Northwest Nigeria Research Articles

Determinants of household dietary diversity and consumption patterns of selected food groups among rural households in Nigeria's Northeast and Northwest regions

This study explored the factors affecting dietary diversity among rural households in Northwest and Northeast Nigeria. It utilized the fourth-round survey data from 1,418 households across five states (Adamawa, Borno, Katsina, Yobe, and Zamfara), collected by the Data in Emergencies (DIEM) Monitoring System under the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Household Dietary diversity was measured on a 0–12 scale, and its determinants were analyzed using Poisson regression. The findings revealed moderate dietary diversity, with an average Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS) of 6.4 (SD ± 2.7) on a 0–12 scale. Households predominantly consumed starchy foods, with cereals reported by 94.7% of the respondents. Several factors were identified to significantly influence household dietary diversity (HDDS). Larger household size was negatively associated with HDDS (β = -0.0323, SE = 0.0052, p < .0001), as was severe food insecurity, which was inversely related to dietary diversity (β = -0.3103, SE = 0.0635, p < .0001). Additionally, regional disparities were observed, with households in Yobe (β = -0.0924, SE = 0.0370, p = .0127) and Zamfara (β = -0.1171, SE = 0.0356, p = .0010) reporting significantly lower HDDS compared to those in Adamawa. Households engaged in crop production (β = -0.1564, SE = 0.0445, p = .0005), livestock production (β = -0.1458, SE = 0.0449, p = .0012), or combined crop-livestock farming (β = -0.1481, SE = 0.0535, p = .0057) also exhibited lower HDDS, likely due to the subsistence nature of agriculture in these regions. In contrast, higher income was positively associated with HDDS (β = 0.1493, SE = 0.0588, p = .0112). Interestingly, exposure to shocks was also linked to increased household dietary diversity (β = 0.1452, SE = 0.0236, p < .0001), suggesting possible short-term adaptations. These findings highlighted the urgent need to improve household dietary diversity in Northeast and Northwest Nigeria through region-specific interventions. Efforts should prioritize diversifying livelihoods by promoting income-generating activities beyond agriculture, such as small-scale businesses, while also encouraging agricultural practices that move beyond subsistence farming. Additionally, implementing safety nets, including cash transfers and food assistance, will help mitigate the impacts of shocks and build resilience. Together, these strategies will foster sustainable improvements in dietary quality and food security in the regions. Key words: Dietary Diversity, Food Insecurity, Food Groups, Rural Households, Northern Nigeria

Assessment of the Readiness to Adopt Technology Integration Approach for Teaching and Learning of Agricultural Science in Colleges of Education in North-West, Nigeria

The study examined the readiness to adopt technology integration approach for teaching and learning of Agricultural Science in Colleges of Education, in Northwest Nigeria. Three objectives were set for the study, among which were to: assess the availability and functionality of resources to adopt Technology Integration Approach for teaching and learning Agricultural Science in Federal and State Colleges of Education, Northwest Nigeria. Descriptive survey research design with a population of 945 and sample size of 428 were used for the study. Stratified random sampling technique was used to arrive at the sample for the study. Two instruments namely checklist and questionnaire were used for data collection. The scores obtained from the pilot study were analysed using split half method of reliability and a reliability co-efficient of 0.83 was obtained. Data collected from the respondents were analyzed using frequency and mean to analyse the research questions and Mann-Whitney U test was used to test the null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The results revealed among others that; Resources for adopting Technology Integration Approach in teaching and learning Agricultural Science were significantly more available and functional in Federal Colleges of Education than State Colleges in Northwest Nigeria (p-value = .000). The study concluded Federal Colleges of Education are more ready and prepared with resources to adopt Technology Integration Approach in teaching and learning Agricultural Science than State Colleges of Education in Northwest, Nigeria. The study recommended among others that State Colleges of Education should provide all resources needed by making them available and functional for the adoption of Technology Integration Approach in teaching and learning Agricultural Science in Northwest Nigeria.

“They Come in the Night and in Large Numbers”: Explaining the Common Features of School Attack and Mass Abduction of Students in Katsina State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT This paper examines the common features of school attacks and mass abductions of students in Katsina State in Northwest Nigeria. The study involved the use of in-depth interviews, key-informant interviews, and focus group discussions to obtain information from community leaders, government officials, school teachers, and community members in two local government areas of Katsina State. Findings of the study show that school attacks and mass abductions of students usually occur with the aid of motorcycles to navigate the rough terrains of the forest. The bandits also usually attack at night and in large numbers and that they are unemployed youths from neighboring communities. Following these are strategic security measures that could be deployed to mitigate school attacks and mass abductions in the study areas. The implications of these findings for school safety and security are discussed in this paper.

Strengthening Social Cohesion, Conflict Management, and Diversity Education through the Implementation of Social Studies Education

Social cohesion, conflict management and diversity education are essential components that should be included in any educational curriculum that is designed to cater for multifaceted societies. The Social Studies curriculum that is included in the National Certificate of Education (NCE) in Nigeria is designed to meet these components. On the other hand, the effectiveness of the curriculum in terms of achieving these goals has been the subject of many discussions. For the purpose of determining whether or not the curriculum is efficient in fostering abilities related to social cohesion, conflict management, and diversity, a survey was carried out among students studying Social Studies in Colleges of Education in North-West Nigeria. A comprehensive analysis of the National Certificate in Education (NCE) Social Studies curriculum in Nigeria is presented here, focusing on both its strengths and areas that could use some work. As part of the evaluation process, the effectiveness of the curriculum in developing skills related to social cohesion, conflict management, and diversity is assessed. A number of suggestions are offered in order to improve the curriculum and better prepare future educators for the multifaceted society that exists in Nigeria. According to the findings of the study, there is a pressing need for a more direct emphasis on conflict management skills, negotiation skills, and an appreciation for diversity

Evaluating the predictive accuracy of some regression models and artificial neural networks in streamflow forecasting (a case study of the Kaduna River, Northwest Nigeria)

Evaluating the predictive accuracy of some regression models and artificial neural networks in streamflow forecasting (a case study of the Kaduna River, Northwest Nigeria)

Morphologic Patterns of Spinal Degeneration and Trauma in a Nigerian Population: A Retrospective Radio-Anatomic Study.

Morphologic Patterns of Spinal Degeneration and Trauma in a Nigerian Population: A Retrospective Radio-Anatomic Study.

Undermining Peace: Banditry, Gold, and Elite Collusion in Northwest Nigeria

ABSTRACT This study presents evidence on the nexus of banditry and illicit gold mining in Nigeria. Drawing on qualitative research, this article explores how bandits leverage gold mining and elites’ collusion to undermine peace. The paper analyses how the elites weaponize access to gold and alter the trajectory of violence. Primary enablers of this phenomenon are historical neglect of the solid mineral sector, patronage, and the co-option of bandits for informal security provision by the elites with vested interest in gold mining. Future research can examine how illicit gold economies interact with formal financial systems, challenging the traditional informality-formality dichotomy in economic theory.

The effects of smartphone usage on students’ academic performance: Case study of four selected tertiary institutions in North-West Nigeria

The effects of smartphone usage on students’ academic performance: Case study of four selected tertiary institutions in North-West Nigeria

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Current Safety Practices and Sustainable Solutions in Reducing Construction Site Fatalities in North-West Nigerian Tertiary Institutions

Abstract: This paper aims to evaluate the current safety practices and their impact on the reduction of accidents and fatalities in construction sites in North-West Nigeria tertiary institutions. To achieve this aim, the study, through a survey design, draws a sample of forty-two respondents comprising a chief builder, director of works, physical planners and project supervisors using a convenience sampling technique. To obtain pertinent data, a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire was administered to participants and the collected data were analyzed using the relative importance index using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 17. However, findings from the analysis show that; the adoption of comprehensive and sustainable safety practices at construction sites significantly mitigates risks, safeguards the well-being of their workers, enhances project efficiency, and bolsters their overall reputation. Hence, there is a need for continuous improvement in safety standards, emphasizing proactive measures such as robust safety training and strict adherence to safety protocols. More so, integrating safety considerations into all phases of project management emerges as crucial for achieving sustainable safety outcomes.

Analysis of Online Academic Writing Tools Usage among Postgraduate Students in North-west Nigeria

This study investigates the usage of online academic writing tools and reference management software among postgraduate students in North-west Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, with a sample of 420 doctoral students from four regional universities. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings reveal that Google Docs and Authorea are the most widely used online tools for academic writing and collaboration, followed by Overleaf and OneNote. Surprisingly, Microsoft Office 365 showed lower adoption rates. Regarding reference management software, Mendeley and Zotero emerged as the clear favourites, with EndNote and Citavi also showing significant usage. Statistical analysis indicated significant differences in the use of online tools for academic writing and collaboration and the types of reference management software used among postgraduate students. These differences could be attributed to individual preferences, institutional recommendations, or varying levels of technological literacy. The study contributes to understanding digital literacy and technology adoption in higher education in developing countries. It provides valuable insights for educational institutions, policymakers, and software developers to support postgraduate students' academic endeavours. Recommendations include implementing digital literacy programs and developing standardized sets of recommended tools to enhance research productivity and collaboration among doctoral students in North-west Nigeria.

Distribution of ABO, Rhesus phenotypes, and Kell blood group antigens among pregnant women of Lelna ethnic group in Kebbi State, Northwest Nigeria

Objectives: The distribution of ABO, Rhesus (Rh) (D, C, E, c, and e), and K antigens varies from one region or ethnic group to another. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of ABO, Rh phenotypes, and Kell antigens among pregnant women of Lelna ethnic group in Kebbi state, Northwest Nigeria. Material and Methods: One-hundred and ninety-six pregnant women, aged 18–42 years, were recruited for the study from the antenatal Clinic of General Hospital, Zuru, Kebbi State, between October 2021 and November 2022. ABO, Rh (D, C, E, c, and e), and K antigens were determined using standard techniques. Results: The study showed the prevalence of blood groups A, B, O, and AB as 20.9%, 13.3%, 64.3%, and 1.5%, respectively, while Rh (D)-positive and Rh (D)-negative individuals were 95.4% and 4.6%, respectively. The frequencies of C, E, c, e, and K were 15.3%, 14.3%, 14.3%, 20.9%, and 6.6%, respectively. However, cDe/cDe (RoRo) had the highest frequency of Rh phenotype of 70.4% while CDe/cDe (R1Ro) had the least frequency of Rh phenotype among Rh (D) positive pregnant women, but cde/cde (rr) phenotype had the highest prevalence among the Rh (D) negative pregnant women of 3.1%. Conclusion: The study has shown that blood group O and cDe/cDe (RoRo) were the most common ABO and Rh blood group phenotypes, respectively, among the pregnant women of the Lelna ethnic group in Kebbi state. This knowledge can serve as a guide to the blood bank in adjusting the bloodstock by blood type and assuring adequate blood supply to meet up with the demands of the patients and, most especially pregnant women to minimize or prevent blood transfusion reactions in the locality.

How Government Intervention Can Enhance Entrepreneurial Competencies and SME Performance in Northwest Nigeria

Purpose: This study examines the influence of government intervention on entrepreneurial competencies and the subsequent impact on SME performance in Northwest Nigeria. It also investigates the mediating role of entrepreneurial competencies in the relationship between government intervention and SME performance. Methodology: A quantitative research design was employed using a survey questionnaire administered to 903 SME owners/managers in Northwest Nigeria. Data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS software. Findings: The results reveal that government intervention has a positive and significant impact on both entrepreneurial competencies and SME performance. Also, entrepreneurial competencies were found to mediate the relationship between government intervention and SME performance. The model demonstrates strong predictive power and relevance, indicating its ability to explain and predict SME performance. Practical implications: The study highlights the importance of government support in fostering SME development. Policymakers should prioritize interventions that not only provide direct support but also focus on developing entrepreneurial competencies among SME owners/managers. Originality: This study contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence of the mediating role of entrepreneurial competencies in the government intervention–SME performance relationship in the specific context of Northwest Nigeria. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to promote SME growth and development in developing economies.

Stakeholders Perceptions on Promoting Effective Management of Public University Education through Technology in North West Nigeria

This study was carried out to investigate the perceptions of stakeholders on effective management of university education in North West Nigeria. The study has three objectives, among which is to find out the perceptions of stakeholders on the impact of technology on students academic achievement and effective management of universities. Descriptive survey design was used for the study. The population comprises of all the public universities in North Central States, Nigeria. Stratified random sampling was used to select four universities. Random sampling was used to select 100 respondents from each of the four universities. The total number sampled was 400. A researcher-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data from the respondents. Correlation coefficient of 0.72 was obtained through the use of Cronbach Alpha. The statistical methods employed in analysing the research questions were mean and standard deviation while t-test was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings showed that stakeholders were of the opinion that improved students’ academic achievement, effective management practices, and reduction in cost of university education can be achieved through the use of technology. It was concluded that the use of technology is essential because the 21st century is technology driven. The study recommends amongst others that every stakeholder in the management of University education should key into the use of technology. As a matter of urgency the use of technology should be emphasized and implemented in teaching and learning, and management of public universities in North West Nigeria.

Body Mass Index of School Pupils in Nigeria

Almajiri pupils are mostly male children and adolescents who leave home to live with their Mallam for Islamic education. They lack basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. This situation makes them vulnerable to hunger and have to beg for sustenance. Aim: To compare the Body Mass Index (BMI) of the traditional Almajiri education system (Tsangaya) and Almajiri Integrated Model School (AIMS) pupils in northwest Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study done in 2019 involving ninety-six pupils from each of Tsangaya and AIMS in Sokoto metropolis using a multistage sampling technique. The socio-demographic variables and BMI of the participant were obtained and analyzed using IBM SPSS V 21.0 for Windows. A test of association between the variables was done using the chi-square test; a p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: Among the 192 pupils studied, three-quarters [143 (74.5%)] were underweight, with more than half [74 (51.7%)] from the AIMS. Age-wise, three-quarters (75.5%) of pupils between 10 and 14 years old were underweight. Likewise, all those between the ages of 7 and 9 years were underweight as they were leaving home (p = 0.001). Conclusion: The study revealed that most Almajiri pupils were underweight. Those in AIMS were more likely to be underweight despite receiving three meals per day. This suggests a problem in either the food quality, quantity, or both in these schools. Paradoxically, most of the Tsangaya pupils who begged for sustenance were able to maintain normal weight. All the younger age categories in both groups were underweight, highlighting the level of poverty and inadequate nutrition faced by these children even before leaving home.

Effect of Assignment and Socratic Methods on Students’ Achievement in Business Mathematics among Colleges of Education in North-Western Nigeria

The aim of the study was to find out the effect of assignments and Socratic methods on students’ achievement in business mathematics in colleges of education in north-west Nigeria. The research design adopted for this study was a quasi-experiment design. The population for the study comprises 684 business mathematics students for the 2022-2023 academic session. The purposeful sampling technique was used in the selection of the three colleges for the experiment. Mean, standard deviation, and mean difference were used to answer the three research questions. An independent t-test was used to test all the null hypotheses. Students taught business mathematics using the Socratic method performed better than those taught using the lecture teaching method. (P-value 0.000). Students taught business mathematics using the assignment method performed better than those taught using the conventional teaching method. (P-value 0.002). Students taught business mathematics using the Socratic method performed better than those taught using the assignment teaching method. (P-value 0.000). The findings revealed that the Socratic method is the more effective method of teaching business mathematics than the assignment, and conventional teaching methods had a significant effect on students’ achievement in business mathematics. Based on the findings, it was recommended that teachers of business mathematics should adopt the Socratic method in their classes because the method is capable of improving students learning outcomes.

Articulating the Islamic Model of Security and Peacebuilding Mechanisms Amid a Deteriorating Security Climate in Northwest Nigeria

Islamic abstraction of peacebuilding can not be sequestrated from the total experiences within the broader normative developments and comprehensive framework that galvanized the international action that has reimagined the security agenda to focus on human security over the past decades. At the instance of the deterioration of the security climate owing to the protracted menace of armed banditry and other associated crimes in Northwest Nigeria, the UN among other international actors, introduced an integrated peacebuilding approach to deal with security and development issues. This led to the operationalization of peacebuilding in the region. Peacebuilding has been an uphill struggle in the Northwest. Moments of reconciliatory openings have so far ended with a relapse to violent conflict; the amnesty programs in both Zamfara and Katsina states are a clear pointer to this peril. Studies have explained that the failure of both the preventive mechanisms to violent conflicts and the post-conflict reconstruction (peacebuilding structures), is largely due to reasons associated with the lack of an articulate and integrated engagement culture. One that will accommodate the needs of the operating environment taking into cognizance the religion, culture, and history of the social setting. The paper uses the semi-structured interview involving thirty participants from three states in the region; Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara as instrument for data collection. Via the positivists’ research paradigm, the paper analyzes the responses from the research participants (respondents) about the region’s peacebuilding predicaments and thus indicates the foundational- historical, socio-political, and security contexts that made violent conflict resilient. Simply put, the paper amplifies the failure of learning to learn from history. The respondents singled out the distortion of rural sociology as the major trigger. To a tune of almost 100%, the rural economy in the Northwest is agriculture-dependent. Thus, the adage; “noma na duke tshohon ciniki, kowa yazo duniya kai ya tarar”. To forestall the escalation of insecurity, we must begin to search for pathways to restore the pristine rural sociology of the region which was put together by the Sokoto jihad leaders. Nonetheless, the respondents have identified the pathways within the peacebuilding structures and the relative hindrances within them. These include; half-hearted peacebuilding structures and the (dis)articulated Islamic peacebuilding mechanisms. To overcome this drawback, the paper recommends the re-articulation of the Islamic model and its integration into the existing peacebuilding framework.

Socio-economic evaluation and technical efficiency of soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) production in North-West Nigeria: A parametric approach

This aim of study examined socioeconomic evaluation and technical efficiency (TE) of soybean (Glycine max) production with a parametric approach in North West, Nigeria. The multistage sampling method was used to select 160 soybean farmers. Primary data were used. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the stochastic production efficiency frontier model (SPEFM). The result shows that the mean age of a soybean farmer was 46 years. Soybean production was profitable with an estimated Gross Margin and Net Farm Income of 899,237.80 and 824, 468.22 Naira respectively. The Gross Margin Ratio and Rate of Return on Investment was calculated at 0.583 and 1.15 respectively. The significant socio-economic factors that increase the TE of soybean production include household size, age, years of experience, level of education, members of cooperatives, and number of extension contacts. The mean TE scores of soybean farmers was 53.77%, leaving a gap of 46.23% for improvement. This study recommends that credit with single-digit interest rates should be made available to soybean farmers.

COMPARATIVE STUDIES IN STOMATAL ATTRIBUTES OF FICUS SPECIES GROWN IN ZARIA, NORTHWEST NIGERIA

Leaves stomatal characteristics are basically the most commonly used characters in taxonomy and phylogenetic studies in plants. This study was conducted to compare stomatal attributes of eight different Ficus species obtained from Zaria, Northwest Nigeria. Leaves of Eight different species of Ficus: Ficus natalensis, F. glomosa, F. religiosa, F. elastica, F. polita, F. platyphylla, F. capensis, and F. sycomorus were used for the study. The stomatal characters were observed and measured using standard microscopic procedures during both the dry and rainy seasons. More so, the stomatal sizes of each Ficus species were measured using an ocular and stage micrometer. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design with fifty (50) replications. Data obtained was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Duncan's New Multiple Range Test applied to separate significant means at 5% level. The result obtained revealed significant variations (P≤0.05) in stomatal sizes and number among the species of Ficus at the two different seasons. Stomatal sizes in Ficus elastica were larger than those of all other Ficus species studied during dry and wet seasons (50.24 µm and 46.43 µm in length and 43.25µm and 35.43 µm in breadth) respectively. However, the highest number of stomata (47 stomata) during the dry season was recorded for Ficus sycomorus with F. natalensis having the highest number of stomata during the wet season (45 stomata). These findings inferred that, the species of Ficus grown in Zaria differ in stomatal size and number indicating their delimitation into separate species

Food safety through the eyes of rural market vendors in northwest Nigeria

Food safety through the eyes of rural market vendors in northwest Nigeria

Analysing Smartphone Usage Among Students of Tertiary Institutions in North-West Nigeria

This research investigates smartphone utilisation among students at higher education institutions in North-West Nigeria, concentrating on using patterns, reasons and contexts. The research used a survey design. Using standardised questionnaires, data was obtained from a sample of 396 students across four chosen Institutions. The simple random sampling method was used. Descriptive statistical methods were used for statistical analysis, including tabulations, frequency distributions and percentages. Research indicates that smartphones are essential to students' daily routines, with 76.01% using them consistently throughout the day and 77.27% engaging with them mainly in the evening. Communication is the primary objective, with 97.22% using smartphones for voice calls and 98.23% for messaging apps such as WhatsApp. Seventy-six point twenty-six per cent participate in educational activities using their gadgets. Excessive use is apparent, with 41.92% of individuals spending 3-4 hours daily, prompting worries around possible diversions. Significantly, hardly 4.04% use cell phones during lectures, indicating students' recognition of the need to focus in educational environments. Consequently, the report advises that schools adopt measures to incorporate smartphone use into educational settings successfully. This may include creating applications and platforms that improve educational engagement while reducing distractions. Additionally, training sessions for students on regulating smartphone use and its effects on academic performance should encourage a balanced approach to technology in school. By using smartphones as educational instruments, colleges may improve academic performance while mitigating the issues associated with excessive use.