Local Government Area Research Articles

Domestic and Marital Relationships Among Muslim Couples in Northwest Geopolitical Zone, Nigeria from 2013-2023: A Case Study at Ringim Localgovernment Area

This research investigated marital relationship among Muslim Couples in Ringim Local Government Area; The Institution of marriage occupied highest position in Islam, the importance of marital relationship plays significant role within the frame work of Islam.This research investigated and provided some solution to address these issues among Muslim couples in Ringim Local Government Area. The methodology employed in the conduct of this research is ethnography of communication method which comprises the use of observation and interview as primary sources of data. More so, secondary sources of data collection such as: written literature, textbooks, journals and browsed materials on challenges of marital relationship among Muslim Couples was also used. The findings propose valued perceptions and recommendations bring into line with best practices of marital relationship, contributing to the advancement of institution of marriage among couples in the Area.

Experiences and needs of persons who have undergone limb amputation in Saki West, Oyo State, Nigeria.

Amputation is a life-changing experience involving the surgical removal of a body part. However, little is known about the experiences of persons who have undergone limb amputation in the Saki West Local Government Area (LGA), which prompted this study. An exploratory qualitative study design was used. Thirty participants were interviewed using face-to-face focus group discussions. Five sessions were conducted, with six participants in each session. Data were analysed using the thematic analysis framework of Braun and Clarke. A total of 76.3% of the participants were males and 73.3% were married. Their ages ranged from 22 and 69y, with a mean age of 48.0y and a monthly income of 20000 naira (US$12). Three major themes emerged from the study: the needs and challenges of those who have undergone amputation, coping strategies of those who have undergone amputation and recommendations by persons who have undergone amputation. The study revealed that people who have undergone amputation experienced psychological pain, such as a loss of self-worth and stigmatization from friends and loved ones. Coping strategies identified were accepting the situation and emotional support from family. Participants recommended providing financial support, empowerment programs, employment opportunities and fostering a community of amputees in the Saki West LGA. Amputees undergo psychological and psychosocial problems that can affect their health and recovery. They need emotional and financial support, rehabilitation services and provision of prostheses from family, society and the government. These services should be adequately provided in the Saki West LGA, the largest among the 10 suburban local governments in Oyo State, with numerous commercial activities and a high risk for road traffic accidents.

Prevalence of Unorthodox Psychoactive Substance Use Amongst Secondary School Students in Calabar South Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria

Guided by six research questions, this study adopted survey design to investigate the prevalence of unorthodox psychoactive substance use amongst students. 700 students were drawn from a population of 10,560 students. ‘Prevalence of Use of Unorthodox Psychoactive Substances Questionnaire’ (PUUPSQ) was used for gathering data, which was analyzed using frequency, percentage, bar charts and pie charts. The results showed, amongst others, that 57% of the respondents had taken at least one of the 20 investigated substances, which indicates high prevalence. It was recommended, amongst others, that adequate awareness on these substances should be created amongst the stakeholders in schools.

Qiblah Angle and Direction of Some Mosques in Zuru Metropolis

A total of 50 mosques (masjids) were randomly sampled in Zuru metropolis, the headquarters of Zuru local government area in Kebbi state, Nigeria, and their qiblah angles taken with modern (scientific) tools notably 3 Islamic apps and one compass, to ascertain the precision of their focus towards makkah. The 3-way analysis revealed the best case scenario of 36%, 6% and 0% of the mosques focused on makkah. It also invariably means 64%, 94% and 100% of the mosques tested were not in the direction towards makkah, by the different approaches used. These results confirm the earlier belief that most of the mosques were not properly focused on the qiblah angle of makkah from Zuru, established at 68.5° in the east-northeast direction from the north. A ‘safe’ range of 67.5 - 79° from north was however found with the tools used. This justifies the use of modern scientific equipments to verify and guide the angular direction of our prayer grounds, as against the hitherto arbitrary dependence of using the sunrise angle as the guide. There’s need for the appropriate authorities to rectify these anomalies, both in row angles already in place, as well as in future construction of mosques, ensuring that they are focused correctly with the prime qiblah angle established, without which prayers conducted will be put in jeopardy.

Work-family conflict and job stress as predictors of quality of work-life among nurses

This study investigated predictors of quality of work life among nurses in Ipokia Local Government Area in Ogun State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted to collect data using the Quality of Life Scale, Work-Family Conflict Scale, and Job Stress Scale. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 182 nurses (Females: 123; Males: 59). Data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis, t-test of independent mean, and one-way analysis of variance. Three hypotheses were generated and tested at a 0.001 level of significance. The result revealed that work-family conflict and job stress jointly predicted the quality of work-life among nurses [R2 = 286, F (2,181) = 37.648, p = .002). Also, job stress independently predicted the quality of work-life among nurses (β = .543, p = .001). However, work-family conflict did not independently predict the quality of work-life among nurses (β =-.001, p >.05). It was concluded that work-family conflict was a significant factor when combined with job stress but not an independent predictor of quality of work-life among nurses. Therefore, the Chief Medical Director and Human Resource Department of hospitals should monitor the stress levels of their nurses to ensure continuous productivity and avoid unnecessary breakdown of nurses at Work and home.

The Prevalence and Pattern of Risky Sexual Behaviour among Secondary School Adolescents in Yenagoa Local Government Area, Nigeria

Aim: To determine the prevalence, pattern and socio-demographic factors associated with risky sexual behaviour (RSB) among adolescents in secondary schools in Yenagoa LGA, Bayelsa state. Study Design: A cross-sectional analytical study. Place and duration: Yenagoa Local Government Area in Bayelsa state. The study was conducted in March/April 2021. Methodology: The study utilized self-administered questionnaires among 750 secondary school adolescents selected via multistage sampling. The proportion of adolescents with RSB and the socio-demographic determinants of RSB were analysed using Chi-square test and binary logistic regression with significance level set at p-value=0.05. Results: Of the 739 responses analysed, the prevalence of RSB was 156 (21.1%) and the mean age at sexual debut was 13.42±2.62 years. All sexually exposed adolescents had an early sexual debut, 23.7% had multiple sexual partners, and 98.1% reported inconsistent use of condoms. Transactional sex and sexual intercourse after alcohol/illicit drug use occurred in 56.4% and 15.4% of them, respectively. The predictors of RSB were attending a public school (AOR:2.046, 95%CI:1.243 to 3.368), peer pressure (AOR:10.451, 95%CI:6.460 to 16.909), difficulty in communicating with mother (AOR:2.050, 95%CI:1.203 to 3.493) and low maternal education (primary:AOR:2.834, 95%CI:1.300 to 6.181; and secondary: AOR:2.067, 95%CI:1.139 to 3.753). However, age below 18years (10-13years: AOR:0.194, 95%CI:0.051 to 0.741 and 14-17years: AOR:0.259, 95% CI:0.081 to 0.832) was protective of RSB. Conclusion: RSB is high among adolescents attending secondary schools in Yenagoa. Sex education, peer-based programmes and parent-adolescent communications should be encouraged to reduce the prevalence of RSB among adolescents.

Pertubations of Physicochemical Properties and Heavy Metal in the Soil of Coastal Areas of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

This study aimed at assessing the concentrations and perturbations of the physicochemical properties and heavy metals in the soil of the coastal regions of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Sampling was carried out across three mangrove locations (Iko Town, Okoroutip and Uta Ewa) in Eastern Obolo, Ibeno and Ikot Abasi Local Government Areas respectively. Four vegetation plots were randomly selected, and within each plot, three belt transects were established. Physicochemical properties [Sand, Clay, Silt, organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen, sulphate and chlorine content] and heavy metals (Arsenic, Silver, Chromium, Copper, Nickel, Lead, Mercury, Cadmium, Titanium, Vanadium and Zinc) were analyzed using standardized methods. Results from this study revealed considerable variations in the physicochemical properties of soil in the study area. The aforementioned heavy metals were present in both wet and dry seasons in considerable concentrations in the soil samples within the study areas. However, were within and below WHO limits. The variations in the physicochemical properties and the presence of these heavy metals in the samples are indicative of an impacted environment unsuitable for the growth and survival of the endemic flora and fauna species of this unique ecosystem. In view of the current knowledge of the role of mangrove ecosystems in blue-economy of the nation and mitigation of ongoing climate change, we advocate a tripartite alliance between the government, multinational companies operating within the area and the various impacted communities that leads to a concerted efforts of constant monitoring and remediation in the reduction of current and future pollutant levels.

Mathematical Model on The Control of Intestinal Torsion in Pigs

An institutional based research at Federal College of Education (Technical) Ekiadolor, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, examined a pig farm in the Ovia North East Local Government Area, investigating a mathematical model on the control of intestinal torsion in pigs through vaccination and fibre-rich nutritional feeds. It results in the application of a four-compartment mathematical model for pig intestinal torsion, which is made up of the classes S, I, V, and R for the Susceptible, Infected, Vaccinated and Recovered classes. This model is used to solve for the reproduction number (R0) using the Next Generation Matrix (NGM), to solve the positivity model, to solve for the existence and uniqueness of the model, and to plot the model graphs using Maple.

Development of Nggwaba Orthography: Syllabic, Phonemic and Tones Patterns

Nggwaba has been described as an Afro-asiatic language. Further classification situates it in the Chadic group precisely Biu-Mandara. The language is spoken in Gombi and Hong Local Government Areas of Adamawa State, North-east, Nigeria. It has been noticed that the language has largely been under-documented and under-investigated. The estimated number of people who speak the language is less than 1000. This paper presents the orthography and a preliminary analysis of a few aspects of the phonology of the language for the early primary education level. It became necessary to study, develop and document the orthography of Nggwaba language in order to prevent it from going into extinction. The study adopted a mixed-method sampling technique, cross-sectional design as well as a descriptive analysis. The paper is divided into three main sections. While the first section deals with background of the study, the second section looks at the literature review. The third section focuses on the methodology through which the study was carried out, and the fourth section discusses the framework, and finally the fifth section focuses on the result of the study. This is the first description of the phonological features of Nggwaba language. The by-product of this study has added knowledge to literature especially the area of areal linguistics.

Water Quality Assessment and Prevalence of Waterborne Diseases within Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State-Nigeria

Study’s Excerpt Water quality and the prevalence of waterborne diseases in Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State, were assessed. Microbiological analyses revealed microbial, helminth and protozoan contamination in water sources while Physicochemical analyses revealed heavy metal contamination. There is a need for enhanced water treatment and community awareness for improving water safety and public health in the region. Full Abstract The health and well-being of individuals in a nation are intrinsically tied to the quality of water available for consumption. Access to high-quality water plays a vital role in supporting proper nutrition, ensuring food security, and preventing waterborne diseases. Therefore, this study was carried out to assess water quality and prevalence of waterborne diseases within Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State. A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and June 2024. Data were collected through the administration of questionnaires (400 respondents) and laboratory water analysis. Water samples were analyzed from various sources involving boreholes, rivers and wells through composite sampling and physicochemical and microbiological analyses. Results showed samples from Unguwan Maigero and Tricania possessed varying physicochemical properties, while water from Goningora and Nasarawa revealed high turbidity and heavy metal contamination. Chloride levels were below 500 ppm, and sulphate concentrations ranged from 10.76 to 378.3 ppm. Sodium levels ranged from 19.5 to 110 mg/l, and potassium levels exceeded the permissible limit in some samples. Total coliform counts exceeded national limits (zero coliform per 100ml of water), indicating significant microbial contamination. Parasitological analysis indicated helminths and protozoan contamination in non-borehole sources. Findings showed 41% prevalence of waterborne diseases with diarrhea and typhoid. The study indicates that community awareness, appropriate water treatment, surveillance, and monitoring are essentials for assuring the availability and utilisation of safe and high-quality drinking water in Chikun LGA, Kaduna State.

EFFICIENCY ANALYSIS OF YAM PRODUCTION IN YORRO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF TARABA STATE, NIGERIA

The study examined efficiency of yam (Dioscorea spp.) production in Yorro Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to determine technical, allocative and economic efficiencies of yam farmers in the study area. Multi-stage random sampling methods were employed to select 247 yam farmers in the area. Data collected were analyzed using stochastic frontier production model. The results of the maximum likelihood estimate of production function showed that, farm size, seed/setts, and fertilizer were significant inputs utilized for production among farmers in the study area. The mean technical efficiency of yam farmers was 0.94. Similarly, the results of the maximum likelihood estimate of the cost function indicated that cost of seed/setts, fertilizer, agrochemicals and labour were the significant cost associated with yam production in the study area. The mean allocative and economic efficiencies were 0.95 and 0.89 respectively. The study therefore concluded that majority of yam farmers in Yorro Local Government Area of Taraba state, Nigeria operated at the maximum efficiency level indicating that there was little efficiency gap hence there is still scope for improvement of yam production in the study area. The study recommends investments by individuals, private organizations and government in yam production so that farmers could increase output through more intensive and efficient use of available resources given the current state of technology.

ASSESSMENT OF POULTRY FARMERS AWARENESS ON RECORD KEEPING IN JERE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

The study assessed poultry farmers’ awareness on keeping farm record in Jere Local Government Area, Borno State, Nigeria. The research identified the socio-economic characteristics of the poultry farmers, assessed their level of awareness on record-keeping, and determined factors influencing record-keeping among the respondents. The study employed a two-stage sampling technique to select 150 respondents, and data were collected using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, Likert scale, and logistic regression models were employed to analyze the data. The findings revealed that most (46%) of the respondents were aged between 36-51 years with majority (70%) predominantly female, 68% had a mean of 7 persons per household with an average of 7 years of poultry farming experience Majority (85%) of the respondents had attained one form of education or the other. Additionally, more than 80% earned less than ₦30,000 to ₦90,000 per production cycle. Majority (86.7%) had a flock size of less than 90 birds. Additionally, while 70% of the respondents recognized the importance of record-keeping in ensuring farm profitability. Logistic regression analysis showed that education level, flock size, knowledge of record-keeping, and access to extension services were significant at 1% level each. The recommend that, Extension services should prioritize training programs, particularly for women, who form the majority of the farming population. Training programs should focused on the importance of record keeping and practical methods for maintaining records.

Evaluation of Nutritional Composition of Ocimum gratissimum Leaf Extract

Vegetables are known to be vital sources of nutritive foods. This study evaluates the nutritional composition of Ocimum gratissimum leaf extract vis-a-vis proximate, minerals and vitamins analyses. Fresh leaves of O. gratissimum were purchased from a local market in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria and were washed, destalked, oven-dried at 40 0C, pulverized, and sieved through 2.0 mm mesh prior to analysis. Proximate, minerals, and vitamin analyses were carried out, using standard methods. Results indicated that O. gratissimum contained high levels of carbohydrate (51.78 ± 0.50 %), protein (10.50 ± 0.04 %), and fiber (9.38 ± 0.05 %), with minute quantity of crude fat (4.94 ± 0.03 %). Analysis of the mineral compositions showed that the vegetable contained considerable quantity of minerals that is sufficient to improve general well-being, while the vitamin analysis revealed that the leaves of O. gratissimum was sufficiently rich in Vitamin E and could, therefore, act as antioxidant and consequently help to improve health status of its consumers.

THE IMPACT OF PAEDIATRIC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SKILLS ON PATIENT OUTCOMES IN ZARIA

Paediatric emergencies represent a critical challenge in Nigeria, where approximately 2,300 children under the age of five die daily, predominantly from preventable and treatable conditions such as pneumonia, malaria, and diarrheal diseases. Mortality rates are disproportionately higher in rural areas, where primary health care (PHC) centers often serve as the only point of access to medical services. The effectiveness of these centers is largely dependent on the emergency management skills of their healthcare workers. Despite their importance, there has been limited research on how the skills of PHC workers in managing paediatric emergencies impact patient outcomes. This study aimed to assess the proficiency of healthcare workers in primary healthcare centers in Zaria in managing common paediatric emergencies. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 139 health workers selected through a multi-stage sampling technique in Sabon Gari and Zaria Local Government Areas. Data collection was carried out using a pre-tested semi-structured self-administered questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 21, and associations were tested using the chi-square test, with results presented in tables and charts. The findings revealed a significant deficiency in the emergency management skills of healthcare workers. A majority of respondents demonstrated inadequate skills in handling paediatric emergencies, with 66 (48.5%) exhibiting very poor competency in the management of common paediatric emergencies, and 32 (23.5%) displaying poor competency. Only a small fraction, 4 (2.9%) of respondents, demonstrated excellent skills in emergency management. Similarly, 46.7% of the respondents had very poor skills in the treatment of common paediatric emergencies, while only 3.0% exhibited excellent treatment skills. A statistically significant relationship was observed between the level of academic qualification and emergency management skills (p < 0.05). The results underscore the critical need to enhance the skill levels of healthcare workers in PHCs through continuous professional development. This could be achieved through collaborative efforts between the Department of Paediatrics at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital and the Primary Health Care Departments of Zaria and Sabon Gari local governments, focusing on regular training and workshops. Improving the skills of healthcare workers in managing paediatric emergencies is essential for reducing child mortality and improving health outcomes in the region.

Farmers’ Climate Change Adaptation Strategies and Cassava Production in Akoko South West Local Government Area, Ondo State

Farmers’ Climate Change Adaptation Strategies and Cassava Production in Akoko South West Local Government Area, Ondo State

Navigating Success: The Impact of Social Media Strategies on Small and Medium-Scale Businesses in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Purpose: The increasing influence of social media has significantly transformed small and medium scale businesses (SMSBs) operations in developing regions. This study assesses the impact of various social media tools on SMSB performance in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. It aims to evaluate the effectiveness of tools such as content creation, marketing strategies, brand building, networking, and e-commerce integration. Methodology: Using a survey design, data were collected from 331 respondents out of a sample of 363 SMSBs, drawn from a population of approximately 3,957, determined using the Yaro Yamane formula. Structured questionnaires facilitated data collection, and analyses included simple percentages, frequency tables, SPSS coding, and multiple regression analysis. Findings: The findings reveal that content creation and sharing significantly enhance SMSB performance (t = 5.809, p = 0.000). In contrast, marketing strategies exhibit a significant negative impact (t = -4.455, p = 0.000), indicating effectiveness challenges. Brand building and awareness positively influence performance (t = 6.861, p = 0.000), emphasizing the need for a strong brand presence. Networking and collaboration yield the most substantial positive effect (t = 9.019, p = 0.000), highlighting the value of strategic partnerships. Conversely, e-commerce and sales integration show no significant effect (t = -0.468, p = 0.640), suggesting it may be less critical than other strategies. The study concludes that leveraging social media tools strategically can enhance SMSB performance. It recommends that SMSBs prioritize high-quality content, brand building, and effective networking while re-evaluating traditional marketing strategies for improved impact. Originality / Value: This research contributes valuable insights into how specific social media strategies affect SMSB performance in developing countries, offering actionable recommendations for business owners in Akwa Ibom State and similar regions.

Consumers’ Willingness to Pay for Value-Added Cassava Flour (Pupuru) in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria

Consumers’ Willingness to Pay for Value-Added Cassava Flour (Pupuru) in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria

Farmers’ Coping Strategies to Households Food Insecurity in Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State-Nigeria

Farmers’ Coping Strategies to Households Food Insecurity in Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State-Nigeria

Socio-economic Determinants of Adoption of Oil-palm Processing Technologies in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria

Socio-economic Determinants of Adoption of Oil-palm Processing Technologies in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria

Agricultural Science Teacher’s Knowledge of Rice Production Technology in Edu and Patigi Local Government Areas of Kwara State, Nigeria

Agricultural Science Teacher’s Knowledge of Rice Production Technology in Edu and Patigi Local Government Areas of Kwara State, Nigeria