Users In Nigeria Research Articles

Algorithmic governance or extortion? Everyday experiences of fintech for loans in Nigeria

ABSTRACT This paper aims to understand the everyday experiences of financialised inclusion amongst fintech users in Nigeria. Concerns about the use of fintech to drive financial inclusion in the global south have led social scientific scholars to argue that it extends processes of financialisation by employing opaque algorithms to extract the behavioural data of users in order to inundate them with unsecured credit and monetise their data through resale. The consequences of these practices are not fully understood across various contexts. Using a variety of ethnographic methods, this paper examines patterns of fintech adoption and usage in Jimeta, Nigeria. It demonstrates that while fintech allows people to sort out their personal issues amidst precarity, it is also entangled in algorithmic governance issues that facilitate algorithmic extortion to the detriment of user populations. Ultimately, the paper argues that fintech, contrary to claims about its potential to unlock prosperity, is one that opens up novel possibilities for profit making and accumulation, albeit with severe consequences on user populations.

Examining the Nexus between Insecurity and Financial Inclusion: Evidence of Mobile Banking in Nigeria

The research aimed to explore the impact of insecurity on mobile banking usage, assessing its effects on accessibility and affordability in Nigeria. Specifically focused on the Niger Delta region, the study sought to uncover insights into the relationship between insecurity and financial inclusion, particularly within the context of mobile banking services.The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design, utilizing purposive sampling to collect data from 311 mobile banking operators and users in Nigeria. A specialized questionnaire assessed how insecurity impacts mobile banking services in terms of usage, accessibility, and affordability. Data analysis involved employing ordinary least square model to test research hypotheses.The findings of the study revealed a significant negative relationship between insecurity and the usage, accessibility, and affordability of mobile banking in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The results indicated that as insecurity increases, there is a likelihood of a decrease in the usage and accessibility of mobile banking services. The study also highlighted the impact of insecurity on financial inclusion, particularly in the form of kidnapping, hostage-taking, violence, and other social vices, which have hampered the quality of financial products and the number of financially included individuals in the region.The study identified several gaps in the existing literature on insecurity and financial inclusion in Nigeria. It noted that previous studies often focused solely on financial inclusion, neglecting the influence of insecurity. Additionally, many studies were primarily theoretical and qualitative in nature, and some were found to have methodological and analytical limitations. Furthermore, the research highlighted that this study was the first of its kind to be conducted in the South-south region of Nigeria, indicating an existing gap in the understanding of insecurity and financial inclusion in this specific area.

Audience’s Perception of X (Formerly Twitter) Trends as a Tool for the Nigerian Public Sphere

Purpose: Unlike how we previously knew it to be, the public sphere has evolved to include digital spaces, making them metamorphose into digital public spheres. These digital spaces are more open, accessible, and void of certain bottlenecks. It is, therefore, now impossible to describe a public sphere without mentioning digital spaces. As such, this study aims to find out the audience's perception of X (formerly Twitter) trends as a tool for the Nigerian public sphere. Materials and Methods: The survey research method was used to obtain responses from 200 respondents, using the purposive sampling technique of selecting only X (formerly Twitter) users. Findings: The findings reveal that most X (formerly Twitter) users often utilise X (formerly Twitter) trends to some extent; X (formerly Twitter) trends influence the content of some users but not the majority of them, even if the majority use the feature. In addition, X (formerly Twitter) Trends highlight significant content for X (formerly Twitter) users in Nigeria. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Some of the recommendations of the study include the following: the government should pay closer attention to relevant public conversations on the X (formerly Twitter) platform to understand people’s take on certain issues and how to help them better; they should also partner with relevant agencies to set up regular digital literacy campaigns to help the public effectively engage with social media content on X (formerly Twitter). Also, stakeholders like X (formerly Twitter) should ensure suitable systems are in place for accurate Trends metrics to avoid misleading users with the wrong Trends or content by some users. In addition, X (formerly Twitter) should develop campaigns and guides to help users better understand how to engage with the Trends feature on X (formerly Twitter).

An Exploratory Study of Fintech Security Concerns among its Users in Nigeria

The rapid growth of financial technology (Fintech) in Nigeria has revolutionized the way people conduct financial transactions. However, this technological advancement brings along a host of security concerns that impact users' trust and confidence in using Fintech platforms. This exploratory study aims to investigate the security concerns among Fintech users in Nigeria, shedding light on the underlying factors contributing to these concerns. This research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys to gather comprehensive data. The qualitative phase involves in-depth interviews with a diverse sample of Fintech users, exploring their perceptions, experiences, and concerns related to the security aspects of Fintech services. The quantitative phase consists of a survey administered to a larger sample, aiming to quantify the prevalence and intensity of security concerns among Fintech users in Nigeria. The results highlighted the importance of addressing data breaches, privacy concerns, and authentication methods to alleviate user apprehensions. Participants expressed a desire for more transparency regarding the security practices of Fintech providers through improved communication and education to enhance user awareness and understanding of the security measures in place. This corroborates the notion that users' trust in Fintech services is depends on their perception of the security measures implemented by providers. The study's contribute to the existing literature on Fintech security, providing an in-depth understanding of the specific security concerns faced by Nigerian users, and identify potential strategies to enhance the security measures and alleviate users' concerns, which will ultimately foster greater adoption and utilization of Fintech services. Keywords: Fintech, financial services, security concerns, privacy, data breaches

Financial Technology as a Tool for Promoting Financial Inclusion in Nigeria

Financial technology (FinTech) as a concept and practice, started gaining serious worldwide traction following the outbreak of the global financial crisis in 2008. Thus, this paper is undertaken to critically discuss the emerging trends in financial technology and how they enhance financial inclusion, as well as the problems faced by financial technology in financial inclusion, with a specific focus on Nigeria. The paper adopts the exploratory qualitative research approach, using secondary data sources involving an extensive review of recent articles, periodicals, empirical and analytical studies, policy discussions, working papers, and other documented materials found to be pertinent to the study. The paper reveals that over the last decade, Fintech’s contribution to financial inclusion in Nigeria has exploded. FinTech has improved the usual way of rendering financial services and has created new inventions that have made financial activities not only more accessible but also faster, thereby easing the lives of financial service users in Nigeria, where mobile network technology is powering financial inclusion and bringing more people into the financial system. Despite the contributions of FinTech to financial inclusion in Nigeria, the paper notes the issue of high level of attrition in customer patronization and the threat of Cyber-attacks as major challenges. Based on this therefore, the paper recommends the need for regulatory bodies to do more to bring synergy between the operating companies and their interactions with the customers and prospective consumers for proper sensitization about these fintech services, considering the disinterest of many due to distrust of the system. Furthermore, the paper recommends that regulatory bodies should develop a more effective framework for monitoring cyber risk management at financial institutions using technology and laws that will duly prosecute cyber criminals and serve as a deterrent to others.

Phishing Attacks among Internet Banking Users in Nigeria: An Exploration of Remedial Strategies

This study meticulously examines phishing attacks targeting Nigerian internet banking users. It delves into prevailing trends, methodologies, and the effectiveness of existing countermeasures. It also proposes robust, tailored security measures in the form of a conceptual model. Similarly, by analyzing the latest tools and techniques, the study emphasizes the need for adaptive and continuously learning anti-phishing systems. The outcomes aim to empower stakeholders in the Nigerian banking sector, including policymakers, financial institutions, and users, to combat the complex and evolving threats posed by phishing attacks.

INTERNET USERS’ PERCEPTION OF THE PREVALENCE OF ONLINE INVESTMENT FRAUD AND VICTIMISATION IN NIGERIA

This study investigated the prevalence of online investment fraud and victimisation among internet users in Nigeria, focusing on sociodemographic characteristics, investment behaviours, victimisation. experiences, and perceptions of fraud risk factors. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design, utilizing Google Forms for data collection and convenience sampling to recruit 164 participants from Ilorin, Kwara State. The study adopted the Routine Activities Theory (RAT) as theoretical framework. Findings reveal that a majority of respondents are young individuals with tertiary education, indicating their susceptibility to online investment fraud due to limited financial experience and a desire for quick financial gains. Notably, over half of the participants actively engage in online investments. In addition, family and friends' recommendations and the pursuit of financial freedom influencing investment decisions significantly. However, a substantial proportion of investors report falling victim to online investment fraud, predominantly through Ponzi/pyramid schemes, crypto currency scams, and forex trading scams. Financial losses vary among victims, with factors such as lack of regulation, poverty, unemployment, and insufficient training on fraud prevention contributing to vulnerability. Statistical analysis indicates a significant relationship between investment experience and the perception of high returns as a risk factor for fraud victimisation. These findings underscore the urgent need for regulatory measures, public awareness campaigns, and educational initiatives to mitigate the risks associated with online investment fraud in Nigeria.

How does social media knowledge help in combating fake news? Testing a structural equation model

To counter the spread of fake news among social media users in Nigeria, this study modelled the moderating function of social media knowledge. To collect responses from participants throughout Nigeria's geopolitical zones, an online poll was run. The data were analysed using Smart PLS 3.6′s structural equation modelling (SEM). We discovered that among Nigerian social media users, instant news sharing, self-promotion, self-expression, and altruism are factors that contribute to the spread of false news. Particularly, altruism and self-promotion had a stronger impact on the dissemination of fake news. We discovered that among people with greater social media knowledge, the correlations between instant news sharing, self-promotion, self-expression, altruism, and false news sharing are less. This study's conclusion section highlighted how this result adds to both theory and practice.

Developing a Biblical Solution Model for Mitigating Phishing Risks Among Internet Banking Users in Nigeria: The Initial Investigation.

Purpose: This study aims to develop a comprehensive biblical solution model for mitigating phishing risks among Internet banking (IB) users in Nigeria by integrating trust in God, belief in God, and righteous behavior within the local context. Design/Methodology/Approach: A cross-sectional survey employing stratified sampling will gather data from a diverse sample of IB users. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) will be utilized to analyze relationships among constructs, including belief in God, belief in oneself, wisdom, understanding, consequences, defenselessness, trust in God, behaving righteously, and becoming righteous. Findings: The study introduces a novel biblical-based solution model, highlighting the significant influence of belief in God, belief in oneself, wisdom, and understanding on righteous behavior. Trust in God moderates the relationship between behaving righteously and becoming righteous, emphasizing the transformative power of faith in cybersecurity. Research Limitations/Implications: Limitations include the potential for response bias in self-reported data and the need for further validation of the proposed model. Implications revolve around the practical application of a faith-based approach to cybersecurity in the banking sector. Practical Implications: Banking institutions should consider incorporating the biblical solution model into their cybersecurity strategies, fostering trust and righteous behavior among IB users. This approach has the potential to enhance security and confidence in online banking. Originality/Value: This study pioneers the integration of biblical principles and glocalization into cybersecurity strategies, offering a unique perspective on phishing risk mitigation. It contributes to the literature on cybersecurity and provides practical insights for the Nigerian banking industry. Recommendations: We recommend that banking institutions in Nigeria explore the implementation of the proposed biblical solution model to bolster their cybersecurity efforts. Further empirical research is needed to validate and fine-tune the model, adapting it to diverse cultural contexts and enhancing its effectiveness in combating phishing threats.

Perceived effect of Artificial Intelligence on Ethical Journalism among Journalists in Kwara State.

This study examined the perceived effect of artificial intelligence on ethical journalism among journalists in Kwara State. The study made use of the survey research was adopted as the research method. Two hundred and five available journalists constituted the population of the study. A total of one hundred and thirty-four served as the sample size which was drawn from the total population of Twitter users in Nigeria by subjecting the population to the Krejcie and Morgan table. Copies of questionnaires were used to collect data which was analyzed with statistical methods indicating frequency, percentages, mean, and standard deviation. The study found that there is a positive perception and a notable level of awareness of artificial intelligence for journalistic practice among journalists in Kwara State. Also, journalists in Kwara State have a high level of usage of artificial intelligence, as they actively incorporate AI tools into their daily work routines, lastly, artificial intelligence influences ethical journalism amongst journalists in Kwara State. The study, therefore, recommends that; media organizations should foster more public awareness about AI’s role in journalism to foster trust and understanding among audiences. Communicate how AI tools enhance accuracy, storytelling, and data analysis in news reporting, and invest in training programs to upskill journalists on how to effectively use artificial intelligence tools for their reporting, as this will empower journalists to make the most out of AI technologies and leverage them to enhance the quality of their stories.

Unlocking the Future: Predicting Malaria Vaccine Uptake and Likely Barriers in Nigeria

Malaria vaccination was identified as a major effort to curb the Africa’s challenge of death amongst children under 5. As malaria vaccines are yet to be distributed in Nigeria, there is a debate on their acceptability, accessibility, and barriers to receiving them. This study was conducted to assess the uptake of the malaria vaccination, and its determinants among internet users in Nigeria. An online survey was conducted between July and August 2023 using a semi-structured questionnaire. It was set up using kobotoolbox forms and data were collected online. Data collected were analyzed using GNU PSPP. A total of 399 respondents participated in the study, with a mean age of 43.52 years (± 10.90). The majority of the respondents were young adults. The majority of our respondents (72.9%) have heard of the malaria vaccine while the majority said they would take the malaria vaccine if available (85.2%). The major source of information on the malaria vaccine was the internet (55.4%), health workers (51.9%), and media (Radio/Television/Posters/Billboards/Pamphlets) (44.9%). Malaria vaccination uptake had a significant positive association with the level of education and level of monthly income (p < 0.05 respectively). Lack of availability, information, knowledge, awareness, cost of a malaria vaccine, the long distance to get to vaccination centers were the leading barriers to vaccine uptake. This calls for key stakeholders to ensure that malaria vaccination sensitization is championed immediately in Nigeria and discouragement of the spread of conspiracy theories to eliminate the infodemic associated factors will reduce vaccine hesitancy and thereby increase malaria vaccination uptake in Nigeria. Keywords: Barriers, Determinant, Malaria, Malaria vaccine, Uptake, Vaccine.

Use of Mobile Technology-Based Library Services and Information Needs Satisfaction of Undergraduates in Universities in South-West Nigeria

Aim: Users’ satisfaction has been a subject of research since the establishment of the first university library in 1984, which signalled the commencement of the provision of information services to academic library users in Nigeria. However, empirical studies on the use of mobile technology-based library services in relation to students’ information needs satisfaction are rare. Thus, there is a knowledge gap, and this study, therefore, sets out to fill this gap by investigating the use of mobile technology-based library services and information needs satisfaction among undergraduates in universities in South-West Nigeria. Methods: The research design for the study was a survey, involving a multistage sampling technique. Two questionnaires (on the level of use of mobile technology-based library services and information needs satisfaction of undergraduates) were used to sample 1,086 undergraduates across three faculties at six universities in South-West Nigeria. 1,045 responses were analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: The study found that some mobile technology-based library services were frequently used by undergraduates, while others were not. Most of the students expressed satisfaction with the services provided by their university libraries. The results of this study also showed that there is a highly positive relationship (Pearson r = 0.53) between the use of mobile technology-based library services and the information needs satisfaction of undergraduates in South-West Nigeria. Conclusion: This study concluded that with a good deployment of infrastructure, the provision of mobile technology-based library services will encourage their effective use by undergraduates and, consequently, a higher level of information needs satisfaction. The study recommended, among other things, that university library management should subscribe regularly to mobile technology-based library services to overcome some of the challenges posed by COVID-19.

Awareness of cybercrime among online banking users in Nigeria

This study aimed to investigate the awareness of cybercrime among online banking users in Nigeria and provide quantitative data on various aspects related to cybersecurity awareness. A comprehensive survey was conducted among 283 online banking users in Nigeria to gather data. The data were analyzed to identify trends and patterns in cybersecurity awareness among Nigerian online banking users. The study revealed that 82.0% of the respondents were aware of cybercrime, indicating a high level of awareness among Nigerian online banking users. Social media (37.5%) and friends (16.0%) were identified as the primary sources of knowledge about cybercrime. The majority of respondents employed multi-factor authentication methods, such as login + password + biometric, to secure their online banking accounts. However, there was room for improvement in password preferences, as some respondents still used simple passwords. The most used features of online banking were transferring money between accounts (42.4%), checking account balances (26.5%), and paying bills (11.0%). This study contributes new insights to the existing body of knowledge by providing a comprehensive analysis of cybersecurity awareness among Nigerian online banking users. It emphasizes the evolving landscape of cybercrime awareness, the influence of digital platforms in disseminating information, and the importance of targeted awareness campaigns and improved security measures.

Design of a conceptual framework for cybersecurity culture amongst online banking users in Nigeria

This study aims to construct a comprehensive conceptual framework that elucidates the critical human factors influencing cybersecurity culture among online banking users in Nigeria. The research methodology is grounded in a meticulous examination of existing literature in the cybersecurity culture domain, serving as the foundation for this framework. The literature review reveals a conspicuous absence of academic research on cybersecurity culture within Nigeria and underscores the importance of comprehending its unique nuances. Key findings from the literature review highlight the prominence of “cybersecurity awareness,” “cybersecurity policy,” and “cybersecurity education” as influential factors. “Cybersecurity awareness” emerges as the most pivotal factor due to its recurrent emphasis and recognized centrality. “Cybersecurity policy” and “cybersecurity education” secure the second and third positions, respectively, due to their acknowledged significance in cultivating a security-conscious mindset among online banking users. Furthermore, the literature review exposes a research gap concerning the requisite “cybersecurity knowledge” that should permeate organizations and individuals to augment cybersecurity culture. Additionally, it reveals the underexplored influence of “social norms” and “interpersonal trust” in molding cybersecurity culture. This research accentuates the dearth of cybersecurity culture research within Nigeria and underscores the importance of understanding its unique facets. The proposed conceptual framework provides a valuable resource for designing tailored cybersecurity strategies and programs in Nigeria’s online banking sector. It advocates for prioritizing cybersecurity awareness, education, and policy, empowering users with the knowledge and skills needed to safeguard themselves against cyber threats. The model also highlights the relevance of recognizing the role played by social dynamics, interpersonal trust, and social norms in shaping cybersecurity behaviours.

Modelling the factors that determine online news-sharing behaviour of social media users: The role of perceived message and online environmental characteristics

This study modelled the online environment characteristics and message characteristics that predict news sharing among social media users. This study’s data were obtained from a cross-sectional national survey conducted in Nigeria. Qualtrics was used to recruit data from 1320 participants in Nigeria. The participants were recruited via a stratified quota sampling which reflected the country’s census statistics for gender and age. We found the message characteristics to predict news-sharing behaviour among social media users in Nigeria. By implication, the characteristics of a message encountered online influence the news-sharing behaviour of social media users. We also found that the online environment characteristics predict news-sharing behaviour, which implies that the external factor, that is, the relationship a user has with his network members, predicts sharing behaviour. Some theoretical and practical implications were provided to conclude the study.

Privacy And Security Issues: An Assessment of the Awareness Level of Smartphone Users in Nigeria

Privacy And Security Issues: An Assessment of the Awareness Level of Smartphone Users in Nigeria

Appraising alternative building technologies adoption in low-cost housing provision to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11

PurposeThough alternative building technologies (ABTs) have been encouraged to address accessible and affordable issues in low-cost housing (LCH) provision, their adoption is still overwhelmed with encumbrances. The encumbrances that hinder ABT adoption require an in-depth study, especially in developing countries like Nigeria. However, studies regarding ABT and its role in improving Nigeria's LCH to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 are scarce. This research investigates encumbrances to ABT adoption in Nigeria's LCH provision and suggests feasible measures to prevent or reduce the encumbrances, thereby improving achieving SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities).Design/methodology/approachThis research utilised qualitative research and adopted a face-to-face interview as the primary data collection. The interviewees comprised ABT practitioners and end users in Nigeria who were chosen by a convenient sampling technique. The study's data were analysed manually through a thematic approach.FindingsThis study shows that stakeholders should embrace ABT in LCH provision to improve achieving SDG 11 in Nigeria. Also, it clustered the perceived 20 encumbrances to ABT adoption in LCH provision into government/policymaker, housing developers/building contractors, ABT users and ABT manufacturers-related issues in Nigeria's context. This study suggested mechanisms to mitigate encumbrances to ABT adoption in LCH provision, thereby improving achieving SDG 11.Originality/valueThis research adds to the limited literature by analysing ABT adoption encumbrances in Nigeria's LCH provision, which could assist policy formulation for the uptake of ABT in LCH provision and improve achieving Goal 11.

Modelling the Information Abundance Factors That Predict Fake News Sharing Behaviour of Social Media Users: Testing the Moderating Role of Resilience

Fake news is widely shared on social media platforms, and while the literature is expanding, study into the motivations behind such sharing has not yet provided many answers. Drawing from the cognitive load theory and literature on resilience, we developed and tested a research model hypothesising why people share fake news. We also tested the moderating role of social media resilience. We obtained data from 1068 social media users in Nigeria using a chain referral technique with an online questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. Our findings suggest that information overload and information strain strongly predict fake news sharing. Social overload and irrelevant information also contributed to fake news sharing behaviour. Furthermore, resilience moderated and weakened the effect of information strain, information overload, irrelevant information, and social overload on fake news sharing in such a way that this effect is more pronounced among those with low resilience. This indicates that those with low resilience tend to share fake news when confronted with much information on social media. The study concluded with some theoretical and practical implications.

Why do people spread fake news? Modelling the factors that influence social media users’ fake news sharing behaviour

This study modelled the factors that influence fake news spreading behaviour among social media users. To gather our data, we used an online survey to sample 385 social media users in Nigeria, using a chain referral approach. Smart PLS structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data (SEM). We discovered that lack of mindfulness, religiosity, instant news sharing, self-expression all predicted fake news sharing behaviour of social media users. The impacts of lack of mindfulness and religiosity were found to have a greater effect on fake news sharing behaviour. Exploration was found to have a negative effect on fake news sharing. We concluded this study with some theoretical and practical implications.

End Users License Agreements and Legal Implications for Nigerian Users

The acceptance of EULAs by Nigerian users raises important legal implications. Users may face challenges related to privacy, data protection, intellectual property rights, and dispute resolution. EULAs are legal contracts that establish the terms and conditions under which end users can access and use software applications. Understanding EULAs is crucial for both software developers and end users. However, the complexity and length of EULAs often make them difficult for end users to comprehend and raise concerns about informed consent. The lack of user understanding and awareness regarding EULAs is a significant problem. The study examined end users license agreements and legal implications for Nigerian users. The study employed quantitative research approach and self-structured questionnaire used to collect the needed data. A sample size of two hundred and two sample of respondents was used for the study. Descriptive statistics was used to analyzed the collected data via the aid of Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The findings revealed that EULAs have significant legal implications for users in Nigeria, shaping their legal relationship with software providers and influencing aspects like data privacy, usage rights, and dispute resolution.