Benue States Research Articles

Partnership coordination for optimized COVID-19 vaccination: a case study of Benue and Niger states

Partnership coordination for optimized COVID-19 vaccination: a case study of Benue and Niger states

Sexual and reproductive health challenges and service use among internally displaced persons in Benue and Kaduna states of Nigeria: a comparative study

This study investigates the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) challenges and access to SRH services among internally displaced persons (IDPs) in two Nigerian states: Benue (North-central) and Kaduna (Northwest). The research focuses on understanding how different contexts and variation in the management of displacement in these contexts influence SRH outcomes for IDPs and use of SRH services within and outside camp settings. We conducted face-to-face survey interviews with 581 sexually active IDPs residing in camps for at least 6 months. The questionnaire covered contraception, gender-based violence, sexually transmitted infection (STI) services, and SRH service utilization. Our findings reveal significant contextual differences between the two states. Benue reported higher rates of transactional sex, while Kaduna had higher rates of intimate partner violence and contraceptive use. SRH service use was generally higher in Benue than in Kaduna. We found statistically higher odds of SRH service use one camp in Benue (β = 2.7; p < 0.001) and significantly lower odds in a camp in Kaduna ((β = 0.1; p < 0.001) in comparison with a camp in Benue. By showing how different approaches may shape displaced persons’ access to SRH services within and outside camps, our study highlights the importance of understanding the nuances in humanitarian contexts in designing responses. This study provides valuable insights into the SRH needs and experiences of IDPs in different Nigerian contexts, informing targeted interventions and policies to improve service provision for displaced populations.

Exploring the perceptions and experiences of mobile teams on COVID-19 vaccine uptake at the community level: evidence from Benue and Niger states

BackgroundAs part of the fight against coronavirus disease, Nigeria received nearly 4 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine via the COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) Facility, marking a historic step towards equitable global distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. Although evidence exists on COVID-19 hesitancy in Nigeria, yet, we are unaware of any study on the optimization of COVID-19 vaccination from the lenses of the mobile teams.ObjectiveThis study seeks to explore the perceptions and experiences of mobile teams in selected communities during the implementation of COVID-19 vaccination in Benue and Niger.MethodsAn exploratory approach was adopted, and the study was conducted in Niger and Benue states based on poor performance in COVID-19 vaccination. Focus Group Discussions (FDGs) were conducted among 12 mobile vaccination teams from 12 LGAs. The recorded discussions were transcribed and coded (inductively and deductively) using Dedoose software (v9.0). Four themes and seven sub-themes were generated from the participants’ responses.ResultsSeventy-two (72) health workers including vaccinators, validators, Electronic Management of Immunization Data (EMID) recorders, social mobilizers, and paper recorders participated in this study. Health workers’ perceptions and experiences were thematized using the health building blocks. The mobilization teams in Benue and Niger states perceived that their mobilization efforts contributed to improved coverage, increased accessibility, and reduced hesitancy among the community dwellers. Challenges reported by the teams were vaccine misconceptions, requests for incentives in exchange for vaccine uptake, poor network services, distance to communities, and vaccine stockout.ConclusionThis study concluded that social mobilizers play key roles in vaccine uptake, especially at the community level. Their roles in creating awareness, sensitization, and bringing the vaccine closer to hard-to-reach communities contributed to the success attained in the fight against COVID-19 in both states.

Nexus among indigenous languages, agricultural radio programmes and behavioural change towards agricultural practices in Nigeria

This study investigated the interrelationship between indigenous languages, agricultural radio programmes and behavioural change towards agricultural practices in Nigeria, focusing on three states (Benue, Nasarawa and Plateau). The following research objectives guided the study: to ascertain farmers' awareness of radio programmes in indigenous languages, identify farmers' sources of information, ascertain farmers' access to agricultural extension workers and the language of engagement, and examine the influence of radio programmes in indigenous languages on farmers’ behaviour towards agricultural practices. The study adopted a survey research design with a questionnaire administered to 663 randomly selected farmers in Plateau, Nasarawa, and Benue states using a multistage sampling technique. Findings showed that indigenous languages play an integral role in bringing about behavioural change towards agriculture in Nigeria, with a mean Score of 3.4706 and a Standard Deviation of 1.5668. Further findings also indicate that agricultural extension workers are ready sources of information, with the language of communication being that of the local community. The study concluded that behavioural changes are evident in agricultural practices because these programmes have exposed farmers to innovations that have positively affected their agricultural practices. Thus, it is recommended that agricultural radio programmes aired in local languages should continue to be encouraged and sustained. This will help keep farmers abreast of trends in the farming sector, improving their agricultural practices.

‘I take the drugs… to make the sickness to move out of me’: key populations’ and service provider perspectives about facilitators and barriers to ART adherence and retention in care in Nigeria

BackgroundAdherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) has individual and public health benefits and is critical to improving life expectancy, achieving viral suppression, and reducing the risk of HIV transmission. This qualitative study explored the experience of receiving care as well as perceived facilitators and barriers of treatment initiation, retention in ART care, and adherence to treatment.MethodsIn-depth interviews were conducted among 28 men who have sex with men (MSM) and female sex workers (FSWs) receiving ART services in Lagos and Benue states. Key informant interviews were also conducted among 16 service providers engaged in counselling, clinical care, and ART treatment for MSM and FSWs. The Social Ecology Model guided the exploration of perceived barriers and facilitators of treatment initiation, retention in ART care and adherence to treatment. Qualitative data analysis was managed using NVIVO 11 software and themes were analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsWe found that the key barriers to ART adherence were low motivation to comply with medication regimen, work commitments, socioeconomic factors, stigma, negative provider attitude and distance to health facilities. Facilitators of adherence identified include the desire to live a productive life, strong family support and participation in support group programs. Comprehensive adherence counselling, support group programs and an effective follow-up system were factors identified by service providers as key to facilitating adherence.ConclusionTo be effective, ART programs must address the unique challenges key populations face in accessing treatment and achieving optimal adherence regarding establishing a strong support system and follow-up. Community level interventions that support a stigma-free environment are critical to sustaining engagement in care.

Advances in filarial hydrocelectomy reporting in Uganda and Nigeria

IntroductionSurgery for hydrocele is part of the WHO recommended essential package of care for people affected by Lymphatic filariasis (LF). In Uganda and Nigeria, LF programme support for hydrocele surgery began in 2017. In 2021 the two programmes adopted a newly developed smartphone-based application to monitor hydrocele surgery and outcome. The application, referred to as the Hydrocele Tracker, gathers information on surgical registration, preoperative information, intraoperative information, postoperative information and follow-up evaluations. It was developed to improve supervision, understand surgical outcomes and reasons for complications, improve reporting and improve data quality for Ministries of Health with active LF programmes.MethodsHydrocele patient information was collected between October 2021 and May 2023 in Uganda (Lango sub-region, 9 districts) and March 2021 - September 2022 in Nigeria (Benue, Kaduna, Kebbi, Sokoto and Kogi States). Additionally patient feedback surveys were undertaken to elicit patient experience and satisfaction with the hydrocele surgery.ResultsPatient data from 2,911 records in the Hydrocele Tracker are presented.DiscussionThe discussion highlights the implications of the data for LF programming, the value of digitisation and approaches to address data quality.

Hierarchical and Non- Hierarchical Cluster Classification of Precipitation Time Series Data in Nigeria

Precipitation is highly unpredictable over space and time, and is an indicator for climate change. The present work classified average yearly precipitation over the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Nigeria into various groups. The hierarchical and non- hierarchical (k-means) cluster method was used in the classification of 37- years precipitation data (1984-2020). The results showed that six major clusters were formed. The Precipitation across the 36 states and the FCT in Nigeria can be classified as Light precipitation for Sokoto, Borno, Kastina, Yobe and Kano States; Moderate precipitation for Kebbi, Zamfara, Dutse, Yola, Gombe and Bauchi States; Heavy precipitation for Kaduna, Plateau, Kwara, Taraba, Nassarawa, Benue and Kogi States; Very Heavy precipitation for Osun, Ogun, FCT, Ekiti, Niger and Lagos States; Shower for Edo, Abia, Delta, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, Ondo and Oyo States and lastly, Heavy Shower for Akwaibom, Imo, Rivers, Bayelsa and Cross River States.. The rangs of precipitation based on the six classification are 1.5-1.8mm (Light precipitation), 1.9-2.7mm (Moderate precipitation), 2.8-3.6mm (Heavy precipitation), 3.7-4.3mm (Very Heavy precipitation), 4.4-5.4mm (Shower) and greater than 5.5mm (Heavy Shower). The hierarchical cluster method performed better than the non- hierarchical (k-means) cluster method in structuring the precipitation data and shaping it into groups (clusters) such that observations within the same group are more similar than those in different groups. The results of this study can contribute to a better understanding of the climate condition of the36 States and the FCT in Nigeria.

A comparative analysis of the economics of cassava production and processing by IFAD VCDP participants and non-participants in Benue and Kogi States, Nigeria

This study analyzed the Economics of Cassava production and processing by IFAD VCDP participants and Non-participants in Benue and Kogi States, Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to: describe the socio-economic characteristics of the participants and non-participants along the value chain; estimate the cost and returns on production and processing of cassava by participants and non-participant respondents in the study area, and to identify the constraints to cassava production and processing in the study area. Two hypotheses were formulated and tested. There is no difference between the income of participants and non-participants The study employed the survey research design of descriptive type. Simple random sampling technique and Proportionate sampling (using Taro Yamane) were used to scientifically select 333 participants and 333 non – participants from the two states making 666 respondents. However only 664 questionnaires were found useful. Data collected were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, mean scores, and gross margin. Findings from the study revealed that majority of the respondents were males (52.71%), in the active age range of 31 – 50 years, married (89.31 %,), educated (84%) and had over five years’ experience (74.25%). Gross margin analysis showed that the participants had a gross margin of N792, 952 and Benefit-cost ratio of 6.64 as against N646, 961.76 and 5.83 by non-participant farmers respectively and N820, 374.10 and Benefit-cost ratio of 3.23 for participant processors and N452, 917.85 and 2.03 for non-participant processors respectively. Lack of funds (2.61), poor rural infrastructure (2.29), high transportation (2.42) and poor access to stem cuttings (2.44) constitute constraints to cassava production while lack of funds (2.90), poor rural infrastructure (2.44) and high transportation cost (2.15) constitute constraints to cassava processing. The z-test statistical analysis result revealed income differential of N264, 081 in favour of participants with a t-value of 12.0842 significant at 1% level (Pr. = 0.000). Conclusively, the study provides valuable insights into the dynamics of participants and non-participants in the IFAD VCDP programme, shedding light on their socioeconomic characteristics, and constraints. Notably, the participants in the programme demonstrated a higher mean income compared to non-participants, indicating the positive impact of IFAD project participation on income generation. The study among others recommends that policymakers explore options for providing financial assistance such as microcredit facilities, or grants to the participants, ensuring that financial literacy training accompany these initiatives to ensure responsible use of funds and investment in cassava-related activities.

Percieved Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic on Social Competence and Depression among Tertiary Institution Students in Benue and Nasaraws States, Nigeria.

This study investigated the perceived impact of COVID-19 pandemic on social competence and depression adjustment of tertiary institution students in Benue and Nasarawa States, Nigeria. The study was guided by two research questions and two hypotheses. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study comprised 75,289 students in 11 tertiary institutions Benue and Nasarawa States out of which 399 students where sampled using multi-stage sampling procedure. This involved conducting the sampling procedure in stages, with different techniques being adopted at different stages. The instrument used for data collection was a structured questionnaire titled “Covid-19, Academic, Psychosocial Adjustment Questionnaire (CAPAQ)” developed by the researcher. The data collected were analyzed using Mean scores and Standard Deviation to answer the research questions while the hypotheses were tested using chi-square statistics at 0.05 level of significance. The result revealed that COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on students’ social competence and depression in Benue and Nasarawa States. Based on the findings of this study, it was recommended that Students should be helped by the teachers and counsellors to become socially competent by acquainting them with social skills like virtual communication, online networking, and digital collaboration skills to go through social problems affecting their social competence due to pandemics like COVID-19. Students should be sensitized through workshops on how to improve their social interaction (e-conferences, online communications) whenever a pandemic strikes, as this could go a long way in reducing the level of isolation felt during social distancing. Counsellors should help students to adopt stress coping strategies so as to avoid depression whenever there is a lockdown or social distancing during pandemics.

Determinants of Vulnerability to Climate Change among Yam Farmers in Benue and Nasarawa States.

Determinants of Vulnerability to Climate Change among Yam Farmers in Benue and Nasarawa States.

ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES OF COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN BENUE, NASARAWA, AND TARABA STATES

The study anchored on assessment of communication strategies of Community and Social Development Projects in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba States in Nigeria. The statement of the problem centred on how effective the communication strategies were in terms of their deployment; the specific communication channels used; the challenges of the use of these communication strategies. The objectives of the study were to: determine the communication strategies, ascertain how the communication strategies are deployed and the challenges of communication strategies used. The theories used were the Developmental State Theory and Alternative Paradigm Model. The aim of this study was to ascertain how the communication strategies are deployed. The methodology adopted in this research designs were survey and Focus Group Discussion (FGD). The population of the study was 11, 468, 425; the sample size was 384, while the sampling techniques were multi-stage, and simple random sampling techniques. The study find out that the respondents were fully-aware of the CSDPs in their communities based on the communication strategies; and that mobile phone calls/text messages and WhatsApp messages have now displaced radio as the dominant communication channels. The finding of the study show that the communication strategies deployed contributed maximally to the success.

Profitability of Utilizing High Quality Cassava Flour (HQCF) in Confectionery/Bakery Firms in Parts of North Central Nigeria.

High Quality Cassava Flour (HQCF), derived from cassava tubers, is a significant meal component due to its high carbohydrate content and various benefits The study investigated the profitability of using HQCF in confectionery and bakery firms in North Central Nigeria. Data was collected from 78 confectionery and bakery firms and 710 workers using structured questionnaires and analyzed with SPSS 23. The study found that most workers were male (62.8%), aged 21-40 (50%), married (75.6%), and had tertiary education (68.0%). Most earned below ₦100,000 monthly, with additional income sources. Key economic factors included land acquisition (61.3% self-purchased), credit access (85.9% from banks), and external financial assistance (91.0%). Firms awareness of government policies on HQCF was high (87.2%), and profitability was significant, with ₦1 invested generating ₦3.76k in revenue. Market availability and cooperative societies for bakers were crucial for success. The study concluded that using HQCF in confectioneries and bakeries in the FCT, Benue, and Nasarawa states is profitable. It revealed that most firms have been losing profit due to non-compliance with policies requiring the inclusion of HQCF in their products. This non-compliance emanates from lapses in policy enforcement. To address this issue, the government should enforce existing policies through relevant agencies. Furthermore, the government should support HQCF availability, offer more credit access, and provide training programs to ensure the sustainability and profitability of HQCF in Nigeria.

Trust in Shared Narratives

AbstractStories are a function of violent conflicts. Stories provide reasons for and can serve to instigate conflicts, they make conflicts readable, and they provide narrative closure, i.e., a sense of finality, and thus potentially restore trust between conflict parties. This study focuses on a specific form of storytelling used in a conflict setting, namely docudrama and re-enactment of traumatic experiences of conflict. The study posits that, in the absence of other forms of effective civic dissent to force better outcomes in governance and particularly the provision of security through the state, docudrama and the re-enactment of personal experiences of violence can lead to conscientization and healing, even as the stories expressed in re-enactment lay the groundwork for post-conflict narrative closure. The location of study is in Benue and Plateau States, Nigeria. Because of climate change and migratory pressures in the wake of the drying up of Lake Chad these states are prone to violent land disputes. The target population of the study are refugees affected by conflicts between Fulani herdsmen and farmers, who are currently estimated at over 100,000. The study offers an opportunity to be active participants and to acquire skills and training in storytelling and re-enactment primarily to women, children and youths. Interviews, focus group discussions (FGD s), and participatory observation are used to collect data. A pilot study in Daudu camp in GumaLGA(Local Government Area) and later in 2023, a Theatre for Development and a feature film was carried out in Adeke, Ogondu and Asyoko community of Benue State and a Theatre for Development Drama and Feature Film production carried out in MikangLGAof Plateau State illustrate the methods and aims of the study. Anchored in “Reflective African Theory” the study uses Brecht’s “Forum Theatre” technique to show how docudrama can be used to explore the motives of the violent conflict and contribute to the rebuilding of trust in situations of conflict. The study, which results from a collaboration between the authors in the framework of the World Academy of Sciences, aims to contribute to the corpus of African studies and offer new perspectives for peace and conflict studies.

Evaluation of Public Relations Strategies and Techniques in the Management of Selected Non Profit Organizations in Benue and Nasarawa States

Evaluation of Public Relations Strategies and Techniques in the Management of Selected Non Profit Organizations in Benue and Nasarawa States

Taxation Potency on Human Capital Development: Verdict from Panel Fixed Effect Model

This study examined taxation impact on human capital development in North Central States in Nigeria. The data emanated from the state boards of internal revenue, office of Accountants general, state planning commission of the selected states in North Central Nigeria and the National Bureau of Statistics' document from 2010 to 2020. The selected states are Kwara, Niger, Kogi, Benue, Nasarawa and Plateau states. The study used econometric model to examine how taxes affect growth of human capital development. The numerical estimate of the co-efficient in various equations was obtained using panel data analysis through pooled regression, fixed model, random effect model and Hausman test. The findings showed that personal income tax and value added tax have positive and significant effect on human capital development. Road tax has positive and insignificant effect on human capital development. More so, external loan has positive and significant effect on human capital development in North central states Nigeria. It is concluded that taxation significantly impacted human capital development in north central states, Nigeria. It is recommended that taxation funds should be fully channeled by government into development of human capital properly, and meticulously utilized and managed efficiently to absolutely attain and improve human capital in North central states, Nigeria. Also, government should involve the usage of electronic means for collection of taxes from road users in order to track or drive all the road users into tax net, and to reduce or eradicate road tax evaders so as to enhance revenue drive.

Effects of Farmers-Herders Clashes on the Supply and Demand of Foodstuffs: A Case Study of Selected States in Nigeria

The study examined the effects of farmers-herders clashes on foodstuffs supply and demand in Nigeria with special reference to Oyo, Benue, and Ebonyi States in Nigeria. The institutional and environmental factors influencing the clashes, associated effects on foodstuffs supply and demand, and the relevance of management options including modern cattle ranching were explored with the use of the descriptive research approach. The study employed well-structured questionnaire to collect data from 582 farmers in villages across the States. Findings of the study indicated that the farmers-herders clashes involving conflicts over land, water resources, and grazing continue to have significant effect on foodstuffs supply and demand in Nigeria. These have affected agricultural activities and the overall food production system in Nigeria. Addressing these clashes requires a holistic and multi-faceted approach that involves collaboration among government agencies, local communities, civil society organisations, and international partner through careful planning, community engagement, and focus on sustainability to ensure long-term benefits for both food production and economic development. The study therefore recommends Government active adoption of a bottom-top approach to policy decisions that facilitate dialogue and mediation between farmers and herders through engagement of community leaders, religious figures, and local authorities to hold the clashes at bay and sustainably increase foodstuffs supply and demand in Nigeria. Keywords: Foodstuffs, Clashes, Herders, Farmers. Demands, Supply, Nigeria Journal Reference Format: Adewale, A.O. &amp; Ishaku, A. (2023): Effects of Farmers-Herders Clashes on the Supply and Demand of Foodstuffs: A Case Study of Selected States in Nigeria. Humanities, Management, Arts, Education &amp; the Social Sciences Journal. Vol. 11. No. 3, Pp 59-68. www.isteams.net/humanitiesjournal. dx.doi.org/10.22624/AIMS/HUMANITIES/V11N3P5

Preview of Causes, Frequency, Extent, Magnitude and Intensity of Flooding in Nigeria

This study previewed causes, frequency, extent, magnitude, intensity and charted a course of mitigating flood in Nigeria. This Study revealed the causes of flooding to include: climate change, unending rainfall, excess water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam, river overflow, expansion of floodplains and poor planning. In 2022 flooding affected 7 million Nigerians, 2 million internally displaced, 5,000 physically injured, 5,900 houses destroyed. The 2012 flood had the highest number of occurrences of 18 incidences, in 17 each in 2015 and 2017, in 2018 and 2019, 12 incidences. 2014 and 2016, had 1 incidence. These frequent floods were recorded in 31 out of the 36 and the FCT, severe in Benue, Kogi, Anambra, Niger, Adamawa, Oyo, Kano, Jigawa and Lagos States. The extent of flooding includes shortage of food supply, farmlands washed away; economy, health, social life and environment were also affected. Corpses floated in floods, the country was at high risks of waterborne diseases like diarrhoea, cholera and typhoid fever. However, the benefits of flooding include rendering terrorists incapable in some states; deposit rich, fertile alluvium, replenish irrigation channels, filter pollutants, nourish lands to support ecosystems and fertile areas for farming. This Study recommended that individuals should not build houses in floodplains; government should maintain dams; flood management policy and collaboration between agencies. Experts should develop awareness, enlightenment, educational and legal framework to checkmate flooding in Nigeria.

Correlates of community resilience to violent conflict in north central Nigeria: Evidence from Benue and Plateau states

This study analyses the determinants of community resilience to violent conflict in north central Nigeria. It adopts mixed research methodology through multistage sampling technique. This involved the purposive selection of Benue and Plateau states. The study is anchored on social capital as a valuable theoretical framework to understand community resilience. It raises a pertinent research question. What are the factors influencing community resilience to violent conflict in Nigeria’s north central? Primary data were obtained through household data collection in Jos, Barkin Ladi, Makurdi, and Gbajimba where respondents were chosen for questionnaire administration. Through multiple regression, the study identified social solidarity, group identity, collective efficacy, number of household member(s) in active employment, and trust as determinants of community resilience to violent conflict. These findings yield insight for theories, policies, and practices. The study concludes that it is important to account for social solidarity, collective efficacy, and trust in strengthening community resilience.

The water supply service during the COVID-19 pandemic among people of concern in Nigeria

Refugees in the destination countries might have some risks including lack of water supply. Nigeria as one of the destination countries for people of concern (PoCs) including refugees also faced the lack of access to water supply, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to examine the factors related to reduced access to water supply in refugee camps in Nigeria during COVID-19 pandemic. This study used the secondary data available from UNHCR in Nigeria 2020. The survey used disproportionate stratified random sampling. After data cleaning, the data from 4,016 households were examined in this study. The interview has been done using the computer-assisted telephone interview. The factors related to the reduced access to water supply were living in Adamawa, Benue, Ogun, Taraba, Yobe, and Borne states, coming from Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mali, and Syria, having household member 6-15 persons, having household income 41,000- 60,000 Naira per month, and had low awareness about COVID-19. The demographic and economic factors were the most significantly related to reduced access to the water supply.

Stressors and Resilience within the Cassava Value Chain in Nigeria: Preferred Cassava Variety Traits and Response Strategies of Men and Women to Inform Breeding

This study investigated the trait preferences for cassava in the context of climate change and conflict stressors among value-chain actors in Nigeria to strengthen social inclusion and the community-resilience outcomes from breeding programs. Multi-stage sampling procedures were used to select and interview male and female value-chain participants in the Osun, Benue and Abia States. The results indicated that farmers preferred cassava traits such as drought tolerance, early bulking, multiple-product use and in-ground storability to strengthen resilience. Climate change and challenges related to social change shaped the response strategies from both genders, and influenced trait preferences, including the early re-emergence of cassava leaves, stems that had ratooning potential, and especially the root milking that was important among female respondents. The major response strategies employed by men included frequent farm visits to prevent theft and engaging in non-agricultural livelihoods. Those employed by women included backyard farming, early harvesting, having preferences for food with fewer processing steps, and depending on remittances. The resilience capacity was higher for men than for women due to their better access to assets, as well as their abilities to relocate their farms and out-migrate in search of other livelihoods. Considering gendered cassava traits, and enhancing their resilience and response strategies, can complement efforts to make breeding more socially inclusive, resilient, and anticipatory to future challenges created by climate and related social changes.