Jos Journal of Social Sciences (JJSS) is an annual blind peer review Journal published by the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria; fashioned to disseminate relevant, theoretical, empirical and analytical research findings and information in the fields of Economics, Criminology, Sociology, Psychology, entrepreneurship and related disciplines. Papers published in this Journal also aimed at fostering the understanding of the nature of national and transnational corporations, economics, politics, governance, with regard to their contributions to development through creating the enabling environment for migration, foreign investment as they affect demographic and gender related issues particularly in the areas of poverty, human rights, attitudes towards crime, democratization, women in development, industrial relations, environmental issues, peace and security. The Journal is aimed at establishing a symbiosis among scholars, state actors and society by providing purpose-driven research as a template for formulation of problem-solving policies in response to the myriad national and international integration and development challenges. The Journal accepts original and well-researched papers in all fields of Economics, Criminology, Political Science, Sociology, Psychology, Finance, Entrepreneurship, Research and development, Corporate Policy and Strategy, and related disciplines.
Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Jos, Nigeria
STATE REGULATION OF TELECOMMUNICATION AND CONSUMER PROTECTION IN NIGERIA: INTERROGATING THE IMPACT OF THE CONSUMER CODE OF PRACTICE REGULATION OF 2007
Over the years, telecommunication in Nigeria has witnessed a lot of transformation as a result of technological advancement in the sector. It has become a vital engine room for socio-economic and political development yet without much surge in the protection of the telecom’s consumers. Using qualitative research design, this paper interrogated the link between state regulation of telecommunication and consumer protection in Nigeria, with a specific focus on examining the impact of the consumer code of practice regulation of 2007 on the protection of the rights of consumers of telecommunication services in Nigeria. The Neo-liberal theory of the state was adopted as the theoretical framework of analysis. The data for the study was drawn from multiple sources including articles from referred Journals, books, newspapers, magazines and was analysed using content analysis. The findings of the study revealed that the consumer code of practice regulation of 2007 significantly accounted for protection of the rights of consumers of telecommunications services in Nigeria. Based on this, the study recommended that the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) and CPC should establish offices in all the States of the federation and have outposts in every local government area with a view to tackling the problems that hamper the rights of telecom consumers in Nigeria.
Copyright (c) 2025 JOS JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
THE NEXUS BETWEEN SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR AND THE LIVED REALITIES OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN JOS NORTH LGA OF PLATEAU STATE
Disability remains an important, still unexplored aspect of social inequality in Nigeria, particularly in Plateau State, where cultural norms and societal practices significantly shape the lived realities of persons with disabilities (PWDs). Despite legal frameworks advancing inclusion, stigma and discrimination persevere, limiting access to education, employment, and social involvement. This study examines how societal attitudes and behaviours formed the inclusion, exclusion, and well-being of PWDs in Jos North, exploring the coping strategies and community-based interventions they embrace to steer stigma and discrimination. Guided by the Social Model of Disability and Goffman’s Social Stigma Theory, the study utilized a qualitative design, specifically in-depth and key informant interviews with 58 participants, including PWDs, caregivers, and representatives of disability-focused organizations. The study reveals that negative stereotypes, exclusionary norms, and discriminatory behaviours substantially weaken social inclusion and psychological well-being. Nevertheless, PWDs utilized coping strategies such as peer support, reliance on faith, and engagement with NGOs. The study concludes that there is a need to address disability-related exclusion through sustaining public sensitization, enforcing disability rights, and economic empowerment initiatives, strengthening agency, and ensuring meaningful inclusion.
CONTEMPORARY IMPORTANCE OF COLONIAL LEGACY OF NIGERIA’S RELATIONS WITH HER NEIGHBOURS
The colonial legacy continues to exert a profound influence on Nigeria’s relations with its neighbouring states in West and Central Africa. This study examined the contemporary significance of that legacy, with a focus on the political, economic, and socio-cultural dimensions of interstate interactions. Using a historical–analytical approach, it explored how colonial-era boundaries, administrative practices, and economic linkages, largely crafted by British and French colonial powers, shaped patterns of cooperation, competition, and conflict in the post-independence period. The paper discovered that the persistence of artificial borders, cross-border ethnic linkages, and inherited diplomatic orientations still frames Nigeria’s engagements with neighbours such as Benin, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger. While these legacies have at times fuelled disputes over territory, migration, and resource control, they have also provided frameworks for regional integration efforts through bodies like ECOWAS and the Multinational Joint Task Force. It also revealed how Nigeria’s foreign policy and security strategies remain tethered to colonial-era realities, even as globalization, economic interdependence, and transnational threats reshape the regional environment. The paper recommended that understanding this enduring colonial imprint is crucial for crafting diplomatic, security, and economic policies that promote stable and mutually beneficial relations with neighbouring states.
EVALUATING THE ADEQUACY OF COMMODITIES PROVIDED TO INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS IN NORTH CENTRAL NIGERIA
Internally displaced persons (IDPs) in North Central Nigeria continues to experience humanitarian adversity, such as limited access to basic commodities. This research assessed the sufficiency of commodities distributed to address the needs of IDPs in chosen camps in the region. The main aims are to determine the nature and level of commodities distributed, establish gaps compared to international humanitarian standards, and investigate the views of IDPs on the sufficiency and appropriateness of aid they have received. A mixed-methods design was used, pairing quantitative surveys of 400 IDPs in five large camps with qualitative interviews with camp officials and aid workers. Commodities examined included food, shelter materials, water, sanitation items, and healthcare services. Data were examined through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Major findings are that although food and non-food items are distributed on a regular basis, there are serious shortfalls in quality, quantity, and frequency. Inadequate dietary diversity, water shortages, and congestion in temporary shelters are reported by many IDPs. Distribution channels are often marred by logistic delays, and health services continue to be limited, subjecting IDPs to increased threats of disease outbreaks and malnutrition. The research found that existing commodity supply was below the minimum levels needed for dignity and well-being in IDPs. The study recommended that for more effective coordination among relief agencies, government investment in sustainable supply chains, and priority interventions in water, nutrition, and health infrastructure. It also emphasized the need for strong feedback systems with IDP communities to ensure aid relevance as needs change over time.
STIMULATING ECONOMIC GROWTH AND WEALTH IN NIGERIA: ROLE OF MONETARY POLICY INSTRUMENTS
Monetary policy instruments play an important role of stabilizing the economies of both developed and developing nations of the world. These monetary policy instruments especially the quantitative (indirect instruments) have been used extensively by developed economies to achieved economic growth over the years, while much is left to be desired through the quantitative instruments in Nigeria. It is against this backdrop that this paper examined the role of monetary policy instruments in stimulating economic growth and wealth in Nigeria for the period 1990 to 2022. Secondary data were sourced from National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for its analysis. The study employed the Autoregressive Distributive Lag (ARDL) Model as instrument of analysis to analyse the data. The long run result of the ARDL revealed that money supply (MS) was inversely related to economic growth in Nigeria. However, the negative impact of MS on economic growth was statistically insignificant at 5% level. The short run result also showed that MS had a positive and statistically significant impact on economic growth in Nigeria within the study period. The result also revealed that while the interest rate had a negative relationship with economic growth in Nigeria, exchange rate indicated direct relationship with economic growth in the long run. The Error Correction Mechanism (ECMt-1) showed that a short-run disequilibrium adjusts back to equilibrium in the long-run with an average speed of 86% annually within the study period. The study, therefore, recommended that government should make efforts to lower the existing exchange rate which is so high to support both short and long-term economic growth. The CBN Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) should also mandate commercial banks to make loans available to investors at low (single digit) interest rate to ameliorate the adverse financial challenges bedevilling the sector because most entrepreneurs relied on personal savings and family for funds. This will make loans more accessible for business to be able to raise the level of investment which will increase output and hence, economic growth in Nigeria.
ECOWAS AND SUB-REGIONAL SECURITY IN WEST AFRICA: PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES (2014–2023)
The paper assessed the role of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in sub-regional security in West Africa with a focus on the prospects and challenges faced by the sub regional body from 2014 to 2023. ECOWAS was established in 1975 to promote economic integration in West Africa. It has however evolved into an institution that plays a pivotal role in addressing security issues in West Africa, particularly in response to escalating conflicts, coups, and terrorism. This paper adopted the regional security complex theory to explain the nature of the interactions between the variables that make up the study. Qualitative methods were adopted for this study based on the use of secondary of data. The study relied on relevant publications like books, journals, magazines, internet sources and e-learning facilities for information. The major findings of this study revealed that ECOWAS has played a significant role in mediating conflict and facilitating peace negotiations by conducting and coordinating several peace support operations in the West African sub region in places like Liberia, Sierra-Leone, Cote d’Ivoire, Mali, Chad, Nigeria and Burkina Fasso. The study recommended that ECOWAS should promote policies that support political stability and good governance within the member states.
EFFECT OF TRADE OPENNESS AND FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT ON NIGERIA’S ECONOMIC GROWTH
Over time, Nigeria’s foreign investment has not yielded the desired result that would drive stable inflation, exchange rate, and enhance economic growth in Nigeria. This is as a result of the bottleneck that hinder foreign trade and encourage mono export drive (crude oil) in the country. The study examined the effect of trade openness and foreign direct investment on economic growth, using the Auto-regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model from 1986 to 2023. The result revealed direct relationship between trade openness (TOP), foreign direct investment (FDI), and economic growth in the long run. Specifically, trade openness had a direct and significant relationship with economic growth at 5% level in the long run. In the same vein, foreign direct investment (FDI) had an inverse and significant relationship with economic growth at 5% level in the long. Inflation (INF) exhibited an inverse and insignificant relationship with economic growth, while exchange rate revealed a direct and insignificant relationship with economic growth in the long run. The paper recommended that government needs to do more by ensuring stable inflationary rate, attract foreign direct investment (FDI) through production diversification that would enhance foreign exchange earnings, stabilize inflation and boost economic growth in Nigeria.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN POWER AND POLICY PROCESS: A CRITICAL REVIEW
Power and the policy process are two intrinsically connected phenomena upon which societal rules are based. In non-democratic societies, the powers that shape decision/policy making process use to be that of the tyrant/monarch and his closest allies. However, in modern day democracies, policy processes are overseas by political authorities through direct citizens' participation in all the stages of the policy formulation - agenda setting, proposal, interest aggregation to the implementation and evaluation. In this sense therefore, power influences which issues are addressed, how policies are formulated, and how they are implemented. In other words, powerful individuals, media, civil society organizations and other state and non-state actors have always been an important element in shaping the nature and direction of policies in today's civilized social settings. Thus, power and policy processes are always along a single linear process. The specific aim of this research is to investigate the reciprocal impact of policies on power dynamics. Literature on power, policy, policy process and many other relevant issues were reviewed thematically with a view to having a rigorous understanding of the cases under study. Luke's three dimensions of power theory was used as the theoretical framework of the research. Having fully relied on secondary data, the research used content analysis method in analysing the existing relations between power and policy process. Based on this, the research revealed that, In the realm of policy making, various sources of power emerge, including political, economic, expertise, public opinion, media, and institutional structures. simply put, power plays in all the stages of policy making processes. The paper recommended that policy makers should seek out and include diverse perspectives in policy-making process and also promote inclusivity to avoid policies that inadvertently perpetuate existing social inequalities.
MODERATING EFFECT OF INSTITUTIONAL QUALITY ON TRADE OPENNESS AND EMPLOYMENT GENERATION AMONG WEST-AFRICAN COUNTRIES
The main objective of this study is to empirically examine the interaction effect of institutional quality on the employment generating potentials of trade openness in the West-African sub-region. Bearing in mind the assumed potency of established trade treaties as policy enhancers, the study therefore focused on the fifteen countries in West Africa that were members of the ECOWAS community as at the year 2019 and then applied the panel ARDL technique to data obtained from these countries. The explanatory variables were trade openness (OPEN), and Exchange rate (EXRD), Multi-Dimensional Regional Trade Index (MDRTI) and level of World Trade Participation (WTP). The study employed three interaction models. The institutional variables used as the interaction variables were government efficiency, political stability and level of corruption. In order to test the sufficiency of the results obtained, a fourth model which has no interaction variable was built as a second-order model. The Akaike Information criteria supported the Panel ARDL (1,1,1,1,1,1) as appropriate for all three models while the Hausman test favoured the pool mean group (PMG) regression for the respective models. In order to sufficiently conclude that institutional variables had significant interaction effects on the explanatory variable, the study also estimated a non-interaction model using the same variables compared the results obtained with the results obtained in the respective interaction models. The results confirmed that political stability and control of corruption had significant interaction effects on trade openness and employment in the West African region. The study therefore recommended improving institutional quality as a viable means of enhancing the effectiveness of trade openness in combating unemployment in Nigeria.
THE IMPACT OF ICT PLATFORMS ON SURVIVAL OF MEDIUM-SCALED ENTERPRISES IN BAUCHI METROPOLIS
The increasing reliance on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) platforms has significantly influenced the survival and growth of medium-scaled enterprises (MSEs). This study examined the impact of access to ICT infrastructure, ICT adoption, and policies regulating ICT on firm survival among Medium-Scaled Enterprises in Bauchi Metropolis. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from registered MSEs and analysed using Spearman Rank Order Correlation and multivariate analysis. The findings revealed strong positive correlation between access to ICT infrastructure and firm survival. ICT adoption was also found to significantly enhance business agility, operational efficiency, and market expansion. Additionally, well-structured policies regulating ICT contributed to a secure and enabling environment that fosters digital transformation and business sustainability. The study recommended increased investment in ICT infrastructure, enhanced digital literacy training for entrepreneurs, and policy frameworks that encourage innovation while ensuring data security. These measures will enable MSEs to leverage ICT platforms for long-term growth and survival in an increasingly digital economy.
LEGAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC ASPECTS OF CHILD LABOUR AMONG ROOTS AND GRAIN CROPS FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN THE FOREST SAVANAH TRANSITION ZONE, ENUGU STATE, NIGERIA
Despite policies and laws against child labour in Nigeria, enforcement mostly focuses on large manufacturing companies and government agencies. The peasant agricultural sector is often overlooked because farms are fragmented and located in inaccessible rural locations or erroneously considered insignificant. This study investigated the prevalence and determinants of child labour among roots and grain crop farming households in Enugu State. The study adopted the cross-sectional survey research design. 395 grains and roots crop peasant farmers were randomly selected from rural locations across Enugu State for the study. Data were analysed using tables, frequency counts, and percentages. Findings showed that children account for 60.62% of the workforce used in the root and grain crop farming activities of rural households. The practice was socially acceptable in the rural areas, and families see nothing wrong with the practice. 50.64% of the children combined schooling and farm work, with 51.91% performing all crop farming activities. Child labour was highest among females (52.69%) than male children (47.31%). It was found that shortage of adult labourers was a major factor propelling families to rely on children for farm work. This was because these families could not afford the high labour charges demanded by adults. Aside from the economic dimension, most families were ignorant of existing laws and policies against child labour. Based on these, it was concluded that legislation alone cannot stop child labour. This is because most parents see child labour as the only option left for them to earn a living or supplement family income. It is therefore recommended that a holistic redress of the development imbalance between the rural and urban areas in Nigeria, so as to keep the able-bodied men away from out migration. This pragmatic solution if implemented would limit child labour and advance human capital as well as reduce inter-generational poverty.
FLOODS AND FOOD SECURITY: AN ANALYSIS OF AFFECTED CROP PRODUCE AND MITIGATION MEASURES IN KOGI STATE, NIGERIA
This study aimed at analysing the effects of floods on food security with particular focus on crop produce as well as mitigating efforts in Kogi State, Nigeria. The two research questions and one null hypothesis that guided the study were analysed using data gathered with a research instrument from 45 farmers who were affected by floods between 2012 and 2022. Using percentage, frequency, mean, standard deviation, skewness and kurtosis for the research question, and chi-square logistic likelihood ratio inferential statistics for the null hypothesis, the analysis revealed that cereal grains, fruits, pulses (legumes), vegetables, tuber crops, spices and herbs, oil-seed and fiber crops were affected by floods. The study dropped the null hypothesis – which suggested that there is significant difference between the observed and expected values of the two categories (floods and food security). Accordingly, the study concluded that floods did extremely affect crop produce and the farmers have made mitigation efforts, but they have been considerably inadequate; hence desirable results have not been achieved. It is therefore, recommended that governments at all levels as well as non-governmental organizations should make strategic efforts in mitigating the effects of floods on food security.
IMPACT OF CONTRIBUTORY PENSION SCHEME ON THE WELFARE OF RETIREES IN NIGERIA
This study examined the impact of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) on the welfare of retirees in Nigeria, focusing on correctional services, the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Federal Ministry of Health, the Federal Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Works in Yola, Adamawa State. Guided by four research objectives and questions, the study sampled 332 respondents from a projected population of 1,991 retirees. A structured questionnaire using a 4-point Likert scale was administered, and hypotheses were tested using chi-square statistical tools. Findings revealed that the CPS has not significantly improved retirees' welfare. While pension payments helped cover children's school fees, they were insufficient for primary needs, healthcare, and reducing dependency. With an average mean score of 2.0, results indicated that the scheme failed to provide financial security. Chi-square analysis confirmed the null hypothesis, showing no significant positive impact of the CPS on retirees' welfare. The study recommended developing a pension scheme model for Nigeria rather than adopting foreign models. Additionally, timely pension fund disbursement, increased benefits to match inflation, and improved healthcare support for retirees are suggested to enhance the scheme’s effectiveness.
TRADE LIBERALIZATION AND MANUFACTURING SECTOR OUTPUT IN NIGERIA: EVIDENCE FROM 1981–2023
The manufacturing sector is widely regarded as a key driver of economic activities, yet its growth in Nigeria has remained sluggish despite various trade reforms and strategies. This study investigated the impact of trade liberalization on manufacturing sector output in Nigeria from 1981 to 2023. Employing annual time series data and the Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS) estimation technique, the study analysed the relationship between trade liberalization and output growth, incorporating variables such as average tariff rate, exchange rate, inflation rate, interest rate, and foreign direct investment. The result revealed that the coefficient of Trade Liberalization Dummy (TLD) was found to be -17.14423 with a p-value of 0.8535 indicating that, on average, the period of trade liberalization in Nigeria was associated a 17.14 unit decline in manufacturing output growth. Besides, although individual explanatory variables were found to be statistically insignificant, the overall model was statistically significant, indicating that the joint effect of these variables plays a significant role in explaining variations in manufacturing sector output. The findings suggested that trade liberalization alone may not significantly influence the sector unless complemented by broader macroeconomic and structural policies. The study recommended a holistic and integrated policy approach rather than isolated trade reforms to enhance the performance and competitiveness of Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.
RETHINKING SEPARATIST AGITATIONS AND VIOLENT CONFLICTS IN SOUTH-EAST NIGERIA THROUGH THE LENS OF MARXIST THEORY
Separatist agitations in Nigeria particularly in the South-East—reflect deep-seated grievances tied to political exclusion, economic marginalization, and cultural misrecognition. This study engaged Marxist theory as its conceptual lens, highlighting how class struggle, elite domination, and structural inequality underpin these movements. Through a qualitative desk-based review of scholarly literature, policy reports, and documented case studies, the research examined the socio-economic and historical drivers of separatist unrest in Nigeria. The findings suggested that widespread discontent, particularly among the economically and politically disenfranchised, is intensified by the state's repressive responses and uneven development practices. Current conflict management strategies remain largely ineffective due to their neglect of these foundational issues. By foregrounding Marxist insights—especially around economic redistribution, inclusive governance, and class solidarity—this study argues for a more structural and justice-oriented approach to peacebuilding. It concluded that rethinking Nigeria’s separatist agitations through this lens offers practical direction for equitable national integration and sustainable stability.
UNDERGRADUATE ENROLMENT AND ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES IN KADUNA STATE UNIVERSITY: AN EMPIRICAL INVESTIGATION
The study examined empirically the impact of undergraduate enrolment on the academic programmes in Kaduna State University. Secondary data of students’ enrolment and internally generated revenue of Kaduna State University from 2018 – 2023 sessions were obtained. The study employed both descriptive and inferential statistics in the analysis of the data collected. The descriptive result revealed the highest enrolment of students (35.47%) in 2019/2020 academic session of the 17,308 candidates that chose KASU as first choice. The ordinary least squares result revealed a positive relationship between the number of candidates that applied for admissions and students’ enrolment, and the number of students enrolled and programmes of studies. However, there was a negative relationship between school fees paid and students’ enrolment, and the number of students enrolled and internally generated revenue. There was a significant impact of the undergraduate enrolment on Academic programmes in Kaduna State University. Based on the findings therefore, the study recommended that there wis need to reduce the cost of students’ school fees in order to encourage more enrolments into undergraduate programmes in KASU so as to have contribute to the socio-economic development of Nigeria.
CHINA–NIGERIA TRADE RELATIONS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA: A DEPENDENCY THEORY PERSPECTIVE
Amid Nigeria’s growing economic engagement with China, concerns have emerged about the long-term implications of this partnership for sustainable economic development. This study analysed the dynamics of China–Nigeria trade relations, anchored on dependency theory. A quantitative methodology was adopted, utilizing data from the UN Comtrade Database, Chinese Customs Authority, National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), and peer-reviewed academic literature. Descriptive statistical methods, including trend analysis and import-export ratios, were employed to assess bilateral trade flows between Nigeria and China from 1999 to 2023. The findings revealed a consistent upward trajectory in trade volume over the 24 years, alongside a deepening asymmetry. The study also revealed that Nigeria exported $0.6 billion worth of goods to China in 1999 compared to $1.2 billion in imports. By 2023, exports had increased modestly to $1.61 billion, while imports surged to $18.99 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $17.38 billion. This persistent imbalance, coupled with Nigeria’s continued export of raw materials, confirms a structural dependency in the trade relationship and constrains sustainable economic development. The study recommended that Nigeria should implement a strategic export diversification plan by incentivizing non-oil sectors such as agro-processing, solid minerals beneficiation, and light manufacturing. Bilateral trade agreements with China should also be revised to improve market access for Nigerian products. Furthermore, the government should establish an industrial policy council to integrate trade, investment, and education strategies in support of long-term industrialization.
Dependency Theory and Sustainable Development
OIL RENTS AND UNEMPLOYMENT IN AFRICA: EVALUATING THE MEDIATING EFFECTS OF TRADE OPENNESS
The persistence of high unemployment in some African countries necessitates this evaluation of the mediating effects of trade openness in the oil rents and unemployment relationship in oil rent receiving Africa countries. Using the two-step system generalized method of moments on data for 27 of these countries from 2000 to 2023, this study analysed interactions of oil rents and different measures of trade openness. The analysis found a significant inverse relationship between oil rents and unemployment. However, the respective interactions of the total trade and import measures of trade openness with oil rents indicated significant direct relationships with unemployment. The study, therefore, concluded that while oil rents are associated with lower unemployment in oil rent receiving countries in Africa, the outcome is not necessarily the result of openness to trade, as openness to trade, especially import trade, in fact, increases unemployment among these countries. The formation of capital through investment of rents is the more plausible means for reducing unemployment. The study, therefore, recommended the investment of oil rents in building infrastructure to enhance the growth of gross fixed capital formation and foreign direct investments. To achieve this, improvements in transparency and accountability in public finance should be encouraged.
JEL Classification: E24; F41; O13; O55; Q35; Q37
WORK ETHICS AND EMPLOYEES JOB SATISFACTION IN HONDA MANUFACTURING LIMITED ABUJA, NIGERIA
The high rate of unemployment in the country has compelled majority of the work force to accept job offer without minding the ethical values of the organizations. This resulted to lack of passion for the job, which leads to job dissatisfaction and low productivity. This study investigated the effect of work ethics on employee’s job satisfaction in Honda Manufacturing Limited, Abuja, Nigeria. Quantitative research design was adopted with a structured questionnaire for data collection. The sample size of the study was 122 employees working with Honda Manufacturing Limited in Abuja. Census- based sampling technique was employed for this study. Descriptive and multiple linear regression analysis techniques were used for data analysis. The result showed R2 of 0.724%, which indicated that the model for the study has a good fit. The findings revealed that employee integrity, discipline and cooperation had a positive and significant effect on job satisfaction. This indicates that when integrity, discipline and cooperation are embedded in workplace, it enhances employees’ productivity, foster retention and overall job satisfaction. The study concluded that promoting integrity, uphold disciplinary standards and teamwork among employees play a significant role in enhancing job satisfaction. These findings provide actionable insights to policymakers and management of Honda Manufacturing Limited, Abuja, Nigeria to strengthen its disciplinary procedures, culture of honesty and cooperation among employees that will help to foster stronger work relationships and improve job satisfaction.
AN ANALYSIS OF EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF PUBLIC SPENDING ON HEALTH SECTOR IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN (SSA) COUNTRIES
This paper examined the efficiency and effectiveness of public health spending in a sample of 46 SSA countries over 2000-2010 and 2011-2022 periods. The study employed Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), Tobit regression, Simar-Wilson Bootstrap (algorithm #1) and cross-sectional regression. The main results revealed that: (i) average SSA countries public health spending efficiency scores were 0.857 and 0.900 in the two periods. (ii) Cape Verde and Seychelles were consistently efficient and (iii) average public health spending efficiency scores were virtually the same across income level, resource abundance, conflict and fragile as well as colonial legacy countries groupings. The study argued that the region could have achieved about 14% and 10% more additional health outcomes while using same amount of resources. The study, therefore, suggested that better public health care outcomes could be achieved in SSA by improving health sector regulatory framework, guided urbanization growth as well as strengthening HIV-AIDS, malaria and obesity control effort.
INTER-COMMUNAL CLASHES AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION IN NIGERIA: AN ANALYSIS OF ALADJA AND OGBE-IJOH BOUNDARY DISPUTE IN DELTA STATE
Communal conflicts constitute serious threat to human security and development. Aside that, communal conflicts have the tendency to be interminable. Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh boundary dispute has escalated to be one of the most violent conflicts in Delta State, Nigeria. It has claimed several innocent lives and property destroyed since the conflict broke out in 1995. While multiple commissions and panels have been established to investigate and recommend solutions, the conflict continues to claim lives, disrupt communities, and perpetuate suffering. In the same vein, several peace accords have been reached and broken by both communities. It is in this light that the paper examined the Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh boundary dispute and provided peaceful ways of resolving the conflict. The paper was based on desk research and relied majorly on secondary sources of data. It adopted Realism theory for its theoretical framework. The paper found that lack of political will to implement the report of the multiple panels, vested interest from both communities against the government efforts in resolving the dispute, and selective acceptance of report by the worrying communities have been the major challenges of resolving the boundary dispute between these communities. The paper therefore recommended that Delta State Government should take immediate action to map and delineate the boundary between Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh communities to forestall further bloodshed.
Copyright (c) 2024 JOS JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES
THE ROLE OF DIGITAL RIGHTS ON DEMOCRATIC PROCESS IN NIGERIA
This study examined the role of digital rights in the democratic process in Nigeria. With the global trend in digitalization and technological growth, countries are competing for innovation to improve their democratic and political space. As such, there is a need to understand the functionality of how digital rights for all citizens remain vital to deepening the democratic process in Nigeria. The digital rights of Nigerian citizens have been short-changed due to the poor policy that protects citizens from engaging in the democratic process in the country. The study adopted the desk research method. This method collected secondary data from books, academic journals and the Internet. The study found that the Nigerian government's implementation of policy on digital rights is essential in the democratic process. For instance, the existence of digital rights in the country has accelerated continued access to and use of various telecommunication networks, digital media and technologies, and the internet to promote global digital systems of use. However, it was discovered that there were cases of violations of digital rights creating danger to democracy development in Nigeria. Also, the findings showed that the role of digital rights and technological spaces will allow for information rights in the country. However, there are challenges facing the role of digital rights in the country including infrastructure deficit, corruption, and a weak technological base. The study recommended that digital rights should be given priority in terms of providing infrastructure that will enhance quality services, tackling telecommunication corruption, and building a better cyberspace for all. The study concluded that, for Nigeria to achieve a successful democratic process, digital rights need to be supported and funded for an effective role.
STAKEHOLDERS' PERCEPTION OF PUBLIC RELATIONS USE IN IMAGE MANAGEMENT OF PEOPLE'S DEMOCRATIC PARTY (PDP) IN NIGERIA
This study assessed stakeholders' perception of Public Relations use in the image management of People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria. The study is anchored on stakeholders' theory. Survey research method was adopted using questionnaire for data collection. Sample size of 484 was statistically determined using Taro Yamane's formula for sample size determination. The study found that planning of political events and campaigns; media planning and campaign and advising party's leaders and hierarchy to implement programmes and policies that benefits both the party, and the publics were the areas in which Public Relations was used by PDP in image management of the party in Nigeria. The study further found that overwhelming majority had unfavourable disposition about the stakeholders' perception of the use of public relations in the image management of PDP. The study concluded that public relations activities of PDP did not contribute much to overcoming the challenges of unfavourable perception of its stakeholders in image management of the party. This was because of challenges of restricted budget/inadequate funds, poor appreciation/lack of adequate support from party's hierarchy and no feedback mechanism. The study recommended that PDP should employ trained PR practitioners to handle public relations activities, provide adequate funding and develop feedback mechanisms for efficient management of the party's image.
UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF SINGLE MOTHERHOOD IN DRIVING STREET HAWKING IN PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA
The family continues to play a very significant role in child upbringing globally. However, there is a growing worry over the decay of this vital agent of child socialization. Most pressing of this concern is the way single mother households are fast spreading especially in Africa and Nigeria in particular. This study examined the problem of single motherhood and street hawking in Port Harcourt City Local Government Area in Rivers State, Nigeria. The main objective was to provide empirical evidence concerning how single motherhood leads to street hawking in Port Harcourt. The study made use of a sample of 160 single mothers drawn using snowball sampling technique. Data were gathered from the respondents through a self-designed questionnaire. Adopting the Marxist conflict theory as its theoretical framework and the simple percentage method for the data analysis, the study revealed that having children outside wedlock coupled with high incidences of divorce are major causes of single motherhood in Port Harcourt city. Also, the study revealed that lack of money to support children and absence of a father figure in the household are major factors that contribute to single mothers sending their children into the streets of Port Harcourt to hawk. Given this finding, the study recommended, among others, that implementing comprehensive sex education programmes and strengthening social safety nets are vital interventions to address the root causes of single motherhood, empower individuals to make informed reproductive health decisions, and alleviate economic hardships faced by single-parent households in Port Harcourt city.
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF MIGRATIONS IN WEST AFRICA: XRAYING THE ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE USING ECONOMETRIC APPROACH
The rate of migrations in West Africa has been on the increase over the years due to the adoption of free movement protocol of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) aimed at promoting trade and development among the member states. As of 2023, the population of migrants within the region of West Africa rose to 7.4 million where nearly 90% of the 7.4 million migrants were among the countries of West African region. This study investigated impact of the variables of migrations on economic performance within the West African region from the year 2000 to 2023, and used a combination of dynamic generalized method of moment (GMM) and fixed-effect regression methods. The study found that net migrations had significant positive impact on economic performance of West African countries; it was also found that migrants' remittances of the receiving countries contributed positively and significantly to economic performance of West African economies; while on the other hand, it was found that migrants' remittances of the sending countries had significant negative impact on economic performance of West Africa; the study further found that refugee population had significant negative impact on economic performance in West Africa. The study therefore recommended the strengthening of the movement protocol enshrined in the migration policy within the West African region, deliberate policies to encourage emigrants to invest at home, putting in place measures that forbid immigrants' outright repatriations of resources, and collaboration of host countries with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in providing special interventions for the refugee population.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND PERFORMANCE OF INSURANCE FIRMS IN NIGERIA
The study examined corporate governance and financial performance of insurance firms, which aim is to reduce the poor performance of insurance companies in Nigeria. Secondary of data was used for this research and was generated from the Annual Report of the Financial Statements of 4 selected insurance firms. Multiple Regression analysis with the aid of SPSS version 24 was used to test the hypotheses stated in this study. The results of the study revealed that board meetings have no significant effect on return on assets of insurance companies, board remuneration has positive significant effect on the financial performance of insurance companies and board size has no significant effect on the financial performance of insurance companies. This means that corporate governance can increase the performance of insurance companies in Nigeria, since the model summary showed a significant relationship. Based on the aforementioned results of the study, the following recommendations were provided: insurance firms should refocus their meeting agenda to prioritize strategic discussions, especially on risk management, financial performance and long-term planning. Insurance companies should align Board Remuneration with performance indicators of the company, by creating incentives for directors to actively contribute to the company's financial success. Insurance companies should avoid excessive board expansion that could lead to inefficiencies and challenges in coordination, by establishing clear business policies that are directly tied to the financial performance and strategic goals of the organization. These business policies could include revenue growth, profitability, market share, customer satisfaction, and risk management.
ARMS IN NIGERIA'S ELECTORAL PATHWAY: PITFALL TO SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN THE FOURTH REPUBLIC
Political violence has become a constant feature since Nigeria returned to democratic governance in May 1999. This violent development has been fueled by proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW). This study explored the nexus of arms, politics and electoral violence as it impedes on good governance in Nigeria. The study was a survey, relying on secondary data as sources of information. Vold's (1979) Group Conflict and Sutherland's (1939) Differential Association theories were used as theoretical justification for the study. Violent clashes during electioneering campaigns and elections have attended Nigeria's democratic experiments since independence. The consequences include floured elections, wanton destruction of lives and property, displacements of communities and serious threat to neighbourhood security. The multiplier effect of these have been observed in bad governance, communal arms struggles, youth vices and population displacement. It has also taken a toll on public infrastructure. Result of the study showed that the use of arms for electoral intimidation, vote manipulation or political violence erodes public trust in the electoral system and can lead to contested or illegitimate election outcomes. That is why Nigeria has had a disturbing share of challenged election outcomes in the past, especially since the birth of the Fourth republic. The study concluded that armed interference in elections threatens democratic governance. Successive governments have failed to address the issues of unauthorized arms in our elections, hence the many political violent clashes often recorded across the country. It is thus recommended that strengthening of the security architecture, implementation of stricter border controls to prevent illegal arms influx, political dialogue and civic education among other recommendations will help change the tide for the better. Floured elections, Good governance, Political violence
Pre-colonial African Socialism and Anti-Corruption Values in Nigeria
African socialism especially as expounded by the former Tanzanian President Julius K. Nyerere signifies a set of ideas and principles, as well as attitude of mind inherent in traditional African society that distinguishes it from other kinds of socialism. It is rooted in the belief that Africa has always contained much indigenous socialism some elements of which include communal ownership of land, the egalitarian character of society, and the extensive network of social obligations that led to considerable cooperation. This paper draws heavily on Nyerere's concept of 'Ujamaa' and a synthesis of sociological theories to examine elements of African cultural values and perceptions in practice during pre-colonial times that could serve as potential tools for combating corruption in Nigeria. Data for the paper were derived from extensive and critical review of the theoretical and empirical literature on culture and corruption. The analysis interrogated the influence of colonialism, capitalism and globalization on African culture especially their past communalism and egalitarianism and more importantly how the misapplication of these foreign cultural values contributes to higher levels of corruption in Nigeria. On the basis of the findings, the paper argued that pre-colonial African socialism offers opportunity for dealing with corruption by creating an atmosphere of hard work and self-sacrifice on the part of individuals for the benefit of the society at large. It recommended not just a resuscitation of these highly prized communitarian values through cultural reorientation but also practical steps by the government to create employment opportunities, tackle poverty and reduce inequality in the Nigerian society.
EXCHANGE RATE, EXTERNAL DEBT BURDEN AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN NIGERIA
The introduction of the Structural Adjustment Programme in Nigeria in 1986 was a pivotal moment that contributed to the country's excessive reliance on foreign debt to bridge the gap between savings and investment. Given that this obvious problem emanated from the humongous accumulation of debt and the likely effect of the exchange rate on it, this study examined exchange rate and the relationship between external debt burden and economic growth in Nigeria. To achieve this, the study employed the Autoregressive Distributive Lag Model (ARDL) for its analysis. The result indicated that interacting exchange rate with the external debt burden (ratio of external debt burden to oil revenue) hurts the economic growth of the country. Hence, it was suggested as a way forward the need for the government to fully diversify the economy from the oil sector to the non-oil sector through policy implementation so that the country's economy can gain extensively from the revenue generation in the non-oil sector.
NEWS FRAMING OF COVID-19 VACCINES AND AUDIENCE RESPONSE TO VACCINE UPTAKES IN NIGERIA
This study analyzed news framing of Covid-19 vaccines and audience response to vaccine uptakes in Nigeria. The duration of the study was five months (March to August, 2021). This period encompasses critical stages of vaccine rollout and public discourse, offering a comprehensive view of how news framing influenced audience response. The study used Framing Theory. The research adopted content analysis and in-depth interview, while three widely read Nigerian newspapers; The Guardian, Daily Trust and The Nation were content analyzed. A total of 102 stories were coded from the three newspapers under review, while each newspaper had 34 stories. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used to analyze the data. Also, interview was presented using thematic analysis. The study found that the vaccine stories were not given enough prominence they deserved. It was also found that framing of Covid-19 vaccines had negative impact on the audience. This was evident as conflict frame was emphasized among the frames through which information on Covid-19 vaccines were disseminated. The study concluded that the negative attitude news media portrayed towards the safety concerns were most of the reasons for Covid-19 vaccines low uptake in Nigeria. The study, recommended, among others, that the newspapers should present Covid-19 vaccines information on the front pages of newspapers to attract audience attention and the stories should be presented in fair and objective manners to address the negative impact of frames on audience response.