BSP Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (BSPJMR)
BSP Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (ISSN: 3043-6680) is a leading, peer-reviewed journal that serves as a dynamic platform for the dissemination of high-quality research across a wide array of academic disciplines. By fostering collaboration and cross-disciplinary dialogue, the journal seeks... More
Exploring the Artistic Potentials of Indigenous Earth Resources: Pathways to Sustainable Creative Practice at Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo
The growing global emphasis on sustainability and cultural relevance in education has led to renewed interest in indigenous materials within creative disciplines. This study investigates the artistic potentials of locally available earth resources such as kaolinite clay, laterite, sandy clay, red earth, and burnt clay ash within the context of sustainable art practice at Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo. Employing a qualitative case study design with elements of practice-based research, data were collected through semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and material experimentation involving lecturers, studio technicians, students, and local artisans. The findings reveal that these earth materials possess significant artistic value and practical applicability in sculpture, mural painting, pigment production, and textured canvas work. Materials such as kaolinite and red earth demonstrated strong aesthetic and structural performance, while laterite and burnt clay ash offered unique visual effects and cultural resonance. The study also identified challenges such as inconsistent material properties, lack of standard processing methods, and institutional hesitation toward non-industrial materials. A comparative analysis with conventional art materials highlighted the ecological, economic, and cultural advantages of adopting indigenous resources in art education. The integration of these materials not only fosters sustainable creative practice but also reinforces cultural identity and environmental stewardship among learners. Based on these insights, the study recommends curriculum integration, capacity building, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement as strategic pathways for institutionalizing the use of indigenous materials. This research contributes to the discourse on decolonizing art education and advancing eco-conscious pedagogy, offering a replicable model for similar institutions in resource-constrained settings across Africa.
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Innovations in Nigeria’s Food System: Transformative Approaches to Hunger and Malnutrition
Nigeria continues to face high levels of hunger and malnutrition despite ongoing efforts to strengthen food systems and public nutrition programs. This review explores the role of innovation in transforming Nigeria’s food system to improve food and nutrition security. Using a qualitative, desk-based approach, the study synthesizes recent peer-reviewed literature, government reports, and program evaluations from 2018 to 2024 to examine the design, implementation, and impact of various innovations. These include food fortification, biofortification, school feeding programs, digital nutrition platforms, urban agriculture, cash transfers, and behavior change communication strategies. A thematic analysis and comparative evaluation framework were applied to assess each innovation’s effectiveness, implementation reach, scalability, and contextual challenges. Findings reveal that food fortification stands out as the most effective and scalable intervention, reaching large population segments with measurable reductions in micronutrient deficiencies. Biofortified crops show strong potential but require expanded farmer education, seed access, and cultural adaptation. School feeding and digital platforms contribute to dietary improvement and awareness, though their impact is constrained by limited coverage, digital access, and funding reliability. Urban agriculture and social protection programs offer localized solutions but face scalability barriers. The review concludes that no single innovation is sufficient to address Nigeria’s nutrition challenges. Rather, a multi-pronged, context-specific, and cross-sectoral approach is required. The study emphasizes the need for policy coherence, decentralized implementation, inclusive communication models, and sustainable financing to enhance impact. It offers strategic recommendations to align agriculture, health, education, and ICT policies in building a resilient and nutrition-sensitive food system that supports progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 2.
Assessment of Entrepreneurial Aspirations and Challenges among Business Education Students in Adamawa State, Nigeria
The purpose of this study was to assess the entrepreneurial aspirations and challenges among business students in Adamawa State. Three specific objectives were used. Three research questions were formulated to guide the study. Theory of planned behavior propounded by (Ajzen, 1991) was adopted. The methodology adopted for the study was descriptive survey design. The population size was the whole tertiary institutions in Adamawa State namely: Modibbo Adama University, Yola, (MAU) Adamawa State University, Mubi (ASU) Federal College of Education, Yola, (FCEY) College of Education, Hong, (COE), Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, (FPM) and Adamawa State Polytechnic, yola (ASPY) sample and sampling technique were employed were by in each of the tertiary institutions, 20 of the students were randomly sampled which gave a total of 120 students as respondents. 106 was retrieved. The data obtained were analyzed using simple percentages. It was concluded that entrepreneurship education influence aspiration of Business Education students in Adamawa State to establish new business. And the barriers that influence aspirations of Business Education students in Adamawa State to establish new among others are; financial constraints, fear of failure, and a lack of practical experience. The findings reveal a complex view of entrepreneurship that extends beyond traditional business creation, encompassing elements of social innovation and personal fulfillment. Students displayed a generally positive attitude towards entrepreneurship, influenced strongly by their involvement in practical entrepreneurship-related activities and their familial backgrounds. Also, Challenges students face are; financial constraints, fear of failure, and a lack of practical experience
Globalisation and the Transformation of Local Theatre Traditions: Challenges, Adaptations, and Cultural Integrity
This research paper explores the complex and multifaceted impact of globalisation on local theatre traditions, examining how cultural exchange, technological advancements, and economic integration have influenced traditional performance practices across different regions. As globalisation continues to reshape artistic landscapes, local theatre forms face both opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration and challenges related to cultural homogenisation, loss of authenticity, and institutional marginalisation. This study investigates how traditional theatre practitioners navigate the pressures of global influence while striving to preserve their unique cultural identities. Drawing upon case studies from diverse theatrical traditions, interviews with theatre practitioners, and a review of existing literature, this paper identifies key trends, benefits, and obstacles associated with the intersection of globalisation and local theatre. By analysing real-world applications, the research highlights best practices for maintaining cultural integrity in the face of external influences while addressing concerns such as commercialisation, audience fragmentation, and the commodification of heritage performances. Ultimately, the findings suggest that while globalisation presents significant opportunities for artistic innovation and international exposure, its successful implementation requires strategic planning, cultural sensitivity, and a nuanced understanding of the socio-political dimensions of theatrical practice.
Prevalence of Cultism Among Public Secondary School Students in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
This study examines the prevalence, causes, and consequences of cultism among public secondary school students in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, through the lens of social learning theory. The study employs a descriptive survey design, with data gathered from 110 teachers via structured questionnaires. The aim was to explore their perceptions of how students' behaviors are influenced by peer pressure, personal security concerns, and the search for social identity, as posited by social learning theory. Key research questions focused on identifying the extent of cultism, its root causes, and the impact on students’ academic performance as observed by these teachers. The analysis utilized frequency distributions, percentages, and mean rankings to assess cult-related activities and their educational implications. The results indicate a high prevalence of cultism, with 93.7% of respondents reporting a high prevalence of cultism among students. Peer group pressure and personal security concerns (7.7% each) were identified by respondents as primary causes of student involvement. The study further highlights severe consequences, including frequent school disruptions, declining academic performance, and parental reluctance to enroll children in affected schools, which has resulted in decreased student attendance and resource allocation. These findings reveal a pressing need for comprehensive, theory-driven interventions to combat cultism and foster a safer, more conducive educational environment in Uyo. The study recommends a multi-pronged approach involving school administrators, parents, law enforcement, and community organizations.
Conflict Theory and its Implications to Farmers–Herders Relations in Nigeria
This study investigates the effects of conflict theory on the intricate relationships between farmers and herders in Nigeria, a situation characterized by escalating violence and socio-economic unrest. It begins with an overview of conflict theory, highlighting its significance in analysing social and political disputes. By applying this theoretical approach to the dynamics between farmers and herders, the research uncovers critical issues contributing to these tensions, such as competition for land and resources, ethnic divisions and climate change. The study explores how these conflicts affect local communities and society as a whole, pointing out the impact on security, livelihoods and social unity. It emphasises the importance of understanding these relationships through the lens of conflict theory, focusing on power imbalances and resource distribution as key elements driving conflict. Additionally, the study suggests possible strategies for conflict resolution and peace-building, advocating for collaborative methods that encourage dialogue and fair resource management. Acknowledging the wider societal effects, the research provides policy recommendations aimed at promoting sustainable coexistence between farmers and herders. Lastly, it concludes by highlighting areas for future research and discussion, urging interdisciplinary approaches to tackle the complex nature of farmer-herder relations in Nigeria.
Experimental Design, Construction, and Performance Evaluation of a Masonry Parapet Wall Using Local Materials
Parapet walls serve as critical components in building construction, providing architectural aesthetics and essential safety functions, particularly at rooftop edges. This study presents the design, construction, and experimental evaluation of a manually constructed masonry parapet wall, built using locally available hollow concrete blocks bonded with a cement-sand mortar mix and finished with a cement-based external plaster layer. The objective was to assess the wall’s mechanical, environmental, and geometric performance through standardized civil engineering test procedures. Five categories of tests were conducted: compressive strength of block units (in accordance with ASTM C140 and BS EN 772-1), deflection under static loading (ASTM E72), resistance to moisture penetration (BS EN 12865), thermal conductivity performance (ASTM C518), and geometric alignment accuracy (evaluated using procedures adapted from BS 5606). Testing was conducted under controlled environmental conditions of 28–32 °C temperature and 55–65% relative humidity to simulate real-world construction environments. Experimental results showed that the average compressive strength of the blocks was 5.8 N/mm², exceeding the minimum required standard. The wall exhibited a maximum deflection of 1.3 mm under applied load, a moisture ingress depth of 0.3 cm after 24 hours of water exposure, and an internal temperature rise of only 1.5 °C. Geometric deviations in verticality and level were minimal, measured at 2.5 mm/m and 1.8 mm/m, respectively. The findings confirm that the wall meets structural, moisture, and thermal performance criteria and highlight the feasibility of constructing safe, durable, and cost-effective parapet walls in resource-constrained settings using basic tools and materials.
Design, Construction, and Performance Evaluation of a Manually Operated Centrifugal Honey Extractor with Bevel Gear Transmission for Small-Scale Apiculture
This study investigates the performance of a manually operated centrifugal honey extractor developed to enhance efficiency and usability for small-scale and sustainable beekeeping practices. The extractor incorporates a bevel gearbox mechanism that converts shaft rotation from a horizontal to a vertical axis, enabling ergonomic and energy-efficient operation. The primary aim was to design a cost-effective solution that supports low-resource beekeepers while maintaining high honey extraction performance. To evaluate its effectiveness, performance tests were carried out under varying honey loads. Key performance metrics included extraction efficiency, rotational speed, user-applied force, and extraction time. The results revealed an extraction efficiency ranging from 92.5% to 96.8%, demonstrating the device’s capability to extract honey effectively with minimal wastage. User effort increased with rotational speed, peaking at 16 N at 140 rpm—an effort level deemed acceptable within ergonomic standards. The extraction time varied from 60 to 110 seconds depending on the honey load, highlighting the machine’s adaptability to different operational conditions. The inclusion of the bevel gearbox significantly reduced the manual effort required, contributing to smoother and more stable operation, even during prolonged use. Overall, the extractor proved to be a reliable and user-friendly tool suitable for decentralized honey production. Its simple construction and mechanical efficiency make it ideal for rural or remote areas where electricity access is limited. The study concludes that the manually operated centrifugal honey extractor is a practical and sustainable alternative for small-scale beekeepers. Future design improvements could include an integrated braking system and ergonomic modifications to further enhance usability and reduce operator fatigue.
: Honey, centrifugal force, extraction, manual, harvesting
Microbial Safety and Entrepreneurial Opportunities in Agri-Food Processing among Small-Scale Farmers in Benue State, Nigeria
The intersection of food microbiology and agricultural entrepreneurship presents a critical but underexplored frontier in achieving food safety, economic empowerment, and sustainable rural development. This study investigates the microbial safety practices and entrepreneurial dynamics among small-scale agri-food processors in Benue State, Nigeria, a region known for its agricultural productivity and informal food processing systems. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combined quantitative surveys (n = 150), key informant interviews, and microbiological analysis of 60 processed food samples to evaluate hygiene practices, microbial contamination levels, and their implications for enterprise performance. Results reveal widespread microbial contamination, with over 70% of tested food samples exceeding Codex Alimentarius safety thresholds for Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella spp., primarily due to inadequate hygiene, use of untreated water, and lack of formal food safety training. Despite these risks, food safety practices were found to be positively correlated with improved entrepreneurial outcomes such as increased income, market access, and reduced customer complaints (p < 0.05). Most processors, particularly women, expressed willingness to adopt safer practices if training and infrastructural support were made available. The study concludes that microbial safety is not only a public health imperative but also a strategic enabler of rural agribusiness competitiveness. It recommends institutionalized hygiene training, improved access to potable water, food safety certification schemes, and stronger policy integration of food safety into Nigeria’s agricultural and MSME development agendas. By embedding food microbiology into entrepreneurial practice, smallholder processors can unlock new markets, increase profitability, and contribute to safer, more resilient food systems.
Assessment of Skills Acquired through Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme among Science and Technical College Students in Benue State, Nigeria.
The study assessed the skills acquired through the Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) among science and technical college students in Benue State, Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to find out the technical, entrepreneurial, and employability skills students acquired through SIWES. The study was guided by three research questions. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study was 432 final-year students and 326 trade teachers of science and technical colleges in Benue State in the 2022/2023 academic session. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled “Skill Acquired through SIWES Questionnaire (SA-SIWES-Q). Data collected were analyzed using Mean and Standard Deviation to answer the research questions. The study found that Science and Technical College students acquired technical skills like skills for estimating the cost of work; skills for handling and using tools; and skills for selecting the right material for the right job among others. It was also found that through SIWES students acquire entrepreneurial skills such as innovative skills, planning skills, creativity skills, economic skills, skills for managing business firms, and financial management skills among others. The finding also revealed that SIWES enables students to acquire employability skills such as communication skills, problem-solving skills, skills for working under pressure, organizing skills, and interpersonal skills among others. The researchers recommended that SIWES be introduced in the curriculum of all educational programs that offer technical and science skills and that strict supervision be conducted.
Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES)
Relationship between Self-efficacy on the Productivity of Teachers in Technical Colleges in Niger State, Nigeria
The study investigates the relationship between self-efficacy on the productivity of teachers in technical colleges in Niger State, Nigeria. The study employed a descriptive research design. The population of the study comprises 60 teachers from four (4) state Technical Colleges in Niger State. Purposive sampling was utilized to select the entire teachers from the state Technical Colleges in Niger State. A structured questionnaire of 4-point Likert scale was used to collect data which was validated by research experts. The study adopted Mean and standard deviation were employed to analyze and interpret the responses of the respondents regarding the items captured in each of the research instruments of self-efficacy and teachers’ productivity while regression analysis was employed to ascertain the relationship between teachers’ self-efficacy and their productivity. The findings of the study show that teachers’ self-efficacy has a significant positive relationship with teachers’ productivity. The study however recommends that teachers with low self-efficacy should seek the services of school counselors to counsel them on how to improve their self-efficacy which will lead to high productivity
Perceptions of Causes, Effects, and Solutions to Abandoned Public Building Projects in Benue State, Nigeria
This study investigated the perceptions of causes, effects, and solutions to abandoned public building projects in Benue State, Nigeria. Three research questions guided the study. The study adopted a survey research design. The study used the entire population of 34 respondents made up of building professionals and supervisors. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data collected were analyzed using mean and standard deviation for answering the research questions and a t-test was used to test the null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that there are many types of abandoned public housing projects in Benue State such as government quarters, public toilets, and warehouses among others. Findings also revealed that lack of proper analysis, delayed disbursement of funds to the contractors, and non-continuation of projects by successive regimes are some of the causes of abandonment of public house projects in Benue State. Findings further show that a professional team ensuring proper monitoring of the progress of work, timely disbursement of funds to contractors, background check of contractors’ financial capacity before awarding a contract, and implementing strict penalties for both parties for breach of contract are some of the solutions to the problem of abandoned public houses projects. It was concluded that the causes of abandoned public house projects are surmountable with the implementation of the solutions proffered. It was recommended that the government of Benue State should ensure timely disbursement of funds to contractors to ensure projects are completed within the specified time.
Socio-Economic Determinants of Land Use and Land Cover Change in Kwande Local Government Area, Nigeria
This study investigates the socio-economic drivers of land use and land cover change (LULCC) in Kwande Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria. Utilizing a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 398 household heads through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Binary Logistic Regression (BLR). The results revealed widespread engagement in forest-degrading activities, with 98.5% of respondents involved in farming, 82.1% in logging, and 58.7% in fuelwood harvesting. Regression analysis identified age, education, income, years of residence, and occupation as significant predictors of involvement in unsustainable land use practices. Specifically, lower levels of education and income, longer residency in the area, and farming as a primary occupation significantly increased the likelihood of engaging in forest exploitation. The findings indicate that socio-economic vulnerabilities and livelihood dependence on land are key contributors to LULCC in the region. This study underscores the urgent need for integrated land management policies that promote alternative livelihoods, environmental education, enforcement of land use regulations, and sustainable energy access. By addressing the root socio-economic causes of land degradation, stakeholders can enhance conservation efforts and ensure long-term ecological sustainability. The study contributes to the localized understanding of human-environment dynamics and offers evidence-based recommendations for mitigating environmental degradation in rural Nigerian communities.
EFFECTS OF NITROGEN RATE ON PERFORMANCE OF WHEAT (Triticum aestivum) IN JALINGO, TARABA STATE OF NIGERIA
Field experiments were conducted in the 2017 and 2018 dry seasons at the Taraba State College of Agriculture, Department of Crop Science Irrigation Research Farm-Nukkai in Jalingo to investigate the response of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties to nitrogen rate. The experiments were laid out in a split-plot design with seven nitrogen rates (0, 30, 60, 90, 120, -1 150, and 180 kg N ha ) assigned to the main plot and three wheat varieties, Cettia, Lifen, Reyna-28 assigned to the subplot. The treatments were replicated three times. The subplot size 2 was 3 m x 2 m (6 m ) but this paper focuses on nitrogen rate only. Data were collected on percentage seedlings establishment count, number of fertile tillers, Plant height, -2 -1 number of spikes m , number of spikelets spike , number of -1 grains spike , weight of 1000 grain weight, grain yield and harvest index. All the data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and means were separated using the Least Significant Difference (LSD) procedure. The results revealed that nitrogen fertilization had a significant effect (P<0.05) on wheat yield and yield components but percentage seedlings establishment count remained unaffected at varying -1 nitrogen rates. Plant height was best at 180 kg N ha while fertile tillers, all the yield characters, and final grain yield -1 performed best at 120 kg N ha . In conclusion, a Nitrogen rate -1 of 120 kg N ha proved to be the best rate for higher grain yield. A nitrogen rate of 120 kg ha is recommended for irrigated wheat production in the study area however, the addition of 180 kg N 1 ha- should be used for animal pasture production in the area.
IMPACTS OF PUBLIC RELATIONS TACTICS ON THE 2024 STUDENT'S UNION CAMPAIGN AT BENUE STATE UNIVERSITY, MAKURDI, NIGERIA
This study “Impacts of public relations tactics on the 2024 Students' Union campaign at the Benue State University Makurdi, sought to examine the impacts of PR tactics during the 2024 Students' Union, campaigns at the Benue State University. The sample size for this study was 400 respondents selected from the Benue State University, population, where the population is put at 22,928 as given by the Students Affairs Unit (2023). The size was determined using Taro Yamane collection. The copies of questionnaire were administered to 400 sampled respondents that were purposively selected on the basis of their knowledge on public relations. Findings revealed that public relations tactics impacted the Students' Union elections at the Benue State University as they informed students on contestants, educated people about the time and the respective venues for voting, enhanced large participation in the elections, and election process and activities. The study also found out that the extent which PR tactics impacted the 2024 students' union elections at Benue State University, Makurdi was to a very large extent. The study however, recommend that stakeholders, especially students and university management should ensure that there is adequate finance to enable the success of campus politics through public relations practice students' union elections.
THE INTERVENING EFFECT OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CAPITAL STRUCTURE AND PERFORMANCE OF SMALL AND MEDIUM SCALE ENTERPRISES IN BENUE STATE, NIGERIA
The main objective of the study was to investigate the intervening effect of financial management on the relationship between capital structure and firm performance of small and medium scale enterprises (SME) in Benue state, Nigeria, focusing on all SME in Benue state registered with Corporate affairs commission from 2019-2023 using ex-post facto research design. The variables used were short term debt (STD) and Long term debt (LTD) for capital structure and return on assets (ROA) as proxy for firm performance. Regression analysis, using random effects model, as determined by hausman specification test was used for data analysis using STATA 20. Findings were that, there exists a positive and significant effect of short term debt while there was a negative and insignificant relationship between long term debt on return on assets. However, on intervening with financial management, the coefficients of margin of contributions of short term debt and long term debt on firm performance became significantly enhanced. Based on the results, the study recommended, among others that, firm owners and mangers should ensure that the processes of sourcing for funds either for expansion or investment purposes of SME must submit completely to the relevant financial provisions. Government and regulatory agencies should put in place stringent laws to compel firms to embrace financial management principles and defaulting firms should be sanctioned appropriately.
ANTICIPATED PERFORMANCE INDEX OF URBAN TREE SPECIES IN MAKURDI, NIGERIA
The study investigated the anticipated performance index of urban tree species in Makurdi, Nigeria. The objectives were to determine the air pollution tolerance and anticipated performance indices. Multistage and purposive sampling methods were used to select five (5) plots measuring 400 m × 30 m. All the individual trees within the sampled plots were identified and counted. A 30% sample intensity was purposively used to select six (6) tree species that were most frequently found. Fresh mature leaves were randomly picked in triplicates from each tree species and transported to the laboratory for analysis. The APTI and API values were calculated by the application of quantitative parameters of biochemical analysis. Descriptive statistics (percentage, frequency, bar chart) and inferential statistics (correlation) were also used to analyze the data. The results showed that Mangifera indica and Anacardium occidentale were considered to have high levels of all biochemical concentrations. Similarly, Mangifera indica and Anacardium occidentale were found to have the highest APTI and API values. This implies that these species were sensitive to air pollution. Mangifera indica and Anacardium occidentale showed good API gradation, in contrast to poor performance recorded by Albizia lebbeck, Polyalthia longifolia, Eleais guineensis, and Delonix regia. The findings of this study conclude that Mangifera indica and Anacardium occidentale are better suited for urban settings compared to other species in the study area. Therefore, concerned stakeholders should ensure that these species are planted and managed around settlements, routes, and other urban landscapes of Makurdi city.
FACTORS INHIBITING VOCATIONAL AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION IN REDUCING YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT IN BENUE STATE, NIGERIA
Worried by the fact that many graduates of technical colleges, polytechnic, colleges of Education (Technical) and Universities of Technology as well as department of vocational and technical education are without employment, the researcher decided to investigate the factors inhibiting vocational and technical education in reducing youth unemployment in Benue State, Nigeria. The study adopted survey research design. The population of the study was 486 technical teachers across Benue State. A sample of 100 teachers from technical colleges was randomly selected from ten colleges. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire tagged: Factors Inhibiting Vocational and Technical Education in Reducing Unemployment Questionnaire (FIVTERUQ). The data collected were analysed using mean and standard deviation for answering the research questions. The study revealed that respondents identified factors inhibiting vocational and technical education in reducing unemployment among youth in Benue State which include; inadequate vocational and technical education equipment, inadequate vocational and technical teachers, inadequate funding and students' negative attitude towards vocational and technical education among others. The study identified that provision of the necessary vocational and technology laboratories and equipment, employment of more qualified teachers, increase budget allocation to education sector and in-service training of teachers to keep abreast with modern technologies are measures to enhance vocational and technical education in reducing unemployment among youth in Benue State. It was recommended among others that government should increase the fund allocated to the education sector up to 26% of the annual budget and more qualified vocational and technical teachers should be employed and those in service should be trained to keep abreast with modern technologies.
Long-term Debt and Firm Performance in the Non-Financial Sector in Nigeria: The Mediating Effect of Corporate Governance
The study investigated the mediating effect of corporate governance on the relationship between long term debt and firm performance in the non financial sector in Nigeria, focusing on all quoted non-financial firms in Nigeria from 2019-2023 using ex-post facto research design. The variables used were long term debt(LTD) for capital structure and return on assets(ROA) for firm performance. Regression analysis, using random effects model, as determined by hausman specification test performed, was used for data analysis using Eviews 13. Findings were that, there exists a negative and insignificant effect of long term debt on return on assets. However on mediation with corporate governance, long term debt became positively and significantly related to return on assets. Based on the results, the study recommended, among others that, Shareholders, board of directors and mangers should ensure that corporate governance best practices are incorporated in their firms and operations. Government and regulatory agencies should put in place stringent laws to compel firms to embrace corporate governance, defaulting firms should be sanctioned appropriately.
EFFECTS OF POST-HARVEST LOSSES OF MANGO ON THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC WELLBEING OF FARMERS IN USHONGO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BENUE STATE1
The study assessed the effects of post-harvest losses of mango on the socio-economic wellbeing of farmers in Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State. The specific objectives of the study were to assess the level of mango post-harvest, examine the causes of mango post-harvest losses, ascertain the effects of mango post-harvest losses on the socio-economic wellbeing of farmers and suggest measures that can help curtail the extent of post-harvest losses of mango in order to burst the socio-economic wellbeing of farmers in Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State. A sample size of 378 mango farmers was used for the study. Data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Collected data was analyzed with the use of tables and frequencies. The findings of the study revealed that there is a high level of post-harvest losses of mango in Ushongo Local Government Area. Factors such as lack of adequate processing facilities, lack of adequate modern storage facilities, poor marketing system, poor handing practices, poor access roads among others were found as the major causes of mango post-harvest losses. On the effects of mango post-harvest losses on the socio-economic wellbeing of farmers, the study found the inability of farmers to access the basic needs of life such as health care services, nutritious food, quality housing, education and clothing as the major effects of post-harvest losses of mango on farmer's wellbeing. The study however recommended the provision of processing facilities, establishment of agro-allied industries, removal of middlemen from markets, giving grants/loans to farmers among others as the major strategies that will reduce mango losses due to post harvest handling.
EVALUATION OF HANDHELD GPS AND DGPS ACCURACY FOR PLANIMETRIC MAPPING AT NACEST, MAKURDI, BENUE STATE
This research work evaluates the accuracy of handheld GPS and Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) devices for planimetric mapping at the NACEST, North Bank Makurdi, Benue State. Planimetric mapping requires exact location data, and handheld GPS/DGPS devices are commonly used due to their portability and ease of use. However, their correctness can vary. This research investigates the accuracy of handheld GPS and DGPS devices in capturing boundary beacons at the study site. Data were collected using Trimble Geo 7X handheld devices and Chcnav DGPS 173 . A total of 40 boundary beacons were surveyed, and their coordinates were compared to established reference values. The northing error is 0.050% and easting error is 0.370% suggesting that handheld GPS may suffice in the absence of DGPS. Additionally, the study found significant variations in accuracy depending on satellite geometry, signal multipath, and atmospheric conditions. The findings of this study have implications for planimetric mapping and boundary demarcation applications in Nigeria. The results suggest that DGPS devices are more suitable for high-accuracy applications, while handheld GPS devices may be sufficient for lower-accuracy requirements. This research contributes to the understanding of handheld GPS/DGPS accuracy in tropical regions and informs best practices for planimetric mapping in Nigeria.
SOCIAL MEDIA AND THE PROLIFERATION OF FALSE REPORTS ON COVID-19 VACCINES IN NIGERIA
This study examined the social media and the proliferation of false reports on COVID-19 vaccines in Nigeria. The study was anchored on the Health Belief Model. It adopted a survey research design, and a questionnaire was used as the primary instrument for data collection. The study had a sample size of 300 and the multi-stage, stratified sampling technique was used. The sampled respondents were divided into the 6 geo-political zones of Nigeria and selected representative states using a simple random sampling technique. Findings revealed that false reports of government relief funds, the false reports of infected facial masks in circulation, and the false reports of confirmed cases in some states of the federation were recorded as some constraints in the course of social media use for COVID-19 pandemic reports in Nigeria. The study recommended among other things that, the Federal Ministry of Health, NCDC, health-related NGOs, and a coalition of health bodies and authorities should proactively design and popularize their pages on various social media platforms in a bid to curb vague health reports thereby, creating more veracity and credibility of health reports on social media.
AVAILABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY OF INFORMATION RESOURCES BY STUDENTS IN TERTIARY INSTITUTION: A CASE STUDY OF BENUE STATE POLYTECHNIC, UGBOKOLO, BENUE STATE
This study examines the availability and accessibility of information resources in tertiary institutions, using the library of Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo, as a case study. It highlights the critical role of libraries in supporting teaching, learning, and research by ensuring the provision of relevant and accessible resources. Data were collected from 310 respondents, including students and staff, through a survey methodology. Findings reveal that the library resources are grossly inadequate, with limited availability of essential materials such as books, journals, and digital resources. Accessibility challenges were attributed to poor organization, insufficient library staff, outdated materials, and the absence of modern technological tools like internet facilities. The study underscores the adverse effects of these deficiencies on library utilization and academic performance. Recommendations include increased funding, modernization of library operations, acquisition of current materials, and training library staff in contemporary technologies to enhance user satisfaction and academic achievement. This research contributes to the discourse on improving library services in Nigerian tertiary institutions and provides actionable strategies for addressing identified challenges.
IMPACT OF COMMUNAL CRISES ON EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF BENUE STATE: A CASE STUDY OF KATSINA-ALA, UKUM AND LOGO LOCAL GOVERNMENT
The study investigated the impact of communal crises on the educational development of Benue State. A case study of Katsina-Ala, Ukum and Logo Local Government. The study was guided by four research questions and adopted a survey research design. A sample of two hundred respondents were used for the study. 20 items structured questionnaire constructed by the researcher titled “Impact of Communal Crisis on Educational Development of Benue State” (ICCEDBS), was used to collect data. Mean and standard deviations were used to answer research questions, while chi-square test were used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The results of the study revealed that communal crises have significant impact on physical infrastructure of schools, students' enrollment, teachers' commitment to work and students' school attendance among others. Based on the results of this study, it is expected that government will create more job opportunities for the teeming youths, vigorous public enlightment programme by government and non-governmental organizations on ethnic and inter-group relations, security agencies will be trained on crises management and elites who have been manipulating ethnic crises will be identified and brought to justice