Book of Abstracts

ADVANCING CLIMATE JUSTICE IN NIGERIA: NEED FOR A COMPREHENSIVE LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Umar Ahmadu Gwamna — Gombe State College Of Education And Legal Studies, Nafada

Climate change represents one of the most pressing governance challenges of the 21st century, with profound implications for sustainable development and human rights protection. In Nigeria, where climate vulnerabilities disproportionately affect marginalized populations, particularly in Sahelian regions like Gombe State. Legal system serves as a critical mechanism for ensuring accountability, equitable adaptation, and climate justice. This study examines the intersection of climate governance, human rights law, and environmental justice in Nigeria. It proposed a comprehensive legal framework to address systemic gaps in the Nigeria’s response to climate change. The paper employed a mixed-methods design, it combined doctrinal analysis of Nigeria's constitutional, statutory, and judicial frameworks with empirical insights from semi-structured interviews with policymakers, legal practitioners, civil society organizations, and climate-affected communities. The study reveals three critical dimensions of Nigeria's climate governance deficit in terms of inadequate constitutional recognition of justiciable environmental rights, fragmented legislation that fails to integrate human rights principles into climate action, and institutional weaknesses that hinder effective policy implementation. The analysis highlights Nigeria's uneven compliance with international human rights standards, particularly regarding the right to a healthy environment under Article 24 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, as well as procedural rights to information, participation, and remedy. The study advances a transformative legal reform agenda regarding constitutional amendments to enshrine justiciable environmental rights and intergenerational equity principles, comprehensive climate justice legislation incorporating gender-responsive and rights-based approaches, institutional capacity building for climate governance at federal and subnational levels, and enhanced public participation mechanisms to democratize climate decision-making. The recommendations provide actionable pathways for policymakers, judiciary members, and civil society actors working at the nexus of climate action and human rights protection, offering both immediate interventions and long-term structural reforms.

Keywords Climate-justice environmental-governance legal-reform sustainable-development human-rights.

ASSESSMENT OF CATTLE HERDERS PERCEPTION ON EFFECTS OF LAND USE CHANGE ON LIVELIHOOD IN KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA

Philip Oguche — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Dr. E Y. Dodo — Department Of Agriculture Extension And Rural Development. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Prof. M.k. Saleh — Department Of Agricultural Extension And Rural Development, Ahmadu Bello University,zaria

This study aimed at assessing cattle herders’ perception on effect of land use change on their livelivehood in Katsina States, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to sample 232 pastoralists from the State. The research centered on primary data acquired through questionnaire, Focus Group Discussion and in depth Interview. Both descriptive (frequencies, percentages, mean) and Likert scale were used to analyze the data. Results indicate that herders are aware of the various issues associated with land use, the study also shows the perceived effect of land use change on herders’ livelihood with Decrease in size of herd (RII=0.85), Decreased animal productivity (RII=0.83), Decrease in quantity of milk (RII=0.81), Increased restriction to free grazing areas (RII=0.84), Reduction in water quality and availability (RII=0.79) to greatly affect herders’ livelihood. It is the conclusion of this study that land use change has greatly constrained herders’ socio- economic activities in the study area. Hence, the study recommends among others that policy makers, planners, development agencies and donors should invest on proper planning; that is agricultural expansion, constructions and development of all sort should be well planned, considering impacts on herders’ livelihood. Increase extension farmers‟ ratio and make extension services within reach of pastoralists and improve information forecasting and dissemination through local awareness campaign.

Keywords Land Use Land Use Change Livelihood Perception Cattle Herders

Climate Change, Health Spending, and Maternal Mortality in Emerging African Economies: SDG Policy Implications

Danladi Ndayezhin Saba — Abu, Zaria

Richard Ken Dodo — Ahmadu Bello University

Zubaida Yusuf Bappa — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Climate change has emerged as a major threat to sustainable development, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where adaptive capacity is limited. This study examines the combined effects of climate-related stress and public health investment on health outcomes relevant to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in eight emerging African economies, namely Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa, over the period 2000 to 2021. Using panel data econometric techniques, including Pooled OLS, Fixed Effects, and Random Effects models, the study assesses how changes in climate conditions and government health expenditure influence maternal health outcomes, a key component of SDG 3. Results indicate that climate change exerts a statistically significant and adverse effect on maternal health, while higher public spending on health services significantly mitigates this impact. These findings underscore the need for integrated policies that link climate resilience with healthcare financing. The study recommends that African policymakers enhance investment in climate-adaptive health infrastructure and increase targeted maternal health spending as part of broader sustainable development strategies.

Keywords Climate change sustainable development public health expenditure and maternal health

IMPACT OF ASSESSMENT OF THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOAL (SDG) 6 ON CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION AND THE IMPLICATION FOR THE PERENNIAL WATER PROBLEM IN APA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

George Adikwu — Federal College Of Education, Odugbo, Benue State

Kingsley Inalegwu Onah — Federal College Of Education, Odugbo, Benue State, Nigeria. Sponsorship: Tetfund

Abstract
The research topic titled: "Impact Assessment of the Sustainable Development Goal 6 on Clean Water and Sanitation and the Implication for the Perennial Water Problem in Apa Local Government of Benue State" seeks to examine the efficacy of the SDG 6 in addressing the yearly water problems in our localities despite deliberately fashioned and targeted actionable plans for resolutions. This is seen in the eleven target components of SDG 6 however, for the sake of this study, particular emphasis was accorded to five of the components with a view to identifying the extent of implementation. The components are: (1) Safe and affordable drinking water (2) End open defecation and provide access to sanitation and hygiene (3) Improve water quality, wastewater treatment and safe refuse (4) Increase water use efficiency and ensure freshwater supplies, and (5) Support local engagement in water and sanitation management. To this end, the researchers adopted the qualitative and quantitative survey research design and questionnaire was the instrument used for the study. Based on the report of National Population Census (2006) with a projected growth rate of 2.3%, the population of Apa Local Government is 137,900 delineated across council wards and villages. Considering the wide and diverse spread of the population, stratified random sampling technique was adopted. Also, interview was used in interfacing with the State and Federal Ministry of Water Resources and other implementing agencies of the SDG 6. The research concluded that given particular focus on water with SDG 6, a milestone had been attained however, perennial water challenge remained unsurmountable. It therefore recommended among other things for the declaration of emergency on safe and affordable drinking water.
Keywords: Sustainable Development, Perennial Water Scarcity, Sanitation, Apa Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria

Keywords Sustainable Development Perennial Water Scarcity APA LOCAL Government Area BENUE STATE.

Investigating the Challenges Posed by Climate Change to Agriculture and Sustainability in Nigeria

Kabeer Muhammed Garba — Ecowas Parliament

Jibrin Hussaini Abubakar — Kaduna State University

Abstract
Climate change poses significant challenges to agriculture and sustainability in Nigeria, threatening the country's food security, economic development, and environmental sustainability. This study investigates the impacts of climate change on agriculture and sustainability in Nigeria, exploring the challenges, consequences, and potential solutions. Nigeria is heavily reliant on agriculture, which accounts for approximately 25% of the country's GDP and employs about 70% of the labor force. However, climate change is altering the country's agricultural landscape, with rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events having direct impact on agricultural productivity, farm incomes, and food security. The study adopts the vulnerability theory as a conceptual framework that helps to understand the susceptibility of individuals, communities, or systems to harm or damage from external stressors, such as climate change. In the context of agricultural sustainability in Nigeria, vulnerability theory can be applied to examine the impacts of climate change on agricultural systems, farmers, and communities. The study concludes that climate variability and uncertainty, Water scarcity, soil degradation, bush burning to mention but a few as some of the several challenges posed by climate change to agriculture and sustainability in Nigeria. In its findings, the study indicates that rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are altering the growing seasons, crop yields, and agricultural productivity. In its recommendations among others, the study suggests that climate-smart agriculture, climate information and early warning systems and sustainable water management be applied as strategies to contain excesses of climate change on agricultural sustainability in Nigeria.

Keywords Key words: Climate change Sustainable water management Food security. Economic development. Environmental sustainability.

Roles of Libraries as Community Hubs for Climate Action in Nigeria: An Overview Introduction

Hussaini Suleiman — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Suleiman Sambo Ph.d — Kashim Ibrahim Library, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

This paper examines the Roles of Libraries as Community Hubs for Climate Action in Nigeria: An Overview Introduction. It discusses Nigeria's Climate Crisis and the Libraries New Role in Climate Action and Benefit for the Communities in Nigeria such as Climate Education and Literacy, Climate Action Training, Raising Participation and Awareness in the Community, Community Discussion and Involvement, Public Access to Information and Digital Inclusion e.t.c The paper discusses the challenges confronting Libraries that want to become centers of climate action such as necessity to adjust to quick changes in technology, a lack of sustainable plans and instruction, a lack of money, and insufficient manpower. Libraries also face challenges like the need to involve various groups in climate action, eco-anxiety resources, and climate change denial materials. Programming, qualified staff, and digital infrastructure are lacking in many libraries. It concluded that In Nigeria’s fight against climate change, libraries can serve as powerful catalysts for education, participation and innovation. It proffers way forward such as increasing their roles in climate education, encouraging community involvement, and putting sustainable practices into place, libraries may develop into vital centers for climate action. This entails making the most of their special status as reputable community gathering places to spread knowledge, encouraging eco-friendly conduct, and support teamwork in the direction of a more sustainable future.

Keywords An Overview Climate Action Community Hubs Libraries Roles

COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION IN NIGERIAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES: AN EVALUATION OF ACADEMIC STAFF UNION OF UNIVERSITIES (ASUU) STRIKES FROM 2020-2022

Rita Gyang — Department Of Public Administration, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Dr. Emmanuel Duniyo Laah — Department Of Local Government And Development Studies, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Rebecca John George — Department Of Public Administration, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

AbstractThis study examines the effectiveness of collective bargaining as a mechanism for conflict resolution between the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Nigerian Federal Government, particularly during the prolonged strikes of 2020 and 2022. Despite collective bargaining’s global recognition as a peaceful and structured approach to labor dispute resolution, its application in Nigeria’s public university system has often failed to prevent or sustainably resolve conflicts. Findings reveal that ASUU’s recurring industrial actions are rooted in the federal government’s failure to honor previously signed agreements, inadequate funding, poor staff welfare, and disregard for university autonomy. The study further highlights the negative impact of failed negotiations on academic staff productivity, student outcomes, and the overall quality of education. Drawing on Mary Parker Follett’s Constructive Conflict Theory, the research advocates for integrative conflict management strategies such as binding legislation, independent mediation councils, and stakeholder-inclusive dialogue. The study concludes that sustainable industrial harmony and educational development in Nigeria require a shift from adversarial bargaining toward transparent, enforceable, and collaborative conflict resolution frameworks.

Keywords Collective Bargaining Conflict Resolution ASUU Strike and Constructive Conflict Theory

Conflict and Peace Building in West Africa:The Gulf of Guinea Subregional Example.

Abdulkadir Inuwa Abdulkadir — Maryam Abacha American University Of Nigeria Kano

Abstract
This study critically examines the dynamics of conflict and peacebuilding in the Gulf of Guinea subregion, with a specific focus on identifying the root causes of conflict and assessing the effectiveness of current peacebuilding mechanisms. The objective of the research is to explore the political, economic, and social drivers of instability—such as oil resource conflicts, maritime insecurity, and ethnic tensions—while evaluating the roles of regional organizations like ECOWAS and community-based initiatives in conflict resolution. The study adopts a descriptive research design using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The population comprises policymakers, security personnel, community leaders, and residents across selected Gulf of Guinea countries. A sample size of 250 respondents was drawn using purposive and stratified random sampling techniques to ensure representation across different stakeholder groups. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. To ensure validity, instruments were subjected to expert review and pilot-tested, while reliability was established using Cronbach’s alpha with a coefficient of 0.82. Collected data were analyzed using statistical tools for quantitative responses and thematic content analysis for qualitative responses. The findings are expected to provide policy-relevant insights into sustainable peacebuilding strategies, emphasizing regional cooperation, inclusive governance, and economic empowerment. This calls for concerted effort at the Subregional level.

Keywords Conflict Peacebuilding Gulf of Guinea Maritime Insecurity Resource Conflicts

EFFECT OF BANDITRY ON STAFF QUITING THEIR SERVICE IN FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, KAURA NAMODA, ZAMFARA STATE

Samaila Ibrahim — Abu Zaria

Samaila Ibrahim — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

ABSTRACT
The study accesses the effect of banditry on staff quitting their service in federal polytechnic kaura Namoda zamfara state. The objective of the study was to examine, effect of banditry on staff quitting their service in federal polytechnic kaura Namoda zamfara state. The population of the study is constituted by the staff of Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State which is 1,079 staff list registry, 2023. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaire. Here the researcher worked with the academic staff and non-academic staffs of Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State to assess effect of banditry on staff quitting their service. The sudy use simple linear regressions to analyze the result with the aids of SPSS version 20.The major finding of the study revealed that the more banditry activities’ increases, the more staff of Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda will quit their services. The study recommends that to avoid staff quitting there service in Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda, the management of Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda should employed the policy of work from home to avoid banditry activities.

Keywords Development Economic insecurity Kidnapping Social

End Bad Governance Protest: Impact on Academic activities in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Adamu Zainab Kasim — Ahmadu Bello University

Yetunde Ogundare — Miss

This study investigates the effect of the 2024 #EndBadGovernance protest on academic activities at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, the study utilized a qualitative research approach a type of research that focuses on gaining in-depth understanding of social phenomena, experiences, and perspectives, rather than relying on numerical data, The protest, driven by nationwide outrage over economic hardship, insecurity and poor governance, significantly impacted educational institutions. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, involving students, academic staff, and administrative personnel. The findings of the study involves, a halt in Academic activities as the protest led to suspension of lectures, rescheduling of examinations, restricted access to university facilities, and impaired communication between students and management more so, it has posed Psychological Impact as residents around the location as well as students reported elevated anxiety, fear, and uncertainty. The study Recommends the creation of Emergency Academic Policies such as rapid use of online modules and flexible examination windows—to maintain academic continuity during curfews or similar disruption and also Expand mental health of students and staffs by counseling services to address the emotional fallout of unrest and curfew-related isolation. Promote Structured Student Engagement such as student–administration liaison groups or grievance committees to facilitate early identification and peaceful resolution of campus concerns before escalations occur. Heightening security measures in the campus to prevent both internal and external factors from causing destruction and insecurity within the campus.

Keywords Governance Protest Academics Activities

IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF TERTIARY EDUCATION TRUST FUND (TETFUND) ON ACADEMIC STAFF TRAINING AND DEVELOPMAENT IN AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA, NIGERIA 2015-2019

Abdulkadir Baba Abubakar — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

The challenges confronting tertiary institutions in Nigeria include funding, the proliferations of state and private tertiary institutions, management challenges and so on but the challenge dealing the worst cases is that of underfunding of tertiary institutions. It is also a known fact that the importance of lecturers’ professional renewal in tertiary institutions cannot be over emphasized. It is with this in mind that the federal government introduced the TETFund as a funding mechanism to ameliorate the challenges faced by tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Thus, this research assessed TETFund Intervention on Academic Staff Training and Development in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, 2015-2019. The study covered the period from 2015-2019 and concentrated on TETFund area of intervention (Academic Staff Training & Development) out of the TETFund areas of intervention. The study is anchored on the systems theory by Ludwig Bertalanffy and Rensis Likert’s Linking Pin theory. The study adopts qualitative research using interviews with twenty key informants such as the TETFund Desk Officers, Directorate of Academic Planning and Monitoring Past Directors and beneficiaries such as selected academic staff from the eighteen faculties who benefited from Academic Staff Training and Development sponsorship. The data were analysed thematically using Atlas Ti9. The target population of the study are the beneficiaries of AST&D in A.B.U, Zaria, 2015-2019. It reveals that there is no proper institutional mechanism in assessing TETFund intervention for AST&D. The study therefore recommends the need to reduce or eliminate entirely the level of bureaucratic bottlenecks often associated with accessing fund for Academic Staff Training and Development.

Keywords Abdulkadir Baba Abubakar

AI-ENABLED LIGHTWEIGHT INTRUSION DETECTION FOR SMART WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORKS: A RESOURCE-EFFICIENT DEEP LEARNING APPROACH

Salisu Gaya — Abu, Zaria

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) constitute critical smart infrastructure for sustainable development, enabling applications from precision agriculture to smart city monitoring. However, their deployment faces significant security challenges compounded by severe resource constraints, limited energy, bandwidth, and computational capacity. Existing intrusion detection systems (IDS) prioritize detection accuracy while neglecting resource efficiency, rendering them impractical for battery-powered sensor nodes. Additionally, supervised learning approaches limit detection to known attack signatures, failing against zero-day exploits. This research addresses these critical limitations by developing a Lightweight Intelligent Intrusion Detection System (LIIDS) using unsupervised deep autoencoders optimized for resource-constrained environments. The bottleneck architecture achieves exceptional 86.89% data compression (approximately 7.6× reduction), directly translating to proportional bandwidth and energy savings. Despite aggressive compression, the system maintains superior detection performance: 99.76% accuracy on NSL-KDD and 98.52% on UNSW-NB15 datasets, with false alarm rates reduced by 78% compared to existing methods (1.27% vs. 5.82%). The unsupervised learning paradigm enables detection of both known and zero-day attacks without labeled training data. These results demonstrate that comprehensive WSN security can be achieved without excessive resource consumption, enabling practical deployment in Nigeria's emerging smart infrastructure for sustainable economic growth.

Keywords Wireless Sensor Networks Intrusion Detection Deep Autoencoders Unsupervised Learning

Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital Communication and Sustainable Development in Africa

Michael Ibanga — Ave Maria University, Piyanko, Nasarawa State

Zekeri Momoh — Karl Kumm University, Vom, Nigeria

Abstract
The main objective is to examine the potential of AI technologies to enhance digital communication in sectors such as agriculture, health, education, and governance, contributing to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Africa. Using Innovation Systems Theory as a theoretical framework, the study investigates how AI-driven digital platforms can create an ecosystem for collaborative innovation, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and resources among stakeholders. This study adopted the qualitative research designed with data collected from secondary sources while content analysis was used to analyse the data collected. The study argues that: AI-enabled digital communication platforms have proven effective in improving access to information, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing citizen engagement in governance processes. Furthermore, AI tools such as chatbots, data analytics, and automated systems have contributed to better decision-making in sectors like healthcare and agriculture. However, challenges such as limited digital infrastructure, lack of technical expertise, and data privacy concerns hinder the full realization of AI’s potential. The study recommends strengthening digital infrastructure, investing in AI education and training, and developing robust regulatory frameworks to ensure the ethical deployment of AI technologies. These measures will be crucial to accelerating sustainable development in Africa, making AI a central enabler of growth and social progress.

Keywords Digital Communication Artificial Intelligence (AI) Sustainable Development Innovations Systems Theory Africa

Assessing the Effect of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Powered Digital Platforms on Sustainable Urban Development and Smart Cities in Nigeria

Qaribu Yahaya Nasidi — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Ahmed Abubakar — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

This study assesses the effect of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered digital platforms on sustainable urban development and the advancement of smart cities in Nigeria. By focusing on four major urban centers Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kan, the research examined the adoption of AI technologies, their challenges, and their contributions to urban governance, infrastructure development, waste management, and public security systems. A quantitative survey approach was employed, with data collected from 400 respondents across the four cities. The findings indicate that Lagos and Abuja demonstrate higher levels of AI integration, largely due to better infrastructure, stronger policy frameworks, and greater private sector participation. In contrast, Port Harcourt and Kano lag behind, facing significant challenges such as limited digital literacy, inadequate ICT infrastructure, low public awareness, and weak coordination among government agencies. The study underscores the transformative potential of AI in improving service delivery, optimizing resource management, and driving progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 11, which advocates for inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities. However, the uneven adoption of AI across Nigerian cities points to the need for deliberate and inclusive policy interventions. Key recommendations include the development of a harmonized national smart city framework, sustained investment in digital infrastructure, and the promotion of participatory governance models that involve civil society and the private sector.

Keywords Artificial Intelligence Digital Platforms Sustainable Urban Development Smart Cities

Assessment of effects of Mutual Support Services on Performance and Sustainability of Telecommunication

Yusuf Usman Mok — College Of Education Gidan Waya Kafanchan,kaduna State

Dodo Yusuf Mok — Department Of Agriculture Economic,a.b.u Zaria

Bulus Yahaya — Department Of Business Education Kaduna State College Of Education,kafanchan

Assessment of effects of Mutual Support Services on Performance and Sustainability of Telecommunication Companies In Kaduna State, Nigeria
By
YUSUF, Usman Mok., Dodo, E.Y & BULUS, Yahaya

1Department of Business Education Kaduna State College of Education
Gidan Waya, Kafanchan.
2 Department of Agricultural Extension & Rural Development Institute for Agricultural Research, Ahmadu Bello University
Zaria
Correspondent email address: yusmanmok@gmail.com, eydodo@abu.edu.ng
nyomochrist@gmail.com
GSM:

The study examined the relationship between m EU yo I need a ride utual support and sustainability performance of telecommunication companies in Kaduna State, Nigeria. It adopted. The respondents were drawn from EU a sample size of 98 managers of five telecommunication that use GSM technology in Kaduna state using a cross sectional survey design. Descriptive statistics was used for univariate data analysis. Spearman add order correlation was use for bivariate analysis. The results of the analysis alsoshows significant (rho of .9) relationship between mutual support and measures of sustainability performance which was either environmental or social performance with a mean of 2.6 above the midpoint of 5. It was concluded that significant relationship exists between mutual support and sustainability performance. The study recommend that managers should set clear goals, create teamwork recognition programs and continually assess organizational performance on the basis of sustainability.The telecommunication companies play a critical role in modern economy, facilitating and contributing to the social advancement.However, the increasing demand for sustainable practices and corporate social responsibility CSR has placed pressure on these companies to integrate sustainability into their core operations.
Keynote: Mutual Support, Sustainability performance, environmental sustainability, social sustainability and team work recognition.

Keywords Mutual support sustainability performance of environmental sustainability social sustainability and teamwork recognition

EFFECT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON ACCOUNTING INFORMATION SYSTEM OF SELECTED DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS IN NIGERIA

Stephen Nkamre — University Of Calabar

Lawal Suleiman Gbenga — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Iniobong Ephraim Ebong — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Utibe Essien Amos — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Bassey Bassey Ubi — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Effiong Asuquo Okon — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Nkamare Stephen Ekpo — University Of Calabar, Calabar

The study empirically examined the effect of AI on the performance of Accounting Information Systems (AIS) on selected deposit money banks in Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: assess the effect of cloud accounting Artificial Intelligence applications on the performance of Accounting Information Systems; evaluate the effect of software automation Artificial Intelligence on the performance of Accounting Information System; to examine the effect of data security Artificial Intelligence on the performance of Accounting Information Systems; assess the effect of regulation of Artificial Intelligence on the performance of Accounting Information Systems; and to evaluate the effect of ethical concerns of AI on the performance of Accounting Information Systems of selected deposit money banks in Calabar. This study adopted survey research design. Data for this research were collected from primary sources and is comprised of questionnaire instrument. The study employed multiple regression statistical tool to analyze the effect of independent variables on dependent variable. Based on the analysis of the results, the following findings were made: there was a negative effect of cloud accounting of artificial intelligence on accounting information system; there was a positive effect of software automated of artificial intelligence on accounting information system; there was a negative effect of data security artificial intelligence on accounting information system; there was a positive effect of regulation of artificial intelligence on accounting information system; and there was a positive effect of ethical concerns of artificial intelligence on accounting information system. Finally, firm size did not moderate on Artificial intelligence and accounting information system. The study recommended that artificial intelligence in the accounting systems should be used to increasing the reliability and consistency of the accounting output. Financial accountants should be equipped with the relevant and necessary information technology skills in order to be able to adjust to the constantly changing environment.

Keywords Accounting Information Systems cloud accounting Artificial Intelligence software automation

EFFECT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON STUDENT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA

Mohammed Ndagi Mohammed — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Christian Anyebe — Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai

Zainab Adamu Kasim — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Muhammad Hashim Yusuf — National Environmental Standards And Regulations Enforcement Agency (nesrea).

Ja’afar Suleman — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Salamatu Idris — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Luna Barwa — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Abstract
This study evaluates the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on students' academic performance at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, from 2020 to 2025. Using both primary (questionnaires and interviews) and secondary data, the researchers analyzed responses from 364 participants through various sampling techniques and statistical tools, including Structural Equation Modeling (SMART PLS4) and thematic analysis. The findings revealed a largely negative perception of AI's influence on academic performance. Questionnaire data showed a strong negative relationship between AI use and academic performance, while interview responses highlighted concerns about over-reliance on technology, reduced critical thinking, limited human interaction, and unequal access. Ethical and privacy concerns were also mentioned. A minority of respondents saw AI positively, noting benefits like personalized learning, improved efficiency, and support for independent learning and students with disabilities. This study recommends for a strategic and blended integration of AI in education, emphasizing its role in complementing not replacing traditional teaching methods. This approach aims to preserve essential elements of learning, such as critical thinking and human interaction, while leveraging AI to improve overall educational effectiveness.

Keywords Keywords: Artificial Intelligence & Student Academic Performance

Enhancing Entrepreneurship Education in Nigeria through Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Ethical Challenges

Adamu Ado Abubakar — Kaduna State University, Kasu, Kaduna Nigeria

Dr Mohammed Bello Idris — Kaduna State University, Kasu, Kaduna

Nurudeen Jimoh Phd — Kaduna State University, Kasu, Kaduna

Abubakar Sadiq Adamu — Federal University, Dutsima, Katsina

Nigerian tertiary institutions, including Ahmadu Bello University, face significant challenges in integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into entrepreneurship education, resulting in outdated curricula that fail to foster entrepreneurial mindsets or equip students with the skills needed for innovation. The rapid advancement of digital technologies presents a transformative opportunity to enhance entrepreneurship education, but AI integration is hindered by ethical concerns, infrastructural limitations, and digital illiteracy. Despite AI’s potential to enable personalized learning, business simulations, and data-driven decision-making, traditional education systems struggle to adapt, leading to a gap between theoretical business instruction and practical, innovation-driven learning. This study explores how AI can improve entrepreneurship education in Nigeria by addressing these barriers while examining concerns such as algorithmic bias, privacy issues, and over-reliance on automation, which could marginalize certain student populations and reduce the role of human agency in teaching. The research employs a qualitative-descriptive methodology, drawing on empirical studies, institutional reports, and policy documents to assess both the opportunities and challenges of AI integration in Nigerian higher education. The study is framed by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Human Capital Theory, providing insights into the factors influencing AI adoption and its potential for developing human skills. The findings highlight the need for curriculum reform, educator training, and ethical AI deployment to create inclusive and future-ready entrepreneurship education. The study concludes with strategic recommendations for policy-makers, EdTech developers, and educational institutions to ensure AI is effectively integrated to foster entrepreneurial innovation and enhance the overall learning experience in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

Keywords Artificial Intelligence (AI) Entrepreneurship Education Personalized Learning Business Simulations and Data-Driven Decision-Making Support

Examining the Antecedents of Blockchain Technology Adoption Intention in Nigerian Financial Institutions: A Modified TOE Framework.

Halimatu Saadiya Ibrahim — Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic Bauchi

Shamsudeen Ladan Shagari — Sa’adu Zungur University, Bauchi State

Muhammad Auwal Kabir — Sa’adu Zungur University, Bauchi State

Bello Usman Baba — Sa’adu Zungur University, Bauchi State

Blockchain technology offers enhanced security, transparency, and efficiency in various industries, particularly in financial institutions and banking. Despite its potential, adoption in Nigerian financial institutions remains limited. Previous studies have examined Blockchain adoption, but the role of AI capabilities remains unexplored. This study addresses this gap by investigating the impact of relative advantage, AI capabilities, and regulatory factors on the intention to adopt Blockchain technology in Nigerian financial institutions, using the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) model. The TOE model provides a comprehensive framework for understanding technological innovation adoption, considering technological, organizational, and environmental factors. By introducing AI capabilities as a new variable, this study employs a quantitative research approach using a questionnaire survey to collect data from Nigerian financial institutions. The expected outcome is to provide insights into the factors influencing Blockchain adoption, identifying key drivers and shedding light on the relationship between relative advantage, AI capabilities, regulatory factors, and intention to adopt Blockchain technology. The findings will have implications for policymakers, regulators, and financial institutions seeking to harness Blockchain's potential benefits. This study contributes to the existing literature on Blockchain adoption and informs strategies to promote its adoption in Nigerian financial institutions.

Keywords Blockchain Technology Adoption Intention Financial Institutions Artificial Intelligence (AI) Capabilities Regulatory Factors.

Islamic Law Perspective on Digital Currencies in Nigeria

Faiza Miko Abdullahi — Ahmadu Bello University

Abstract
Advancement in technology has transformed money through various forms, from barter system to coins, paper money, cheque books, and now digital currency. Digital currency has made it easier for man to make national and international transaction within a very short time. Nigeria is a country with a significant Muslim population, practice Sharia law to guide them in their day to day activities. Thus, Muslims are not permitted to engage in any activities which are against the Islamic law. There are three types of digital currencies namely crypto currency, virtual currency and central bank digital currencies. Digital currencies are prone to hackers, the price is volatile, transaction cannot be reversed once made and some of the digital currencies are unregulated. Thus, the aims and objective of this study is to examine the three types of digital currencies and to determine if the three types of digital currencies are legally permissible in Islam. This study adopts doctrinal method of research which is library based research, through the use of statute, judicial precedent, text books and articles. This study found that crypto currency, spot trading in crypto currency and central bank digital currencies are halal while margin trading, futures trading in crypto currency and virtual currency are haram.This study recommended that margin trading, futures trading in crypto currency and virtual currency has element of riba (usury), maisir (gambling) and al-gharar (speculation) which are prohibited in Islamic law. Therefore, Muslims should refrain from engaging in these types of digital currencies.

Keywords Crypto currency virtual currency eNaira Islamic Law Nigeria

Leveraging AI-Chatbots for Sustainable Development Goal IV: A Study of Polytechnic Lecturers’ Perception and Usage Patterns

Sadiq Buhari Bello — Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic Birnin Kebbi

Abdulaziz Abdullahi Bena — Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic, Birnin Kebbi

Hamza Musa — Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic, Birnin Kebbi

Nigeria, like many developing countries, is striving to achieve the Sustainable Development
Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to ensure inclusive, equitable, and quality education and promote
lifelong learning opportunities for all by the year 2030. With only five years remaining, the
integration of technological innovations such as Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered chatbots
is increasingly viewed as a potential catalyst for educational transformation. Higher education
institutions, especially polytechnics, play a pivotal role in advancing SDG 4, yet their
engagement with digital tools remains limited and underexplored. This study adopted a
descriptive survey design to investigate the perceptions and usage patterns of AI-chatbots
among polytechnic lecturers in Nigeria, with a specific focus on their potential for promoting
SDG 4 outcomes. A sample of 40 polytechnic lecturers across two institutions in Kebbi State,
Nigeria participated in the study. Data were collected using a self-developed 4-point Likert
scale questionnaire, validated by educational technology experts. The reliability coefficient
obtained using Cronbach’s alpha was 0.82. Descriptive statistics including mean and standard
deviation were employed for data analysis. The findings revealed that lecturers possess a
moderately positive perception of AI-chatbots in supporting inclusive and equitable education,
particularly in enhancing student access to learning materials and enabling continuous learning.
However, actual usage patterns of chatbots remain modest, with limited application in
administrative tasks and communication. Based on these findings, the study recommends
strategic investment in digital infrastructure, OER development, and professional development
initiatives to enhance the adoption of AI technologies in Nigerian higher education institutions
as a means of accelerating progress toward SDG 4.

Keywords AI-chatbots polytechnic lecturers SDG 4 perception usage

Reclaiming Civility Online Through Management of Social Media Platforms for Peaceful Coexistence in Nigeria

Obi Chibuzor — Baba Ahmed University Kano

Ndubuisi Fredrick Okonta Phd — Chidumeje Attorneys & Solicitors Maitama Abuja

Abstract
This paper explores the theme “Reclaiming Civility Online Through Management of Social Media Platforms for Peaceful Coexistence in Nigeria”, by highlighting the increasing misuse of digital spaces for hate speech, incivility, and social division. In a highly diverse country like Nigeria, where ethnic, religious, and political tensions are historically entrenched, the unregulated use of social media has amplified hostility and widened societal fractures. The study adopts a conceptual approach, drawing from the Civility Theory and Social Responsibility Theory to advocate for respectful digital engagement. It emphasizes the urgent need for promoting civil discourse, tolerance, and user responsibility as critical tools for national integration and stability. Key concepts such as social media platforms, online civility, and peaceful coexistence are examined in relation to how Nigerians interact online, particularly during sensitive events such as elections. Empirical studies reviewed reveal that while there is growing concern about online incivility, few efforts have been made to guide users on constructive online behavior. The paper concludes that reclaiming civility online requires a multifaceted approach that includes ethical communication, digital literacy, and self-regulation among users, alongside responsible platform management. Recommendations are directed toward social media users to be mindful of their language, avoid abusive expressions, and adopt respectful methods in addressing disagreements. By promoting empathy, dialogue, and accountability in digital interactions, social media can be transformed into a powerful tool for unity and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.

Keywords Social Media Platforms Online Civility

SCHOLARLY ETHICS IN THE ERA OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Ibrahim Sani Madugu — Kampala International University, Uganda

Shehu Ayuba — Computer Science Department, Aliko Dangote University Of Science And Technology, Wudil

The incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in academic research and publishing has tremendously transformed how knowledge is generated, processed, and disseminated. However, ethical challenges have become a significant concern for scholarly integrity. This paper scrutinises the evolving connection between AI tools and academic practices, focusing on the ethical repercussions for authorship, intellectual responsibility, data authenticity, transparency, and peer review. Drawing on interdisciplinary angles—including philosophy, information ethics, past scholarship, and digital policy—it examines how AI systems, particularly large language models (LLMs), can inadvertently contribute to misinformation, plagiarism, and de-skilling among researchers if not properly regulated.
The work traced the historical trajectory of ethical traditions and referencing—from Mesopotamian scribal practices and Islamic isnād verification to Enlightenment rationalism and modern citation systems—to situate current challenges within a broader cultural and philosophical context. The paper also presents a comparative analysis of how humans and AI acquire, process, and report knowledge, highlighting fundamental differences in reasoning, accountability, and moral agency. Emerging concerns such as AI hallucinations, data lake reliability, and algorithmic opacity are critically assessed for their impact on academic truthfulness and trust.
Recommendations are offered for institutional policy frameworks, journal disclosure practices, and responsible AI usage in scholarship. The research posited that preserving research integrity in the digital age entails not just technical guidelines but a reawakening of ethical consciousness rooted in both historical precedence and modern-day innovation. As AI continues to reshape the academic landscape, scholars must lead the way in defining standards that prioritise transparency, responsibility, and human oversight.

Keywords Artificial Intelligence Ethical Challenges integrity research and publication referencing traditions

Strategic Alignment of Digital Transformation with Sustainable Banking Practices in Nigeria's Banking Industry

Adamu Ado Abubakar — Kaduna State University, Kasu, Kaduna Nigeria

Anthony Kolade Adesugba — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Salisu Umar — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Idris Bashir Bugaje — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Nigerian banks face significant challenges in aligning their digital transformation efforts with sustainable banking practices, which are crucial for long-term success in a competitive financial landscape. Despite the growing recognition of sustainability in the banking sector, many banks struggle to integrate digital technologies in ways that promote both operational efficiency and social responsibility. This study examines the strategic alignment between digital transformation and sustainable banking practices in Nigeria’s banking sector, focusing on how nine leading banks align their digital strategies with sustainability goals. The research involves in-depth interviews with 12 participants (senior executives and IT specialists) from these banks, investigating how digital technologies such as mobile banking, cloud computing, and big data analytics contribute to environmental sustainability, financial inclusion, and social responsibility. The study identifies key themes, including the adoption of digital tools for operational efficiency and sustainability, the integration of green banking and corporate social responsibility (CSR) into digital strategies, and the challenges and opportunities of aligning digital initiatives with sustainability objectives. The findings suggest that strategic digital alignment enhances resource optimization, reduces operational costs, and improves customer loyalty, while also addressing barriers such as regulatory hurdles and cybersecurity concerns. This research provides actionable insights for Nigerian banks to overcome transformation barriers and leverage digital solutions for long-term sustainable growth, positioning them as leaders in both financial innovation and sustainability.

Keywords Digital Transformation Strategic Alignment Sustainable Banking Financial Inclusion

Succession in the Digital Age under the Common Law: Legal Challenges in the Management and Administration of Digital Estates in Nigeria

Umar Sani Bebeji — Department Of Commercial Law, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

The rapid advancement of digital technology has transformed the nature of personal assets by introducing the concept of digital estates, which include online accounts, cryptocurrencies, social media profiles, digital currencies, and intellectual property existing in electronic form. The death of an individual raises complex questions regarding the management, transfer, and administration of such digital assets. This paper examines the adequacy of the Nigerian legal framework in addressing the administration of digital estates. Through a doctrinal analysis of existing Nigerian laws and international best practices, the paper identifies significant gaps and ambiguities in current legal provisions. It finds that there is an increased risk of digital asset loss, privacy breaches, and estate disputes in the absence of explicit legislation. By comparing international best practices, the paper proposes reforms to enhance the administration of digital estates, ensuring that digital assets are adequately protected and efficiently transferred. This reform is imperative for providing clarity, legal certainty, and protection of digital assets for heirs and administrators in Nigeria.

Keywords Digital Estate Currency Technology Succession.

The Role of Information Scientists in Digital Communication and AI for Sustainable Development in Nigeria: Enhancing Service Delivery in Libraries and Information Centre’s

Adamu Jibrin — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Jamila Yakubu — President Kennedy Library, Institute Of Administration Ahmadu Bello University, Kongo, Zaria

Hadiza Aliyu Suleiman — Kashim Kashim Ibrahim Library Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Abstract
This literary paper examines the pivotal role of information scientists in advancing digital communication and artificial intelligence (AI) to promote sustainable development in Nigeria. As the country navigates various developmental challenges, leveraging technology in libraries and information center’s becomes essential for effective service delivery. Information scientists are uniquely positioned to facilitate the integration of digital tools and AI, enhancing access to information resources and improving user engagement. The study highlights key initiatives undertaken by information scientists, including the implementation of AI-driven information retrieval systems, digital literacy training programs, and the creation of collaborative platforms for knowledge sharing. These efforts aim to empower communities, bridge the digital divide, and support informed decision-making processes. Moreover, the paper addresses the challenges faced by information professionals, such as inadequate infrastructure and the need for continuous professional development in emerging technologies. By emphasizing the importance of digital communication and AI, this overview underscores the potential for information scientists to contribute significantly to Nigeria's sustainable development goals. The suggestions advocate for increased investment in training and technological infrastructure to maximize the impact of information services in fostering societal growth. In conclusion, the strategic involvement of information scientists in digital communication and AI is critical for enhancing service delivery in libraries and information centres, ultimately driving sustainable development in Nigeria.

Keywords Keywords: Information scientists digital communication artificial intelligence sustainable development libraries and information center’s.

Towards Sustainable Energy Transition in Nigeria’s Cloud Data Center Sector: Challenges, Projections, and Policy

Nahuru Ado Sabongari — Kaduna Polytechnic

Nahuru Ado Sabongari — Department Of Computer Science Kaduna Polytechnic

Murtala Muhammad Chafe — Department Of Computer Science Kaduna Polytechnic

Muktar Muhammad Tambuwal — Department Of Computer Science Kaduna Polytechnic

Abstract
The demand for sustainable energy, security, and self-sufficiency is becoming increasingly urgent as the global debate over climate change intensifies, especially in developing nations that are rapidly undergoing digital transformation. Nigeria, Africa's most populous country with the largest economy, demonstrates this in this case. Faster digitization, the usage of artificial intelligence (AI), and the development of 5G technologies—particularly in the cloud data center sector—are all contributing to the nation's high energy consumption. Nigeria's energy infrastructure is still heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with natural gas producing 80% of the country's electricity and diesel powering the backup generator. This leads to high operating costs and pollution of the environment. The study offers a thorough examination of Nigeria's data center power business, emphasizing the issues of sustainability, anticipated trend growth, and infrastructure demands. The study highlights the significance of strategic planning, renewable integration, and energy-efficient technologies such as switching power distribution units (PDUs) because the energy consumption in cloud data centers is expected to rise dramatically by 2030. Additionally, it critically analyses the policy environment, particularly the national Renewable Energy Master Plan (REMP) and the global Clean Energy Demand Initiative (CEDI) collaboration, which act as a driving force behind Niger's climate goal under the Paris Agreement.

Keywords Keywords: Energy efficiency Sustainability Renewable energy Cloud data center

Asymmetric Effects of Energy and Exchange Rate on Inflation in Nigeria: Evidence from Nonlinear ARDL Model

Danladi Ndayezhin Saba — Abu, Zaria

This study examines the dynamic interrelationship between energy price liberalization, exchange rate movements, and inflation in Nigeria, utilizing annual data from 1985 to 2024 and employing a three-pronged analytical framework (Correlation analysis, pairwise Granger causality tests, and a Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model). The study captures both symmetric and asymmetric effects of petrol price deregulation and exchange rate changes on inflationary outcomes. Correlation results reveal strong positive associations among petrol prices (PMSM), exchange rates (USDEXCH), and consumer price index (CPI), with coefficients above 0.88, suggesting tightly coupled dynamics among the variables. Granger causality analysis further establishes significant bidirectional causality between inflation and both petrol prices and exchange rates, indicating feedback loops and endogenous shocks in the macroeconomic environment. The NARDL results uncover statistically significant asymmetries. Positive changes in petrol prices (PMSM) exert inflationary pressures in the short run, while negative changes yield weaker or statistically insignificant effects. Similarly, exchange rate depreciation has a strong inflationary impact, especially through the lagged effects of negative shocks, as evidenced by the significance of cumulative and dynamic negative components of exchange rate changes. The error correction mechanism, indicated by the high coefficient of CPI(-1), confirms the presence of long-run adjustment toward equilibrium. These findings provide nuanced insights into Nigeria’s macroeconomic policy context. While energy and exchange rate reforms are vital for fiscal consolidation and external balance, their inflationary consequences, particularly for price stability and household welfare, demand complementary policy buffers. The study recommends enhanced coordination between monetary and fiscal authorities, the design of adaptive inflation-targeting frameworks, and the implementation of targeted social transfers to cushion vulnerable populations during periods of price realignment.

Keywords Energy Prices Exchange Rate Inflation Nonlinear ARDL

Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Tax in Nigeria: A Perspective Paper

Abdul Hamidu Abdul — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Sylvanus Mohammed Itodo — Department Of Public Administration Nasarawa State University Keffi

Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Tax in Nigeria: A Perspective Paper
Abdul Hamidu Abdullahi PhD
Department of Local Government and Development Studies
Faculty of Administration
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
abdulhamidu2020@gmail.com/aabdulhamidu@abu.edu.ng
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7207-5533

Abstract
Sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) pose a significant public health challenge globally, and Nigeria is increasingly experiencing the burden of their excessive consumption. This perspective paper examines the multifaceted impact of SSBs on public health in Nigeria, the rationale behind the introduction of a Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Tax (SSBT) in the country, and a critical analysis of its effectiveness and potential implications. While the SSBT is a commendable step towards mitigating diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs), its current design warrants re-evaluation to maximize its public health and fiscal benefits. This paper argues for an upward review of the tax rate, coupled with robust earmarking of revenue for health initiatives and comprehensive public awareness campaigns, to foster a healthier Nigerian population.
Keywords: Sugar-sweetened beverages, SSB tax, Nigeria, public health, non-communicable diseases, obesity, diabetes, fiscal policy.

Keywords Sugar-sweetened beverages SSB tax public health diabetes fiscal policy.

WOMEN CONTRIBUTION FOR SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA

Bridget Terfa Ikyembe — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Mercy Doose Terwase Adeleye — Colleague

This paper seeks to analyze the contribution of women in socio-economic and sustainable development in sub-Saharan Africa. Women in Sub-Saharan Africa constitute almost half of its population and the larger population of women reside in rural and urban areas. This large number of women contribute in agricultural activities, educational, political and social activities that in turn boost economy for sustainable development with very significant impact on poverty reduction. Paradoxically, in Africa especially sub-Saharan Africa economy remains bleak. Although there may be some modest improvement but still poverty has remained a global concern and its eradication is on the top agenda for development programmes for many nations. There is evidence of women constituting very significant factor in poverty eradication. Rural women are responsible for more than 55% of food grown in Africa. Moreover, women comprise 67% of agricultural force in developing countries. Women make substantial labour contribution to agricultural production but are at disadvantage when it comes to acquiring formal education and specialized skills that would improve their productivity in both household and market based production. The culture of second-class citizenship accorded to women is slowly changing following the Beijing conference of 1995 held in China. However women are still faced with challenges of deprivation and participation in developmental issues due to traditional and cultural value systems with the common notion that “women education ends in the kitchen” In 2015, the world leaders initiated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targeted at addressing the needs of people in both developed and developing countries. Based on the Seventeen (17) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) where Goal 1 focused on poverty reduction and hunger, Goal 5 laid emphasis on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls while Goal 8 spelt out the promotion of sustained inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment.

Keywords women contribution socio-economic management sustainable development Africa

An Examination of the Right to Healthy Environment in Nigeria: Legal Frameworks and Enforcement Challenges

Salisu Abubakar — Gombe State College Of Education And Legal Studies, Nafada

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, faces growing environmental challenges that have direct implications for public health and sustainable development. From oil pollution in the Niger Delta to urban air pollution and unsafe water in densely populated cities, the environmental degradation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, particularly in low-income and rural communities. This paper examines the legal underpinnings of the right to a healthy environment in Nigeria and its intersection with the right to health. Drawing from constitutional provisions, environmental legislation such as the Environmental Impact Assessment Act and the NESREA Act, and relevant judicial decisions, the paper assesses the extent to which Nigeria’s legal system recognizes and protects this right. It critically analyzes enforcement mechanisms, institutional weaknesses, and the challenges posed by corruption, weak regulation, and lack of political will. The role of civil society, litigation, and international obligations—such as those under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights—is also evaluated. The paper argues that ensuring environmental justice and safeguarding population health in Nigeria requires strengthening legal enforcement, integrating environmental concerns into health policies, and enhancing access to environmental information and remedies. It concludes by proposing practical reforms, including judicial activism, community-based environmental monitoring, and enhanced legal capacity within regulatory agencies.

Keywords Environmental Law Public Health Nigeria

Legal Protection of Internally Displaced Persons in Nigeria: Gaps, Challenges, and Pathways to Reform

Bashir Abdullahi — Gombe State College Of Education And Legal Studies Nafada

Salisu Abubakar — Gombe State College Of Education And Legal Studies, Nafada

Nigeria is currently grappling with one of the most severe internal displacement crises in Africa, driven by insurgency, communal clashes, banditry, and environmental degradation. Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) face grave challenges, including poor living conditions, limited access to basic services, and weak legal protection frameworks. This paper examines the existing legal mechanisms for protecting IDPs in Nigeria and identifies critical gaps in both domestic and international law implementation. Using a doctrinal legal research approach, the study analyses Nigeria’s constitutional guarantees, national emergency policies, and regional instruments such as the African Union Convention for the Protection and Assistance of Internally Displaced Persons in Africa (Kampala Convention). The findings reveal that although Nigeria ratified the Kampala Convention, it has yet to domesticate it through comprehensive national legislation, leaving IDPs vulnerable to systemic neglect. Furthermore, the absence of institutional coordination, inadequate data management, and insufficient budgetary allocation exacerbate the plight of displaced populations. The paper advocates for the urgent enactment of an IDP Protection Act, which would establish clear responsibilities for government agencies, guarantee the rights of IDPs, and provide mechanisms for durable solutions, including return, resettlement, and reintegration. It also emphasizes the need for a rights-based approach grounded in human dignity, equality, and access to justice.

Keywords Internally Displaced Persons Legal Protection Human Rights Displacement Law Nigeria

Integrating Environmental Sustainability into Carriage of Goods by Sea: Legal and Policy Imperatives in Nigeria.

Jamila Shuaibu — Ahmadu Bello University

The maritime sector is central to Nigeria’s economy, with the carriage of goods by sea serving as a critical conduit for both import and export activities. However, the environmental impact of shipping—including marine pollution, oil spills, and air emissions—poses significant sustainability challenges. This paper critically examines the extent to which environmental sustainability is integrated into the legal and policy framework regulating the carriage of goods by sea in Nigeria. Drawing from key international conventions such as MARPOL and UNCLOS, the paper assesses Nigeria’s compliance, domestication, and enforcement mechanisms. It highlights challenges such as outdated legislation, weak institutional enforcement, limited technical capacity, and poor inter-agency coordination. Using Nigerian port operations and maritime administration as focal points, the paper also explores emerging opportunities for sustainable practices, including green port initiatives and regional cooperation under ECOWAS. It concludes with targeted recommendations for legal reform, regulatory strengthening, and the adoption of sustainable maritime policies that align with both international standards and Nigeria’s development priorities under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Keywords Environmental sustainability Carriage of goods by sea Maritime Law Marine Pollution International Maritime Conventions

SUSTAINABLE MINING PRACTICES IN KADUNA STATE

Alfred Cyprain Bognet — Kaduna State University

Yusuf, Mohammed — Federal University Kashere (fuk), Gombe State

Samuel, Fidelis — Economic Department, Kaduna State University

Kambai, Elizabeth Peter — Department Of Economics, Kaduna State University, Kaduna.

Mining activities in Kaduna State have significantly impacted the environment, local communities, and the broader economy. This study investigates the application of sustainable mining practices, focusing on the issues and remedies related to environmental impacts, community development, and economic sustainability. Data was collected using a mixed-method approach, including phone and online surveys, targeting 799 respondents-primarily community members, government officials, researchers and mining companies. The findings reveal that pre-mining conditions were characterized by abundant vegetation, clean water sources, and fertile soil, which have since deteriorated due to deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution. A majority of respondents (72.8%) reported that Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) were not conducted before mining activities began, highlighting inadequate regulatory oversight. Current environmental impacts, including significant degradation in air, soil, and water quality, were identified by a large proportion of respondents (37.6% significant, 21.2% severe). The implementation of environmental management plans has been largely ineffective, with 62.8% of respondents expressing disagreement on their effectiveness. Social impacts, such as loss of livelihoods, displacement, and conflicts between communities and mining companies, were widespread. The majority (70%) reported mixed impacts on local communities, primarily negative, due to the disruption of traditional livelihoods. Awareness of community development programs was low, and only 3.9% confirmed their existence. Economic benefits were limited, with most respondents (72.2%) stating no significant gains, while challenges such as fluctuating commodity prices, inadequate community involvement, and poor regulatory enforcement hinder sustainable mining. Governance mechanisms were largely ineffective, as 95.4% of respondents rated government regulations as ineffective. Community participation in decision-making was minimal, with 72.5% unaware of such mechanisms. The study concludes that unless significant improvements are made in regulatory enforcement, community engagement, and sustainable mining practices, the long-term environmental and socio-economic impacts of mining in Kaduna State are likely to persist, posing further challenges to sustainable development.

Keywords sustainable mining environmental impact community development regulatory enforcement Kaduna State

Access to Finance for Sustainable Development

Shu'aibu Musa — Ahmadu Bello University

Siraj Barau Abdulkarim — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Nigeria Department Of Public Administration

Abdulrazak Yuguda Madu — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Nigeria Department Of Public Administration

Ismail Tijjani Idris — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Nigeria Department Of Finance

A conceptual paper on Long term Policy Framework for States in the Northwest Nigeria. Fostering access to finance remains an important policy tool that could be used to achieve sustainable development. In the past decades, Governments, the academia and International Development Assistance Agencies began to consider financial exclusion of the deprived majority in society as the major cause of poverty, inequality and sluggish economic growth. Most studies and policy directions tend to focus on global, regional or national economic and development policies with less emphasis on policy framework at the sub-national level. The major challenge is to develop policy framework for sub-national governments which will guide access to finance for sustainable development. In Nigeria, the Federal structure allows the Federal government to be responsible for banking and other macroeconomic policies including the management of the financial system. States have to come up with policies to foster financial inclusion within this Federal set-up. The aim of this paper is to come up with a policy framework to foster access to finance by almost all citizens by 2050

Keywords Access to Finance Macroeconomic policies Policy Framework State Governments

AN ECONOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF FINTECH AND COMMERCIAL BANKS PERFORMANCE IN NIGERIA

Stephen Nkamre — University Of Calabar

Patience Asuquo Ekpo — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Enya, Matthew Njobil — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Eleng, David Mbotor — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Abang, George Ndifon — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Bassey Bassey Ubi — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Nkamare Stephen Ekpo — University Of Calabar, Calabar

The purpose of the study was to examine the effect of fintech and performance of commercial banks in Nigeria. In this study, the exploratory design and secondary sources were employed in this research. Ordinary least square of multiple regression was adopted in this study to establish the effect of independent variables on dependent variable. The major findings of the study included; there was no significant effect of fintech (ATM) on the performance of commercial banks in Nigeria; there was a significant effect of fintech (point of sales) on the performance of commercial banks in Nigeria; there was a significant effect of fintech (mobile banking) on the performance of commercial banks in Nigeria, and there was no significant effect of fintech (internet) on the performance of commercial banks in Nigeria. The study recommended that management should also ensure availability of FinTech services so that customers can have seamless and round the-clock access. Adequacy and availability of FinTech services are essential elements of performance. Also, banks should ensure adequacy of FinTech services, regardless of location to enhance customer access.

Keywords Fintech Automated teller machine mobile banking internet banking point of sales.

BLOCKCHAIN-ENABLED ISLAMIC SOCIAL FINANCE: A SHARĪʿAH-COMPLIANT FRAMEWORK FOR TRANSPARENT AND INCLUSIVE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

Ahmad Abubakar — Shehu Wada San And Co

Muhammad Sambo Umar — Gombe State University

This paper investigated the integration of blockchain technology into Islamic social finance as a Sharīʿah-compliant strategy to enhance transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in Nigeria’s pursuit of sustainable development. Focusing on the core instruments of zakāt, waqf, and ṣadaqah, the paper explored how blockchain’s decentralized, immutable, and transparent ledger system could address persistent governance challenges that have hindered the effective deployment of Islamic social finance mechanisms in the Nigerian context. The research adopted an interdisciplinary approach, combining principles of Islamic commercial jurisprudence (fiqh al-muʿāmalāt), financial technology (fintech), and development studies to evaluate the practical and legal feasibility of blockchain-based models. Particular attention was given to the operationalization of smart contracts for automating zakāt and waqf disbursements, decentralized applications (dApps) for donor and beneficiary tracking, and digital identity systems to enhance financial inclusion for marginalized populations. The study identified key barriers including legal uncertainties, infrastructural deficits, limited Sharīʿah literacy among technologists, and regulatory fragmentation. Nevertheless, it found that blockchain could serve as a transformative enabler for Islamic social finance institutions by promoting trust, real-time auditing, and efficiency, thereby aligning the operational ethos of Islamic finance with the objectives of Islamic law (Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah). The paper concluded that embedding blockchain into Nigeria’s Islamic social finance ecosystem could not only modernize faith-based financial governance but also support national and global development goals, particularly in areas of poverty alleviation, education, and healthcare. It recommended the development of unified regulatory standards, Sharīʿah-compliant blockchain protocols, and public-private partnerships to harness the full potential of this technological integration for ethical and sustainable development.

Keywords Sustainability Finance Inclusion Blockchain Islamic

EFFECT OF RISK MANAGEMENT ON THE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF LISTED DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS IN NIGERIA

Aisha Oluwakemi Oba — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Jumai Ajuma Murtala — Federal University Of Education, Zaria

In an increasingly volatile financial environment, effective risk management has become a critical
determinant of banks' survival and profitability. This study investigates the impact of risk
management on the financial performance of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria, where the
banking sector plays a pivotal role in economic stability and growth. The study used credit risk,
liquidity risk, and operational risk as explanatory variables, and financial performance was the
explained variable during a ten-year period, from 2012 to 2021. This study primarily focuses on
addressing gaps in variable and temporal gaps, specifically by examining the role of operational
risk and considering a timeframe that allowed the effect of newer regulations and economic events
to be assessed. The study used a quantitative approach and correlational research design; data used
in the study was extracted from audited financial reports of Deposits Money Banks (DMBs) in
Nigeria. Multiple regression analysis was performed on the data using STATA software. Based on
the findings, the financial performance of Nigeria's listed DMBs is significantly impacted
negatively by operational risk, while liquidity risk has a positive and significant effect on the
bank’s financial performance. Based on the results, the study recommended that deposit money
banks should prioritise improving their liquidity risk as it has a significant positive impact on return
on assets (ROA). This suggests that efficiently converting deposits into loans can enhance
profitability. In addition, since operating risk has a significant negative relationship with ROA,
banks should implement cost control measures and improve operational efficiency to reduce
expenses and increase returns. Therefore, the focus should be on maximising loan utilisation,
minimising operating costs, and continuously monitoring asset quality to sustain profitability.

Keywords Financial performance Risk management Deposit money banks

FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY AND CUSTOMERS SATISFACTION IN SELECTED DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS IN CROSS RIVER STATE

Stephen Nkamre — University Of Calabar

Eba, Augustine Okpaje — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Iniobong Ephraim Ebong — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Nkamare Stephen Ekpo — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Patience Asuquo Ekpo — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Enya, Matthew Njobil — University Of Calabar, Calabar

Eleng, David Mbotor — University Of Calabar, Calabar

The purpose of the study was to examine the contribution of financial technology on customers’ satisfaction of selected Deposit money banks in Cross River State. Specifically, the study sought to: investigate the impact of mobile banking on customers’ satisfaction, examine the impact of peer to peer lending on customers’ satisfaction, and to analyze the impact of fintech Chatbot AI on customers’ satisfaction in Cross River State. Primary source of data was employed in the study. Multiple regression analysis was used in this study. Based on the results of the study, the findings were summarized as thus: there was a significant impact of mobile banking on customers’ satisfaction, there was a significant impact of peer to peer lending on customers’ satisfaction, and there was a significant impact of fintech Chatbot AI on customers’ satisfaction in Cross River State. The study recommended that mobile banking is an application of mobile commerce that enables the customers to bank virtually at any convenient time and place. Therefore, management of the banks should make provisions for having a steadily network that will enable customers access their money using cellular phone or similar device. Also, banks should ensure that there are effective online platforms that will connect borrowers and lenders.

Keywords Financial technology mobile banking peer to peer lending fintech Chatbot AI customers’ satisfaction

INNOVATIVE FINANCING MODELS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN THE NIGERIAN AGRICULTURAL SECTOR: A CONCEPTUAL AND THEORETICAL REVIEW

Musa Mohammed Abdulkarim — Ahmadu Bello University

Umar Abubakar — Ahmadu Bello University

Ahmed, Aliyu Abdullahi — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Mohammed, Maarufah Abdulmalik — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

This paper investigates the link between innovative financing models and sustainable development in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Despite its vast agricultural potential, Nigeria continues to grapple with socio-economic challenges such as inflation, poverty, and insecurity. One of the most pressing barriers to agricultural transformation, particularly under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which targets economic reform and sectoral revitalization, is restricted access to finance. Traditional financing approaches have often failed to meet the needs of smallholder farmers due to structural inefficiencies, informality, and limited financial inclusion. Drawing on global best practices and theoretical insights, this study explores innovative financing mechanisms that include green bonds, blended finance, agricultural insurance, digital crowdfunding, and impact investing. It evaluates their applicability and potential for fostering sustainable agricultural development in Nigeria. Using a conceptual and theoretical approach rooted in the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework and Institutional Theory, the study proposes a framework to inform future empirical research and guide policy formulation.

Keywords blended finance agricultural insurance digital crowdfunding and sustainable development.

Islamic Social Finance and Takaful: A Maqasid Approach to Poverty Alleviation

Maryam Dikko — Ahmadu Bello University

This paper explores the intersection between Islamic social finance and takaful through the lens of maqāṣid al-sharīʿah, with a specific focus on their potential for poverty alleviation in Nigeria. Although Islamic financial tools such as zakat, waqf, and qard al-ḥasan have long been utilised to address social inequality, their impact is often limited by fragmentation and lack of integration with risk protection mechanisms like takaful. At the same time, Nigeria’s takaful sector remains underdeveloped and underutilised, failing to serve vulnerable and low-income populations effectively. Drawing on classical and contemporary scholarship, this study employs a qualitative doctrinal method grounded in maqāṣid theory to assess how takaful can be fused with broader social finance instruments to achieve more holistic, Shariah-compliant poverty mitigation.

Through an interdisciplinary review of literature and policy frameworks, the paper argues for a unified Islamic social protection model that integrates redistributive tools (zakat and waqf) with risk-sharing mechanisms (takaful). This maqāṣid-driven model promotes ḥifẓ al-māl (protection of wealth) and ḥifẓ al-nafs (protection of life) while ensuring sustainability and justice. The findings suggest that a coordinated takaful–zakat–waqf framework would enhance financial inclusion, reduce systemic vulnerabilities, and fulfil the higher objectives of the Sharīʿah more effectively. The paper recommends policy realignment, regulatory reform, and public awareness strategies to facilitate this integration within Nigeria’s Islamic financial ecosystem.

Keywords Islamic social finance takaful maqāṣid al-sharīʿah poverty alleviation Nigeria

MACRO-DETERMINANTS OF STOCK MARKET LIQUIDITY IN NIGERIA

Josephine Ene — Baze University Abuja

Globally, the stock market has been recognized as a catalyst in the process of economic growth and development. This significant position occupied by the stock market is precipitated by its function as an intermediary within the financial system. This pivotal role has elicited a focus on expanding and deepening financial markets by governments. To facilitate the understanding of stock market variations across the globe, researches have overtime examined the interactions between macro-economy and various aspects of stock market such as market capitalisation, stock market index and stock market liquidity. These studies have produced significant inconsistencies across economies, exposing the need for country specific investigations. Moreover, a myriad of such studies have focused on the size of the stock market with an obvious predilection towards stock market capitalisation. Without diminishing the importance of stock market capitalisation, it is pertinent to note that it only capture a single aspect of the stock market. Undoubtedly, a comprehensive understanding of stock market requires the study of its depth measured as stock market liquidity. Stock market liquidity is an important attribute of stock market development that ensures pricing and cost efficiency. Therefore, this study examined the determinants of stock market liquidity in Nigeria. The study used ex-post facto design covering from 2004 to 2023. The cointegration result showed that there exists a long run relationship among the variables. Error Correction Model was used to test the hypotheses and the result revealed that exchange rate, GDP and broad money supply had positive impact on market liquidity while inflation rate and interest rate had negative impact on market liquidity.

Keywords Stock Market Liquidity GDP Inflation Rate Exchange Rate Error Correction Model

PUBLIC EDUCATION EXPENDITURE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA, 1990-2024

Alfred Bognet Cyprain — Kaduna State University

Samson David — Kaduna State University

Adams Samuel Ba — Nasarawa State University

It has been ascertained that unemployment reduction is one of the macroeconomics’ objectives, which is a very important factor in economic development; and nations of the world are working hard towards achieving it. Since the problems of economic growth are so enormous, economists have continued to research; in order to find lasting solution to it. In this line, Lucas, in endogenous theory of growth gave education a pride of place on the path of economic growth. Nigerian educational system has suffered series of problems which has limited her from delivering what is expected of her in the process of economic growth. This study seeks to investigate the impact of of Public education expenditure on Economic development of Nigeria using ARDL technique. A close study of the data on public education expenditure reveals that capital and recurrent expenditure on education have positive but marginal impact on the economy and unemployment has a negative relationship with expenditure on education. Therefore, it was recommended that increase allocation on both recurrent and capital levels be made and rebranding the educational system for better service delivery in order to promote more income generation, again to improved productivity; thereby, leading to the much-needed economic growth in the country.

Keywords Expenditure development Education economic growth Public

Revenue Leakages and Public Sector Revenue Generation: What Nigerian Local Government Contextual Tells Us

Maruf Mustapha — Accounting Department Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

This study examines the persistent challenges of revenue generation and the impact of revenue leakages on the financial sustainability of local governments in Nigeria. Based multistage sampling method, field data were generated from180 respondents representing Finance Officer, Revenue Collectors, Auditors, Treasurers, Political Office Holders and Community Stakeholders. The study’s unit of analysis relates to 18 local government areas sampled across three geographical zones of Nigeria. Official reports by national and international institutions were utilized to complement the field data regarding IGR performance amongst Nigerian local governments. Drawing on theoretical perspectives and results of the regression analysis reveals that, most local authorities are heavily dependent on statutory allocations due to inadequate internally generated revenue (IGR). The study identifies systemic leakages—ranging from poor tax administration, informal sector exclusion, political interference, to weak audit and monitoring frameworks—as key impediments to fiscal efficiency. The study recommends an integrated approach that combines administrative reforms, stakeholder engagement, and technology adoption to minimize leakages and strengthen local revenue systems for grassroots development.

Keywords Revenue generation revenue leakages local government fiscal capacity IGR

The Impact of N-TAX Programme on Youth Empowerment in Zaria and Sabon Gari Local Government Areas of Kaduna State.

Ijirhange Thaddeaus Iorza — Public Administration Department, Abu Zaria

Ijirhange Thaddeaus Iorza — Dept. Of Public Administration, Abu Zaria

Mrs. Linda Mnena Bem — Department Of Public Administration Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi

Martha Doosuur Akume — Department Of Public Administration Faculty Of Administration Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Muhammad Hashim Yusuf — Department Of Public Administration Faculty Of Administration Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Youth empowerment remains one of the most challenging socio-economic problem of governments across the globe. In carrying out this responsibility, government at all level strive towards creating conducive economic atmosphere for the teeming youth population so as to enable the youth gainfully engaged in various descent means of livelihood and become economically viable. The paper assesses the impact of N-Tax Programme on Youth Empowerment in Zaria and Sabon gari Local Government Areas of Kaduna State. The Objective of the study is to assess the impact of the N-power Tax Programme on youth empowerment in Zaria and Sabon gari Local Government Areas of Kaduna. The data for the study were generated from primary and secondary sources. Questionnaires were distributed on a sample of 351 respondents selected from the 4000 population of the study through a stratified and simple random sampling techniques, Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools. Regression analysis tests result revealed that N-power Tax Programme has a significant impact on youth empowerment in Zaria and Sabon gari Local Government Areas of Kaduna. Based on the above findings, It was recommended among other things that Government should offer an exit package to exiting beneficiaries. This will help in sustaining the achieved objective of the scheme for taking the beneficiaries off the streets and Policies aimed at youth empowerment should be broad-based that cut across all sectors of the economy and the private sector should be encouraged in the same regard and Government, private individuals and Non-Governmental Organizations should provide grants and/or loans to the beneficiaries to boost their skills and/or start up small or medium scale businesses.

Keywords N-power N-Tax Youth and Empowerment

An Appraisal of the Customary Law and Women's Rights: Bridging the Gap Between Tradition and Equality

Salisu Abubakar — Gombe State College Of Education And Legal Studies, Nafada

Bashir Abdullahi — Gombe State College Of Education And Legal Studies, Nafada

In many developing countries, particularly in Africa, customary law continues to play a dominant role in shaping social relations and access to resources, especially in rural communities. While these customary norms often reflect deeply rooted cultural values, they frequently conflict with constitutional and international guarantees of gender equality. This paper explores the tension between customary law and women’s rights, with a focus on inheritance, land ownership, and marital rights. Using Nigeria as a case study, the paper examines how customary practices perpetuate gender-based discrimination, despite legal frameworks that seek to protect women’s rights. It also interrogates the role of the judiciary in interpreting and applying customary law in a way that balances respect for cultural autonomy with the imperatives of gender justice. The analysis highlights key judicial decisions that have either reinforced or challenged discriminatory customs, and evaluates legislative and policy interventions aimed at reform. The paper argues that meaningful gender development cannot occur without addressing the inconsistencies between statutory and customary legal systems. It advocates for a harmonization approach that respects cultural identity while aligning with international human rights standards. Ultimately, the paper proposes a multi-stakeholder strategy involving legal reform, judicial activism, community engagement, and education to bridge the gap between tradition and equality.

Keywords Customary law Women's Rights Gender equality

GENDER DEVELOPMENT IN ZARIA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA 1999 – 2015.

Yahaya Abubakar — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

This paper explores gender development in the 13 electoral and administrative units (wards) in Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria, focusing on the period from 1999 to 2015. The study examines how government policies, educational access, economic empowerment, and social and health indicators have influenced the status and wellbeing of men and women in the region. Utilizing a qualitative research approach, the paper draws on secondary data from government reports, academic journals, international organizations’ publications, and policy documents. It also analyzes statistical data from national surveys and health records to provide a detailed overview of gender disparities and progress made during this period. The research highlights the effects of cultural, economic, and social factors on gender roles and access to resources in Zaria. It assesses the impact of key government initiatives such as the Universal Basic Education program, women’s empowerment schemes, and health interventions aimed at reducing maternal mortality and improving women’s health outcomes. Findings reveal that while there have been notable improvements in girls’ education and women’s participation in economic activities, persistent challenges such as poverty, early marriage, and inadequate healthcare continue to limit gender equality in the area.

Keywords Gender development Zaria Kaduna State education economic empowerment.

Judicial Activism and the Protection of Female Employees’ Rights: A Study of the Role of the National Industrial Court in Nigeria

Abdulazeez Adavize Sadeeq — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

In Nigeria, female employees occupy a distinct position within the labour force, owing to their unique characteristics and vulnerabilities. While international conventions and domestic laws provide for equal treatment and specific protections, gender-based discrimination in the workplace remains pervasive. Women continue to face stereotypes about their suitability for certain roles, difficulties in balancing work and family life, and both overt and covert acts of harassment. Despite their critical contribution to national productivity, these challenges undermine their rights and welfare. This paper examines the role of the National Industrial Court (NIC) in protecting the rights of female employees and fostering safe and equitable workplaces in Nigeria. It adopts the doctrinal method of research and places reliance on conventions, treaties, statutes, decided cases, and secondary materials such as journal articles, books, and seminar papers. Using this approach, the study analyzes relevant statutory provisions, international labour standards, and case law to assess the NIC’s interventions through judicial activism. Findings reveal that the NIC has, in some instances, advanced the rights of female workers by addressing discriminatory practices and reinforcing employer obligations. However, gaps persist in enforcement and institutional support. The paper recommends strengthening judicial oversight, enhancing public awareness of workplace rights, and adopting comprehensive policies to eliminate systemic barriers against women in employment.

Keywords Judiciary Female: Employee Rights Protection.

EFFECT OF INSECURITY ON STUDENT ENROLLMENT AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR INSTITUTIONAL STABILITY AT FEDERAL UNIVERSITY GUSAU, ZAMFARA STATE

Bilyaminu Tukur — Federal University Gusau

Abdulrazak Yuguda Madu — Department Of Public Administration, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

This study investigates the profound effect of insecurity on student enrollment and institutional stability at Federal University Gusau, situated in Nigeria's volatile Zamfara State. Against the persistent security crisis in Northern Nigeria marked by banditry, kidnappings, and campus threats the research analyzes how violence disrupts higher education access and sustainability. Employing a mixed-methods design, the study integrates quantitative enrollment data (2019–2024) with qualitative insights from stakeholder interviews and security reports. Key findings reveal a 32% enrollment drop in high-risk disciplines (e.g., field-based sciences) and a 45% decline in non-indigene admissions, severely straining institutional finances. The study uncovers a vicious cycle: insecurity diminishes enrollment, which reduces revenue, thereby weakening the university's capacity to maintain infrastructure and retain staff. Female students are disproportionately affected, with many relocating to safer regions. While adaptive measures like hybrid learning and localized recruitment offer partial mitigation, the study argues that without systemic security-sector partnerships, universities in conflict zones risk collapse. Policy recommendations prioritize three areas: enhanced campus protection, federal emergency funding, and community-based security alliances to preserve education as a stabilizing institution in Nigeria’s most insecure regions.

Keywords Insecurity Student Enrollment Institutional Stability Conflict Zones Adaptive Strategies

EFFECT OF INSTITUTIONAL GOVERNANCE ON SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES IN DANGOTE GROUP, LAGOS, NIGERIA

Odonye Dauda Emmanuel (ph.d.) — Bingham University Karu, Nasarawa State

Romanus, O Ajefu (ph.d.) — Business Administration Department, Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State Nigeria

Abstract
Strong institutional governance is widely regarded as essential for driving sustainability in today’s corporate world, especially in developing economies like Nigeria. This paper examines how four aspects of governance, board structure, regulatory compliance, transparency and disclosure, and stakeholder engagement, shape sustainable business practices in Dangote Group, Lagos. A descriptive survey was employed to collect first-hand data from managers and officers who are actively involved in these areas. According to Dangote’s HR office (March 2025), 161 staff members are working across governance, compliance, sustainability, and CSR functions. Using Taro Yamane’s formula with a 5% margin of error, an initial sample of approximately 114 was calculated, with an additional 10% included to accommodate potential dropouts, resulting in a final sample of 126. Stratified random sampling ensured that all units were fairly represented. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression analyses results revealed that board structure and stakeholder engagement have the strongest impact on sustainability efforts, while compliance and transparency provide further support. The study concluded that well-structured governance, combined with genuine stakeholder participation, helps firms achieve lasting sustainability. It is recommended that Dangote Group strengthen board oversight, tighten compliance checks, communicate openly, and engage with stakeholders to maintain its position as a sustainability leader in Nigeria’s business sector.
Keywords: Institutional governance, board structure, compliance, stakeholder engagement, sustainability, Dangote Group, Nigeria.

Keywords Institutional governance board structure compliance stakeholder engagement sustainability.

Effect of institutional ownership on Financial performance of Nigerian listed Manufacturing companies

Usman Dahiru Jibrin — Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi

Institutional ownership enhanced company's performance by promoting better relationship between managers and capital providers can be maintained. Several previous studies concentrated on relationship between block ownership, family ownership and founder ownership, foreign ownership and financial performance. This makes prior researches to advocate the need for future studies to examine other ownership structure such as institutional ownership and financial performance. There are extensive research on institutional ownership and financial performance concentrated on banking sector in Nigeria. The objective of the study, was to examine the effect of institutional ownership on financial performance. Expo facto design was used as methodology. All listed manufacturing firms comprising of construction, consumer goods, industrial goods and agriculture. This comprises of 310 firms observations. Data was collected from annual report and analyzed using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and panel corrected standard error model (PSCE) after conducting all diagnostics test, to ensure the validity of the result produced by OLS. The findings of the study reveals positive relationship between institutional ownership and Financial Performance is contribute to Agency Theory which posits that acquiring shares by the institutional investors would support their interests with other shareholders and enhance actions and decisions that protect shareholders’ rights and maximize company performance. Practical implications, if institutional investors acquires substantive amount of company shares, this would lead to better governance and oversight as a result of aligning of interest between the directors and shareholders of the company.

Keywords Institutional ownership financial performance manufacturing companies shareholders investors corporate governance.

Effects of Community Participation in Combating Insecurity in Kaduna State: A Study of Neighborhood Watch in Zaria Local Government 2018-24

Danjuma Abdullahi — Abu

Abdulrahman Suleiman Kawu — Alistiqama University Sumaila

Previous studies mainly discussed the problems and impacts of community participation in Nigeria, without little studies on Neighborhood Watch especially in Zaria Local Government, thus, the study examine effects of Community Participation in Combating Insecurity in Kaduna State: A Study of Neighborhood Watch in Zaria Local Government between 2018-24. Theory of collective action was used. The study used qualitative research, five informants were interviewed, such as community leaders, community members, Police and Vigilante etc., in-depth interview was used to collect primary data, while the secondary data was collected using books, newspapers, magazines, periodic reports as well as journal, the data was analyzed thematically using NVivo 15. The findings shows that due to insecurity and government failure led some communities to developed Neighborhood watch initiatives to safeguard their life and properties. The finding further shows that Neighborhood watch has contributed to peace building and minimize crimes in Zaria Local Government. The study therefore suggests increase in collaboration between state and non-state actors to foster free crime society.

Keywords Community Insecurity Neighborhood watch & Local Government

EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF BUDGET AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF KADUNA STATE

Alfred Bognet Cyprain — Kaduna State University

Samson David — Kaduna State University

Adams Samuel Ba — Nasarawa State University

Maryam Isah — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Kaduna State faces challenges of economic diversification, high poverty rates, and fluctuating development indicators despite significant budget allocations to critical sectors such as education, health, agriculture, infrastructure among other allocations. As of 2024, poverty stands at 88.83%, life expectancy at 44 years, learning poverty at 35.3%, low literacy and numeracy rates as well high mortality rates and disease burden. This study investigates the economic dynamics of Kaduna State, Nigeria, focusing on budgetary allocations to education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure, and their impacts on key development indicators like human capital development, , Health outcomes, poverty rate, employment rate and GDP growth rate. Data was collected from the Kaduna State Bureau of Statistics website and the statistical documents available online. The study used the VAR technique of analysis on time-series data from 2000 to 2023. The VAR analysis reveals that budget allocations to education and healthcare significantly influence human capital development and public health outcomes. The study concludes that budgetary allocation impacts development and therefore recommends that the government should Enhance budget efficiency across sectors, promote economic diversification beyond agriculture, and strengthen human capital through targeted investments in education and healthcare. Address employment challenges, prioritize sustainable infrastructure development, and improve policy coordination to achieve sustainable development goals in Kaduna State.

Keywords Budget Development Kaduna State poverty

Evaluating the Adoption of E-Government Platforms in Enhancing Revenue Collection: A Study of Kano State inland Revenue board during the Administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf

Abubakar Salihu — Bayero University Kano

Aliyu Ishaq Abdullahi — Khalifa Isyaku Rabiu University

This study evaluates the adoption of e-government platforms in enhancing revenue collection at the Kano State Inland Revenue Board during the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. The primary aim is to assess how digital platforms have improved efficiency, transparency, and accountability in tax administration within the state. The study is anchored on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which posits that perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness influence the acceptance and effective utilization of technology. The theory is relevant as it helps explain stakeholders’ willingness to embrace e-government solutions in public finance management. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with data collected through questionnaires and interviews. A total of 120 respondents, including tax officers, ICT staff, and registered taxpayers, were purposively selected. The findings reveal that the introduction of e-tax payment systems significantly enhanced revenue generation, reduced leakages, and increased voluntary compliance. However, challenges such as digital illiteracy, poor internet connectivity, and resistance to change were noted. The study recommends intensified ICT training for staff, broader public awareness campaigns, and infrastructure upgrades to support seamless digital operations. It concludes that sustained political will and investment in technology are critical for optimizing e-government platforms and ensuring effective revenue mobilization in Kano State.

Keywords E-government Revenue Collection Transparency and Technology Acceptance Model.

The African Agenda: A Critical Examination of Nigeria and South Africa's Roles in Shaping the Continent's Position on UNSC Reform and the Quest for Permanent Representation

Kabeer Muhammed Garba — Ecowas Parliament

Jibrin Hussaini Abubakar — Department Of Political Science And International Relation Kaduna State Univeristy

Abstract
The debate over United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reform has been a longstanding issue in global governance, particularly concerning the representation of African States in the security council. Africa, despite being home to 54 UN member states and playing a significant role in global peacekeeping, economic development, and international diplomacy, remains underrepresented in the UNSC. Against this backdrop, Nigeria and South Africa have emerged as leading advocates for Africa’s quest for permanent representation, actively shaping the continent’s collective position on UNSC reform. This study examines the diplomatic strategies, policy approaches, and geopolitical influences of both nations in advocating for Africa’s position within the broader UN reform agenda. This study employs a multi-theoretical approach, integrating realism, constructivism, and regionalism to critically analyze Nigeria and South Africa’s roles in shaping Africa’s position on UNSC reform. This research critically assesses the effectiveness of Nigeria and South Africa’s diplomatic engagements, coalition-building efforts, and lobbying strategies within the UN General Assembly, AU, and other international forums. It evaluates their roles in advancing the Ezulwini Consensus, a 2005 AU position that demands two permanent seats for Africa with full veto powers and increased non-permanent representation. The findings reveal that Nigeria and South Africa’s in advocating for Africa’s permanent representation have been constrained by internal African divisions, global power politics, and structural limitations within the UN reform process. The study concludes with recommendations for strengthening Africa’s diplomatic strategy, unity, and bargaining power in its quest for greater representation in global governance institutions.

Keywords Keywords: United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Economic Development. Diplomatic Engagements. Ezulwini Consensus

The Role of Digitalisation in Bridging Integrity and Compliance-Based Approaches to Anti-Corruption in Nigerian Public Sector Organisations

Ojonuba Samuel Ochagana — Federal University Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria.

Abubakar Aliyu — Federal University Lokoja

Digitalisation has emerged as a powerful tool in the fight against corruption, offering new ways to improve transparency and compliance within public sector organisations. In the Nigerian public sector context, where corruption remains a significant challenge, integrating digital tools presents opportunities to strengthen integrity and accountability. This study investigates the role of digitalisation in bridging integrity and compliance-based approaches to anti-corruption in Nigerian public sector organisations. Using a mixed-methods research design, the study combines qualitative data from semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with quantitative data from a survey of 300 public sector employees. The results indicate that digitalisation significantly enhances transparency and reduces corruption by improving the monitoring and compliance capabilities of public sector organisations. Most respondents (73.3%) agreed that digital tools have positively impacted transparency and compliance, while 65% reported reduced corruption within their departments. However, the study also identifies key challenges, including infrastructure limitations, resistance to change, and low digital literacy, which hinder the full implementation of digital solutions. The findings suggest that while digitalisation offers considerable potential for anti-corruption efforts, addressing these challenges is crucial for maximising its effectiveness. The study concludes by recommending targeted investments in digital infrastructure, comprehensive training programs, and strategic change management initiatives to fully leverage digitalisation in the fight against corruption.

Keywords Digitalisation Anti-Corruption Compliance Integrity and Transparency.

Transforming Healthcare in Crisis: How E-Governance is Revolutionizing Service Delivery at Federal Medical Centre Gusau Amid Security Challenges

Muhammed Lawal — Ahamadu Bello University Zaria

Abstract
Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Gusau operates in Nigeria's volatile Zamfara State, a region plagued by persistent insecurity and chronic infrastructure deficits that severely constrain healthcare delivery. Despite these formidable challenges, the hospital implemented e-governance systems between 2020-2025 to enhance operational efficiency and service quality. This study evaluates the impact of this digital transformation through a survey-methods approach, analyzing quantitative data from 450 systematically sampled patient records (2021-2025) using SPSS 23 for descriptive statistics and regression analysis. The findings demonstrate significant improvements: administrative processes accelerated by 45%, electronic health records reduced missing patient files by 30%, and e-procurement systems decreased supply chain fraud by 25%. Telemedicine services expanded access, delivering over 5,000 remote consultations annually to conflict-affected communities. However, critical challenges persist - 68% of rural patients still depend on manual registration due to alarmingly low digital literacy (12%), while 23% of clinical staff lack proficiency in the new digital systems. Infrastructure limitations remain severe, with 72% generator-dependence causing 15 hours of weekly system downtime. Regression analysis confirmed that digitization significantly reduced patient wait times (p < 0.05), but also revealed disproportionate exclusion of vulnerable populations. The study concludes that while e-governance has demonstrably improved FMC Gusau's operational efficiency, its full potential remains constrained by contextual barriers. To achieve equitable impact, the hospital requires: (1) expanded digital literacy programs targeting rural patients, (2) military-secured internet infrastructure (3) AI-driven fraud detection systems to strengthen e-procurement. These findings offer valuable insights for healthcare digitization in Nigeria's crisis-affected regions, demonstrating that strategic, context-adapted e-governance can transform service delivery even in challenging environments. The FMC Gusau case provides a replicable model for balancing technological advancement with inclusive healthcare access in insecure settings.

Keywords E-governance healthcare digitization crisis settings telemedicine.

Assessment of Effective Recruitment on Sustainable Development in Nigeria

Musa Abdullahi Suleiman — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Najahatu Abdullahi Ra'is — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Usman Ahmed Datti — Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Zaria.

Effective recruitment is a principal aspect of personnel department in every organization. In order to ensure competitive strength and strategic advantage, an organization determines to choose from the pool of talented resources, the right person for the right position at the right time. Identifying vacancies would lead to job analysis (job description and job specification). The study assesses technical qualification as determination for effective recruitment in the country. The study assesses job analysis (job description and job specification) as criteria on ensuring sustainability in the country. The study assumes talent individual with behavioural requirements would ensure sustainable development in Nigeria. The study adopted Resource Based (RBT) Theory. The theory was profound by Edith Penrose in 1959. The theory explored on resource acquisition, utilization and expansion. The theory postulated that organisation should invest and develop human resources who have the required skills and knowledge aligned with social, economic and environmental goals. Data was obtained from secondary sources. The study used conceptual analysis for presentation, analysis and discussion. The research findings stated that technical qualification is a suitable phenomenon for recruiting talents into the organization. That job analysis (job description and job specification) are criteria that ensure effective recruitment which determine development and sustainability in the country. Also, behavioural requirement was an important mechanism for effective recruitment considering, World Economic forum Report, (2024). The study recommended that effective recruitment into the organization would invariably ensure social, economic and environmental continuity, development and sustainability in the country.

Keywords (Recruitment Technical Qualifications Behavioural Requirement Job description Job Specification Sustainable Development)

ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTS OF CAPACITY-BUILDING ON STAFF PRODUCTIVITY IN HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY OF KADUNA STATE

Margaret Ojoagefu Sani — Abu Zaria

Abstract
In today’s knowledge-driven and service-oriented global economy, capacity building has emerged as a critical strategy for improving organizational efficiency, particularly within the hospitality industry. Despite increasing attention to workforce development in Nigeria, staff productivity in the hospitality sector remains suboptimal, often due to weak institutional frameworks for continuous professional development. This study assessed the effects of capacity building on staff productivity in the hospitality industry in Kaduna State, with emphasis on four key indicators: training and development, mentoring and coaching, knowledge sharing, and career growth opportunities. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and employed a quantitative research methodology. A structured questionnaire was administered to a randomly selected sample of 180 hospitality workers across hotels, resorts, and guesthouses in Kaduna State. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis were used to test the predictive relationships between capacity building indicators and staff productivity. Qualitative responses were also triangulated to enrich the quantitative findings. Results revealed that all four components of capacity building had statistically significant and positive effects on staff productivity. Among them, training and development emerged as the strongest predictor (β = 0.312, p < 0.001), followed by mentoring and coaching, knowledge sharing, and career growth opportunities. The regression model accounted for 55% (R² = 0.550) of the variance in staff productivity. These findings support the Human Capital Theory and align with recent scholarly works that emphasize the centrality of human resource investment in enhancing service delivery and performance outcomes. The study concludes that strategic capacity-building initiatives are essential for improving workforce productivity in the hospitality industry. It recommends that hospitality establishments institutionalize structured training programs, formal mentoring systems, open knowledge-sharing platforms, and transparent career growth pathways to enhance both employee performance and organizationa

Keywords Staff Productivity Training and Development Mentoring and Coaching Knowledge Sharing Career Growth Opportunities

Digital Transformation in the Nigerian Public Service: Leveraging Human Resource Information System (HRIS) for Effective Governance and Service Delivery

Aishat Yusuf — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Suleiman Idris — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Aminah Omowumi Muhammed — Ahmadu Bello University/department Of Public Administration

The application of Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) in public administration represents a critical step toward improving efficiency, transparency, and accountability in governance. This study examines the adoption, effectiveness, and challenges of HRIS in Nigeria’s public sector, drawing insights from existing literature, policy documents, and empirical studies. It highlights how HRIS facilitates data-driven decision-making, reduces administrative bottlenecks, and supports the broader goals of digital transformation in the public service. The system enhances the accuracy and accessibility of personnel records, streamlines recruitment and payroll processes, and improves overall human resource management practices.
However, the study also reveals significant challenges, including inadequate ICT infrastructure, low digital literacy among civil servants, and resistance to technological change within institutions. These barriers continue to limit the full potential of HRIS implementation. By analyzing the relationship between institutional readiness and technological capacity, the paper offers practical, evidence-based recommendations to strengthen HRIS adoption.
Findings from the study underscore the strategic value of HRIS in advancing civil service reforms and achieving improved public sector performance. It advocates for sustained investment in digital infrastructure and comprehensive capacity-building initiatives. The study ultimately contributes to the policy discourse on e-governance, emphasizing the need for a proactive and inclusive approach to HRIS adoption in Nigeria’s public administration.

Keywords Human Resource Information System Digital Transformation Public Sector Governance Service delivery.

EFFECT OF PSYCHOLOGICAL CONTRACT ON JOB SATISFACTION OF CASUAL STAFF IN AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA, NIGERIA

Bashir Yusuf — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Psychological contract plays a crucial role in understanding employee-employer relationships, particularly in the context of casual staff in the Nigerian universities. This study examines the effect of the psychological contract on job satisfaction among casual staff in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Mixed-methods (concurrent embedded) approach was adopted, utilizing surveys and interviews to collect data from casual workers. 500 respondents were drawn from sampled respondents drawn from population of 1974 casual staff in the university through simple random sampling technique. Five management staff were interviewed. Data were generated from primary and secondary sources. The secondary sources utilized reports, textbooks and the internet. The primary data were generated using interview and questionnaire instruments. Questionnaire responses were analysed using mean and standard deviation. Whereas, data generated from interview were analysed using thematic analysis. Hypotheses were tested through regression analysis. Findings indicate that the fulfillment of psychological contract obligations significantly affect levels of job satisfaction of casual staff in Ahmadu Bello University, that, the remuneration packages for the casual staff is seriously inadequate to cater for the workers and hence breeds lateness and truancy of the workers. The study recommends for enhancing adequacy and consistency of compensation, issue permanent appointment to those that have demonstrated commitment and have requisite skills and qualification for their jobs, enhance job security, strengthening employee-employer communication, fair treatment and recognition, and the fulfillment of implicit and explicit contractual expectations to enhance job satisfaction among casual staff in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

Keywords Psychological contract casual staff job satisfaction employment relations career development

Effect of Recruitment on the performance of Organization in National Board For Arabic And Islamic Studies ( NBAIS) Headquarters Kaduna.

Hamza Muhammad Buhari — Ahmdu Bello University Zaria (abu)

ABSTRACT
It has been contended that effective recruitment process adopted by various organizations has positively influenced the performance of organizations, through which consummate and proficient prospective employees are on boarded into the employment positions of the organizations. These pool of experts will undoubtedly play significant roles to drive the performance of the organization, especially in the public institutions. This study therefore, sought to determine the effect of recruitment on performance in National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) Headquarters Kaduna. It targeted 787 population. The sample size for the study was 263 determined through the use of Slovin’s formula. Simple random sampling technique was adopted, while 5 management staff were equally selected, 10 students, 5 teachers and 5 Proprietors using purposive technique. Questionnaires were distributed to both senior and junior staff to gather relevant data on the recruitment process, while semi-structured interview was conducted on the selected management staff, whom were deemed apt to provide the researcher with an in-depth information with regards to the recruitment process in the Board. While students, teachers and Proprietors were interviewed on the performance of the Board, in relation to quality of result, accreditation process, curriculum design and promoting Arabic and Islamic Studies in Nigeria. Data was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively and presented using tables, figures, and narratives. The study established that there was a positive relationship between recruitment and performance of organization. The study also revealed that recruitment process in NBAIS was insignificant and unfair. Therefore, the study recommends that the Board should adopt a fair and transparent recruitment process that will prioritize meritocracy where prospective employees will be on boarded based on their experience, skills, attitudes, knowledge and educational qualifications, in order to have consummate workforce that will implement the policies and mandates of the Board effectively and efficiently.

Keywords Recruitment Job Advertisement Interview and Performance

Evaluation of Key Procurement Skills for Enhanced Public Sector Procurement in Nigeria

Ahmed Ade Ibrahim — Kaduna State University Kasu

Sani Ishaq — Department Of Building, Kaduna State University

Ayuba Mikail Suleiman — Department Of Building, Kaduna State University

Globally, government spending on public procurement reaches approximately $13 trillion, yet inefficiencies due to weak procurement capacities result in significant losses. Inadequate training, poor supplier relationship management, and limited focus on sustainability have hindered alignment with organisational goals. This paper investigates the procurement skills necessary for optimal performance among public sector practitioners in Nigeria. Through an extensive literature review, thirty (30) procurement competences and skills were identified and clustered into procurement-specific skills (PSS) and soft skills (SS). Utilising a quantitative survey approach with 120 procurement officers as respondents with data analysed via SPSS. Findings indicate that fifteen (15) procurement-specific skills particularly needs assessment, procurement planning, contract management, and decision-making are essential, with "Needs assessment and Procurement planning" ranked highest. Additionally, twelve (12) soft skills including analytical thinking, communication, and ethical application were recognised as critical. The study underscores the importance of targeted training programs to enhance these competencies, ultimately improving procurement effectiveness and sustainability in the public sector.

Keywords Procurement Competency/Skills Procurement Specific Skills Soft skills Public sector performance.

Harnessing Social Capital for Business Growth and Sustainable Development in Nigeria: Pathways, Challenges and Policy Implication

Umar Usman Alkali — Department Of Entrepreneurship, Federal University Of Technology, Minna, Niger State

Abdulwaheed Dauda — Department Of Entrepreneurship, Federal University Of Technology, Minna, Niger State

Abstract
This paper presents a review on harnessing social capital for business growth and sustainable development in Nigeria focusing on the pathways, challenges and policy implication. The review explains the concept of social capital which plays a vital role in stimulating business growth and the well-being of locals and is an essential component in promoting sustainable development. The pathways for harnessing social capital for business growth and sustainable development in Nigeria were highlighted such as enhanced access to resources, knowledge sharing and innovation, improved marketing and customer acquisition, facilitating partnerships and collaborations, entrepreneurial networks and cooperative societies, trust and reciprocity in informal markets, community-driven development projects, diaspora networks and remittances. Challenges in leveraging social capital for business growth and sustainable development in Nigeria which include weak bridging and linking social capital, lack of trust and reciprocity, informality and lack of formalization, limited digital inclusion, political instability and corruption, lack of transparency, gender and social exclusion and limited access to financial resources were discussed. Policy in leveraging social capital for business growth and sustainable development in Nigeria which include support for associations and cooperatives, public-private dialogue platforms, mentorship and networking programmes, digital infrastructure development, inclusive development strategies, education and awareness, incentivizing diaspora investment and social inclusion policies were explained. The paper concluded by recommending among others that for fostering inclusiveness and sustainability of business growth, governments and non-governmental organizations should adopt the social capital approach, as it will yield better results for improved quality of life.

Keywords Social Capital Business Growth Sustainable Development Policy Implication

Impact of longevity risk on retirement benefits within Nigerian context

Aishatu Halliru — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Halima Sani Sambo — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Abdulmalik Abubakar Yusuf — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Idris Ahmed Aliyu — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

The growing life expectancy among Nigeria’s aging population presents a significant challenge to the sustainability and adequacy of retirement benefits, particularly within the framework of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS). Longevity risk—the risk of retirees outliving their pension savings—has become increasingly critical yet remains underexplored in actuarial and policy planning. This study investigates the long-term impact of longevity risk on pension fund sustainability using a quantitative simulation approach based on mortality tables, payout structures, and demographic projections. Additional analyses incorporate actuarial modeling of fund exhaustion, present value of payments, and mortality-adjusted payout projections under different life expectancy scenarios. Findings reveal that a large proportion of retirees risk depleting their pension funds before age 80, particularly under extended longevity and inflationary pressures. The study concludes that without actuarial innovations, inflation-linked annuities, and improved financial planning frameworks, Nigeria’s pension system may face growing strain. Recommendations include the integration of dynamic mortality models, policy support for indexed annuity products, and increased financial literacy initiatives to ensure sustainable post-retirement income security for future retirees.

Keywords Longevity retirement benefits and benefits

Manpower Training and Development: A Nexus to Organisational Productivity

Ahmed Olasunkanmi Lawal — Gateway Polytechnic Saapade, Ogun State

Akintola Muslim Akinbola — Department Of Public Administration, University Of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria

Balogun Mutiu Abiodun — Department Of Procurement And Supply Chain Management, Gateway Polytechnic, Km 55 Lagos Ibadan Expressway, Ogun State

Idris Ezekiel Omezia — Idrisomeizaezekiel@gmail.com

This study aimed to investigate the impact of manpower training and development on organisational productivity. Manpower is involved in every aspect of an organisation, and their efforts contribute to its success, their roles cannot be overstated. Employees are organisation's most valuable asset they need to be trained and developed based on organisational and individual needs. Among the study's objectives was to determine the influence of manpower training and development on employee productivity. This study was carried out with the use of secondary data such as journals, online materials, textbooks, and official documents among others. The work was hinged on the human capital approach. It is safe to conclude that manpower is the lifeblood of an organisation, the productivity and survival of any organisation rely on the caliber of the people recruited into such organsiation. The study recommended that there must be definite and properly coordinated training needs and programs targeted at continuous improvement of employees' productivity.

Keywords Development

THE IMPACT OF COMPENSATION ON THE PERFORMANCE OF INDEPENDENT NATIONAL ELECTORAL COMMISSION (INEC) ON ELECTORAL OUTCOMES

Ibrahim Mohammed — Ahmadu Bello University

This study examines the impact of compensation packages on the performance of staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the implications for electoral outcomes in Nigeria. The research highlights that compensation—both financial and non-financial—is a critical determinant of staff motivation, ethical conduct, and operational effectiveness during elections. Findings reveal that timely and adequate remuneration significantly enhances staff performance, while delays, inequities, and lack of risk-related incentives lead to absenteeism, procedural errors, and increased susceptibility to electoral malpractice. The study draws upon motivation theories such as Expectancy Theory to contextualize the relationship between compensation and staff behavior. Evidence from empirical studies and field reports also indicates that poor compensation practices undermine voter confidence and compromise the integrity of the electoral process. This research study adopts exploratory case study qualitative research design as its methodology, to examine an event, activity; the Impact of Compensation Packages on INEC Staff Performance and Electoral Outcomes. The findings concludes that addressing these challenges through a transparent, standardized, and responsive compensation framework is essential for improving INEC staff performance and safeguarding electoral credibility. Based on the findings failure of INEC to disburse stipends and allowances on time was found to severely dampen morale, especially among ad-hoc staff. Recommendations emphasize the need for timely payment systems, standardized remuneration policies, the inclusion of non-financial incentives, and the institutionalization of a legal framework to guide compensation. The study further recommends that The standardization of compensation across all regions is essential to eliminate perceptions of inequity and foster unity among staff. This study contributes to the broader discourse on electoral reforms and human resource management in Nigeria’s democratic governance.

Keywords Keywords: Compensation Packages INEC Staff Performance Human Resource Management Motivation Electoral Reforms

THE MEDIATING ROLE OF JOB SATISFACTION ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE AND EMPLOYEE COMMITMENT IN DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS

Abdullahi Ismail Yakasai — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.

Ibrahim Kabir Adedeji — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Garba Masoud Saidu — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

This study examines the mediating role of job satisfaction in the relationship between organizational culture and employee commitment in Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria. Despite the recognition of organizational culture as a critical determinant of employee behavior, many Deposit Money Banks continue to experience high turnover rates and declining commitment levels, suggesting a potential gap in how culture translates into employee loyalty. The broad objective of this research is to investigate whether job satisfaction serves as a significant mediating variable linking organizational culture to employee commitment in selected Deposit Money Banks. A quantitative research design was adopted, using a structured questionnaire to collect data from 350 employees across five major Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria. The study employed Meyer and Allens Three-Component Model to analyze the relationships among the variables and to test the mediating effect of job satisfaction. The constructs of organizational culture and employee commitment were measured using Meyer and Allens Three-Component Model. The findings revealed that organizational culture has a significant positive influence on both job satisfaction and employee commitment. More importantly, job satisfaction was found to partially mediate the relationship between organizational culture and employee commitment, suggesting that a favorable organizational culture enhances job satisfaction, which in turn boosts commitment levels. The conclusion underscores the importance of fostering a positive and inclusive organizational culture that aligns with employee values and expectations to improve satisfaction and loyalty. The study recommends that Deposit Money Banks should invest in strategies that enhance internal communication, recognition, employee participation, and supportive leadershipkey cultural elements that contribute to satisfaction and, ultimately, employee commitment.

Keywords Organizational culture job satisfaction employee commitment Deposit Money Banks employee retention

EFFECT OF ORGANIZATIONAL INNOVATIVENESS ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING STRATEGY ADOPTION AND SMES PERFORMANCE IN KATSINA METROPOLIS.

Sani Ado — Al - Qalam University Katsina

Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises is a major driver and indices for the level of industrialization of a nation. Despite all the efforts advanced in improving SMEs sector in Nigeria, SMEs have not been able to harness the abundant and huge market potentials in the country. However, formulating workable marketing strategies that ensures sustainable business growth is expected to mitigate such challenges. This study examined the effect of organizational innovativeness on the relationship between social media marketing strategy adoption and SME performance in Katsina Metropolis. Using a sample of 402 SME respondents, the study used survey questionnaire to obtain the data. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analysed the data. The findings reveal that Perceived Ease of Use, Perceived Benefit, and Organizational Readiness significantly and positively affect SME performance, while Organizational Innovativeness did not moderate these relationships, suggesting that while innovation is valuable, it may not always enhance the impact of social media marketing on performance. The study recommended that SMEs should ensure full utilization of user-friendly marketing tools, resource readiness, and strategic innovation alignment in the face of their routine operations. Similarly, future research should explore additional moderating factors, such as market conditions and competition intensity, to better understand SMEs’ marketing strategy effectiveness for performance enhancement.

Keywords Marketing strategy perceived ease of use perceive benefits organizational innovativeness SMEs performance

SPATIO-TEMPORAL FLUCTUATIONS IN RAINFALL DURING THE LENGTH OF GROWING SEASON AND ITS IMPLICATION ON SUSTAINABLE AGRO-LAND USE POLICY IN IMO

Ambrose Oluchukwu Abaneme — Department Of Political Science, Alvan Ikoku Federal University Of Education, Owerri

Dr. Ikpong Sunday Umo — Department Of Geography And Environmental Sustainability, Alvan Ikoku Federal University Of Education (aifue), Owerri, Nigeria

Ifeanyi Gerry Ukwe — Department Of Geography And Environmental Sustainability, Alvan Ikoku Federal University Of Education (aifue), Owerri, Nigeria

Dr. Christian E. Ogu — Department Of Agricultural Science, Alvan Ikoku Federal University Of Education, Owerri

The collective efforts in tackling climate change impacts has gained popularity at the global level, but regional and local agro-land users tend to suffer failures due to limited capacity to adapt. This study investigates the spatio-temporal fluctuations in rainfall during growing season in Imo State. The state was stratified into three, based on agro-land zones and rainfall data were generated from secondary sources using gridded method from 19981 to 2023 (43) climatic years and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results reveal that Imo East recorded a highest mean value of 256.00, while Imo West recorded a highest standard deviation of 18.44 mm. Also, Imo East and Imo West recorded a homogenous value of 297 mm for the longest length of growing season during 2013 climatic year, while the shortest length of growing seasons converges in 1998 climatic year, but with diverse values recorded at distinct agro-land zones. The results of the time series models exhibited a uniform positive trend patterns with the Imo West revealing a highest regression model 0.510x + 244.5 and a highest co-efficient of 0.120 that accounted for 12.0 percent of the total variance in the series. A test of influence of variations in agro-land zones on rainfall fluctuations led to a conclusion that changes in the length of growing seasons are independent of locations of Imo agro-land zones. This study recommends for urgent places-centered policies and collaborated efforts to strengthen farmers’ adaptive capacities to rain-induced hazards for sustainable agricultural land use and food security in Imo State.

Keywords Spatio-temporal rainfall fluctuation growing season agro-land use political zones.

Sustainable Transportation Management in Developing Countries: Challenges and Innovation-A Focus on Nigeria

Anas Abdul — Federal University Of Transportation Daura

Sallau Modi — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

ABSTRACT
Sustainable transportation is critical to economic productivity, environmental protection, and social inclusion. In Nigeria, however, only 18% of federal roads are in good condition, and electric vehicles (EVs) contribute less than 1% of total registered vehicles—underscoring significant infrastructural and technological deficits. This study investigates the challenges and innovations shaping sustainable transportation in Nigeria using a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected from 87 stakeholders, including federal and state transport ministries (25%), private sector operators (35%), urban planners (20%), and civil society groups (20%), through 45 semi-structured interviews, six focus group discussions, and content analysis of 32 national and subnational transport-related policies, strategies, and planning documents (2010–2023). Additional insights were drawn from World Bank and national transport reports. Findings indicate that harmonizing transport policies across federal and state levels can reduce implementation delays by 40–60%. Comparative case analysis reveals that solar-powered charging infrastructure and bus rapid transit (BRT) systems lead to a threefold increase in public transport adoption compared to conventional alternatives. Furthermore, community engagement in transport planning enhances project acceptance and reduces resistance, with participatory (consultative) models proving more effective than top-down approaches. The study recommends the establishment of a National Sustainable Transportation Authority, the implementation of fiscal incentives to support green technology adoption, and the enactment of legislation mandating community consultation in urban mobility planning. These policy interventions align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9 and 11 and offer scalable models for other sub-Saharan African countries facing rapid motorization, currently growing at an estimated 8% annually.

Keywords Key words: sustainable transport electric vehicles social inclusion

Assessment of the Effect of Capacity Building on Employee Performance in the Nigerian Institute For Transport Tecnology,Zaria.

Saadatu Sani — Ahmadu Bello University

Assessment of the Effect of Capacity Building on Employee Performance in the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology, Zaria

By
Saadatu Sani
Department of Public Administration, ABU Zaria.
Saadatsani5@gmail.com
08038951401
Abstract
The level of low performance among workers especially in the public sector has left much to be desired. This is because the Nigerian public organizations are dominated with quack personnel that have grossly affected the socio-economic development of the country. Hence, capacity building of employees has been championed as a remedy to this malaise. Consequently, the study examines the effect of capacity building on employee performance in the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology. The study adopted the Kurt Lewin`s organizational development theory as a theoretical framework. Quantitative method was used for the study and survey research design was adopted to guide the investigation. The population of the study comprises a sample of 193 staff of NITT Zaria. Primary source of data was used to collect data through questionnaire. Simple linear regression was used to test the null hypothesis developed for the study. The finding revealed that capacity building has a significant positive effect on the performance of staff in the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology, Zaria. In line with the finding, the study recommends that the management of NITT should prioritize capacity development initiatives such as training and development of employees so that the potentials of the employees would be adequately tapped.

Keywords Keywords: Capacity Building Employee Performance NITT Zaria public sector organizational development theory.

Assessment of University and Innovation in Nigeria: A study of Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Danjuma Abdullahi — Abu

Abdulrahman Suleiman Kawu — Alistiqama University

Danjuma Abdullahi — Abu Zaria

Previous studies mainly examine problems and Impacts of University in Nigeria without research on Innovation, thus, the study explores the critical role of universities in fostering innovation using Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Kaduna state as a unit of analysis. The study was anchor on Quintuple Innovation Model. The study was conceptual in nature using secondary sources of data such as newspapers, magazine, journals and text books as well as periodic reports. The findings show that despite the role of university in fostering innovation, the university has play vital roles in innovation ie knowledge creation and dissemination, human capital development, technology transfer and commercialization, regional development and fostering a culture of innovation. There are many problems affecting innovation in the university such as inadequate funding, limited resources, brain drain, poor industry-academia collaboration, regulatory challenges, inadequate infrastructure, limited access to markets, insufficient training and capacity building, corruption and inefficiency, limited focus on practical applications, weak commercialization and limited private sector engagement.

Keywords Commercialization innovation industry private sector & university

IMPACT OF MOTIVATION AND INCENTIVES ON STAFF EFFICIENCY IN SAINT GERARD’S CATHOLIC HOSPITAL, KADUNA

Yakubu Ayuba Musa — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Grace Alheri Yusuf — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Motivation is a critical determinant of staff performance, particularly in resource-constrained healthcare settings. This study investigates the impact of financial incentives, non-financial incentives, and recognition on staff efficiency in Saint Gerard’s Catholic Hospital, Kaduna, Nigeria, a major faith-based healthcare institution facing HR challenges typical of low- and middle-income countries. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative data from 171 structured questionnaires (94.7% response rate) with qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews involving key hospital personnel. Descriptive statistics, regression analysis, and thematic analysis were employed to assess the effect of motivational variables on staff efficiency. Regression results revealed that motivation variables collectively accounted for 55.1% of the variance in staff efficiency (R² = 0.551, p < 0.001). Among the predictors, recognition (β = 0.362) had the most significant effect, followed by financial incentives (β = 0.294) and non-financial incentives (β = 0.231). Qualitative data reinforced these findings, indicating that while staff value regular pay, recognition and professional development exert stronger motivational influence on morale and task performance. The study underscores the necessity of an integrated HR strategy that balances extrinsic motivators (e.g., salary, bonuses) with intrinsic drivers (e.g., recognition, growth opportunities). Recognition, in particular, emerged as the most impactful yet underutilized motivator. These insights contribute to improving HRM practices in healthcare institutions, especially in faith-based and resource-limited contexts.

Keywords Motivation Financial Incentives Recognition Staff Efficiency Healthcare Management.

Leveraging Digital Business Model Innovation for Transformative Public Sector Service Delivery: A Governance Reconfiguration Approach

Aliyu Mohammed Dantsoho — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Jummai Mamman Jirgi — Department Of Vocational And Technology Education, Faculty Of Technology Education Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Nigeria

Muhammed Yazeed — Department Of Business Administration, Faculty Of Management Sciences Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria

In the face of growing complexity, resource constraints, and rising citizen expectations, public administration systems worldwide are under pressure to deliver services that are not only efficient but also equitable, adaptive, and sustainable. This study explores how digital business model innovation (DBMI) can be strategically leveraged to drive transformative changes in Nigerian public sector service delivery. Rooted in a multidisciplinary perspective that draws from public governance, strategic innovation, and technology management, the research adopts a governance reconfiguration lens to examine how traditional bureaucratic structures can be redesigned to accommodate agile, citizen-centric service models. The paper critically analyzes emerging digital platforms, ecosystem-driven value creation, and public-private co-innovation strategies that are reshaping the architecture of public value delivery. Through a mixed-methods approach combining case analysis, stakeholder interviews, and policy review, the study investigates successful applications of digital business model innovation in Nigerian contexts. Particular attention is given to how these innovations influence institutional accountability, cross-sector collaboration, and the responsiveness of public agencies. By conceptualizing a framework for digital governance transformation, the paper offers actionable insights for policymakers, public managers, and reform advocates seeking to align innovation with developmental imperatives. This research contributes to the evolving discourse on rethinking public administration by positioning digital business model innovation not merely as a technological upgrade, but as a strategic enabler of governance renewal, public trust, and inclusive development. The study recommends public sector managers to explore digital business model innovation for effective service delivery in Nigeria

Keywords Digital Business Model Innovation Public Sector Transformation Governance Reconfiguration Service Delivery Innovation Technology-Driven Public Administration

COMPLIANCE WITH PUBLIC PROCUREMENT ACT 2007 METHODOLOGIES IN PUBLIC CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN NIGERIA’S LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA: EVIDENCE FROM MISAU COUNCIL, BAUCHI STATE

Suleiman Shehu — Department Of Building, Faculty Of Environmental Studies, University Of Maiduguri-nigeria

Abdullahi Zakariyau — Department Of Quantity Surveying, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi, Nigeria

Haruna Yusuf Yusuf — Department Of Building, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi, Nigeria

Usman Aliyu — Department Of Quantity Surveying, Federal Polytechnic Damaturu, Nigeria

Pius Lawan Kodei — Department Of Architecture, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi, Nigeria

Saidu Saidu — Department Of Quantity Surveying Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Nigeria

Rabiu Shehu — Department Of Building, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi, Nigeria

Prior to the enactment of the 2007 Public Procurement Act ‘PPA, 2007’ the public procurement
system in Nigeria was reported to be severely abused, resulting in enormous losses and
construction projects were said to be marked by time and cost overruns, intrinsically low
quality, project abandonment, among others. Despite the enactment of the Act, its full
implementation is yet to be achieved, and there is paucity of research focusing on how Nigerian
Local Government Areas (LGAs) are adhering with PPA, 2007 methodologies. Therefore, this
current study looked at how much public construction projects in Nigeria’s LGA have been
complying with these methodologies. The research utilizes a mixed-methods case study
research approach with semi-structured interviews as the instrument for data collection. Due
to the small target population in the case study area, only eight procurement professionals
involved in public construction in Misau Council were interviewed for this study. Findings are
presented thematically with illustrative quotes. Content analysis of the responses revealed that
participants generally claimed a good understanding of the methodologies as stated in the PPA,
2007. Further findings revealed that, the most commonly followed methodologies during the
award and execution of public construction projects in the case study ranked in order of compliance include: bidders receive receipts indicating the date and time of submission; to
choose and identify the winning tender, bids are evaluated; bid documents are reviewed for
requirements, mistakes, and compliance; the contractor receives a negotiated mobilization
charge, not exceeding 15% of the contract value, in order to start work on the site; all
procurement procedures' records are stored securely; in some instances, due consideration is
given to domestic registered contractors. This study is timely, considering the recent July 11th
2024 judgement of the Supreme Court of Nigeria which restored the financial autonomy of
Nigeria’s 774 LGA’s. Therefore, it has added to the existing body of knowledge on public
procurement in the Nigerian construction sector in general.

Keywords: Compliance, Public Procurement Act 2007, Public Construction Projects, Local
Government Areas, Methodologies

Keywords Compliance Public Procurement Act 2007 Public Construction Projects Local Government Areas Methodologies

FINANCING AND PRACTICES INDUCING COMPLIANCE WITH DUE PROCESSES IN THE PROCUREMENT OF PUBLIC CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN NIGERIA’S LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA: A CASE STUDY OF MISAU COUNCIL, BAUCHI STATE

Suleiman Shehu — Department Of Building, Faculty Of Environmental Studies, University Of Maiduguri-nigeria

For years due to institutional and constitutional issues, Nigeria's Local Government Areas, a
third-tier arm of executive governance in the country, were experiencing a downward spiral in
carrying out their democratic and statutory responsibilities. This study examined the state of
financing and due process compliance practices related to public construction procurement in
Nigeria’s Local Government Areas (LGA). This study employs a mixed-methods research
approach, majorly collecting data through semi-structured interviews and observation of
documents as instrument for data collection. This research is a case study and was conducted in
Misau council, Bauchi State. Findings revealed that, majority of public construction projects
were funded by legislators as part of constituency initiatives; the federal executive government;
corporations; and donor organizations respectively. The results also showed that: maintaining
effective procurement record management; enforcing compliance with public procurement rules
and regulations; guaranteeing that sufficient time is allowed for preparing bids; employing
skilled procurement staff; guaranteeing familiarity with public procurement guidelines;
avoiding conflicts of interest; ensuring professionalism by all parties; and training and
retraining of procurement staff, are basically the most effective practices influencing compliance
with due processes in LGA’s construction procurement. Thus, this study recommends the
enforcement of existing laws in the constitution and new ones should also be enacted that will
ensure and assure the financial and democratic autonomy for the Local Government
administration system of governance in Nigeria that will benefit rural communities.

Keywords Compliance with due processes Construction projects Financing Public procurement practices Local Government Areas

Readiness of Nigerian Construction Industry to Adopt Fourth Industrial Revolution for Sustainable Development: Lesson Learnt from COVID-19

Suleiman Shehu — Department Of Building, Faculty Of Environmental Studies, University Of Maiduguri-nigeria

Ismail Umar — Department Of Quantity Surveying, School Of Environmental Studies, Hussaini Adamu Federal Polytechnic, Kazaure, Jigawa State-nigeria

Hamza Babaji Galadima — Department Of Quantity Surveying, School Of Environmental Studies, Federal Polytechnic Kaltungo, Gombe State-nigeria

Nasir Isyaku Tsanyawa — Department Of Quantity Surveying, Aliko Dangote University Of Science And Technology Wudil, Kano State-nigeria

COVID-19 is a novel corona virus, it is one of the many surprises and uncertainties in the globe which was considered as pandemic. It brought all sectors of the economy, including the construction industry to cessation, leading to the closure of construction sites globally. However, leveraging advantage of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) technologies and the digital era possibly would have mitigated some of the issues faced by construction industry. Therefore, this study was carried out to ascertain the e-readiness of the Nigerian Construction Industry in adopting 4IR. A simple random sampling was used to select the respondents of the study who were construction industry professionals’ resident in Abuja, Kano and Kaduna states of Nigeria. The hybrid of VERDICT and CID e-readiness tool was used for data analysis. Results from the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) revealed there was a significant difference in the opinions of the micro size, small size, medium size and large size firms’ group of respondents of the study. The Tukey Post Hoc test further revealed that, the responses of the people from small size and medium size organizations did not differ significantly as the computed sig. (p) value is (0.0904) between the two groups. Similarly, the respondents from medium size and large size firms do have related view in their responses and is sig. (p) value is (0.090) between the two groups. But when the responses from small size to that of large size firms was compared the findings varied significantly having the calculated sig. (p) value as (0.032) between the two groups respectively. In conclusion, the Nigerian Construction Industry professionals are ready to harness the potentials of fourth industrial revolution technologies in their services. Study recommends further research to focus on developing a framework for adoption of 4IR in the Nigerian construction industry.

Keywords COVID-19 Construction Industry Fourth Industrial Revolution Sustainable Development Nigeria

ALIENATION OF RIGHT OF OCCUPANCY UNDER THE LAND USE ACT, 1978: IS CONSENT OF THE GOVERNOR REQUIRED FOR CREATION OF TRUST OVER LAND COVERED BY RIGHT OF OCCUPANCY?

Abubakar Mohammed Bokani — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Ashituabe, Clement Danjuma, Esq — Lecturer, Faculty Of Law, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai

The article examined the provisions of sections 21 and 22 of the Land Use Act, 1978 which provides for consent of the local government or Governor to alienation of Customary right of occupancy or Statutory Right of Occupancy respectively. The provisions of the aforementioned sections clearly lay out methods of alienations of right of occupancy for which consent is required and instances where consent shall not be required. The article relied on the doctrinal research methodology to analyse the concept of trust as a method of alienation of right of occupancy with the objective of determining whether consent is required for creation of trust over land covered by right of occupancy. More so, the article explored the principles governing creation of trust, evolution of trust, and classification of trust. The article found that although the Land Use Act does not mention trust as a method of alienation, creation of express trust does not automatically involve alienation of right of occupancy by the holder to another. More so, implied trusts are not contemplated by sections 21 and 21 of the Land Use Act since such trusts arise by operation of law. Based on the foregoing finding, it is suggested that in determining whether consent is required for creation of trust, the approach should be based on substance rather than the form of the trust. Therefore, requirement of consent for creation of trust depends on whether the trust operates to transfer the holder’s interest to trustee.

Keywords Alienation Trust Consent Right of Occupancy Land Use Act

AN APPRAISAL OF CHALLENGES OF ENFORCEMENT OF COPYRIGHT IN THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY IN NIGERIA

Maryam Ibrahim Abdullahi — Department Of Private Law,faculty Of Law,a.b.u Zaria

Abdulrahman Abubakar Esq. — General Studies Department, Umaru Shinkafi Polytechnic, Sokoto

Copyright, which is a key aspect of intellectual property law, safeguards creative literary, entertainment, and business works. In today’s digital age, however, enforcing copyright has become increasingly challenging, especially in developing countries like Nigeria. The pervasiveness of digital technologies has facilitated the reproduction and distribution of creative content in various forms, such as CDs, VCDs, DVDs, and on the Internet, raising the menace of piracy.
This study critically explores the problems confronting enforcement agencies in safeguarding copyrights within Nigeria's entertainment sector. It evaluates the institutional framework for copyright enforcement, the role of concerned agencies, and the particular obstacles that frustrate effective regulation, including inadequate funding, poor human capital, scarcity of technical infrastructure, and ineffective legal sanctions.
Through the application of doctrinal methodology with descriptive analysis, the study finds that organizations such as the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) are greatly handicapped in operation. Piracy in both digital and physical forms continues to exist largely because of insufficient resources, lack of sensitization among the public, corruption, and slow judicial processes. The study concludes by recommending greater investment in technology, enhancement of training for enforcement officials, improvement in interagency cooperation, and application of more severe sanctions to reduce copyright infringement and support the development of Nigeria's creative economy.

Keywords Intellectual Property Copyright Entertainment Industry Enforcement

Constitutionality of Waiving and Suspending Application of Constitutional Provision under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as altered 2023)

Ahmad Haruna Danmaigauta — Public And Private Law Department, Faculty Of Law Umaru Musa Yar'adua University, Katsina

It is not a position to entertain doubt that Nigeria ought to be governed by the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as altered 2023). The application of the provisions of the Constitution does not entertain limitation, though subject to the definition and recognition given to the provisions by the courts. It has been one of the prevailing concerns that majority of the executives-President, Deputy-President, Governors, and Deputy Governors are reckless while in office because they enjoy the immunity provided by the Constitution and hence there is need to waive or suspend the immunity so that they can be investigated when and where necessary. However, the concern is whether a particular beneficiary of protection provided by provisions of the Constitution can waive the protection provided thereby waiving or suspending the application of the provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as altered 2023). The objective of this paper is to examine the constitutionality of waiving and suspending the application of constitutional provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 by a beneficiary. In order to achieve the objective, doctrinal research methodology will be adopted where both primary and secondary sources of law will be consulted. It will be the findings of this paper that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as altered 2023) did not make provision for the waiver or suspension of its provision by or against its beneficiaries. The paper will recommend that in order to contain corruption, there supposed to be provision for waiver or suspension of the application of constitutional provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as altered 2023) by and against certain executives when and where necessary.

Keywords Constitutionality Waiving Suspending Application Provisions

Evaluating the Integration of Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria's Counterterrorism Laws

Tobiloba Awotoye — Lead City University, Ibadan

Awotoye-fadare Monijesu — Lead City University, Ibadan

The study investigates how Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are woven into Nigeria’s counterterrorism legislation by evaluating the relationship between national security strategies and broader developmental targets. The persistent threat of terrorism in Nigeria leads to tensions between national security needs and the achievement of long-term development objectives. This paper will analyze Nigeria’s counterterrorism laws to determine their alignment with SDG principles with a special focus on peace and justice (SDG 16) and economic development (SDG 8) by reducing negative socio-economic and human rights effects. This research will utilize qualitative methods through document analysis and case study evaluations of applicable legal frameworks including the Terrorism Prevention Act and the National Counter-Terrorism Strategy. Research will include interviews with legal experts alongside policymakers and civil society representatives to understand how SDGs are practically integrated into counterterrorism strategies and to identify implementation challenges. The research will conduct an examination of how different countries integrate sustainable development into their counterterrorism plans through comparative analysis. This research examines how counterterrorism laws interact with sustainable development to identify legal reforms that can simultaneously improve security and development outcomes in Nigeria. The research offers recommendations to improve the legal and policy framework so the counterterrorism strategy becomes more sustainable and effective while contributing to discussions about balancing national security with human development.

Keywords Keywords: Sustainable Development Goals Counterterrorism Insecurity Law Nigeria

GOVERNANCE AND LEGAL INNOVATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY: IMPLEMENTING NIGERIA’S CLIMATE CHANGE ACT

Ademola Mashood Abdulkareem — Federal University Dutsin-ma

Sabitu Balarabe Usman — Lecturer, Department Of Islamic Law And Jurisprudence, Faculty Of Law, Federal University Dutsin-ma, Dutsin-ma, Katsina State, Nigeria.

Effective governance and legal innovation are essential for steering nations toward sustainable development in climate-vulnerable countries like Nigeria. This paper critically examines Nigeria’s Climate Change Act 2021 as a transformative legal instrument that operationalizes climate governance, introduces novel mechanisms for environmental accountability, and aligns national development with international obligations such as the Paris Agreement and the SDGs.
The paper adopts doctrinal research method in exploring the institutional design and mandates established under the Act, including the National Council on Climate Change and the requirement for designated climate officers within public and private organizations. It assesses implementation challenges in regulatory enforcement, inter-agency coordination, and capacity building at subnational levels. The study also highlights the innovative use of Environmental Economic Accounting (EEA) to guide emissions reduction through a data-driven, sustainability-focused budgeting process.
A key focus is the intersection of law, governance, and stakeholder management in the petroleum sector and host communities under the Petroleum Industry Act. Mechanisms like the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) are analyzed for their potential to support decentralized, community-driven climate action and green investment.
The paper finds that while legislation is foundational, sustainable development requires interdisciplinary collaboration—blending law, environmental science, finance, and grassroots engagement. It calls for strategic policy innovation and institutional reform to transform Nigeria’s climate law into a practical tool for resilient, inclusive, and equitable development.

Keywords Governance Environmental Sustainability Legal Innovation Host Community Development Trust Climate Finance.

Is the Right to Life Guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (As Amended) Protected?

Mustapha Shehu Sheka — Faculty Of Law, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina

The right to life is universally acknowledged as the most fundamental of all human rights, forming the bedrock upon which all other rights stand. Under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), Section 33 expressly guarantees the right to life. However, the extent and effectiveness of this protection remain contentious given Nigeria’s socio-political realities, judicial interpretations, and the frequent violations by state and non-state actors. It is against this background that, this paper critically examines whether the constitutional guarantee of the right to life in Nigeria is adequately protected in practice. A doctrinal method of research was adopted, where both primary and secondary sources was consulted. Having explores the scope of the rights as enshrined in the Constitution, including permissible limitations such as death penalty. It found among other things that while the constitutional guarantee exist in theory, systematic failures, institutional weaknesses, and a lack of accountability mechanisms continue to undermine its protection. It is hereby recommends among other things to enhance the enforceability and practical realization of the right to life in Nigeria.

Keywords Right to life Freedom Fundamental Rights Protection Constitution.

Legal Consequences and Optimal Practices for AI-Powered Customer Data Management in the Travel and Hospitality Industry.

Lateefat Adeola Bello — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

This paper offers a critical analysis of the interaction between artificial intelligence (AI) and data protection legislation within the tourism and hospitality industry, focusing on legal risks, compliance obligations, and recommended practices. Using a doctrinal legal research approach, the paper examines relevant laws, court rulings, and policy documents, such as Nigeria’s Data Protection Act 2023 and the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), along with other international standards. Its main aims are to assess whether existing legal safeguards for customer data processed through AI are sufficient, identify compliance gaps, and propose normative solutions. The research shows that while AI enhances operational efficiency and service personalisation—evident in automated bookings and behaviour analysis—it also raises important issues around data consent, ownership, international transfers, and algorithm transparency. Findings reveal widespread non-compliance and weak enforcement in many tourism and hospitality businesses, worsened by a lack of sector-specific guidance and limited awareness of AI-related data risks. The paper concludes that current legislation is often fragmented and does not fully address new challenges posed by AI. Therefore, it recommends developing sector-specific regulatory frameworks, mandating Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) for AI applications, and implementing capacity-building programmes to promote informed compliance. It also advocates a rights-based approach that emphasises transparency, accountability, and respect for the autonomy of data subjects. This research contributes to the ongoing legal debate on AI governance by providing practical, jurisdiction-sensitive recommendations for the lawful and sustainable integration of AI in tourism and hospitality.

Keywords Artificial Intelligence Data Protection Hospitality Law Customer Privacy Legal Compliance.

New Rules Visiting the Old Practice: A Case for the Protection of Traditional Knowledge in Nigeria

Maryam Ibrahim Abdullahi — Department Of Private Law,faculty Of Law,a.b.u Zaria

Nigeria, a nation of profound cultural and biological diversity, is a rich repository of Traditional Knowledge (TK) and traditional cultural expressions (TCEs). This living heritage, encompassing everything from traditional medicine and sustainable agricultural practices to folklore and artistic designs, is fundamental to the identity, livelihood, and sustainable development of its numerous indigenous and local communities. However, this old and invaluable practice is dangerously vulnerable to misappropriation and biopiracy, a vulnerability created and perpetuated by a national intellectual property (IP) regime that is both outdated and structurally incompatible with the nature of Traditional Knowledge (TK). This article argues that the existing IP framework in Nigeria, rooted in Western concepts of individual ownership and novelty, not only fails to protect TK but actively facilitates its exploitation. It critically analyses the shortcomings of the Nigerian Copyright Act, the Patents and Designs Act, and the Trademarks Act in this regard. The analysis then turns to the “new rules” key international instruments, including the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-Sharing and the historic 2024 WIPO Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge. These instruments signify a global shift towards a community-centric, rights-based approach to TK protection. Drawing lessons from these frameworks and successful sui generis models in other developing nations, this article makes a compelling case for Nigeria to abandon piecemeal reform and adopt a comprehensive sui generis legal and institutional framework. Such a system, it concludes, is not merely a matter of legal rectitude but an imperative for preserving cultural identity, ensuring social justice, and unlocking the sustainable development potential of Nigeria’s living heritage.

Keywords Traditional Knowledge Intellectual Property Nigeria Sui Generis Biopiracy

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE IN NIGERIA. A transformative approach to criminal justice

Aisha Abubakar Abdulsalam — Kaduna Polytechnic

Hadiza Bukar Zarma — College Of Administrative Studies And Social Sciences, Kaduna Polytechnic

This research explores the concept of restorative justice in the Nigerian context, examining its potential to transform the country’s criminal justice system. Despite Nigeria’s high crime rates and overcrowded prisons, the traditional retributive approach to justice has proven ineffective in reducing recidivism and promoting community safety. Restorative justice, which focuses on repairing harm, building relationships, and promoting healing, offers a promising alternative. This study is justified by the need to address the limitations of the current justice system, reduce recidivism, and promote community cohesion. Through a mixed-methods approach, combining doctrinal and empirical research, this study will examine the benefits and challenges of implementing restorative justice in Nigeria. The research will provide evidence-based recommendations for policy reforms, capacity building, and community engagement to support the effective implementation of restorative justice. By contributing to a more just, equitable, and cohesive society, this research aims to inform policy decisions and improve outcomes for victims, offenders, and communities in Nigeria.
Key themes: Restorative Justice, Nigerian laws and policies, benefits and challenges, policy reforms.

Keywords Restorative Justice benefits challenges policy reforms Nigerian law and policies

Strengthening the Legal and Regulatory Framework for Derivatives Contracts in Nigeria

Umar Sani Bebeji — Department Of Commercial Law, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

In recent years, derivatives have emerged as indispensable financial instruments for risk management, price discovery, and speculative investment within global financial markets. In Nigeria, however, the development and utilisation of derivatives remain emergent, presenting both significant opportunities and regulatory challenges. This paper examines the extant legal and institutional framework governing derivatives transactions in Nigeria, with particular emphasis on the regulatory roles of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Employing a doctrinal legal research methodology, the paper interrogates the adequacy, coherence, and enforcement of current legal instruments, identifies regulatory gaps, and examines the compatibility of Nigeria’s framework with international legal standards and best practices. It finds that the Nigerian financial system stands to benefit immensely from a robust derivatives market, particularly in enhancing financial stability, deepening capital markets, and facilitating economic diversification. However, these are contingent upon the establishment of a comprehensive legal regime, an effective supervisory architecture, and sustained capacity-building initiatives for judicial officers, regulators, and legal practitioners. There is also a need for a more coordinated framework between the SEC, CBN, NGX, and FMDQ to reduce regulatory overlap and provide clear guidance to market participants. These steps will help build trust in the market and attract more investment in the future.

Keywords Securities Futures Forwards Options Swaps

THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND ITS EFFECTS ON TRADE AND INVESTMENT.

Sani Ibrahim Koki — Northwest University Kano

Abubakar Balarabe Kura Phd — Northwest University Kano

This article examines the evolving legal framework surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on international trade and investment. As AI technologies increasingly influence global commerce, regulatory risks, issues and challenges arise and are diverse and imminent. The nature of AI is shaped where privacy is longer secured because of the involvement of third party being the AI itself when not only personal issues are negotiated, it cuts across many sectors like trade and investment. AI has potential in unveiling the secrets discussions between parties to trade and investment where the instructor is an AI wizard. Investors are at the risks of interference using sophisticated means provided by simple command to AI. This analysis explores existing legal structures, potential issues, risks and challenges and unveiling the potential gaps with proposed solutions to ensure AI-driven trade and investment practices are fair, secure, and beneficial not only for legal literature but for all stakeholders in trade and investment. This would equally foster a harmonized and innovative global economy acceptable by trade and investment institutions like World Trade Organization, ICID, IOSCO and to most especially emerging economies in Asia and Africa. The paper highlighted some critical issues, risks and challenges and an inch-perfect analysis was made to bring out solutions for data protection against cybercrimes, terrorisms using robo-advising, investment research, enhanced surveillance particularly in Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CFT) related systems. The paper particularly brought to limelight how investors and international trade giants would be protected against these imminent threats and concluded with possible suggestions on recurrence or at least mitigating the impacts.

Keywords KEYWORDS: AI Law Trade Investment.

THE POLLUTER PAYS PRINCIPLE UNDER THE CLIMATE CHANGE ACT, 2021: AN APPRAISAL

Ebunoluwa Popoola — Bingham University, Karu

Wadzi Vivian Aboki Phd (in View) — Department Of International Law And Jurisprudence, Bingham University, Nasarawa State

The Polluter Pays Principle stipulates that those responsible for pollution should bear the financial costs of preventing, controlling and remediating the pollution. It is a principle of sustainable development and one of the guiding principles in Nigeria’s National Policy on the Environment. Climate change is a major threat to the global environment and humanity necessitating concerted global efforts and immense financial resources. Nigeria, as a state party to several international treaties on climate change, has established its nationally determined contributions, all aimed at combating climate change and reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. In meeting her treaty obligations and funding climate change adaptation and mitigation programs, Nigeria could benefit from the adoption of the Polluter Pays Principle. The Climate Change Act 2021 is Nigeria's primary legislation on climate change yet there is a paucity of research on the application of the principle in climate change legislation. This paper has the following research questions: How does the Climate Change Act 2021 incorporate the Polluter Pays Principle? What are the likely prospects and challenges in applying the principle under the Act? The aim of this paper is to undertake an analysis of the Polluter Pays Principle in the Climate Change Act 2021. Through an analysis of relevant provisions of the Climate Change Act 2021, this paper highlights the opportunities and challenges in applying the Polluter Pays Principle to tackle climate change. The paper adopts the doctrinal method of legal research, placing reliance on primary sources of law namely legislation and judicial precedents as well as secondary sources. The findings of the paper contribute to the broader discourse on climate change governance by providing insight into the potential of the Polluter Pays Principle as a tool for environmental protection and sustainable development in Nigeria.

Keywords Climate Change Climate Change Act 2021 Environment Polluter Pays Principle Pollution

IMPACT OF MICROFINANCE SERVICES ON POVERTY ALLEVIATION IN KANO STATE, NIGERIA.

Badamasi Sani Mohammed — Department Of Economics Al-qalam University Katsina

Abubakar Umar, — Department Of Business Administration Al-qalam University Katsina

Badamasi Sani Mohammed — Department Of Economics, Al-qalam University Katsina

Hamza Aliyu Galadanchi — Department Of Business Administration2 &3 Al-qalam University Katsina

Aliyu Ibrahim Bichi — Department Of Accounting Education Federal College Of Education (technical) Bichi.

The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of microfinance services on poverty alleviation in Kano State, Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were; to investigate the impact of Microcredit Services on poverty alleviation among microfinance clients; to investigate the impact of Saving Services on poverty alleviation among microfinance clients in Kano State Nigeria. The study used descriptive survey. The target population for the study was 12,350 clients using microfinance banks in Kano State, Nigeria. The sample size for this study was 387clients determined using Sliven’s formula for sample size determination. Systematic random sampling technique was used in selecting respondents. This study used questionnaires as the instrument for primary data collection. Data collected was analyzed using multiple regression analysis. The study findings indicated that there was a positive relationship between access to credit and poverty alleviation, there was strong relationship between saving services and poverty alleviation. The study recommended that the microfinance institutions, particularly Kano State microfinance banks are to strengthen their relationship by improving access to microfinance services through advertising and sensitizing actual and potential clients to use them as a means of poverty alleviation.

Keywords Microfinance services Poverty Alleviation Saving Services.

Poverty and the Plight of Rural populace in Kaugama Local Government area of Jigawa State.

Suleman Ahmed Wan — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Isah Umar — Department Of Sociology, Bayero University Kano

Muttaka Umar — Jigawa State College Of Nursing Science

Salihu Liman Wan — Auchi Poliyechnic, Auchi

Successive regimes (military and civilian) in Nigeria had made concerted efforts towards alleviating poverty; however, these efforts have not yielded any fruitful result. Poverty can be classified, based on different criteria, as absolute poverty, relative poverty, rural poverty and urban poverty. However, poverty is pronounced in the rural areas than the urban areas in Nigeria. Hence, the study examined poverty and the plights of the rural populace in Kaugama local government area of Jigawa. Nevertheless, the specific objective was to examine the nature, trend and causes of poverty and to study people’s perception on poverty in Kaugama. The study used Marxist Class theory to provide theoretical orientation to the issue under investigation. Both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection were triangulated to complement one another. Thus, one hundred and seventy questionnaires and Five in-depth interview were conducted. Multi-stage sampling used to select respondents for the study. Findings of the study revealed that the nature of poverty in Kaugama were lack of basic amenities. Also, the cause of poverty was attributed to educational deficiencies, unemployment, illiteracy, infertility of the land and deprivation social amenities. The findings also revealed that poverty leads people to engaged in crime and criminal activities. It’s also led to malnutrition and starvation, high rate of infectious diseases homelessness and prostitution among others. The study recommended that leaders should collaborate with private sector, the donor agencies for effective poverty alleviation programs. Also, the need to develop long-term strategic plans that address unemployment, policy-makers should ensure our citizen’s active participation in formulating and implementing projects of which they are supposed to be the beneficiaries and encouraged.

Keywords Poverty relative poverty rural poverty urban poverty nature and trend of poverty

Effect of Healthcare Infrastructure on Enrollee Satisfaction in Selected Healthcare Facilities of Kaduna State

Suleiman Idris — Department Of Political Science, Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna

Aishat Oyiza Yusuf — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

This study was undertaken to assess the effect of healthcare infrastructure on enrollee satisfaction in selected healthcare facilities of Kaduna State. Improving the health indices of citizens have been a major issue of concern in Kaduna State and the country at large. Kaduna State Contributory Health Scheme aims at achieving universal health coverage in the state. objective of the study was to examine how healthcare infrastructure affect enrollee satisfaction in the selected healthcare facilities of Kaduna State. The study adopted primary method in generating data for the study. Findings of the study revealed that healthcare infrastructure have positive and significant effect on enrollee satisfaction in selected healthcare facilities of Kaduna State. In line with the findings of the study, it recommends that KADCHMA should ensure that accredited healthcare facilities should prioritize cleanliness of healthcare facilities, incorporate patient centred design principles and invest in aesthetics improvements, technological advancement and functional design so as to enhancestakeholders enrollee satisfaction.

Keywords Healthcare Infrastructure Satisfaction Facility Enrollee

Effect of Kaduna state Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA) on Flood Disaster Management in Chicken and Zaria Local Government Areas.)

Joseph Baimoh Amtu — Abu Zaria

lood disasters continue to pose severe threats to human settlements and infrastructure in Kaduna State, particularly in Chikun and Zaria Local Government Areas, where climate variability, rapid urbanization, and weak institutional responses exacerbate vulnerabilities. This study investigated the effect of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA) on flood disaster management, focusing on three core variables: integrated policy and action plan, institutional capacity, and stakeholders’ participation. Anchored on the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Theory and the Institutional Capacity Theory, the research adopted a mixed-methods design, employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 389 respondents, while qualitative data were gathered through in-depth interviews and document reviews. Descriptive statistics, regression, and correlation analyses were used to examine variable relationships, complemented by thematic analysis for qualitative inputs. Findings revealed that KADSEMA’s institutional capacity had the strongest influence (β = 0.443, p < 0.01) on effective flood management, followed by integrated policy frameworks and stakeholder participation. However, the study identified significant gaps in inter-agency coordination, policy implementation, and community engagement. It concludes that sustainable flood management in Kaduna State requires integrated action planning, institutional strengthening, and inclusive stakeholder collaboration. The study recommends capacity-building initiatives, investment in early warning systems, and adoption of geospatial technologies to enhance disaster response. This research contributes empirical insights to subnational disaster governance literature and offers actionable strategies for improving resilience in flood-prone Nigerian communities.

Keywords Flood Disaster Management KADSEMA Integrated Policy Institutional Capacity Stakeholders’ Participation

THE ROLE OF SHARĪʿAH-BASED GOVERNANCE PRINCIPLES IN ENHANCING PUBLIC SECTOR ACCOUNTABILITY: LESSONS FOR ADMINISTRATIVE REFORM IN NIGERIA

Ahmad Abubakar — Shehu Wada San And Co

Muhammad Sambo Umar, Phd — Gombe State University

This paper critically examined the potential of Sharīʿah-based governance principles to strengthen public sector accountability within the context of Nigeria’s ethically fragile and institutionally weak administrative system. Drawing on foundational Islamic values—such as ʿadl (justice), amānah (trust), shūrā (consultation), and maṣlaḥah (public interest)—the study engaged in a doctrinal and comparative analysis of ethical governance models in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Sudan, evaluating their applicability to Nigeria's pluralistic legal and political landscape. The analysis revealed that while Sharīʿah offers a rich normative framework for just and accountable governance, its effective implementation in modern states requires contextual adaptation, legal compatibility with constitutional democracy, and institutional integrity. The paper found that the Nigerian public sector suffers from a moral deficit that cannot be addressed by procedural reforms alone. Instead, it advocates for the integration of Islamic governance principles through legislative reform, institutional innovation, value-driven civil service restructuring, and inclusive interfaith platforms.

Keywords: Sharīʿah-Based Governance, Public Sector Accountability, Siyāsah Sharʿiyyah, Nigerian Civil Service Reform, Interfaith Governance

Keywords Keywords: Sharīʿah-Based Governance Public Sector Accountability Siyāsah Sharʿiyyah Nigerian Civil Service Reform Interfaith Governance

Transparency and Accountability:A Corner Stone for Good Governance in Nigeria

Farida Aisha Kera — Ahmadu Bello University , Zaria

TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY: A CORNERSTONE FOR GO0D GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA

BY

FARIDA AISHA KERA, PhD.

ABSTRACT
This paper critically examined the role of transparency and accountability as foundational elements for achieving good governance in Nigeria. It contextualized good governance as a process that entails participatory decision-making, rule of law, responsiveness, inclusiveness, effectiveness, efficiency, and consensus orientation. Drawing on national and international perspectives, Using the doctrinal research methodology, that is the use of library materials, such as statutes, textbooks and other secondary sources,.the paper explored how corruption, leadership deficiencies, and weak legal frameworks have hindered the realization of good governance in Nigeria. The research further analyzed the significance of transparency and accountability mechanisms—such as the Fiscal Responsibility Act, the Freedom of Information Act, and the activities of anti-corruption agencies such as the EFCC and ICPC—in fostering responsible public administration and citizen trust. Despite the presence of relevant legal and institutional frameworks, the study found that implementation gaps, political discretion, and lack of access to vital information continued to undermine their efficacy. The paper concluded that unless transparency and accountability are internalized as values, and the legal framework for governance is restructured to impose binding obligations on leaders, the prospects for sustainable development and democratic consolidation in Nigeria will remain elusive. It recommended systemic reforms, inclusive governance, and stronger civil society engagement as critical steps towards institutionalizing accountability and transparency in the country’s political economy.

Keywords transparency

WAYS & MEANS ADVANCES AND DEFICIT FINANCING IN NIGERIA

Andrew Chenge — Federal University Wukari

Large deficits emerged in Europe after the oil crisis in the mid-1970s and widened dramatically after 1980, mainly due to government overspending rather than meager tax receipts. In developing countries, fiscal deficits consistently tend to exceed those of developed economies. This strain of fiscal deficits in developing countries is exacerbated by the global slowdown’s knock-on effects, the structural fragility of their public finances and their persistently high debt levels. Ways and Means Advances have become a critical option in deficit financing particularly in developing countries around the world. The study aims to assess the impact of Ways and Means Advances on deficit financing in Nigeria. The Keynesian Economics theory is used as the theoretical framework. Documentary research design was adopted to carry out investigation. The study established that fiscal deficits have remained a predominant occurrence in Nigeria even during periods of economic booms. It also maintained that the Federal Government’s repeated recourse to Ways and Means Advances highlights weaknesses in public finance management as sustained use of direct monetary financing could raise risks to macroeconomic stability, given the current weak institutional safeguards. The study recommends constrained budgeting, regulated borrowing, fiscal prudence, increased Foreign Direct Investments, and formulation of a legal basis for Ways and Means securitization, as strategies to remediate fiscal deficits and long-term Ways and Means Advances in Nigeria’s fiscal management.

Keywords Deficit financing fiscal deficits monetary policy public debt Ways and Means Advances

ASSESSMENT OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE EFFECTIVE BUSINESS LEADERSHIP IN FCT-ABUJA, NIGERIA

Samuel Atta Aku — Prime University,kuje Abuja Fct.

Jiya N. Santeli — Baze University Abuja

This study investigates the role of emotional intelligence (EI) in enhancing effective business leadership in FCT, Abuja, Nigeria—a fast-paced, diverse, and economically critical urban center. As leadership success increasingly depends on interpersonal skills and emotional regulation in addition to technical expertise, this research explores how EI contributes to leadership effectiveness, particularly in areas such as decision-making, team management, and organizational performance. Using a descriptive survey research design, data were collected from 200 business leaders across various industries in FCT, Abuja, including finance, manufacturing, real estate, IT, and services. This study concludes that emotional intelligence is a key determinant of leadership effectiveness in the dynamic business environment of FCT, Abuja. It recommends that organizations integrate EI into leadership development, performance evaluation, and recruitment strategies. The study contributes to both academic literature and practical leadership development by emphasizing EI as a core capability for sustainable organizational success in emerging economies.
Keywords: Emotional, Intelligence, Business, Leadership, Empathy.

Keywords Keywords: Emotional Intelligence Business Leadership Empathy.

The impact of effective management and business ethics in revamping an ailing institution

Nzewuji Valentine Chibuike — Nigeria Arabic Language Village Ngala Borno State.(inter-university Centre For Arabic Studies)

ABSTRACT; This article is going to talk about the various actors in managing an organization taking a wider look at the scope of bureaucratic nature of organization.
It aims at studying the various factors that leads to declining the productive output of an organization. Responsible management is an umbrella term for management practices embracing sustainability ethics and responsibility. (Laasach & Canaway ,2015). Managers of an institutions must be knowledgeable, competent in this three to be deem responsible. While this may sound relatively trivial, extent research has shown that the wider societal framework in which business and managers operates are arguably configured to induce irresponsibility (Enaals. 2014). The emerging field of responsible management studies show that indicates better management with a focus on the quality of administrative law as well as socio-economic, political, health and environmental benefits both local and global.
It will also touch the institutional frameworks such as hierarchy of authority and it’s channels of communications such as horizontal and vertical means. It will also take a critical look at the behavioral pattern of all the actors in an institution considering at their job satisfaction and job dissatisfaction mood.
It will take a look at the various factor/challenges that leads to the collapse of an institution such as corruption, nepotism , red-tapism , financial mismanagement, usurpation and so on.
Considering the factors enumerated that can leads to the collapse of an institution, this research article will concentrate on the effective management and business practices that can be used to revamp an ailing institution.
At the end ,suggestions will be made of which if adopted will revive the goal-oriented spirit of staffs and management staffs in the organization towards achieving the organizational goals and objectives.

Keywords Institutional frameworks organizational behavior management principle administrative deficiency business ethics

Public policy, internal security, governance and armed banditry in Nigeria: A situational and Human Resource analysis of Zamfara and Kaduna States

Dr. Muhamud Abdallah — University Of Calabar

Joel Tisan Mallam — Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Abubakar Abdulrazak, Dantsoho — The Federal Polytechnic Bida. Niger State

Abdullahi Bala Ado — Kano State Polytechnic

Abstract
The objective of this paper is to examine public policy, internal security and armed banditry in Nigeria, with Zamfara and Kaduna States as case studies. The study seeks to find out the extent to which poorly implemented public policy (internal security policy) has adversely impacted on the internal security architecture of Nigeria; which resulted to some problems such as Armed Banditry in Zamfara and Kaduna States. The paper further argues that the porosity of the Nigeria's borders with her neighbors especially in the study areas, appears to compound the challenges of internal security administration and their attendant challenges. The study relied heavily on secondary data and descriptive analytical framework as its methodological orientation. The result of data analysis revealed that both the security agencies and the indigenes of Zamfara and Kaduna States compromised in the discharge of their duties. Thus, both parties were docile and accommodative to armed bandits who are clearly aliens in their land. Rather, they lived and partnered with them until the bandits exposed their real mission in the areas. The study therefore, recommends among others, the imperatives for bilateral security partnership with some world powers such as the United States of America, Israel, Britain, Russia, China, among others, to assist Nigeria government flush out bandits from Zamfara and Kaduna of Nigeria in order to usher in Socio-economic development in the area.

Keywords Public Policy Internal Security Armed Banditry Insecurity Socio-economic development

Role of Insecurity on Transportation along Niger and Kaduna State Road networks

Adamu Zainab Kasim — Ahmadu Bello University

Ibrahim Musa — Mr

This paper analyzes the role of rising insecurity on transportation along Niger and Kaduna States Road networks. Insecurity manifested through banditry, kidnapping, and terrorist activities which has directly increased and disrupted mobility, threatening both economic activities as well as human, Agricultural activities and public safety. The study adopts a qualitative study approach, drawing on interviews with transport operators, commuters, and local officials, complemented by secondary data. Data gathered was analyzed using NVivo. Findings indicate that insecurity has led to higher transport costs, reduced frequency of trips on high-risk routes, withdrawal of night transport services, and increased travel time due to military checkpoints and road closures. These disruptions have significantly affected the movement of goods and people, particularly in rural and intercity routes, with serious implications for livelihoods, trade, and access to essential services. The study highlights the urgent need for coordinated security interventions, community engagement, and infrastructure investment to safeguard transportation systems in conflict-prone regions.

Keywords Insecurity Transportation Kidnappings Activities

The Influence of Counter-Terrorism Strategies on National Security in Nigeria

Sidi Istifanus Abimiku — Federal College Of Education Abeokuta

There is no doubt that several Counter-Terrorism Strategies, as carried out by the government through the effort of the Nigerian military between 2015 and 2025, has a far reaching impact on the security architecture of Nigeria. However, the adoption of counter-terrorism strategies, particularly through the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) seems to be unsuccessful over the years. This is characterized majorly by the activities of Boko Haram insurgency in Northeast Nigeria, evidenced on recent attack in Malam Karanti village and Kwatandashi in Borno state, leaving at least 57 people dead and over 70 people missing. It is against this backdrop that this paper entitled “the influence of government counter-terrorism strategies on national security in Nigeria” originated. The paper attempts to examine the effectiveness of the counter-terrorism strategies adopted by President Mohammadu Buhari and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the fight against terrorism from 2015 to 2025. The paper adopts content analysis in the analysis of available secondary data, with theoretical framework anchored on Galula’s Counter-insurgency framework. Findings confirmed that, due to the challenge of corruption, inadequate security personnel, and the challenge of porous border, the use of counter-terrorism approaches in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria is yet to record tremendous success; as evidence on the successful operations and attacks of Boko Haram on the citizens and the security operatives in the Northeastern part of the country. The study recommended that the Nigerian government should introduce socio–economic empowerment initiatives for the idle youths to address the alarming rate of poverty and unemployment which often provide fodder for extremist groups like Boko Haram.

Keywords Counter-Terrorism National Security Insurgency Nigerian Military Boko Haram

An Analysis of the Role of Sunnah Divorce Procedures in Preserving Marital Harmony and in Islamic Family Law

Abdulazeez Adavize Sadeeq — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Sa'ad Musa Abubakar — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Marriage in Islam is a sacred contract but not a sacrament. Although its dissolution often results in disintegration of family life, with attendant hardship and uncertainty for children, Islamic law does not compel spouses to endure a marriage that has lost its purpose and harmony. It permits termination through talaq where co-existence becomes unbearable, provided that the process adheres to prescribed rules and safeguards the rights and dignity of both parties. However, in Nigeria, the practice of talaq is fraught with challenges arising from widespread ignorance and non-compliance with these prescriptions. As a result, divorces are often conducted in a manner contrary to the Sunnah, leading to enmity, injustice, and societal instability. This paper aims to examine the basic guiding principles of talaq as outlined in the Qur’an, Hadith, and classical juristic opinions, with a view to highlighting the Sunnah-compliant procedure for dissolution of marriage. It also identifies common features of contra-Sunnah talaq and explores their social and legal implications. Adopting the doctrinal methodology, the study relies on primary sources—Qur’an and Hadith—as well as secondary sources including classical fiqh literature and contemporary scholarly works. Findings reveal that many divorces in Nigerian Muslim communities disregard essential conditions such as observance of tuhr (purity), abstention from conjugal relations during the waiting period, and attempts at reconciliation. The paper recommends structured public education, mosque-based awareness programmes, and judicial intervention where necessary to ensure that the institution of talaq fulfils its intended purpose within the framework of Shariah.

Keywords ISLAM MARRIAGE DIVORCE SUNNAH MARITAL HARMONY

AN EXAMINATION OF THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR ARTISANAL GOLD MINING IN NIGERIA

Abubakar Mohammed Bokani — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Clement Danjuma Ashituabe — Vlecturer, Faculty Of Law, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai

Abubakar Mohammed Bokani, Phd — Lecturer, Department Of Private Law, Faculty Of Law, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

This paper seeks better ways to protect the environment from degradation and the consequences of artisanal gold mining in Nigeria. It examines the effectiveness of existing laws, particularly the Minerals and Mining Act, in addressing environmental degradation caused by artisanal mining practices, particularly erosion and land contamination. It focuses on the extent of Nigeria’s compliance with international best practices and other global efforts aimed at reducing the poor practices in artisanal mining, as well as assessing whether or not the country has succeeded in properly regulating artisanal mining and its harmful effects. The study adopted the doctrinal method of legal research and utilized both primary and secondary sources. It is agreeable that artisanal mining can be environmentally damaging and can create serious health and safety consequences for workers and host communities largely due to poor practices in sourcing and processing of minerals. Added to this danger is the regulatory paucity or inadequacy particularly at the domestic levels where these activities take place. The study argues that the legal framework is insufficient due to weak regulation of artisanal gold mining, weak enforcement mechanisms, lack of adequate oversight, and insufficient government regulation of illicit gold mining operations. It therefore, recommends making artisanal and small-scale mining to become an official, organized and profitable activity that uses efficient technologies and is socially and environmentally responsible. More so, there is urgent need for formalization and regulation of artisanal gold mining in line with good governance, transparency, legality and fair participation and respect for all partners.

Keywords Artisanal Mining Environment Protection

FREEDOM OF RELIGION AND SHARI’AH JUSTICE ADMINISTRATION IN NIGERIA: SHOULD NON-MUSLIMS BE SUBJECT TO JURISDICTION OF SHARIAH COURTS?

Abubakar Mohammed Bokani — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Clement Danjuma Ashituabe — Lecturer, Faculty Of Law, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai

Maryam Ahmad — Lecturer, Faculty Of Law, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina,

Shari’ah Courts have been established in some Northern States of Nigeria with jurisdiction to entertain matters involving Muslims only. Although the Shariah Court laws clearly limit the application of Shari’ah to Muslims, the Court can assume jurisdiction over non-Muslim where the non-Muslim gives consent in writing. This is in recognition of the right to freedom of Religion guaranteed in the Constitution and the need to allow non- Muslim parties to voluntarily submit to the Shari’ah Court. However, the research problem is that there seems to be uncertainty in the law surrounding the requirement of consent of the non-Muslim. Thus, the paper examined the right to Freedom of Religion and the Jurisdiction of the Shari’ah Court over non-Muslims while the objective is to determine the following research questions: Can consent given by non-Muslim in writing be subsequently withdrawn? At what stage of the proceedings should consent be obtained? Can consent be given by proxy? How does the court ascertain the religion of a party? This paper relied on doctrinal research method to analyse the foregoing research questions while highlighting the fundamental nature of the issues bordering on consent as they determine the jurisdiction of the Court. The paper found that the consent of the non-Muslims in writing to the jurisdiction of the Shari’ah Court does not ipso facto vest the court with jurisdiction because the right to freedom of Religion is sacrosanct and parties, by their consent, cannot confer jurisdiction on the Court. Therefore, it was recommended that the Shari’ah Court laws should be amended to clearly define what constitutes valid consent and the rules governing consent of the non-muslim.

Keywords Shariah Court Jurisdiction Freedom of Religion Non-Muslim

Human Reasoning (Ijtihad bi al-Ra’y) as a Tool for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals within the Framework of Shariah

Sa'ad Musa Abubakar — Cils Abu Zaria

Abdulazeez Adavize Sadeeq — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

In Islamic law, while the Qur’an and Sunnah provide primary sources of legal injunctions, their texts are finite whereas human circumstances are infinite and ever-evolving. This reality has led to debates on whether human reasoning (ijtihad bil ra’y) is a legitimate tool for deriving Shariah rules in situations not expressly addressed in the primary texts. The controversy is rooted in differing perceptions: some scholars uphold juristic reasoning as essential for addressing emerging issues, while others insist that only direct recourse to the Qur’an and Sunnah is valid.This paper examines the role and legitimacy of ijtihad bil ra’y in the early period of Islamic legal development, focusing on its application by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), his Companions, and the early jurists. It adopts doctrinal methodology, relying on the Qur’an, Hadith, classical juristic writings, and contemporary scholarly analyses to evaluate historical and textual evidence. The study further explores how ijtihad bil ra’y, as historically practiced, can inform Shariah-compliant approaches to contemporary sustainable development challenges, particularly in areas of social justice, environmental stewardship, and economic equity. Findings show that while the Qur’an and Sunnah remained the ultimate authorities, rational opinion was employed as a pragmatic tool to address unprecedented circumstances. The paper recommends a balanced understanding of ijtihad bil ra’y, recognizing its historical application and its potential in formulating Shariah-based responses to sustainable development goals.

Keywords Ijtihad Sustainable Development Goals Shariah.

"Harnessing the Demographic Dividend in Nigeria: Opportunities and Challenges of Rapid Population Growth for Sustainable Economic Development"

Musa Balarabe Musa — Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Hadiza Musa Saeed — Department Of Sociology, Faculty Of Social Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

This paper examines the potential of Nigeria’s growing youthful population to contribute to its economic development by analyzing the country's demographic dividend through quantitative methods. Drawing on Demographic Transition Theory, the study explores the relationship between rapid population growth, changes in the age structure, and economic performance. By focusing on demographic trends, the study investigates how a larger working-age population relative to dependents can lead to enhanced economic productivity, provided there are sufficient investments in human capital and job creation. The research employs a quantitative approach, using national demographic data from sources such as the National Population Commission (NPC) and the World Bank, along with economic indicators related to employment, labor force participation, and GDP growth. Statistical techniques, including correlation and regression analysis, are used to examine the impact of the working-age population on economic growth across different sectors. The study also explores regional disparities in the demographic dividend and how local factors, such as access to education and healthcare, influence the potential for economic benefit. The findings indicate that while Nigeria’s young population offers significant potential for economic growth, realizing this dividend requires targeted investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The paper concludes by offering policy recommendations based on the quantitative analysis, aiming to maximize Nigeria’s demographic advantage for sustainable economic development.

Keywords : Demographic Dividend Population Growth Economic Development

An Analysis of Healthcare Provider Attitude on Enrollee Satisfaction in Selected Healthcare Facilities of Kaduna State

Suleiman Idris — Department Of Political Science, Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna

Titus Arianre Ajimbe — Department Of Public Administration, Abu Zaria

Zainab Idris — Department Of Business Administration, Saadu Zungu University, Gadau Bauchi State

Hassan Aliu — Department Of Public Administration, Abu Zaria

Abstract
This study analysed the effect of healthcare provider attitude on enrollee satisfaction in selected healthcare facilities of Kaduna State. Improving the health indices of citizens have been a major issue of concern in Kaduna state and the country at large. Kaduna state contributory health scheme aims at achieving universal health coverage in the State. Objective of the study was to determine the extent to which health care provider attitude affects enrollee satisfaction in selected health care facilities in Kaduna State. The study adopted evaluation theory, which helped in explaining the effect of healthcare provider attitude on enrollee satisfaction. The researcher adopted primary methods in generating data for the study. The primary data were sourced through questionnaire, interview, and focus group discussion. The researcher also adopted frequency, simple percentages and regression statistical tool for test of hypothesis. The findings of the study revealed that healthcare provider attitude have positive and significant effect on enrollee satisfaction in selected healthcare facilities of Kaduna state. In line with the findings of the study, the study recommends that management of healthcare facilities in collaboration with KADCHMA should organize training session quarterly to healthcare providers (including all staﬀ of accredited healthcare facilities, medical or non-medical) focusing on active listening, interpersonal skills, realistic communication and patient engagement.

Keywords Healthcare Provider Attitude Enrollee Satisfaction

Assessment of Nigeria’s capacity in dealing with environmental issues/problems through environmental policy

Samaila Suleiman Adamu — Kaduna State University

For more than six decades now, environmental issues have entered the agendas of
most nation-states. This is because pollution of land, air, and water have endangered ecosystems and public health, and called for a governmental response. Problems of water scarcity and depletion of other critical natural resources, such as forest and agricultural land, elevated the salience of environmental issues, as did the incessant accumulation of garbage. These issues introduced new sets of problems to the political arena and brought new sources of demands to bear on governments. Thus, the fact that each of aforementioned global environmental issues have domestic as well as foreign origins, and that nation-state claim sovereignty and control over domestic issues, has directed the search for solutions to individual countries This study is primarily concerned with the examination of Nigeria’s capacity in dealing with environmental issues/problems through environmental policy. In course of this study, the Institutional Theory of Public Policy was employed in order to provide explanation and understanding the issue under study. This study relied on the collection and utilisation of secondary data. The study found out among others that corruption at the higher level of government as well as the centralised nature of Nigerian Federal system which is devoid of genuine decentralisation of power through devolution to the subnational units and nongovernmental bodies are largely responsible to the inability of the Nigerian State to tackle the perennial environmental problems bedeviling the country’s pathway to development. The study therefore recommends among others that the higher levels of government particularly the Federal Government should try to see the solution to the perennial environmental problems bedeviling the country coming from collaborative governance rather from the perceived notion of government alone.

Keywords Policy Environment Environmental policy Sustainable development

Effect of Sustainability Reporting on Financial Performance of Listed Consumer Goods Companies in Nigeria

Magaji Adamu — Federal University Gusau

Aisha Nuhu Mohammed — Department Of Accounting, Abu Business School

The study examines the effect of sustainability reporting on financial performance of listed consumer goods companies in Nigeria for the period seven (7) years comprises of 2018 to 2024. The study obtained the data from secondary source through annual report and accounts of the listed firms under study. Firm financial performance was used to measure using ROA. The study used correlational research designs. The multiple Regression was used to analyze the data. The findings concluded that, there is a positive and significant relationship between economic activities, environmental activities and social activities on the financial performance. It is therefore recommended that board of directors should promote environmental policies through direct regulations to encourage energy/resource savings through innovations in technology and management, thereby reducing the cost of environmental measures, in general and also stimulating improvements in value-added. Also, there should be information-based instruments of environmental policy to encourage information disclosure by firms which would leads to a favourable reception of the firm by other firms, clients and consumers, and raise the market value of its management as a whole. Finally, the federal government should give tax credit to organizations that comply with the economic laws of the land which will encourage economic reporting and enhancement of performance.

Keywords Key words: Sustainability Reporting Financial Performance Listed Consumer Goods Companies Nigeria.

Proposing Agricultural Productivity as a Mediator between Access to Credit, Technical Supports, Access to Market Information and Poverty Reduction among Nigerian Smallholder Farmers

Mohammed Ibrahim Aminu — Department Of Business Administration, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Smallholder farmers play a critical role in global food production and rural livelihoods, particularly in developing economies such as Nigeria. Despite their importance, many of these farmers remain trapped in poverty, facing challenges related to limited access to credit, inadequate technical support, and poor access to market information. This paper proposes a conceptual framework in which agricultural productivity mediates the relationship between access to credit, technical support, market information and poverty reduction among Nigerian smallholder farmers. Drawing on extensive literature and policy initiatives, especially those implemented in Nigeria between 2019 and 2023, this study argues that boosting agricultural productivity of Nigerian smallholder farmers, through access to credit, technical support and market information, can significantly reduce the poverty of smallholder farmers in the country. The framework is theoretically grounded and practically relevant, offering a foundation for future empirical studies aimed at guiding development interventions and agricultural policy reforms in Nigeria and other developing countries.

Keywords Poverty reduction access to credit technical support access to market information smallholder farmer agricultural productivity

PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP AND HOUSING DELIVERY IN NIGER STATE 2015-2023

Mohammed Yusuf Gulu — University Of Calabar

This study examines Public Private Partnership and Housing Delivery in Niger State 2015- 2023. The study objective is to determine the extent to which Public Private Partnership has affected housing delivery in Niger state. The study adopted New Public Service (NPS) theory as propounded by Robert, Denhardt and Denhardt (2015) as a theoretical framework. The study methodology is quantitative, survey research design was used and data for the study were generated from primary source. The instrument of the primary data collection used was questionnaire. Questionnaires were distributed to a sample of 384 respondents selected from 353,373 three local government across the three senatorial district. Stratified random sampling technique was used to draw sample from the population. Data were analysed using inferential statistical tool and multiple Regression analysis was used to test the hypothesis. The tests result revealed that, there is significant effect of Public Private Partnership and housing delivery in Niger state. The study recommend that, there must be adequate funding in terms of budgetary provision and review of the current funding arrangement of 70 percent and 30 percent between private organizations and government to aid PPP in housing delivery. More so, reduction of mortgage interest rate to facilitate access housing across the state.

Keywords Delivery Housing Partnership Public Private

"Impact of Tax Reforms on Internally Generated Revenue in Kaduna State: A Case Study of KADIRS (2015–2023)

Titus Ajimbe — Abu Zaria

Abstract
Abstract
This study examines the impact of tax reforms on the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of Kaduna State, Nigeria, from 2015 to 2023, with specific reference to the role of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS). Amid declining federal allocations and increasing fiscal responsibilities at the subnational level, tax reform has emerged as a critical strategy for enhancing sustainable revenue mobilization. The research focuses on three major reform dimensions—legal and regulatory restructuring, technological innovation, and taxpayer engagement—and evaluates their individual and combined effects on IGR performance.

A survey research design was employed, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study population comprised KADIRS staff, registered taxpayers, and institutional stakeholders, from which a sample of 292 respondents was drawn using stratified random sampling. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires, while secondary data were obtained from KADIRS financial records, government reports, and existing scholarly literature. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and trend analysis, providing both perceptual and empirical insights into the effectiveness of the reforms.

Findings reveal that tax reforms have had a positive and statistically significant impact on Kaduna State’s IGR. Legal reforms enhanced compliance through clearer tax laws and streamlined revenue codes. Technological innovations, particularly the deployment of digital platforms such as PayKaduna and e-tax systems, improved transparency, minimized revenue leakages, and facilitated easier access for taxpayers. Taxpayer engagement strategies—such as public education campaigns and feedback mechanisms—boosted tax morale and voluntary compliance. Despite these gains, challenges including limited outreach in rural areas, occasional system downtimes, and capacity deficits among personnel were identified.

The study concludes that integrated and sustained tax reform is essential for improving IGR at the state level. It recommends periodic policy reviews, investment in technology, taxpayer education, and institutional capacity development to consolidate and scale reform gains.

Keywords Keywords: IGR Tax Reforms Legal and Regulatory Reforms Technological Reforms and Taxpayers’ Engagement Strategies

EFFECT OF TAX ADMINISTRATION ON REVEVENUE GENERATION IN KANO STATE-NORTH-WESTERN NIGERIA

Umar Abdulkadir Umar — Bayero University, Kano

Saadatu Balarabe Adam — Department Of Financial Studies National Open University

Abstracts
The study examined the effect of tax administration on revenue generation in Kano state North-western Nigeria. The issue of tax administration has been a burning issue over a long period of time. The study assessed how change of government and politicking negatively affected revenue generation in the state. The study used relational content analysis. The secondary data was used where related concepts were identified and defined. Findings revealed that politicking in tax collection significantly affected revenue generation in the state. Findings also revealed that change of government especially where the pollical party that took over not the same with one that handed over. The study recommended that politicking in the tax administration should be avoided, an independent institution made up of professional should be mounted instead of appointing of politicians to spearheaded revenue generation institution. The study concluded that the change in tax administration will positively change the quantum of revenue in the state.

Keywords Keywords: Tax Tax administration Politicking Revenue Generation.

Climate Change and Sustainable Development

ADVANCING CLIMATE JUSTICE IN NIGERIA: NEED FOR A COMPREHENSIVE LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

ASSESSMENT OF CATTLE HERDERS PERCEPTION ON EFFECTS OF LAND USE CHANGE ON LIVELIHOOD IN KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA

Climate Change, Health Spending, and Maternal Mortality in Emerging African Economies: SDG Policy Implications

IMPACT OF ASSESSMENT OF THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOAL (SDG) 6 ON CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION AND THE IMPLICATION FOR THE PERENNIAL WATER PROBLEM IN APA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

Investigating the Challenges Posed by Climate Change to Agriculture and Sustainability in Nigeria

Roles of Libraries as Community Hubs for Climate Action in Nigeria: An Overview Introduction

Conflict Resolution and Peace Building

COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION IN NIGERIAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES: AN EVALUATION OF ACADEMIC STAFF UNION OF UNIVERSITIES (ASUU) STRIKES FROM 2020-2022

Conflict and Peace Building in West Africa:The Gulf of Guinea Subregional Example.

EFFECT OF BANDITRY ON STAFF QUITING THEIR SERVICE IN FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, KAURA NAMODA, ZAMFARA STATE

End Bad Governance Protest: Impact on Academic activities in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Corporate Management Strategies for Sustainable Development

IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF TERTIARY EDUCATION TRUST FUND (TETFUND) ON ACADEMIC STAFF TRAINING AND DEVELOPMAENT IN AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA, NIGERIA 2015-2019

Digital Communication, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Sustainable Development

AI-ENABLED LIGHTWEIGHT INTRUSION DETECTION FOR SMART WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORKS: A RESOURCE-EFFICIENT DEEP LEARNING APPROACH

Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital Communication and Sustainable Development in Africa

Assessing the Effect of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Powered Digital Platforms on Sustainable Urban Development and Smart Cities in Nigeria

Assessment of effects of Mutual Support Services on Performance and Sustainability of Telecommunication

EFFECT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON ACCOUNTING INFORMATION SYSTEM OF SELECTED DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS IN NIGERIA

EFFECT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON STUDENT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA

Enhancing Entrepreneurship Education in Nigeria through Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Ethical Challenges

Examining the Antecedents of Blockchain Technology Adoption Intention in Nigerian Financial Institutions: A Modified TOE Framework.

Islamic Law Perspective on Digital Currencies in Nigeria

Leveraging AI-Chatbots for Sustainable Development Goal IV: A Study of Polytechnic Lecturers’ Perception and Usage Patterns

Reclaiming Civility Online Through Management of Social Media Platforms for Peaceful Coexistence in Nigeria

SCHOLARLY ETHICS IN THE ERA OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Strategic Alignment of Digital Transformation with Sustainable Banking Practices in Nigeria's Banking Industry

Succession in the Digital Age under the Common Law: Legal Challenges in the Management and Administration of Digital Estates in Nigeria

The Role of Information Scientists in Digital Communication and AI for Sustainable Development in Nigeria: Enhancing Service Delivery in Libraries and Information Centre’s

Towards Sustainable Energy Transition in Nigeria’s Cloud Data Center Sector: Challenges, Projections, and Policy

Economic Reforms and Sustainable Development

Asymmetric Effects of Energy and Exchange Rate on Inflation in Nigeria: Evidence from Nonlinear ARDL Model

Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Tax in Nigeria: A Perspective Paper

WOMEN CONTRIBUTION FOR SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA

Environment, Population and Migration

An Examination of the Right to Healthy Environment in Nigeria: Legal Frameworks and Enforcement Challenges

Legal Protection of Internally Displaced Persons in Nigeria: Gaps, Challenges, and Pathways to Reform

Environment, Population, Migration and Sustainable Development

Integrating Environmental Sustainability into Carriage of Goods by Sea: Legal and Policy Imperatives in Nigeria.

SUSTAINABLE MINING PRACTICES IN KADUNA STATE

Finance for Sustainable Development

Access to Finance for Sustainable Development

AN ECONOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF FINTECH AND COMMERCIAL BANKS PERFORMANCE IN NIGERIA

BLOCKCHAIN-ENABLED ISLAMIC SOCIAL FINANCE: A SHARĪʿAH-COMPLIANT FRAMEWORK FOR TRANSPARENT AND INCLUSIVE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

EFFECT OF RISK MANAGEMENT ON THE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF LISTED DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS IN NIGERIA

FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY AND CUSTOMERS SATISFACTION IN SELECTED DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS IN CROSS RIVER STATE

INNOVATIVE FINANCING MODELS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN THE NIGERIAN AGRICULTURAL SECTOR: A CONCEPTUAL AND THEORETICAL REVIEW

Islamic Social Finance and Takaful: A Maqasid Approach to Poverty Alleviation

MACRO-DETERMINANTS OF STOCK MARKET LIQUIDITY IN NIGERIA

PUBLIC EDUCATION EXPENDITURE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA, 1990-2024

Revenue Leakages and Public Sector Revenue Generation: What Nigerian Local Government Contextual Tells Us

The Impact of N-TAX Programme on Youth Empowerment in Zaria and Sabon Gari Local Government Areas of Kaduna State.

Gender and Development

An Appraisal of the Customary Law and Women's Rights: Bridging the Gap Between Tradition and Equality

GENDER DEVELOPMENT IN ZARIA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA 1999 – 2015.

Judicial Activism and the Protection of Female Employees’ Rights: A Study of the Role of the National Industrial Court in Nigeria

Governance and Institutional Frameworks for Sustainable Development

EFFECT OF INSECURITY ON STUDENT ENROLLMENT AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR INSTITUTIONAL STABILITY AT FEDERAL UNIVERSITY GUSAU, ZAMFARA STATE

EFFECT OF INSTITUTIONAL GOVERNANCE ON SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES IN DANGOTE GROUP, LAGOS, NIGERIA

Effect of institutional ownership on Financial performance of Nigerian listed Manufacturing companies

Effects of Community Participation in Combating Insecurity in Kaduna State: A Study of Neighborhood Watch in Zaria Local Government 2018-24

EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF BUDGET AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF KADUNA STATE

Evaluating the Adoption of E-Government Platforms in Enhancing Revenue Collection: A Study of Kano State inland Revenue board during the Administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf

The African Agenda: A Critical Examination of Nigeria and South Africa's Roles in Shaping the Continent's Position on UNSC Reform and the Quest for Permanent Representation

The Role of Digitalisation in Bridging Integrity and Compliance-Based Approaches to Anti-Corruption in Nigerian Public Sector Organisations

Transforming Healthcare in Crisis: How E-Governance is Revolutionizing Service Delivery at Federal Medical Centre Gusau Amid Security Challenges

Human Resource Management and Sustainable Development

Assessment of Effective Recruitment on Sustainable Development in Nigeria

ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTS OF CAPACITY-BUILDING ON STAFF PRODUCTIVITY IN HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY OF KADUNA STATE

Digital Transformation in the Nigerian Public Service: Leveraging Human Resource Information System (HRIS) for Effective Governance and Service Delivery

EFFECT OF PSYCHOLOGICAL CONTRACT ON JOB SATISFACTION OF CASUAL STAFF IN AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA, NIGERIA

Effect of Recruitment on the performance of Organization in National Board For Arabic And Islamic Studies ( NBAIS) Headquarters Kaduna.

Evaluation of Key Procurement Skills for Enhanced Public Sector Procurement in Nigeria

Harnessing Social Capital for Business Growth and Sustainable Development in Nigeria: Pathways, Challenges and Policy Implication

Impact of longevity risk on retirement benefits within Nigerian context

Manpower Training and Development: A Nexus to Organisational Productivity

THE IMPACT OF COMPENSATION ON THE PERFORMANCE OF INDEPENDENT NATIONAL ELECTORAL COMMISSION (INEC) ON ELECTORAL OUTCOMES

THE MEDIATING ROLE OF JOB SATISFACTION ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE AND EMPLOYEE COMMITMENT IN DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS

Innovations and Sustainable Development