Gusau Journal of Sociology
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FOOD SECURITY CHALLENGES: AN IMPEDIMENT TO ACHIEVING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGs 2) IN NIGERIA
Get PDFSDGs-2 is about the shared responsibility to ensure that every one has access to nutrition and affordable food. The heightened interest in food security is the result of a recognition that a number of important factors constitute a setback to the success of SDGs-2 in Nigeria. The main objective of the study is to identify the challenges to achieving Sustainable Development Goals on food security in Nigeria. The theoretical framework of the paper is Political Economy Theory by Karl Marx (1883-1883). Methodologically, the paper used secondary data, the study primarily drew evaluation and statistical information from Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, National Bureau of Statistics, Nigerian Living Standard Survey, and SDGs Base line Reports. While the results have shown that the Nigerian government has embraced the idea of rolling out plans and programs to address the gaps in food security at one time or the other, little has been achieved in curbing insecurity in food. The findings from the study show that Nigeria has about 85 million hectares of land where almost everything can grow, currently produced 110,798 metric tons of seeds in 2022, which is a summation of some major seeds that are established in the formal seeds sector, has the manpower favorable for the advancement of Agriculture and to boost livestock as well as food security. The paper concludes that it is important government removes barriers that increases vulnerability to poverty and hunger by providing an integrated security strategy to address issues of security threats in the agricultural sector. The paper recommends that government should partner with key private agencies to increase investments in the agricultural sector by empowering small and medium scale farmers in particular with access to credits and modern tools
AN EVALUATION OF THE SECURITY CHALLENGES CONFRONTING NIGERIA
Get PDFThis paper evaluated the security challenges confronting Nigeria. Specifically, the objectives of the study were: to evaluate the security challenges confronting Nigeria; to examine the dimensions of internal security; to identify the security challenges confronting Nigeria. The study used secondary data. It also adopted the frustration-aggression theory to provide a direction for the paper. The study found that Nigeria is faced with the burden of security challenges which resulted loss of live and property. The evil activities of Boko Haram terrorists, farmers-herders crashes armed banditry, kidnapping, and Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) are among the security challenges threatening the peace and stability of Nigeria. The Federal Government aims to curtail these activities, using various efforts but the security challenges persist, such as killing of innocent people, damage critical national infrastructure and displacement of hundred s of thousands of people across the country. The paper recommends that the government should address poverty and other causes of social exclusion which push young ones into crime and criminality in Nigeria; adopt both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies in the fight against insurgency and other criminal activities as well as ensure robust interagency cooperation among the security agencies involved in fighting insecurity in the country, especially in the area of information sharing and dissemination
STATE POLICING: A VIABLE ALTERNATIVE TO UNITARY POLICING SYSTEM AND CRIME CONTROL IN CONTEMPORARY NIGERIA
Get PDFThe upsurge in criminal activities such as terrorism, armed banditry, robbery, kidnapping, farmer- herder clashes has posed great challenge to the efforts of the Nigerian police to mitigate crime and criminality in the country, thereby necessitating calls for alternative policing in Nigeria. The calls were further reinforced by the public outcry and protest against acts of police brutality culminating in the nationwide #EndSARs campaigns in 2020.This paper examined state policing as an antidote to crime prevention and control in contemporary Nigeria. Despite the potential challenge of state policing being political interference, violation of human rights, inadequate resources, poor communication gaps, coordination and abused of best standard practices across states, the innovation has its inherent merits, principal among which is the localization of crime control as the operators of the system are people who are familiar with the culture and tradition of the communities to which they are deployed to control crimes. The major objective of the study; to examine the role of State police in preventing and controlling crimes in Nigeria. The paper adopted Structural Functionalism theory as theoretical framework. The study utilized documentary secondary data. Major findings of the study is that state policing enables more effective and efficient crime prevention and control, as local police forces would have better understanding of the unique security challenges facing their respective states. The study recommends that the federal government should put in place robust legal frameworks, adequate resources, and oversight mechanisms to mitigate the challenges that may work against the effectiveness of the state policing regime in Nigeria. The study also recommends clear delineation of the roles, responsibilities, and jurisdiction of state police to ensure synergy of operation between operatives of federal and state police
CYBERCRIME VICTIMIZATION REPORTING PATTERN IN UMUAHIA NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ABIA STATE, NIGERIA
Get PDFoai:ojs2.gujos.com.ng:article/2Despite the robust interest shown in explaining various aspects of the cybercrime menace, the aspect of societal reaction to cybercrime attacks with respect to the pattern of reporting victimization experiences has not received much attention from scholars. This study therefore investigated the pattern of reporting cybercrime victimization in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. Questionnaire and IDI guide were used to collect samples from Internet users between the age bracket of 20 and 70. It was found out that there was a very high poor attitude to, or low level of reporting personal cybercrime victimization experiences to the police, X2 = 883.14, p = .000. This is because, of the 879 respondents who experienced cybercrime victimization, 4 in every 5 participants (80%) did not report their victimization to the police, while 1 in every 5 of them did report their victimization to the police. The study also discovered that there was a high level of dissatisfaction with the way police handled the victimization experiences reported to them. For instance, of the 176 who reported their victimization experiences, 3 in every 5 (61.0%) were dissatisfied with the way police handled their victimization report; while 2 in every 5 (39%) were satisfied, X2 = 110.00, p< .5. The study therefore concluded that is a very high poor and negative attitude towards reporting cybercrime victimization experiences in Nigeria; and one of the major possible reasons for such a reality is the high level of dissatisfaction with the way police handled the victimizations experiences hitherto reported to them. Among others, the study recommends that relevant government organs should carryout appropriate criminal justice reforms in order to increase the capacity of the Police towards collating and utilizing victimization reports in Nigeria
GENDER DYNAMICS AND WOMEN’S INVOLVEMENT IN HEALTH DECISION-MAKING IN SELECTED HOUSEHOLDS IN MAKURDI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BENUE STATE-NIGERIA
Get PDFWomen have experienced various forms of discrimination and are exposed to varying treatments as regard power and the control of resources. Historically, women are known to have been subjected to divergent roles within the household such as domestic chores that go without remuneration, occupational seclusion and segregation into low income and low skill works and lack of representation in decision making within the family and community levels. Gender is a crucial consideration of human rights that impacts many priorities of maternal health outcomes. The dynamics of women's autonomy in decision making on health care in the household and the cultural factors determining the level of their involvement has not been studied in Makurdi Local Government Area. Thus, this paper examined the dynamics of women’s health decision making in households in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. The study utilized socialist feminism theory as the theoretical framework. Data for the study were elicited from 400 respondents across the selected council wards which include Fiidi, Wailomayo, Modern market, North-Bank 1 and Bar in Makurdi Local Government Area using semi structured questionnaire (SSQs) out of which 370 questionnaire copies were returned for analysis. Data was analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively using the SPSS Version 24. The study found that women have less autonomy in health decision-making in households in the study area. Cultural factors such as the patriarchal nature of the African family system as well as religion were identified as the major determinants of women’s involvement in health decision-making. The study findings indicated a positive association between women’s socio-economic status and decision-making with regards to women’s health. The study recommends the relegation of cultural norms that affect women’s involvement in decision-making, especially in health-related matters. There is also the need for target-driven sensitization programmes to enable women navigate the dynamics of household health decision-making as well as other gender–related issues affecting them within the households
STIGMATIZATION OF MENTAL HEALTH ILLNESS: UNDERSTANDING SOCIAL PROCESSES AND IMPLICATIONS FOR MENTAL HEALTH CARE
Get PDFStigmatization of mental illness is a pervasive social issue with profound implications for mental health care. This study explored the social processes involved in the stigmatization of mental illness and examined its implications for mental health care practices. It discussed the various forms of stigma, including public, self, and structural stigma, and highlighted their impacts on individuals and the society. It critically evaluated the stereotypes, misconceptions, and labeling associated with mental illness, as well as the role of media portrayal in perpetuating stigma. It further analyzed the effects of social distance and fear of individuals with mental illness on treatment outcomes and recovery and emphasized the need for strategies to reduce stigma, including education and awareness campaigns, contact-based programmes, responsible media representation, and cultural competence in mental health services. The study underscored the importance of addressing stigma's influence on mental health professionals and advocates for collaborative efforts to promote mental health care in stigmatized communities. Overall, it highlighted the urgent need to combat stigma to ensure equitable access to mental health care and support the well-being and recovery of individuals with mental illness
SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT OF CASHLESS POLICY ON ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE SERVICES AMONG RURAL DWELLERS IN KEANA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NASARAWA STATE-NIGERIA
Get PDFThis study examined the socio-economic impact of the Federal Government of Nigeria’s cashless policy on access to healthcare services in Keana Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. Cashless policy refers to a system with the ability to store money in an electronic purse or a card which is then used to purchase product at a vending machine or at any point of sales terminal located within a business premises. It is a policy meant to curb inflation by reducing the volume of physical cash in circulation occasioned by deployment of huge sums of money by people in the course of daily business transactions. The population of the study consisted of rural dwellers in need of healthcare services. The sample size of the study comprised of 398 respondents. Closed-ended questionnaire was used as the major instrument of data collection while data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools such as tables, frequencies and simple percentages. The analysis of data revealed that some of the challenges associated with cashless policy include failed electronic payment system, cash withdrawal limit, high POS charges, internet fraud as well as the poor and untimely implementation of the cashless policy which has impacted negatively on rural dwellers in the study area. Some of the challenges rural dwellers encountered as a result of poor and ill-timed implementation of the cashless policy include lack of access to healthcare services, high cost of hospital bills, high maternal mortality rates, and loss of lives amongst others. The study recommends that the implementation of cashless policy in Nigeria should be done with the provision of availability of good infrastructure such s steady electricity supply as well as effective and efficient internet services among others
PROMOTING VALUE RE-ORIENTATION IN NIGERIA
Get PDFThis paper explored the critical need for value reorientation in Nigeria, focusing on the development of value system and its evolution through pre-colonial and post-colonial eras with a suggestion for a change model. It delved into the values that characterized pre-colonial Nigerian societies, such as honesty, integrity, and communal living, which fostered a sense of trust and mutual respect among individuals. However, in the aftermath of colonization, distortions emerged, leading to the entrenchment of lies, dishonesty, deceit, and other malpractices in post-colonial Nigeria. The paper underscores the urgency of addressing these distortions and advocates for a comprehensive value reorientation model that seeks to instill positive societal values and behaviours in Nigerians. The change model calls for a paradigm shift away from favoritism, crime, corruption, robbery, and fraud, to core values like honesty, integrity, trust, and mutual respect. Drawing on relevant sociological, historical, and ethical literature, the paper emphasizes the significance of restoring traditional values while adapting them to contemporary realities. It highlights the potential positive impacts of such a reorientation on Nigeria's social fabric, governance, economy, and overall development. The proposed model envisions a collective effort involving all tiers of government, educational institutions, religious bodies, and non-profit organizations to achieve a healthy value reorientation in Nigeria. The paper concludes with a call to action, emphasizing that fostering a culture of honesty, integrity, trust, and mutual respect is essential for Nigeria's progress and development. It emphasizes that a society built on strong values will enhance social cohesion, encourage responsible citizenship and create an environment conducive to growth and prosperity for all Nigerians
BASIC NEEDS PRINCIPLES AND RURAL POVERTY ALLEVIATION IN NIGERIA
Get PDFThis study examined the association between the implementation of basic needs principles and demographic factors (age, education level, income level, and gender) in rural communities in Nigeria. It also investigated the perception of rural poverty alleviation across different demographic groups and identified significant differences. Additionally, the study assessed the level of implementation of basic needs principles in the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria and determined variations in their implementation levels. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys, interviews, and Focus Group discussions. Statistical tools such as chi-square, t-tests, and ANOVA, were used to analyze the data. The study revealed significant associations between the implementation of basic needs principles and age, education level, and income level, but not gender. It also identified variations in the perception of rural poverty alleviation across different demographic groups. Moreover, the study found significant differences in the implementation levels of basic needs principles in the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria. These findings underscore the importance of considering demographic factors and regional variations in designing and implementing poverty alleviation programs. The study provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing basic needs principles for poverty alleviation in rural communities in Nigeria. By considering demographic factors and regional variations, poverty alleviation programs in Nigeria can become more targeted, inclusive, and effective. This approach acknowledges the diverse nature of poverty and provides tailored solutions that address the specific needs and challenges different population groups and regions face. Challenges include: Limited Infrastructure, Poverty and Inequality, Cultural and Social Factors, Limited Resources and Funding, while opportunities include: Community Engagement and Ownership, Local Resources and Knowledge, Technology and Innovation, Agriculture and Rural Development, Partnerships, and Collaboration
A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILES OF CLIENTS TREATED AT PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER TREATMENT FACILITIES IN KADUNA STATE - NIGERIA
Get PDFSubstance use disorder is a serious public health and social problem that affects individual and society. The harms associated with substance use disorder have necessitated the provision of in-patient treatment services by public and private facilities to address substance use disorder problems. Concerns about gaps in service accessibility, client dropout from treatment and relapse necessitated a comparative study of the socio-demographic profiles of clients treated in selected public and private treatment facilities in Kaduna State. The study is quantitative descriptive research that adopted purposive sampling. Questionnaire was administered to one hundred and forty- four (144) clients available for follow-up at two public and private treatment facilities. Descriptive statistics, namely, frequency, percentage and Chi-square were employed for data analysis. Results revealed that clients treated at private facilities were males, young adults, students and singles while males and females, older adults and clients across the various occupations and marital statuses sought treatment in public facilities. However, in terms of level of education, bachelor’s degree was common among clients in both public and private facilities. The study concludes that clients treated in public facilities differ significantly from clients in private facilities on certain socio-demographic variables such as age, sex, marital status and occupation. Therefore, it is recommended that the management of treatment facilities develop services and programmes that are tailored to the needs of the identified category of clients that under-utilize the respective treatment facilities