Nigerian Journal of Social Psychology

Beauty and Sexuality in African Setting

Shyngle K Balogun — 2024-06-24

African beauty and sexuality are deeply embedded in the continent's diverse cultural, historical, and social landscapes, reflecting a rich array of traditions and values. This essay looks into the concepts of beauty and sexuality within African settings, revealing unique cultural diversity, historical influences, and contemporary dynamics. Beauty standards in African settings vary significantly, with different communities valuing unique physical traits such as facial features, body shapes, and skin tones. Skin tone preferences can also differ, with some cultures influenced by colonial legacies favoring lighter skin, while many others celebrate darker skin as a sign of heritage and identity. Adornments like jewelry, scarification, and body painting play significant roles in expressing beauty, status, and identity. Sexuality in African settings is equally diverse and shaped by a variety of factors including traditional beliefs, religious teachings, and contemporary influences. Practices and expressions of sexuality are influenced by rites of passage, marriage customs, and community norms, with some societies placing a strong emphasis on modesty and others celebrating more overt expressions of sexuality. However, Colonialism has significantly reshaped understandings of beauty and sexuality in Africa, with colonial rulers often imposing Western standards of beauty, marginalizing traditional African aesthetics and practices. This has led to a pervasive preference for Eurocentric features in many African societies today. This has resulted in a complex blending of traditional and colonial values, creating a contemporary landscape where African beauty and sexuality are continuously renegotiated. Finally, through this exploration, the essay uncovers the intersections of tradition and modernity, resilience and adaptation, and the ongoing dialogue between cultural heritage and global influences in defining beauty and sexuality across Africa.

THE ROLE OF DIGITAL TOOLS IN ENHANCING PEACE EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY CONFLICTS MANAGEMENT IN SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA

U.N Okpalaibekwe — 2024-06-24

This study examined the role of digital tools in enhancing peace education and community conflict management in South East Nigeria. Specifically the study is designed to; ascertain the effect of facbebook in enhancing communication among individuals from various communities in South East Nigeria, investigate the effect of online newspaper in enlightening individuals on conflict resolution strategies in different communities in South East Nigeria. Survey research design was adopted for the study while purposive random sampling was used to choose Enugu Metropolis as the study area. The population for the study comprised 795,000 residents in Enugu Metropolis; while a sample of 400 respondents were sampled using Taro Yamane sampling techniques. A questionnaire designed by the researchers served as the instrument for data collection. The data gathered from the respondents were analyzed using simple percentage while Chi-square was employed as the statistical tool for testing of the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that facebook has significant positive effect in enhancing communication among individuals from different communities in South East Nigeria; online newspaper has significant positive effect in conflict resolutions in different communities in South East Nigeria. Based on the findings; the following recommendations were made; government and all stakeholders should ensure the citizens have access to internet, the government and all stakeholders should also ensure the provision of adequate infrastructure that will encourage digitalization nationwide.

CROSS-BORDER INVESTMENT

Onyebuchi Michael Eze — 2024-07-27

This study sized-up the impact of cross-border investment on economic growth of Nigeria for the period ranged from 1982 to 2022. To realize robust results, unit root tests were conducted with the aid of the Augmented Dickey-Fuller unit root test and Zivot-Zandrews structural adjusted unit root test. The result outcomes of the unit root tests, led the study into engaging the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model and the Kernel-Based Regularized Least Squares (KRLS) model to estimate the variables of the study. The variables used in the research were gross domestic product as the explained variable, whereas foreign direct investment inflows, foreign direct investment outflows, GDP per capita, exchange and inflation rate were employed as the explanatory variables. The results reported that foreign direct investment inflows and foreign direct investment outflows had no significant average marginal influence on gross domestic product in Nigeria. The results also indicated that GDP per capita and exchange rate had significant and positive average marginal impact on economic growth; while inflation rate had no significant but increasing average marginal influence on gross domestic product in the economy. On the above note, the study recommended that government should take inward looking economic policies aimed at attracting foreign direct investments in Nigeria. This can be done by granting tax waivers or reducing taxes on capital inflows or even on foreign companies operating in the country. More so, insecurity challenges should be severely dealt with to secure foreign capital inflows and protect outflows of foreign direct investment from cyber-crimes. It is in this view that foreign direct investment can on average affect economic growth of Nigeria significantly and positively.

POLITICS OF SECURITIES TRADING MARKET IN THE GROWTH OF NIGERIA’S ECONOMY

Onyebuchi Michael Eze — 2024-07-27

The broad objective of this research was to test the influence of securities trading market on economic growth of Nigeria from 1986 to 2020. The study utilized multiple regression analyses in which co-integration test and vector error correction model were the methods of analysis used in the study. Time series data sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria statistical bulletin on gross domestic product, market capitalization, all-share index, and private domestic savings were analyzed in the research. The results reported that market capitalization had a significant and positive influence on gross domestic product, while all-share index had not significantly impacted gross domestic product (GDP) in Nigeria. The results further showed that private domestic savings had a positive link with GDP, though inconsequential. On the above notes, the study recommended for the re-formulation of appropriate economic policies that ensure stability of share prices in order to encourage both domestic and foreign investors’ participations in the securities trading market in Nigeria. In so doing, market capitalization would increase leading to improved growth in the domestic economy.

FOREIGN INVESTMENT INFLOW AND UNEMPLOYMENT RATE IN A DEVELOPING ECONOMY

OGBONNAYA I ORJI — 2024-07-27

Unemployment causes emotional trauma and feelings of low self-esteem; hence the need to tackle the high rate of unemployment in Nigeria prompted this study to investigate whether foreign investment inflows, in the form of foreign direct investment (FDI) and foreign portfolio investment (FPI), have any effect on unemployment rate in the country. We used annual time series data for the period 37-year period from 1986 to 2022. Preliminary stationarity test using Augmented Dickey-Fuller, Phillips Perron, and Zivot-Andrews unit root tests indicate that the dataset employed in the study is a mixture of order zero and order one integrations. The autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) Bounds test results indicate that the variables have a long-run relationship. The study finds that FDI and FPI each has a significant negative impact on unemployment rate in the long run with regression coefficients -085 and -0.99 percent respectively. On the evidence of the findings, the study concludes that the growth of foreign direct investment and foreign portfolio investment inflows tend to curb the unemployment rate in Nigeria given a stable macroeconomic environment in the country. The federal government of Nigeria should therefore target bilateral trade policies that encourage the attraction, retention, and leveraging of foreign direct investment for job creation. The Nigerian government through its Central Bank and the Securities and Exchange Commission, should also seek to attract more foreign portfolio investment.

COPING WITH TEST ANXIETY

Dominic Chima Udechukwu — 2024-07-27

This study examined the effectiveness of coping strategies adopted by students for test anxiety. A total of 150 undergraduates comprising 70 males and 80 females aged 19-30 years, (mean age) were involved in the study. An 18-item Examination Anxiety Coping Strategies Questionnaire developed by the researcher was used for data collection. Pearson r and t-test results indicated a high positive correlation of study coping strategy with students’ examination performance while prayer coping and cheating coping strategies have no significant correlation with. The results also showed no significant gender difference for prayer and study coping strategies but a significant gender difference for cheating coping strategy. Males were found to engage in cheating strategy more than females. It was therefore concluded that study coping strategy is the only positive strategy of the three coping strategies examined. The researcher recommended that psychological intervention need to be implemented to help the students to effectively apply study coping strategy and control the ineffective cheating strategy.

KIDNAPPING FOR RANSOM

Dominic Chima Udechukwu — 2024-07-27

This study highlighted kidnapping for ransom as a trauma that impacted on the victims as well as their families negatively, the origin, types of kidnapping and the incidence of kidnapping in Nigeria were also highlighted. The research question is on the psychosocial implications on the families of the victims. Review of related literatures and theoretical framework of kidnapping were presented. Conclusion and recommendations were based on the ne

INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT POSTION ON WAR CRIMES AND THE BIAFRAN EXAMPLE

Paul U Omeje — 2024-08-05

This study is a reflection of International Criminal Court’s position on global war crimes. It interrogates the inability of the ICC to declare the Igbo pogrom of 1966, as a genocide and war crime. Using historical analysis of secondary data, the paper argues that the failure of African Heads of States and Governments to recognize and discuss the massacre of the Igbo people in 1966, contributed to the failure to declare the pogrom genocide by International Criminal Court thus, set the ground for Nigeria-Biafra war to take place. This paper maintains that a resolution of the African leaders would have been taken at the Third Regular Assembly summit in Ethiopia in May,1967, on the massacre and submitted to the United Nations Security Council for deliberations. The deliberation could have reenergized the International Criminal Tribunal to declare the massacre genocide, if brought up for debate at UNSC summit by African leaders. Rather, they stylishly avoided a mention of the genocide upon which the ICC lacked power of summon pursuant to a resolution adopted under chapter vii of the UN charter. The position of the paper is that both the IC T now ICC and African leaders were accomplice to the Biafra war.

Influence of Cultural Factors on Health Seeking Behavior in Ebonyi State, South East, Nigeria

Ogobuchi Onuoha Onuoha — 2024-08-05

This paper investigates the influence of cultural factors on health seeking behaviour in Ebonyi State, South East, Nigeria: The Ishiagu-Ebonyi Exemplar. The specific objectives are to find out the cultural factors influencing health-seeking behaviour in the Ishiagu community and to suggest measures that could be taken to improve the health-seeking behaviour among individuals in Ishiagu. Social Learning Theory was adopted as the theoretical framework. This study adopted a descriptive survey design. A survey research design was adopted. The population for this study was seventy-three thousand, six hundred and fifty-seven (73,657). Taro Yamani formula was used to determine the sample size of 255. The study employed a questionnaire in the collection of data and a simple percentage was used in analyzing data. The study found that; the health seeking behavior can be influenced by a myriad of cultural factors, such as beliefs, values, traditions, and social norms within Ishiagu community or group, It also revealed that by implementing measures such as promoting information literacy skills, fostering curiosity and a growth mindset, providing access to diverse sources of information, leveraging technology, and fostering a culture of continuous learning, organizations can empower individuals to seek out relevant information effectively. The study among others recommended that ensuring the availability of healthcare services, including healthcare facilities, trained healthcare professionals, and adequate medications, can reduce barriers to health seeking behavior.

EFFECT OF E-GOVERNANCE ON FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION IN SOUTH EAST NIGERIA (2015 – 2023)

Martins Onwudinjo Ugada — 2024-08-05

The research was on effect of e-governance on fight against corruption in South East, Nigeria. The objective of the study was to determine the extent to which e-governance has influenced the fight against corruption in public institutions in South East, Nigeria from a population of 2004, a sample size of 1908 was determined using the Taro Yamane statistical formula. The descriptive survey research design was employed in the study. Both the primary and secondary sources were used in generating data which were subsequenty analyzed by means of simple percentages and mean scores, while test of hypothesis was by z-test. Frequencies were applied in the presentation of data. From the analysis, the study found that e-governance has significantly influenced the fight against corruption in public institutions in South East, Nigeria. The study recommended that public institutions like EFCC and ICPC ensure that public officials who are identified with corruption practices are brought to book, to serve as a deterent to others.

RELIGIOSITY AND ETHNOCENTRISM AS PREDICTORS OF CYBER-AGGRESSION AMONG UNDERGRADUATES IN SOUTHEAST NIGERIA.

Michael Chibuzor Anyaegbunam — 2024-08-26

This study investigated the predictive role of religiosity and ethnocentrism on cyber-aggressive behaviour among undergraduates of three randomly selected Federal Universities in Southeast Nigeria. A total number of 1,011 undergraduates were randomly selected from the student population. They comprised 397 male (39.3%) and 614 female students (60.7%), with ages ranging from 16 to 40 years, a mean age of 22.7 years and a standard deviation of 2.89. Three self-report survey instruments, namely the Religious Affiliation Scale (RAS), the Ethnocentrism Scale (E.S.) and the Cyber-aggression Typology Questionnaire (CATQ) were utilised to collect data for the study. Multiple regression statistics was employed for data analysis using SPSS Statistics v25. The result showed that religiosity did not predict cyber-aggression among undergraduates (β =.27, P ˃.05). However, ethnocentrism predicted cyber-aggression among undergraduates (β =.28, P<.01). It was recommended that activities such as creating awareness that promote attitude change, negate social loafing, and reduce the perpetration of cyber-aggression is necessary.

Corporate Social Responsibility and Organizational Performance

Patience Nnenna Okoronkwo — 2024-08-26

This study examined the relationship between corporate social responsibility and organizational performance in Nestle Nigeria Limited, Lagos state. The study made use of descriptive survey research design and questionnaire were used as instrument for data collection. The population of the study comprised of Two thousand three hundred (2300) staff in Nestle Nigeria Limited Lagos State. Stratified and simple random sampling was used to select 100 staff out of two thousand three hundred (2300). Data were analyze using descriptive and inferential statistics. Specifically, Pearson Product Moment Correlation was use for the data analysis with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The test, revealed that there is significant relationship between corporate social responsibility and performance of Nestle Nigeria Plc., Lagos State. Based on the findings from the study, the researcher recommends that management of Nestle Nigeria plc, Lagos state, should work to preserve and strengthen social responsibility initiatives such neighborhood projects and environmental preservation in order to foster amicable connections with locals, attain peak organizational performance, and gain a competitive edge.

Democratic Leadership and Youth Empowerment in South East Geopolitical Zone of Nigeria from 2015-2022

Nnaemeka Hillary Anikeze — 2024-09-07

This study investigated Democratic leadership and youth empowerment in South East Geopolitical Zone of Nigeria from 2015 – 2022. The scope of the study cover; to examining the effect of democratic leadership in south east in Nigeria, the study covers only two states in south east, namely Enugu and Ebonyi, and the study is disposed to find out; effect of democratic leadership on youth employment in south east geopolitical zone of Nigeria, the effect of democratic leadership on youth participation in governance south east geopolitical zone of Nigeria, the effect of democratic leadership on youth acquisition of entrepreneurial skills in south east geopolitical zone of Nigeria. The total population for the study is two thousand eight hundred and seventy six (2876) youth. A sample size of three hundred and fifty one (351) youth was drawn using Yaro Yamen sampling techniques. This study made use of both primary and secondary data as method of data collection. Primary data are those data which have been collected for the first time by the researcher, while secondary data are those data that has been collected by someone else and exist somewhere such as journals, encyclopedia, newspaper and other authoritative documents relevant to this study. Data elicited from the respondent was analyzed using simple percentages, while the chi-square was used for testing of hypothesis at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that democratic leadership has little or no significant role in youth employment in South East Geopolitical Zone of Nigeria, democratic leadership played significant role in youth participation in politics and governance in south east geopolitical zone of Nigeria, democratic leadership played significant role in youth acquisition of entrepreneurial skills in south east geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Based on the findings, the following recommendations were made; democratic leadership should create more job opportunities for the youth as the high rate of insecurity and insurgency in the country could be attributed to the idleness of the youth, democratic leadership should include the youth in planning and execution process of programs aimed at empowering the youth, as this will enable the program to address efficiently the myriads of problems facing the youth, democratic leadership should endeavour to give the youth opportunity to hold political position, this will help boast their morale and productivity instead of resorting to political violence to register their discountenance with the system. Finally suggestions for further studies were made..

Prevalence of Secondary Traumatic Stress among Social Workers handling Traumatized Service Users in Nigeria

A O Atere — 2024-09-07

Social workers are regularly obligated to put the needs of others above their own. This coupled with a tendency for social workers to engage with clients’ trauma, often lead to secondary traumatic stress (STS) disorder being an occupational hazard resulting from working to help those who have been traumatized. This study interrogated the prevalence of secondary traumatic stress among social workers handling traumatized service users and identifying ways that social work employers could assist their employees to mitigate the effects of STS among social workers. Relational theory and professional quality of life model were therefore adopted for this study. The paper used primary data sourced from 323 samples drawn from 1600 licentiate Members of the Chartered Institute of Social Work Practitioners of Nigeria as at 2022. Convenience random sampling technique was used. Relevant empirical literatures were also explored. Findings revealed that STS experienced by social workers and the cumulative effect of it affects service delivery to service-users most especially, STS affects their professional life which has unintended negative impact on service-users. The study however recommended that the issue of STS blindness among many social work organizations should be addressed; training on trauma-informed practices put in place vis-a-vis constant education, mitigation and funding devoted to this important subject through periodic interventive workshops and education.

Youth-Related Crises and the dynamics of Public Sector Management in Nigeria

Cornelius O Okorie — 2024-10-06

This research investigates the relationship between problems connected to youth and the dynamics of managing the public sector in Nigeria. It explores the ramifications, difficulties, and methods for addressing these issues. The research utilises a thematic literature review and analysis of secondary data to identify the primary elements that contribute to young discontent, such as unemployment, poverty, corruption, and social marginalisation. The challenges of cultism, ethnic conflicts, religious extremism, and governance failings are aggravated by these factors, resulting in heightened social unrest and political instability. The results emphasise the crucial need of implementing efficient crisis management measures to reduce the negative impact of youth-related crises on the administration of the public sector. To tackle these difficulties, it is necessary to adopt a comprehensive strategy that gives priority to investing in education, vocational training, and programmes that empower young people. Enhancing the organisational structures, advocating for effective governance methods, and cultivating cooperation among the government, civil society, and the private sector are crucial measures in establishing robust public sector institutions that can effectively address the requirements of Nigeria's young population. Nigeria can overcome youth-related issues and develop a stable, egalitarian, and successful society by implementing proactive governance changes and making investments in the future of its youths.

Peer Group Influence and Self-Image among Females in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State

Oghenetega Elizabeth Wadi — 2024-10-06

This study investigates the influence of Peer group on the self-image of females in Okirika Local Government Area of Rivers State. Findings reveal significant associations: external locus of control notably impacts self-image among families, while peer group influences notably affect self-perception among specific demographics, notably females. The socio-demographics of the participants are presented in Table 1. Among the participants 12.5% were 15-18 years of age, 34.0% were 19-22 years of age while 34.0% were 23-26 years and 19.4% are 28 years and above. The study revealed that there is a significant influence of external locus of control on self-image among families in Okirika LGA, as the correlation is significant at 0.01 Pearson chi-square = 57.566, N=144 p-value = 0.01 (p<0.05). The study also revealed that there is a significant relationship between drug abuse and risky sexual behaviors among students of Rivers State University, as the correlation is significant at 0.05 Pearson correlation = -.783, N=144 p-value = 0.033 (p<0.05). These insights underscore the complex interrelationships among socio-demographic factors and self-perception, emphasizing the necessity for tailored interventions, support networks, and educational initiatives to empower individuals in navigating external influences and fostering healthier self-perceptions and behaviours. However, the study's correlation calls for caution in drawing definitive causal conclusions, highlighting the need for further comprehensive research to deepen our understanding of these multifaceted dynamics within this community setting.

Globalisation and the Decline of the African Value System

Shyngle K Balogun — 2024-10-06

Unlike any other continent, Africa has diverse cultural beliefs, traditions, languages and social norms that have been preserved over time. Globalization, characterized by the increasing connections of economies, cultures, and societies, has profoundly impacted various regions worldwide. In Africa, this phenomenon has contributed to significant shifts in the traditional value systems that have long defined and sustained the continent's diverse cultures. This paper explores the decline of the African value system in the face of globalization, examining how external influences have eroded communal values, social norms, and indigenous practices that once held strong in African societies. On account of this, African identity dynamics, social ties, and heritage preservation have experienced cultural transformation and is observable in various aspects like loosening communal ties, modifying family structures, and decreasing the importance of traditional customs, dressing and languages. Through examining case studies across African countries, this paper offers insight into the relationship between globalisation and cultural degradation; furthermore, it has led to the alienation of African traditional values thus threatening the continent’s cultural future identity. It was then concluded that globalisation needs to strike a balance between embracing its benefits and protecting African values through cultural education and cultural practices.

RESILIENCE AS A MODERATOR OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ATTACHMENT STYLES AND IDENTITY CRISIS.

Kelechi Esther Nwachukwu — 2024-10-06

The study investigated resilience as a moderator of the relationship between attachment styles and identity crisis among adolescents, A total of two hundred and thirty (230) participants were used for this study, comprising of one hundred and three(103) male and one hundred and twenty-seven(127) female adolescent from Methodist College, Idaw River Girls Secondary School, King’s Kid Secondary School, His Grace High School and Sacred Heart Secondary Schools all in Enugu state. The participants were between the age range of 11-17 years, and a mean age of 14.07 years. The secondary school students were drawn making use of purposive sampling technique. Three sets of instruments were administered in this study; they include; Adolescent Attachment Questionnaire (West et al.., 1998); Identity crisis scale (Ahmadi, 1997) and Resilience scale (Connor & Davidson, 2003). A Correlational design was adopted. Thus, moderated hierarchical multiple Regressions with the aid of S.P.S.S version (25), was applied as a statistical tool in order to test the hypotheses. Based on the outcomes of this study, all the control variables did not remarkably predict identity crisis among adolescents. However, attachment styles (goal-corrected partnership) positively predicted identity crisis among adolescents, also, resilience positively predicted identity crises among adolescents on individual capacity. Finally, resilience negatively moderated the relationship between attachment styles (goal-corrected partnership) and identity crises among adolescents. The researcher recommended that further research should also investigate other potential moderators and mediators, such as social support, Self-efficacy, and Self-esteem, in moderating the prediction of attachment styles and identity crisis.

BULLYING BEHAVIOUR AMONG IN-SCHOOL ADOLESCENTS IN IBADAN, NIGERIA

CHUKWUEBUKA SAMSON EZEH — 2024-10-06

This study examines the role of parenting styles and peer pressure in bullying behaviour among in-school adolescents in Ibadan, Nigeria. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from six secondary schools and analysed with SPSS version 20.0. Multiple regression analysis revealed that parenting styles, gender, religious affiliation, and peer pressure collectively predict bullying behaviour (R² = 0.69). Authoritative parenting was associated with lower bullying levels, while authoritarian and permissive styles correlated with higher levels. Contrary to expectations, no significant gender differences were found. Findings highlight the importance of addressing peer pressure and promoting authoritative parenting to mitigate bullying. Implications extend to educators, policymakers, and parents, emphasising the need for targeted interventions in educational settings. Future research should explore longitudinal studies, cultural variations, and intersectionality to inform evidence-based interventions and policies, contributing to a deeper understanding of bullying dynamics among Nigerian adolescents.

Youth Restiveness and Surging Insecurity

Iheakachi SAMSON Ibeh — 2024-10-06

Youth restiveness as a collective action, underlines surging insecurity occasioned by the proliferation of ungoverned space across regions and countries. Recent similar experiences in Nigeria provides complex mix of evidences that complicate public confidence in law enforcement, security of lives and properties, and inclusive governance combined as challenges confronting national security architecture and good governance. While research focus largely dwelled more on access to power and its functions to ensure human betterment, scholars have only glossed over access denials and threats that youth isolation pose to inclusiveness in governance. Using Vilvredo Pareto elite theory of power and content analysis and inferential deductions, the paper is out to question the place of the youth in the power game between the governing and non-governing elites whom Pareto described as ‘the Lions and the Foxes’ . This theoretical paper raises the following question to shape the direction and focus of its engagements. To what extent is governance inclusive that affect the youths. Drawing from inclusive governance, the paper points to the provocative isolation associated to unbridled denial of access to power along youth line. The outcome of the paper targets advocating for inclusive governance that involves all stakeholders in the decision-making process and power relations.

Implication of Drug Abuse on Inclusive Governance, a Reflection on Youth Involvement in Ado Ekiti LGA. Ekiti State

Dickson Ogbonnaya Igwe — 2024-10-06

Using descriptive survey, that adopts multi-stage sampling technique to select randomly respondents to administer (150) for data collection to be analyzed using descriptive statistics such as simple percentage, the study seeks to examine the implication of drug abuse on inclusive governance, a reflection on youth involvement in Ado Ekiti LGA. Ekiti State. Findings revealed that Drug abuse arise from mental disorder that is characterized by a self-destructive pattern of using a substance that leads to significant problems and distress. The study concluded that there is prevalence of drug abuse among youth. To this end, it was recommended that Government should eradicate the issue of god – fatherism so as to curb the drug abuse among the youths, Parents need give proper home training to their children and they must get to know the implication of drug abuse on their future, Government Agencies step up campaign against drug abuse and control.

Influence of Drug Abuse on the Academic Performance among Senior Secondary Students in Oshiri Development Centre, Onicha L.G.A, Ebonyi State

Afam Ndu — 2024-10-20

This study investigated the influence of drug abuse on the academic performance of senior secondary school students of Government secondary school Oshiri Development Centre Ebonyi state. The purpose of the study was to find out how drug abuse has influenced the academic performance of secondary school students. The study adopted a descriptive survey design in which three research questions were posed. The population of the study was 300 while the sample size of 120 was selected randomly out of the total population. Four point scale questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collection. The instrument was adequately validated with its reliability established using test retest. Data collected were analyzed using mean score. Base on the data collected and analyzed, the researcher made the following findings that drug abuse has a negative influence on secondary school students and that drug abuse among students causes students to be depressed with their academic activities, decreases students focuses in class, reduces the cognitive ability of the students and increases forgetfulness. The researcher also found out reasons why students engage in drug abuse such as academic problems, To become high and fit into the group, Drug habit of students is attributed with their parents drug habits, Students association with their peer group influences them to engage in drug abuse, Students are involved in drug abuse because they want to gain power. Finally, the researcher found out the most adequate measure for eradicating drug abuse is true the creation of awareness early in schools, Preventive program for high school student and counseling. Base on the findings, the researcher made the following recommendation: the Government should prevent the sales and cultivation of Indian Herbs and other deadly herbs that encourage drug abuse. They should also enforce its existing laws against drug abuse through its regulatory agencies. They should also embark on the Establishment of Counseling Centers for Drug Control.

Motivating Local Government Workers in Nigeria

Cornelius O Okorie — 2024-10-20

This study explores the impact of digital transformation on motivating local government workers and enhancing service delivery in Nigeria through a systematic thematic literature review. Digital technologies have been highlighted for their potential to improve governance efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement. However, challenges such as inadequate technological infrastructure remain significant barriers in local government settings.The research reveals that digital tools can enhance employee motivation by facilitating improved communication, streamlined service delivery processes, and increased access to information. These advancements empower local government workers and contribute to organizational effectiveness and citizen satisfaction. Strategic investments in infrastructure development and capacity building are crucial to fully harnessing the benefits of digital transformation in Nigerian local governments.By synthesizing insights from diverse perspectives, this study contributes to understanding organizational behavior and public administration dynamics. It provides actionable recommendations for policymakers and organizational leaders to implement tailored digital strategies that foster a motivated workforce and improve service delivery outcomes. Ultimately, these efforts aim to enhance governance effectiveness and societal impact in Nigerian local government contexts.

Social Media, Job Type, and Socio-Economic Status as Predators Promoting Psychological Well-Being in a Depressed Economy Among EBSU Staff.

C N. Ronald Oginyi — 2024-10-20

The growth in social media users has given rise to concerns about the impact it may have on users on psychological wellbeing. The objective of this work is to shed light on the social media, job type, socio economic status and psychological well-being. Building on contributions from various fields, it provides a more comprehensive study of the phenomena by considering a set of predators, including social media in a depressed economy. This work includes a quantitative study of social media users from Ebonyi State University staff: (EBSU) using, descriptive statistics and correlation among the variables to test the proposed hypotheses. The work relieved notable theories as well as relevant cotemporary reviewed in the area of the current study. This work was anchored on media theory by way of theoretical framework. Results of the research study showed that job type, income and educational qualification where significant predictors of psychological well-being of Ebsu staff. This implies that job, type, income and social media, significantly related to psychological well-being of Ebsu staff. Salient recommendations were made in line with the results and findings of the study.

Role of Expectations and Innovative Work Behaviour on Innovation Related-Outputs among Employees in Banking Industry in Afikpo, Ebonyi State Nigera

C N. Ronald Oginyi — 2024-10-20

This research examined the roles of expectations (innovative self-efficiency and outcome expectation) and innovative work behaviour in innovation-related output among employees in the banking industry in Ebonyi State. It comprises a cross-sectional survey of 104 employees drawn from four accessible banks namely First Bank Plc, Fidelity Bank, Zenith Bank and Polyunwana Micro Finance Bank, all in Ebonyi State. The survey study aimed at assessing the relationship between innovative behaviour and innovation-related output among the employees and to ascertain the mediating roles of employee expectations (self-efficacy and outcome expectations) in the relationship. Questionnaire was used for data collection. Simple descriptive statistics, Pearson Correlation and Hayes Process were adopted for data analysis using SPSS version 23. The results revealed that innovative behaviour is positively correlated with innovation-related output among the bank employees. The results also showed that the employee’s expectation (self-efficacy and outcome expectations) had non-significant mediation in the relationship between innovative work behaviour and innovation-related output among the bank employees. Education level was added as a covariate and was discovered to have a robust positive correlation with innovation-related output at P = 0.82. The results suggest that innovative work behaviour predicts innovation-related output and that employee’s expectation had non-direct impacts in the relationship. The result also suggest that education level could be considered an important personality factor in employees’ innovative behaviour tendency. The study highlights the importance of innovative work behaviour among other factors in personal selection or recruitment processes for sustainable competitive advantages in banking business. Lastly suggestions and recommendations were proffered to guide further researches.

Peer Group Influence and Self-Image among Females in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State

Oghenetega Elizabeth Wadi — 2024-10-20

Youth-Related Crises and the dynamics of Public Sector Management in Nigeria

Cornelius O Okorie — 2024-10-20

Relationship between Sex and Somatic Symptom Disorder among Adolescents in Secondary Schools in Delta State

Iniabasi Faith Imafidon — 2024-11-18

Somatic symptom disorder has been a significant challenge among adolescents in secondary schools; however, there has been low awareness of sex relationships. This study, therefore, investigated the relationship between sex and somatic symptoms disorder among adolescents in secondary schools in Delta State. A research question was raised, and a corresponding null hypothesis was and a corresponding null hypothesis was also formulated to guide the study. The study employed a cross-sectional survey research design. The population of this study is 10,560 students in junior and senior secondary class II (JS II and SS II) from the fifty-two secondary schools in Ika North Local Government Area of Delta State as of the 2019/2020 academic session. A sample size of 600 students comprising three hundred (300) males and three (300) females was selected from 10 schools using the multi-stage sampling procedure. The research instrument for this study was the Adolescents Somatic Symptom Scale (ASSS), which was designed by Ebigbo (2016) and was adapted for use in this study. The researcher employed the Cronbach Alpha reliability method, and a reliability coefficient of 0.70 was obtained. Three test experts in Measurement and Evaluation revalidated the instrument, and the null hypothesis was tested at a 0.05 level of significance using the chi-square distribution. The study's findings show that Sex is not significantly related to somatic symptoms disorder. Based on the discovery, the researcher made the following recommendations, among others, that counsellors and psychologists should ensure early identification, intervention, treatment, and follow-up to avoid a resulting high risk of the disorder.

Predictive Role of Work-Life Balance and Work Alienation Dimensions on the Work Engagement of Bank Employees

Augusta Mary Onyebuchi Ojobu — 2024-11-18

The study examined work-life balance, work alienation dimensions as predictors of work engagement, and the moderating role of workplace spirituality of bank employees. The problem of having a lower level of work-life balance and feelings of work alienation dimensions have left bank employees with lower levels of work engagement. Workplace spirituality was introduced to strengthen the work-life balance to boost the work engagement of bank employees. Workplace spirituality was also introduced to weaken the alienation feelings of bank employees as an attempt to boost their work engagement. The participants were 443 bank employees drawn from 34 commercial banks located in the three commercial cities of Asaba, Sapele and Warri. The ages of participants ranged from 25-42 years, mean age of 31.72 and a standard deviation of 5.40. The participant’s ranks were Assistant Banking Officers, Banking Officers, Senior Banking Officers and Assistant Managers. Only professional bank employees participated in the study and the educational qualifications of the participants were Ph.D., M.Sc. and B.Sc. The study adopted a cross-sectional correlational design using Pearson r moment correlation and hierarchical linear regression analysis to test the hypotheses managed by SPSS version 23. Analysis of the beta coefficient showed that Work-life balance predicted work engagement at, β= .25, p<.01, therefore the first hypothesis was accepted. The Powerlessness dimension of work alienation predicted employee engagement at β= .18, p<.01, and the meaninglessness dimension of work alienation on employee work engagement behaviour at, β= -.22, p<.01. In contrast, the self-estrangement dimension of work alienation predicted work engagement at, β= .14, p<.01, therefore the second hypothesis and its sub-dimensions were also accepted. The moderation result revealed that workplace spirituality did not moderate the relationship between work-life balance and work engagement at, β= -.01, p>.01. The third hypothesis was thus rejected. Workplace spirituality did not moderate the relationship between the work alienation dimensions and work engagement at, β= .01, p>.01, therefore the fourth hypothesis and its sub-dimensions were rejected. The findings imply that the presence of work-life balance will increase the work engagement of bank employees therefore, the higher the work-life balance, the higher the work engagement of bank employees. Also, work alienation dimensions will hinder the work engagement of bank employees in Delta State, therefore, the higher the work alienation dimensions the lower the work engagement of bank employees. It is recommended that the banking sector creates policies targeted at strengthening the work-life balance of bank employees and policies that reduce the presence of work alienation dimensions of powerlessness, meaninglessness and self-estrangement in driving up the work engagement behaviour of bank employees. The findings of this study have revealed an intriguing relationship between work-life balance, work alienation dimensions and work engagement of bank employees in Delta State, in that when work-life balance increases, work engagement increases and when the powerlessness, meaninglessness and self-estrangement dimensions of alienation increase work engagement decreases and vice-versa. Understanding this relationship will guide the policies governing the organisational culture of banks in Delta State in implementing and enforcing policies geared towards a balanced work-life and significantly reduced feelings of powerlessness, meaninglessness and self-estrangement dimensions of alienation.

Exploring Public Service Motivation among Local-Public Sector Workers in Nigeria

Ikechukwu O Ukeje — 2024-12-09

With an emphasis on the perspectives and experiences of local-public sector workers (L-PSWs) in Nigeria, this research explores the dynamics of L-PSM within that country's setting. A total of 122 respondents from selected public sector organisations, had their demographic information and survey answers compiled using a mixed-methods strategy. The majority of respondents were men, and there is a significant number of respondents whose gender was not reported. The report emphasizes that many people enter the public sector with good intentions, but they often face reality shocks as a result of low pay and unsafe working conditions. Even though there are a lot of obstacles, many workers still want to stay in the local-public sector. However, some have shown a readiness to leave for greener pastures. There seems to be a systematic problem in the local-public service (LPS) sector, since many respondents are unhappy with their salaries and do not get their benefits on time. These results highlight the need of thorough changes to improve local-public sector employee happiness and retention in Nigeria by addressing the root causes of L-PSM at the grassroots’ level.