| 1 |
Author(s):
Anya Adebayo Anya, Kelechi Adura Anya, Eke Kehinde Anya, Akinwale Victor Ishola.
Page No : 1-7
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Integrating Machine Learning for Risk Assessment in Renewable Energy Investments in Developing Economies.
Abstract
Renewable energy investments are critical for addressing energy poverty and driving sustainable development in developing economies. However, these investments face significant challenges, including economic volatility, political instability, and environmental complexities, which hinder their successful implementation. This study examines the role of machine learning (ML) models as innovative tools for assessing and mitigating risks associated with renewable energy investments. The study's objectives include analysing the multifaceted risks in renewable energy investments, evaluating the effectiveness of ML techniques, such as predictive analytics, classification models, and neural networks, in risk assessment, and proposing strategies to facilitate their integration into decision-making processes. A qualitative research methodology was adopted, utilizing a comprehensive desk review of existing literature. The findings reveal that ML models enhance the accuracy and efficiency of risk assessments by providing advanced predictive capabilities, improving decision-making, and addressing the complexities of economic, political, and environmental uncertainties. Despite their potential, challenges such as data quality issues, technological barriers, and limited expertise in developing economies remain significant hurdles.
The study recommends policy reforms to support ML adoption, targeted capacity-building initiatives to improve ML and data science, and strategic collaborations among governments, private sectors, and international organizations.
| 2 |
Author(s):
Uche Judith Chika, Onyejiaka Joseph Chukwudi, Mercy Arop Ewah.
Page No : 8-31
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An Investigation into the Compliance Levels of Students’ Hostels to Tenancy Agreements in Awka, Anambra State.
Abstract
Student housing represents a critical aspect of university life, with significant implications for academic performance and overall well-being. This study was to investigate the compliance levels of students to tenancy agreements in hostels in Ifite, on campus and temporary site, with a view to enhancing compliance to tenancy agreements. The research objectives were to identify categories of student hostels, assess components of tenancy agreements, evaluate compliance levels, investigate reasons for non-compliance, and examine effects of non-compliance in Awka student hostels. The study focused on public and private hostels in these three areas, housing students from Nnamdi Azikiwe University. The objectives of the study informed the drafting of research hypothesis tested for the research study. The study employed a mixed-method approach, utilizing questionnaires and interviews. The population comprised 4,252 students from public and private hostels, with a sample size of 662 (351 public, 311 private) determined using Taro Yamane's formula. Additionally, 61 hostel managers (17 public, 44 private) were surveyed. Out of the 662 questionnaire distributed, 580 were retrieved and found usable, representing a response rate of 87.6% (580) for students and 88.5% (54) for hostel managers. Key findings revealed diverse hostel categories, with public hostels predominantly standard (84.0%) and university-owned, while private hostels offered more variety, including luxury options (15.4%). Financial constraints emerged as the primary reason for non-compliance across both hostel types (65.5% public, 68.9% private).The chi-square test and one-way ANOVA was used to test the hypothesis. The study found a significant relationship between awareness of tenancy terms and compliance levels (χ² = 78.24, p < 0.001). Implementation of standardized agreements showed a positive impact on compliance (F = 32.15, p < 0.001). The research concluded that while challenges exist, there are clear opportunities for improvement in student housing management and compliance levels of students to tenancy agreements. Recommendations include implementing more flexible payment options, enhancing communication of agreement terms, standardizing tenancy agreements, and adopting balanced enforcement strategies. These findings provide valuable insights for improving compliance levels and overall living conditions in Awka student hostels.
| 3 |
Author(s):
Thomas Achu Uduo (Ph.D.), Immaculata Ofu Obaji-Akpet (Ph.D.).
Page No : 32-45
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Evaluating Proactive Strategies Against Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering in Nigeria: A Critical Analysis of the Buba Marwa Model and Its Implications for National Security and Economic Development.
Abstract
This study critically evaluates proactive strategies employed to combat drug trafficking and money laundering in Nigeria, specifically assessing the efficacy and implications of the Buba Marwa Model. Under Mohammed Buba Marwa’s leadership since 2021, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) adopted rigorous, intelligence-led operations, enhanced inter-agency cooperation, and community-centred preventive education to tackle these interconnected crimes. Utilizing a qualitative methodology, including content analysis of official reports and thematic analysis of interviews with key stakeholders, the research reveals significant improvements, notably heightened drug seizures and dismantling of illicit financial networks. Despite these gains, persistent challenges such as insufficient funding, and socio-economic vulnerabilities impede sustained effectiveness. The study situates these findings within Routine Activity and Deterrence Theories, highlighting the necessity of increasing enforcement capabilities, regulatory rigor, and community empowerment. The analysis emphasises the critical importance of robust institutional reforms, regional and international collaboration, and policy initiatives addressing economic inequalities. In Conclusion, the Marwa Model demonstrates significant potential for improving Nigeria's national security and economic stability but requires sustained political commitment and comprehensive strategies to achieve lasting impacts.
| 4 |
Author(s):
Ifekanandu Chukwudi Christian (Ph.D.), Asagba Samuel (Ph.D.).
Page No : 46-62
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Supply Chain Innovation and Operational Efficiency of Food and Beverage Manufacturing Firms in South-South Nigeria.
Abstract
This study explored supply chain innovation and operational efficiency of food and beverage manufacturing firms in South-South Nigeria. The study employed the correlational research design and the positivist research philosophy. The population of this study consisted of 85 registered food and beverage manufacturing firms in South-South Nigeria. A sample size of 48 firms was selected for the study using purposive sampling technique. The sampling units consisted of managers of the selected food and beverage manufacturing firms in South-South Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The data collected were analyzed statistically while the hypotheses were tested using Spearman Rank Order Correlation Coefficient (rho) and SPSS software program version 24. The findings revealed that supply chain process innovation has a significant relationship with cost efficiency of food and beverage manufacturing firms in South-South Nigeria. This study also found a significant relationship between supply chain process innovation and time efficiency of food and beverage manufacturing firms in South-South Nigeria. The study equally revealed that supply chain technology innovation has a significant relationship with cost efficiency of food and beverage manufacturing firms in South-South Nigeria. The study also found a significant relationship between supply chain technology innovation and time efficiency of food and beverage manufacturing firms in South-South Nigeria. Based on these findings, it was concluded that supply chain innovation is capable of improving operational efficiency of food and beverage manufacturing firms in South-South Nigeria. Therefore, it is recommended that food and beverage manufacturing firms in Nigeria particularly those that are experiencing operational inefficiency should adopt supply chain innovation as it would improve operational efficiency.
| 5 |
Author(s):
Okoro D. J., Inyang U. E., Akpan W. E., Umoh U. I..
Page No : 63-81
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Efficacy of Mindfulness Therapy in Mitigating Psychological Distress among Informal Caregivers of Children with Autism: An Analysis of Predictive Factors.
Abstract
The mental health of informal caregivers, especially those caring for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a growing concern, particularly in resource-limited settings. This multi-phase study investigated the roles of health literacy and perceived stigmatisation on psychological distress among informal caregivers of children with ASD in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Phase One involved instrument adaptation and validation through a pilot study. Phase Two utilized a cross-sectional design to collect survey data from 195 caregivers, identifying those experiencing psychological distress. Phase Three employed a pre-test post-test control group experimental design to evaluate the effectiveness of Mindfulness Therapy in reducing psychological distress. Findings from Phase Two revealed that health literacy significantly and negatively predicted psychological distress (β = -0.04; p < 0.05), while perceived stigmatisation had a significant positive effect (β = 0.05; p < 0.05). The regression model explained 5% of the variance in psychological distress, with both variables collectively contributing to caregivers' distress levels (F (3, 191) = 4.53, p = 0.004). In Phase Three, results showed that Mindfulness Therapy significantly reduced psychological distress compared to the control group (t = 4.50, p < 0.05). Paired samples t-tests confirmed a significant reduction in distress levels among the Mindfulness Therapy group (t = 4.91, p < 0.05), with a mean difference of 13.50 between pre- and post-intervention scores. The study revealed the need for accessible mental health interventions for caregivers of children with ASD. It recommends training mental health professionals in evidence-based therapies like Mindfulness Therapy.
| 6 |
Author(s):
Kpernyam Linda Nadoo.
Page No : 82-99
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The Contributions of Cooperative Societies to Poverty Reduction in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria.
Abstract
This study examines the contributions of cooperative societies to poverty reduction in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area (LGA), Benue State, Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were to ascertain the contributions of cooperative societies to poverty reduction, examine the challenges faced by cooperative societies and to proffer strategies that will enhance efficiency in cooperative societies. The study utilizes a cross-sectional survey design, collecting data from 400 respondents selected through cluster, purposive, and simple random sampling techniques. Questionnaires and focus group discussions were used as methods of data collection while collected data was analysed qualitatively and quantitatively. Findings of the study revealed that cooperative societies have contributed to poverty reduction in the areas of employment generation, increased production, income generation, skills acquisition and market access to its members. In terms of challenges faces by cooperative societies, the study found poor leadership, lack of collateral, poor mobilization/awareness and insufficient funds as the major challenges confronting cooperative societies in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area. Based on the findings, the study recommended capacity building for leaders of cooperative societies, access to credit facilities, sensitization and awareness, financial support, monitoring and evaluation among others as measures that will enhance efficiency in cooperative societies to enhance their contributions to poverty reduction.
| 7 |
Author(s):
Peter Yidana (Ph.D.).
Page No : 100-123
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Predictors Postgraduate Research Quality: Students Perceptions.
Abstract
Research is a fundamental component of higher education institutions’ service delivery. Through applied research, universities identify the skills, technologies, and fields that are essential to employers. They then collaborate with companies to design programs that address real-world needs and effectively prepare students for the job market. Despite its significance, there is a noticeable gap in understanding the factors that drive the quality of postgraduate research. This study aims to identify the main factors and benchmarks influencing postgraduate research quality, using the education production function as a framework. Data were collected using a cross-sectional research design, involving 236 students, consisting of 126 males and 110 females. To analyze the data, the researcher employed inferential statistics, particularly Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results indicate a significant positive impact of research supervisors’ competence on students’ performance in thesis evaluations. The findings also suggest that a supervisor’s competence positively influences students’ satisfaction with their thesis evaluations. Further analysis revealed that students' performance in the Advanced Research Methods course significantly affected their success in the research thesis. However, the effect of students' academic performance in the Advanced Research Methods course on their satisfaction levels was statistically insignificant. The analysis also showed that the correlation between access to research facilities and students’ performance in their thesis evaluations was insignificant. Conversely, there was a positive and significant relationship between access to research facilities and students’ satisfaction with the quality of their theses. In conclusion, while competent thesis supervisors exert a positive influence on students’ success in their research thesis projects, the relationship between the Advanced Research Methods course and students’ satisfaction is more complex. Additionally, although access to research facilities does not significantly influence students’ performance in research thesis projects, it plays a critical role in shaping students’ satisfaction with the quality of their theses. The study recommends that universities enhance support for thesis supervisors, as their expertise significantly impacts students’ thesis performance and satisfaction. To achieve this, universities should offer professional development programs to enhance supervisors' competencies. Furthermore, mentoring programs should be implemented, allowing experienced supervisors to share their knowledge. This comprehensive support is crucial for fostering a positive educational environment for students. Moreover, universities should consider updating the Advanced Research Methods course to make it more practical, focusing on the specific research challenges that students encounter while working on their theses. By aligning the course content with real-world research situations, students are likely to perform better and feel more satisfied with their learning experiences.
