnacle in Nigeria secretaries are to individually conduct honest and regular personal SWOT analysis. Secretaries must continually up-scale their strength, identify areas of their weakness and take proactive measures. They should leverage on technology in addition to other numerous readily opportunities in the profession as well undertake appropriate actions to mitigate the effects of threats as they unfold.
Keywords: Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats
Relationship Between Government Support Initiatives and Sustainability of Small Businesses in Lagos State, Nigeria
No full textThis paper examines the effect of government support on the sustainability of small-scale businesses in Lagos State, Nigeria. SMEs are crucial in their contribution to economic growth, creation of employment and stimulation of innovation especially in the developing countries. However, these enterprises are confronted with multiple challenges which include lack of access to finance, poor infrastructure and barriers such as regulations which prevent them from fostering growth and sustainability. It is the government assistance in the form of financial assistance, infrastructure development, training facilities and tax benefits, necessitated in overcoming these challenges and facilitating a friendly ambience for small businesses to grow. Methodology The study adopted a correlational research design surveying 174 Small Business owners, representing 20 local government areas of Lagos State, through a structured questionnaire to examine the influence of government support on business sustainability. Descriptive statistics are used in the study to describe the characteristics of the respondents and Pearson's Product-Moment Correlation (PPMC) is used to find the relationship between government intervention and small business sustainability.
We find a positive correlation (r = 0.30, p = 0.04) between government support initiatives and sustainability of small businesses in Lagos State such that, firms that access government support are more likely to be sustainable. It was discovered that business support programs and capital injection by government will have a positive impact on small businesses operational effectiveness, ease of access to the market, and its long-term survival. In particular government tax incentives and building of capacity had a lot of positive impacts on business in relation to sustainability of business practices, 67.8% of respondents indicated. Second, 55.2% of the surveyed firms admitted that government programmes had assisted them to cut their operational costs, enabling them to compete more effectively. These insights indicate that policy interventions can play a role in strengthening the resilience of small businesses and help drive their success in the long run. The study highlights the importance of continued commitment to the provision of infrastructure, finance and skill-building programs to support the sustainability of small businesses in Lagos State.
Keywords: Government Support, Small Businesses, Sustainability, Lagos State, Economic Growt