GLOBAL JOURNAL OF MODERN RESEARCH AND EMERGING TRENDS
Global Journal of Modern Research and Emerging Trends (GJMRET) is a quarterly publication by Word Astra Publishers. It is an open-access, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancing scholarly research across a wide range of academic disciplines.
The Influence of Job Autonomy and Corporate Ethics on the Psychological Well-Being of Health Workers in Makurdi
This study examined the influence of job autonomy and corporate ethics on the psychological well-being of health workers in Makurdi, Benue State. Psychological well-being is a critical factor in the effectiveness and sustainability of healthcare delivery, making it important to understand organizational factors that may enhance or hinder it. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted for the study. Data were collected from a total of 197 health workers, comprising 106 males and 91 females, aged between 26 and 60 years, with a mean age of 43 years. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Three standardized instruments were used for data collection: the Job Autonomy Scale, the Corporate Ethics Scale, and the Psychological Well-Being Scale. Data were analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Findings revealed that job autonomy did not have a significant independent influence on the psychological well-being of health workers, leading to the rejection of the first hypothesis. However, corporate ethics had a significant influence on psychological well-being, resulting in the acceptance of the second hypothesis. Additionally, the results indicated that job autonomy and corporate ethics jointly influenced the psychological well-being of health workers. This suggests that while job autonomy alone may not significantly predict psychological well-being, its interaction with strong corporate ethical practices can enhance employees’ mental and emotional health. Based on these findings, the study recommends that healthcare organizations prioritize ethical standards and supportive work environments to promote the psychological well-being of their workforce. Suggestions for further research were also provided.
Copyright (c) 2026 Author https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Tale of Ibaka in the Face of the Blue Economy: Putting Akwa Ibom State at the Height of a Maritime Hub
This paper focuses on the significance of the blue economy in the growth of the Nigerian economy using the Ibaka (Ibom) deep seaport as the template for a sustainable blue economy program. The paper argues that, despite the blue economy's significant contributions to the economies of both developed and developing nations, particularly through deep seaports, efforts to realize the Ibom deep seaport for the growth of Nigeria's economy are hindered by a lack of political will, chauvinistic agendas, and insufficient collaboration with relevant stakeholders. This paper suggests that there must be a coherent regulatory landscape, with an urgent need for resolute governmental intervention, in view of the identified limitations associated with the realization of the Ibaka deep seaport. There should also be an interplay between international laws and treaties and national legislation, which must be directed at accentuating prudent resource allocation towards sustainable blue initiatives, steadfast research, and cutting-edge technology development.
Public Relations Alignment with Host Community Expectations in Employment: Evidence from Akwa Ibom State University, Obio Akpa Campus
Public relations (PR) strategies play a critical role in managing conflicts between universities and their host communities, particularly during employment-related crises. This study examined the extent to which the PR strategies of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU), Obio Akpa Campus, align with the needs, interests, and expectations of the host community in conflicts arising from the nonemployment of community indigenes. Anchored in Excellence Theory and Stakeholder Theory, the study adopted a mixed-methods research design. A sample of 322 respondents was drawn from the Obio Akpa host community using Philip Meyer’s sampling formula. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews and analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings reveal a marked misalignment between institutional PR strategies and host community expectations, particularly in areas of transparency, inclusiveness, and feedback Key challenges undermining effective PR implementation include poor communication, trust deficits, political interference, and limited stakeholder participation. The study concludes that without deliberate alignment of PR strategies with host community expectations, employment-related conflicts are likely to persist. It recommends participatory communication frameworks, enhanced policy transparency, and sustained dialogue as pathways to sustainable conflict resolution.
The Implication of Coronavirus on Human and National Security in Nigeria
The reconceptualization of security at the end of the Cold War in the 1980s, expanding it to encompass human security and, indeed, health security, emerged as a result of multiple interconnected factors. These factors challenged the state-centric notion of conventional security to enable a broader, comprehensive concept of security to emerge. This was because the challenges posed by pandemics such as acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), Lassa fever, tuberculosis, Ebola, and, recently, coronavirus globally have been conceptualized as threats to human and national securities. This paper aims to highlight the negative implications of the coronavirus on human and national security in Nigeria, as well as its growing effects on economic, social, and diplomatic relationships among countries globally. The emergence of the coronavirus in 2019 in China once again moved health from the periphery to core status in the nation's foreign policy. It argues that the menace has expanded the frontier and paradigm of security to include humanitarian, environmental, economic, gender, health, food securities, etc. It concludes that there is the need to rejig security architecture not only in Nigeria but globally to respond to the complexity and interrelatedness of both old and new security threats.
Leadership Styles and Their Impact on Library Personnel in Federal Universities, South-South Nigeria
This study investigates the impact of leadership style on library personnel in federal universities in South-South Nigeria. The research examines the prevalent leadership styles adopted by library administrators and their effects on job satisfaction, motivation, and performance of library staff. A survey of 204 library personnel from three federal universities in the region reveals that transformational leadership is the most prevalent style, followed by transactional and laissez-faire leadership. The findings indicate that transformational leadership has a significant positive impact on staff performance, while transactional leadership has a moderate impact. The study recommends leadership training and development programs to enhance library management effectiveness, promote staff motivation, and improve job satisfaction. The implications of these findings for library management and future research were discussed.
Trade Liberalization and Unemployment in Nigeria
This study examines how trade liberalization affected Nigeria's unemployment rate from 1981 to 2024, utilizing exchange rates, trade openness, and foreign direct investment (FDI) as explanatory factors. The work uses a parsimonious error correction model (ECM) to capture both long-term and short-term dynamics. The findings show that while FDI has a little impact, trade openness considerably raises unemployment in the short term. Higher unemployment is positively correlated with exchange rate depreciation. With a negative and significant ECM term, deviations from long-run equilibrium appear to be adjusting at a pace of 19.7% each period. The results show that trade liberalization may make unemployment in Nigeria worse if it is not accompanied by conducive domestic labor and industrial policies. To optimize employment advantages from trade openness, the report suggests conducting targeted labor market measures, stabilizing the currency rate, encouraging labor-intensive FDI, bolstering local sectors, and enacting phased liberalization policies.
The Significant Roles of Libations as a Symbol of Harmony amongst Indigenous People of Akwa Ibom State
Libation remains one of the most enduring symbols of cultural harmony among the indigenous people of Akwa Ibom State. Despite the influences of modernisation, religion and globalisation, the practice continues to express the people's commitment to unity, truth and respect for ancestral values. This paper examines the significant roles of libation as it serves as a spiritual link between the living and the dead, promotes reconciliation and social order and ensures that community decisions are anchored on peace and moral responsibility. Libation is the ritual act of pouring liquid to honour ancestors and deities, reflecting the people's worldview of unity, respect and spiritual continuity. It also examines the vital role of libation in sustaining social cohesion, promoting peace, and reinforcing communal relationships across various ethnic groups, including the Ibibio, Annang, and Oron. This study highlights that libation is traditionally performed by elders, family heads, chiefs and priests who serve as custodians of culture and moral authority. Through its performance during meetings, festivals and conflict resolution, libation symbolises reconciliation, ancestral guidance and collective responsibility. The paper seeks to examine further the changing patterns of libation practices in different communities in Akwa Ibom State, noting a gradual shift from purely religious to symbolic cultural expression, influenced by modernisation and Christianity. The aim of the study is to highlight the significant role of libation that remains a potent medium for invoking ancestral blessings, expressing communal solidarity, and maintaining peace among community members. The paper adopted the empirical method of contacting texts and relevant journals for information. The study concludes that the continued practice and adaptation of libation affirm its enduring relevance as a cultural mechanism for promoting harmony, moral order, and social unity among the indigenous people of Akwa Ibom State.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Skill-Biased Technological Change and Its Impacts on Labour Market Polarisation
Gender inequality continues to be a significant issue in the global labour market, with women frequently encountering wage disparities, occupational segregation, and restricted access to skills training, as well as informality and workplace discrimination. These challenges reduce women's participation in high-paying sectors and confine many to low-wage, insecure and informal employment. This paper underscores the importance of labour market interventions as essential instruments for tackling gender disparities and fostering inclusive economic growth. Key interventions encompass the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws, the bridging of wage gaps, and the promotion of equal opportunities in hiring and promotion. The paper examines how expanding access to skills development particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) empowers women to compete in high demand sectors such as ICT and engineering. It also explores additional interventions that support work–life balance, including parental leave, flexible work arrangements, and childcare services, which enable women to reconcile family responsibilities with professional growth. Furthermore, the paper addresses the challenges of extending social protection to informal workers, with a focus on ensuring that women in vulnerable employment have access to healthcare, pensions, and maternity benefits. The paper explains policies that prevent workplace harassment and promote female entrepreneurship, which further strengthen women's labour market positions. The method applied is by contacting relevant texts and journals for information. The research concludes that addressing gender issues through comprehensive labour market policies is not only a matter of equality but also an economic necessity, as empowering women in the workplace contributes to productivity, innovation, and sustainable development.
Employer Non-Remittance and Corruption as Determinants of Ineffective Pension Administration in Nigeria
Pension administration remains central to the financial security and social welfare of retirees in Nigeria. Despite the introduction of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) in 2004 and subsequent reforms in 2014, retirees continue to experience delayed benefits, financial instability, and declining trust in the pension system. This paper examines two critical challenges undermining effective pension administration in Nigeria: firstly, employers' nonremittance of mandatory counterpart pension contributions and secondly, corrupt practices among pension administrators. Drawing from empirical and theoretical literature as well as documented pension reforms, the study reveals that persistent non-remittances disrupt pension fund accumulation, deepen pension arrears, and erode pensioners' welfare. The study also finds that corruption manifests in embezzlement, falsification of records, diversion of funds, and administrative opacity, ultimately weakening governance and accountability within the pension system. The paper concludes that without stringent enforcement mechanisms, transparent administrative structures, and improved regulatory oversight, pension reforms may continue to fall short of guaranteeing retirees' long-term welfare.
Curriculum Implementation Fidelity and School Leadership Practices: An Empirical Study of Public Secondary Schools
This study examines the relationship between curriculum implementation fidelity and school leadership practices in public secondary schools in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The correlational survey research design was adopted for the investigation. The study population comprised 6,475 principals and teachers across 228 public secondary schools, out of which a multi-stage sample of 376 respondents was selected. Two validated instruments, titled the Curriculum Implementation Fidelity Scale (CIFS) and the School Leadership Practices Questionnaire (SLPQ), were used for data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson product moment correlation, and simple linear regression at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that curriculum implementation fidelity in public secondary schools is moderately high, with teachers generally adhering to curriculum content and engaging students effectively, though full instructional coverage remains a challenge. Leadership practices received high ratings, especially in supervision, communication, and teacher motivation. However, the use of monitoring and evaluation to improve instruction was not high. Results further showed a strong, positive, and statistically significant relationship between school leadership practices and curriculum implementation fidelity (r = 0.612, p < .05). Regression analysis confirmed leadership practices as a significant predictor of fidelity. The study concludes that effective school leadership plays a crucial role in ensuring faithful curriculum delivery and improved instructional quality. It recommends strengthening instructional leadership capacity, enhancing feedback mechanisms, and improving teacher support systems to promote better curriculum outcomes in public secondary schools.
Arms Production and Proliferation as a Major Threat to Nigeria's National Security: A Comparative Regional Analysis
The production and proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) constitute a major threat to Nigeria's national and human security architecture. While formal arms manufacturing remains limited, Nigeria is a conduit for illicit arms due to porous borders, weak regulation, local craft production, and transnational criminal networks. This research examines arms through a comparative regional analysis of Nigeria's major conflict zones, focusing on insurgency in the Northeast, banditry in the Northwest, farmer-herder conflicts in the North-Central region, separatist violence in the Southeast, and militancy in the Niger Delta. The findings reveal that arms proliferation in Nigeria is driven by a combination of economic deprivation, institutional failure, corruption, and regional insecurity dynamics. The paper highlights that arms proliferation is not merely a security problem but a governance and development crisis in all regions. The method involves contacting texts, relevant journals, and security and state fragility frameworks to explain how arms availability undermines the state monopoly of violence, escalates communal conflicts, weakens law enforcement, and sustains criminal economics in Nigeria. The paper concludes that without comprehensive arms control, regional cooperation, community-based disarmament, and institutional reform, Nigeria's security challenges will persist. The paper recommends a multidimensional approach integrating border management, arms regulation, livelihood alternatives, and strengthened accountability mechanisms.
Impact of Decentralization and E-Administration on Organizational Performance
The pre-reforms period of Nigeria's Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) was marked by inefficiencies, including the lack of a reliable system for tracking company compliance. To address these challenges and enhance its performance, the CAC undertook reforms incorporating the Contemporary Public Management (CPM) model. This study examines the impac t of two k e y components of the s e re forms (decentralisation and the adoption of e-administration) on the organisational performance of the CAC. Using public choice theory as the theoretical framework, the study employs both descriptive and survey methods to analyse the reforms. A total of 388 questionnaires were distributed to staff of the CAC and registered business owners. The findings reveal that decentralisation and the introduction of e-administration have significantly improved CAC's performance, as evidenced by streamlined company registration processes and increased operational efficiency. The study recommends further strengthening of compliance and enforcement mechanisms to ensure the sustainability of these improvements, thereby boosting investor confidence and public trust in the CAC.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Hands-On and Virtual Learning Instructional Strategies on Biology Students' Academic Achievement on Respiration in Abak, Akwa Ibom State
The study investigated educational hands-on and virtual learning instructional strategies on biology students' academic achievement on respiration in Abak, Akwa Ibom State. Three research questions were raised and three null hypotheses guided the study. The design for the study was quasi-experimental pretest, post-test equivalent group design. The population of the study consisted all 3,620 Senior Secondary School Two students offering biology in all the 10 public secondary schools in Abak Local Government Area. A sample size of one hundred and fiftythree (153) senior secondary two biology students were selected using purposive sampling technique. The instrument for data collection was Biology Achievement Test. The reliability of the instruments was determined using Kuder Richardson 21 (KR-21) and gave 0.77. Mean and Standard Deviation were used to answer the research questions while Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) was used to test the hypotheses at p˂0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study showed a significant difference in the academic achievement mean scores of biology students taught respiration using hands-on and virtual learning instructional strategies. Gender was found not to be a significant factor affecting students' academic achievement. Based on the findings, it was recommended that biology teachers should be encouraged to adopt hands-on as instructional strategy for effective teaching of respiration.
Spousal Support and Workplace Adjustment of Secondary School Teachers in Uyo Local Government of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
The study investigated the relationship between spousal support and workplace adjustment of secondary school teachers in the Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Three research questions and three null hypotheses guided the conduct of the study. A correlational research design was adopted for the study. The population of the study was 917 married teachers in 15 public secondary schools in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. A sample of 345 married teachers was selected for the study using a simple random sampling technique. A researcher-made instrument, titled “Spousal Support and Workplace Adjustment Questionnaire” (SSWAQ), was used for data collection. The instrument was face validated while its internal consistency reliability was established, and a reliability coefficient of .71 was obtained by applying the Cronbach's alpha statistic. The Pearson product-moment correlation statistic was used to answer the research questions and also test their corresponding hypotheses. All the hypotheses were tested at the .05 level of significance, while all data were subjected to analysis using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Analysis of data revealed that instrumental support and appraisal support are positively and significantly related to workplace adjustment of secondary school teachers. Moreover, no significant relationship was found between informational support and workplace adjustment of secondary school teachers. Based on the findings of the study, three relevant recommendations were made, among which is that school principals in Akwa Ibom State should conduct quarterly appraisal meetings where teachers receive verbal commendation, clear feedback on strengths, and targeted guidance on areas that need improvement.
Self Esteem, Motivation, Time Management and Academic Adjustment of Guidance and Counselling Undergraduate Students in the University of Uyo
This study examined the influence of self-esteem, motivation, and time management on the academic adjustment of Guidance and Counselling undergraduates at the University of Uyo. Three research questions and three null hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. A correlational research design was used for the study. The population of the study comprised 849 registered Guidance and Counselling undergraduate students at the University of Uyo as of the 2023/2024 academic session. Simple random sampling techniques were used in selecting 272 students for the study. Data was collected using a researcher-developed instrument named "Self-Esteem, Motivation, Time Management Questionnaire (SEMTMQ) and Academic Adjustment Questionnaire (AAQ)." The instruments were subjected to face validation by three experts. The internal reliability coefficients of SEMTMQ and AAQ were .84 and .86, respectively, determined using Cronbach's alpha statistical analysis. The simple linear regression statistic was used to answer the research questions and test the null hypotheses at the 0.05 alpha level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that motivation and time management significantly predict academic adjustment among students. The result also revealed that self-esteem does not significantly predict academic adjustment among students. It was recommended, among others, that counsellors should encourage students to undergo continuous professional development programmes that enhance their time management for effective integration of healthy practices in adjustment.
Psycho Social Variables and Marital Adjustment of Traders in Itu Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State
This study examined the influence of psychosocial variables on marital adjustment of traders in Itu Local Government Area. Three research questions and three null hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. The correlational research design was used for the study. The population of the study comprised 2150 registered traders in the main markets of the Itu Local Government Area as of 2025. A multistage sampling procedure involving proportionate stratified sampling and simple random sampling techniques was used in selecting 337 traders for the study. Data was collected using a researcher-developed instrument named "Psycho Social Variables Questionnaire (PSVQ) and Marital Adjustment Questionnaire (MAQ)". The instruments were further subjected to face validity by three experts. The internal reliability coefficients of PSVQ and MAQ were .82 and .87, respectively, determined using Cronbach's alpha statistical analysis. The simple linear regression statistic was used to answer the research questions and test the null hypotheses at the 0.05 alpha level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that spousal communication and social support systems significantly predict marital adjustment among traders. The result also revealed that self-esteem does not significantly predict marital adjustment among traders. It was recommended, among others, that counsellors should encourage traders to undergo continuous professional development programmes that enhance their spousal communication for effective integration of healthy practices in adjustment.
Mobile Digital Laboratories for Inclusive Science Learning
Access to quality science learning resources remains a persistent challenge in rural Nigerian schools, where limited laboratory infrastructure restricts students' ability to engage in hands-on experimentation and inquiry-based learning. This study examined the effectiveness of mobile digital laboratories as tools for inclusive science learning in bridging the rural–urban divide in the Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. Using a quasi-experimental design, 400 junior secondary school students participated in the study, comprising 200 in the experimental group and 200 in the control group. The Science Learning Achievement Test (SLAT) was used to collect data before and after the intervention. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyse students' performance. Findings revealed that students exposed to mobile digital laboratory experiences achieved significantly higher mean scores than those taught using conventional methods. The results highlight the potential of mobile digital technologies to democratise science education, foster inclusion, and promote equity in learning outcomes across geographical divides. The study recommends adopting mobile digital laboratories as an innovative instructional model for improving science learning in underserved areas of Nigeria.
Influence of Maternal Knowledge and Attitude on the Practice of Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Working Nursing Mothers in Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District
This study examined the influence of maternal knowledge and maternal attitude on the practice of exclusive breastfeeding among working nursing mothers attending immunization clinics in General Hospitals in Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District. Two research questions and two hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey design, and the population comprised 1,247 working nursing mothers who attended immunization clinics in the seven general hospitals within the district. A sample of 200 nursing mothers was drawn using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a researcher-developed instrument titled Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Exclusive Breastfeeding Questionnaire (KAPEBQ). The instrument was validated by experts, and reliability was established using Cronbach's alpha, yielding coefficients of .75 for knowledge and .80 for attitude. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation for the research questions, while a dependent t-test was used to test the hypotheses at the 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that maternal knowledge significantly influences the practice of exclusive breastfeeding among working nursing mothers in the study area. Similarly, maternal attitude was found to have a significant influence on exclusive breastfeeding practice. Based on these findings, the study concluded that both knowledge and attitude play critical roles in determining whether working nursing mothers adhere to exclusive breastfeeding recommendations. The study recommends strengthening health education programs to increase mothers' knowledge and improve attitudes toward exclusive breastfeeding. It further suggests that health educators should intensify counseling and supportive interventions that address misconceptions and promote positive breastfeeding behaviors among working nursing mothers.
Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District
Copyright (c) 2025 Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Improvised Instructional Materials and Academic Achievement in Chemistry
This study investigated the use of improvised instructional materials and their influence on academic performance among senior secondary school chemistry students in Government Secondary School, Afaha Atai, Eket. Using a mixed-method sequential exploratory design, data were collected through tests, questionnaires, and focused group interviews from 136 students and 6 chemistry teachers. The study pursued two key objectives: to explore the views of teachers and students regarding the extent to which improvised instructional materials affect academic performance in chemistry and to assess the impact of improvised instructional materials on student achievement. The results showed that both teachers and students strongly believe that improvised materials help with understanding, engagement, and memory. Challenges such as limited funding, lack of improvisation skills, and inadequate motivation were also identified as limiting effective improvisation. Statistical analysis using a dependent t-test showed a significant improvement in students' academic performance following exposure to improvised instructional materials (p < 0.05; Cohen's d = 0.9). The study concludes that improvised instructional materials significantly improve student achievement in chemistry and recommends capacity-building for teachers to enhance improvisational pedagogy.
Family Conflict Resolution and Psychological Adjustment among Married Female Bankers in Akwa Ibom State
This study investigated how family conflict resolution predicts psychological adjustment among married female bankers in Akwa Ibom State. Three research questions and three null hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. A correlational research design was used for the study. The population of the study comprised 846 married female bankers in the 184 commercial banks in Akwa Ibom State as of 2025. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used in selecting 344 married female bankers for the study. Data was collected using a researcher-developed instrument titled "Family Conflict Resolution and Psychological Adjustment Questionnaire" (FCRPAQ). The instrument was subjected to face validation by three experts. The internal consistency reliability of the instrument was .87, determined using Cronbach's alpha statistical analysis. The simple linear regression statistic was used to answer the research questions and test the null hypotheses at the 0.05 alpha level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that spouse negotiation strategies and support-seeking behaviours significantly predict psychological adjustment among married female bankers. The result also revealed that spouse communication strategies did not significantly predict psychological adjustment among married female bankers. It was recommended, among others, that married female bankers should always possess support-seeking behaviour since it enhances their psychological adjustment.
Blended Learning and Academic Performance of Fine Arts Senior Secondary II Students in Painting
This study is investigating the Blended Learning Pastel Package (BLPP) and the academic performance of senior secondary fine arts students in painting in the Uyo Local Government Area. Three research questions and three hypotheses were used to guide this study. This study employed a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest nonrandomised control group design. Using a criteria sampling technique, a sample of 95 senior secondary two (SSII) students was selected from a total population of 132 across 25 secondary schools offering fine arts in the study area. In each of the 12 selected schools, students were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The researcher developed an instrument, the Fine Arts Student Performance Test (BLSPT), which was validated for face and content validity by three experts from the University of Uyo. The reliability of the BLSPT was confirmed with a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.889. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation, alongside Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). The results indicated that blended learning enhances the teaching and learning of fine arts more effectively than the expository teaching method. Furthermore, students taught with the BLSPT showed significant improvements in creative abilities related to the use of form and tonal value when taught using the blended learning computer package, colour combination in painting, and the combined effects of creative abilities, form and tonal value, and colour combination. The findings showed that students' creative abilities exposed to BLSPT significantly improved compared to when taught using the expository teaching method. Among the recommendations made is that blended learning should be encouraged in schools by co-opting Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems in public secondary school education, even with a face-to-face system of learning in place. The Ministry of Education should prioritise providing and maintaining fully functional computer laboratories to support computer-based instruction in fine arts education.
Impact of Hydroponics Training on Students' Practical Skills and Innovation in Tertiary Institutions in Edo State, Nigeria
This study assesses the impact of hydroponics training on students' practical agricultural skills and their agricultural innovation. Hydroponics, a soil-less farming technique, offers sustainable solutions to modern agricultural challenges. Four (4) research questions were raised and answered, while 4 null hypotheses were formulated and tested at the .05 level of significance. The study adopted a quasi-experimental design, utilising pre-test and post-test evaluations to measure skill acquisition and innovation adoption. The population for the study was 59, comprised of 20 agricultural education students from Ambrose Alli University and 39 from the University of Benin. Data collection was done in two phases: a pre-test was administered to both groups before the treatment to assess their baseline knowledge and ensure group equivalency. Treatment: the experimental group was taught using hydroponic skills and Innovation Assessment (HSIA) test items developed by the researcher from personal experiences, curriculum contents of field experience, and literature reviewed over a period of three weeks (three periods per week), while the control group received instruction through conventional lecture, which had an impact on students' practical skills and adoption of agricultural innovation. It was therefore recommended, among others, that educational boards should integrate hydroponics into secondary school agriculture curricula and also that the government should provide training facilities and organise capacity building for instructors to update their hydroponics expertise and pedagogical strategies. methods. Post-test: The items were face and content validated by three experts, while the reliability of the items was determined using Richardson K21, which yielded a coefficient of 0.78. Data were collected by the researcher and with the help of three research assistants. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) to answer research questions, while ANCOVA was used to test the null hypotheses at the 0.05 level of significance. The findings of this study indicated a general acceptance of hydroponics training.
From Skill to Skills: A Framework for Adaptive Workforce Development in an Embattled Economy
The contemporary global economy is marked by volatility, uncertainty, and systemic disruptions, which increasingly demand a rethinking of human capital development. In the context of Nigeria's embattled economy, characterised by inflationary pressures, unemployment, technological displacement, and socio-political instability, the transition from skill to skills becomes a critical imperative. This paper underpins the perspective of moving beyond the acquisition of singular, narrow competencies towards embracing a diversified and integrative set of skills that align with dynamic economic realities. While a single skill may secure short-term survival, it is the multiplicity and complementarity of skills, including cognitive, technical, digital, entrepreneurial, and socioemotional, that sustain long-term employability and resilience. The discussion emphasises that understanding how systems operate in complex economies requires not only technical know-how but also problem-solving ability, adaptability, and systems thinking. By situating the discourse within the context of embattled economies, the paper highlights the necessity for individuals, organisations, and governments to prioritise multiskilling and re-skilling as pathways to competitiveness, productivity, and sustainable development. Ultimately, the shift from skill to skills is presented as both a survival strategy and a transformative agenda for thriving amidst economic turbulence. It is therefore recommended that individuals adopt a culture of lifelong learning and re-skilling in order to remain relevant in rapidly changing labour markets. Organisations should also deliberately encourage multi-skilling by creating workplace environments that promote knowledge transfer, innovation, and flexibility, thereby reducing vulnerability to economic shocks. In addition, governments are urged to invest in policy frameworks that integrate vocational education, digital literacy, and entrepreneurial training into national development agendas.
Public-Private Partnership and Economic Growth in Nigeria (1981 – 2024)
This study seeks to examine the impact of public-private partnership and economic growth in Nigeria, using secondary annual time series data from 1981 to 2024 on the underlisted variables from the Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin and data from World Development Indicators (WDI). The dependent variable, economic growth, was proxied by Real Gross Domestic Product (RGDP), while Public-Private Partnership Investment (PPPINV), Private Capital in Infrastructure (PCINFRAST), Gross Capital Formation (GCF), Trade Openness (TOP), Inflation Rate (INFL), and Interest Rate Accruable to Public-Private Partnership (INTR) were the independent and control variables, respectively. The test mechanisms adopted were the unit root test for co-integration and the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) technique. Findings revealed that there exists a positive and significant relationship between public-private partnership investment, private capital in infrastructure, gross capital formation, and interest rate in both the short and long run periods, suggesting that these variables contribute immensely to enhancing publicprivate partnership and therefore improved economic growth in Nigeria when properly harnessed. However, the inflation rate and trade openness exhibited a negative and insignificant relationship with public-private partnership and economic growth in both periods, showing that during the period under review, the underlisted variables had a devastating impact on economic growth in Nigeria. The study recommends that the government stabilize inflation, diversify trade, strengthen PPP governance, and channel investments into productive sectors. PPP investments should be increased by taking quick steps like accelerating projects and issuing bonds, as well as making long-term changes in laws, taxes, and financial markets.
The Rhetoric of Physics: Analysing Scientific Discourse through Literary and Linguistic Lenses
Physics is traditionally viewed as a field defined by mathematical precision and empirical rigour, yet its communication relies deeply on language and metaphor. This study explores how rhetorical and linguistic elements shape the discourse of physics, thereby affecting how scientific knowledge is constructed, interpreted, and understood. Through rhetorical and discourse analysis of selected academic and popular physics texts, the research examines how linguistic devices, such as metaphor, analogy, and syntactic framing, mediate between abstract theory and conceptual comprehension. Findings reveal that scientific communication is not purely objective but inherently persuasive and interpretative. Recognising the rhetorical nature of physics discourse can enhance science teaching, communication, and interdisciplinary understanding.
Blue Economy and Sustainable Development in Sub-Sahara Africa: Evidence from Nigeria
Globally, the blue economy is seen as a potential new frontier for development, especially for coastal states like Nigeria. The sustainability and the use of ocean, sea, and coastal resources for economic growth, improved livelihood, and job creation while preserving the health of marine ecosystems are the basic tenets of the blue economy programmes that must be vigorously pursued. Therefore, this study seeks to examine the impact of the blue economy on sustainable development in sub-Saharan Africa with evidence from Nigeria, using secondary annual time series data from 1981 to 2024 on the underlisted variables from the Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin and data from World Development Indicators (WDI). The dependent variable, sustainable development, was proxied by the human development index, while the number of revenue from fishing (REV), investment in marine energy resources (INVMA), life expectancy (LEXP), governance/institutional quality (INSTQ), inflation rate (INFL), interest rate accruable to blue economy resources (INTR) and per capita GDP (GDPPC) were the independent and control variables, respectively. The test mechanisms adopted were the unit root test for co-integration and the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) technique. Findings revealed that there exists a positive and significant relationship between per capita GDP, revenue from fishing, investment in marine energy resources, trade openness and interest rate accruable to the blue economy in both long and short run periods, suggesting that these variables contribute immensely to sustainable development in Nigeria when properly harnessed. However, governance/institutional quality and inflation rate exhibited a shocking negative and insignificant relationship with sustainable development in both periods, showing that during the period under review, the underlisted variables had a devastating impact on sustainable development in Nigeria. Therefore, for policy, the study recommended that the government should put in place policies and programmes that will reform governance, diversify marine resource use, stabilise inflation and prioritise human well-being so that these variables can positively drive sustainable development.
Green Growth and Renewable Energy Opportunities for Climate Mitigation
This study investigates the intersection of green growth and renewable energy development as strategic pathways for climate change mitigation. Framed within the global urgency to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the research examines the extent to which renewable energy deployment contributes to carbon emission reduction and sustainable economic growth across selected developed and developing nations. The aim of this study was to assess the empirical and policy linkages between renewable energy capacity, investment levels, carbon emissions, and GDP growth. Methodologically, a mixedmethods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from international databases (IEA, UNFCCC, World Bank) spanning 2010–2024 with qualitative analysis of national policy documents and case studies. Statistical tools, including Pearson correlation and regression modelling, were used to assess the temporal and cross-national patterns. Findings of the study reveal that countries with coherent energy policies and strong institutional frameworks, such as Germany, Sweden, and Costa Rica, demonstrate a significant inverse relationship between renewable capacity and emissions. In contrast, developing countries like Nigeria and India display weak or positive correlations due to infrastructural and policy constraints. Moreover, the study found no consistent link between renewable energy investments and short-term GDP growth, especially in developing nations. The study thus concluded that while renewable energy is a critical enabler of green growth, its effectiveness depends on systemic integration, policy coherence, and fossil fuel displacement. The study recommends the establishment of robust institutional frameworks to support renewable integration and increased international climate finance to bolster capacity in low-income countries. This research offers evidence-based insights to inform global policy discourses on sustainable energy transitions.
Unpacking the Relationship Between Fiscal Deficit and Economic Growth in Nigeria
This study examines the dynamic relationship between fiscal deficit and economic growth in Nigeria from 1981 to 2025, exploring the impact of these two macroeconomic variables within the broader debate on fiscal policy issues. Utilising a range of economic indicators, including GDP growth, fiscal deficit, gross fixed capital formation, labour force participation rate, and trade openness, the study determined the order of integration of the variables using Augmented Dickey–Fuller (ADF) and Phillips–Perron unit root tests and employed the Auto-Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bounds test to investigate shortrun and long-run relationships. The study found that fiscal deficit has a significant positive long-run relationship with economic growth in Nigeria. However, in the short run, fiscal deficit exhibits a direct but insignificant relationship with economic growth. Based on these findings, the study concluded that fiscal deficits stimulate growth in the economy in both the short run and long run, but cautions that governments should manage deficit financing carefully to ensure sustainable economic growth without undermining long-term fiscal stability. This study underscores the complex and dynamic relationship between fiscal deficits and economic growth, highlighting the importance of nuanced analysis and strategic policymaking.
Social Determinants of Preventive Strategies Among Adult Diabetic Patients in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
Diabetes mellitus is a growing public health concern in Nigeria, with rising prevalence and complications among adults. Although preventive strategies such as dietary regulation, physical activity, and adherence to medical advice are effective, their uptake is influenced by social determinants. This study assessed the role of educational attainment, cultural affiliation, and religious inclination in shaping preventive practices among adult diabetic patients in secondary health facilities in Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a multi-stage sampling technique to recruit participants. The data were collected with a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that educational attainment significantly influenced awareness and adoption of preventive measures. Cultural affiliation affected dietary practices, perceptions of disease management, and health-seeking behaviour. Religious inclination had mixed effects: some faith traditions promoted adherence to medical care, while others discouraged hospital-based interventions. The findings highlight education, culture, and religion as critical determinants of preventive strategies among diabetic patients. Interventions that combine health education, culturally sensitive messaging, and collaboration with faith-based organisations are essential for improving diabetes prevention and management in Akwa Ibom State.
Principals' Leadership Behaviours and Teachers' Job Satisfaction in Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District
The study examined principals' leadership behaviours and teachers' job satisfaction in public secondary schools in Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, Nigeria. To guide the study, two objectives, two research questions and two null hypotheses were formulated. The study adopted an ex-facto research design. The population of the study comprised all 1226 teachers from public secondary schools in Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District. The sample size was 555 teachers selected through stratified and purposive sampling techniques. Data collection was done through researcher-developed instruments tagged “Principals' Leadership Behaviour Questionnaire (PLBQ)” and “Teachers' Job Satisfaction Questionnaire (TJSQ)”. The instruments were validated by three experts from the Departments of Educational Foundations and Curriculum Studies/Educational Management and Planning in the Faculty of Education, University of Uyo. The reliability of the instruments was tested using Cronbach's alpha analysis, which yielded reliability coefficients of .74 and .67 for the independent and the dependent variables, respectively, which were high enough to justify the reliability of the instruments. Regression analysis coefficient was used to answer the research questions, while simple linear regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses at .05 level of significance. All the null hypotheses were rejected, indicating a significant level of prediction between principals' leadership behaviour and teachers' job satisfaction in public secondary schools in Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, Nigeria. Based on the findings, it was recommended, among others, that principals should adopt a transformational leadership behaviour to create a humorous atmosphere where teachers are inspired to express intellectual stimulation in order to enhance teachers' job satisfaction.