International Journal of Public Management and Social Science Research (IJPMSSR)
The International Journal of Public Management and Social Science Research (IJPMSSR) is a leading peer-reviewed, open-access journal dedicated to advancing the study and practice of public management and social sciences. It serves as a global platform for disseminating innovative research, theoretical insights, and practical applications relevant to public administration, policy analysis, organizational behavior, and the interplay between management disciplines and social science perspectives. IJPMSSR addresses the complexities of managing public institutions, the intersection of governance and society, and the evolving challenges of leadership, sustainability, and equity in public systems. Through publishing high-quality, interdisciplinary research, the journal seeks to inform policy decisions, enhance management practices, and contribute to scholarly discourse in these fields. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in published papers or other publications are solely those of the author(s) and do not reflect the views of the editorial board of International Journal of Public Management and Social Science Research (IJPMSSR) or management of the TransGlobal Research Network, Calabar, Nigeria, or any affiliates of IJPMSSR. IJPMSSR, its editorial board, and affiliates make no warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of the content presented in the articles. Therefore, users should verify the information before use. Papers are published in good faith, and IJPMSSR, its editorial team, and management shall not be liable for any issues related to plagiarism, copyright infringement, damages, setbacks, defamation, legal proceedings, losses, actions, claims, demands, costs, expenses, implications, or any other liabilities arising from the direct or indirect use of the content. Frequency: 6 Issues/Year (Bi-monthly) EISSN: 1595-7225
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This study investigates the effect of tax reforms on economic growth in Nigeria over the period 1986–2024. Specifically, it examines the impact of Value Added Tax (VAT), Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), and Corporate Income Tax (CIT) on real gross domestic product (RGDP). An ex post facto research design was adopted, utilizing annual secondary data sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Bulletin and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) annual reports. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarize the data, while the Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) test was used to examine the stationarity properties of the variables. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model was applied to estimate both short-run and long-run relationships among the variables. The empirical findings reveal that Value Added Tax exerts a positive and statistically significant effect on economic growth in Nigeria. Petroleum Profit Tax shows a positive but statistically insignificant relationship with RGDP, while Corporate Income Tax has no significant impact on economic growth. Additionally, interest rate and the tax reform dummy variable exhibit positive but insignificant effects on RGDP. Overall, the results indicate that tax reforms have contributed positively to Nigeria’s economic growth, although their effects remain statistically weak. The study concludes that the growth-enhancing potential of tax reforms in Nigeria is constrained by inefficiencies in tax administration, revenue leakages, and suboptimal allocation of tax revenues. It recommends improved utilization of VAT revenues for infrastructure development, strengthened governance and transparency in the petroleum sector, enhanced efficiency in corporate income tax collection, policies aimed at reducing lending interest rates, and sustained economic diversification to broaden the revenue base and support inclusive economic growth.
Socio-Economic Impact of Rural Electrification Projects on Rural-Urban Migration in North-Central Nigeria in Turbulent Time
This study examines the Socio-economic impact of rural electrification projects on rural-urban migration in North-central Nigeria in the turbulent times. The rural areas in Nigeria have witnessed neglect in infrastructural facilities especially provision of electricity over the years. This impact is evidently felt in the North-Central region of Kogi, Benue, Kwara, Niger, Nasarawa, Plateau and the Federal Capital Territory which have affected the socio-economic activities and household income which have encouraged rural-urban migration in the study area. The population of the study was considered an infinite population which consists of persons living in rural areas in the six states in the North-central of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory. However, the study sample size was ascertain using Godden (2004) statistical formula for sample size determination. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics while hypotheses were tested using simple linear regression analysis with the aid of (SPSS). The findings revealed that there was a significant positive relationship between income level and rural urban migration (r = 873 p-value <0.05), there was a significant positive relationship between access to food and rural urban migration (r = .893, p-value <0.05),there was a significant positive relationship between informal education and rural urban migration (r = 932 p-value <0.05), there was a significant positive relationship between access to media and rural urban migration (r = .863, p-value <0.05) . Based on the findings, the research recommends that there should be an increased investment in rural Infrastructure. Through this measure there will be development of transportation networks, improved health care facilities, and educational Institutions to improve living standards.
Human Capital Investment and Firm Growth of Quoted Insurance Firms in Nigeria
Human capital investment has increasingly been recognized as a critical driver of organizational growth, particularly in knowledge-intensive industries such as insurance. This study therefore examines the effect of human capital investment on firm growth of quoted insurance firms in Nigeria. Specifically, the study investigates the impact of training and development costs, salaries and wages, and employee benefits costs on firm growth. The study adopts an ex-post facto research design and relies on secondary data extracted from the annual reports and audited financial statements of selected quoted insurance firms in Nigeria over the period 2012-2024. Panel regression techniques are employed to analyse the data, taking advantage of both cross-sectional and time-series dimensions. Diagnostic tests, including multicollinearity, heteroskedasticity, and model specification tests, were conducted to ensure the robustness and reliability of the regression estimates. The findings revealed that training and development costs exert a significant positive effect on firm growth, indicating that investments in employee skill development enhance the growth prospects of insurance firms. However, salaries and wages, as well as employee benefits costs, show positive but statistically insignificant effects on firm growth, suggesting that remuneration and welfare expenditures alone may not be sufficient to drive growth without complementary productivity-enhancing strategies. The study recommends that insurance firm managers, regulators, and policymakers should prioritize effective human capital investment strategies to enhance firm growth and long-term sustainability.
Substance Abuse amongst Youth and Community Security in Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Psychoactive substance abuse among youth has becomes a threat to human and community security as well as society in general. Substance abuse is a significant security issue that causes insecurity to live and property in most communities in Nasarawa State. The paper examines the implication of substance abuse among youth on community security in Nasarawa State. A survey design was adopted with a sample size drawn from six Local Government Areas using a multistage sampling technique. Data were obtained using both quantitative and qualitative approaches and questionnaires were administered to 400 respondents, and 6 In-depth Interviews (IDIs) were also conducted to augment the quantitative data. Though, a total of 380 questionnaires were retrieved and analyzed using the descriptive statistics. The qualitative data collected from respondents using IDI guide was analysed using content analysis. The study found that the major causes of substance abuse among youth include self-medication, experimentation and peer influence. The study equally discovered that the implications of substance abuse on community security include increased criminality as cases of ethnic cleansing, theft/burglary, assault, political thuggery and drug trafficking have increased significantly. The study found that there was low level of community participation in the control of substance abuse. The study recommends for increased funding of drug control agencies, and community inclusivity to effectively quell the danger of substance abuse on community security in Nasarawa state and Nigeria at large.
Moderating Effect of Agency Costs on the Relationship Between Capital Structure and Value of Listed Manufacturing Firms in Nigeria
Capital structure and firm value relationship is an important issue in the corporate finance, especially in developing markets such as that of Nigeria. This research examines the effect of capital structure choices, in this case, Long-Term Debt, Short-Term Debt, Common Stock, and Retained Earnings on the market value of the listed manufacturing companies in terms of Tobin Q. The paper also discusses how Audit Fees modify the association between capital structure choices and the market value of the listed manufacturing firms. The primary goal of the research is to evaluate the impact of these elements of capital structure on the value of a firm and establish whether it is moderated by Audit Fees. The paper presents an ex post facto research design, which will be carried out by examining the secondary data on 10 listed multinational companies in Nigeria between 2014 and 2023. The correlation analysis, descriptive statistics, and panel data regression are used to test the relationship between capital structure and Tobin Q and Audit Fees are used as the moderating variable. The findings demonstrate that Long-Term Debt, Common Stock, and Retained Earnings have a significant positive impact on firm value, with the greatest strength expressed by the Long-Term Debt. Moreover, the research concludes that the positive associations between capital structure choices and firm value are enhanced by greater Audit Fees, and demonstrate the significance of corporate governance and financial transparency. In view of these results, the study would advise companies to mix their capital structure through use of Long-Term Debt as the source of capital to make capital-intensive investments and appreciate the use of Common Stock as an indicator of financial stability. Other steps that firms should take include reinvesting Retained Earnings in long-term growth opportunity, focusing on quality auditing, and improving governance practices. Regulators are advised to put in place mechanisms of promoting sound financial management practices.
Globalization and Technology Transfer: An Assessment of the Emerging Issues and Challenges for the New Societies
Globalization has significantly expanded access to advanced technologies for technological latecomers and emerging societies. Given the centrality of technology transfer to economic development, globalization offers developing and low-income countries a critical opportunity to enhance per capita income and improve overall standards of living. This paper examines the relationship between globalization and technology transfer, adopting Immanuel Wallerstein’s World Systems Theory as its analytical framework. The study finds that, despite improved access to foreign technologies, technology transfer has not translated into commensurate improvements in living standards, labour productivity, or demand for skilled labour in many developing and low-income countries, including Nigeria. This disconnect suggests that technology transfer alone is insufficient to drive sustainable development without supportive domestic conditions. To maximize the developmental benefits of globalization-induced technology transfer, the paper recommends deliberate and simultaneous investments in both technological acquisition and human capital development. In particular, strengthening education and skills training systems to align with the requirements of imported or transferred technologies is essential for enhancing productivity, employment outcomes, and long-term economic transformation.
Evidence-based Policy Making and Administrative Effectiveness in Nigeria: A Case Study of Kogi-East Senatorial District
This study examines the impact of evidence-based policy making (EBP) on administrative effectiveness across the nine Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Kogi East Senatorial District, in Kogi State, Nigeria. Utilizing a mixed-methods convergent parallel design, quantitative data was collected via questionnaires from 104 elected and appointed officials. The analysis reveals a strong, statistically significant positive relationship between EBP and administrative effectiveness (r = 0.768, p < 0.01), with EBP explaining 59% of the variance in effectiveness. However, the overall level of evidence-based practice remains low-moderate (M=2.80/5.00), characterized by a heavy reliance on community feedback over formal academic research. A critical finding is that institutional capacity significantly moderates this relationship; severe constraints in financial resources and technological infrastructure fundamentally limit EBP adoption. The study concludes that a context-specific "local governance evidence model" is essential, prioritizing the strengthening of community engagement mechanisms and foundational institutional capacities over importing Western-centric, academic-heavy EBP frameworks. Recommendations include investing in appropriate technology, tailored capacity building, and strategies to bridge the gap between community knowledge and formal research.
Assessing Labour Inefficiency: Preliminary Results for Human Capital Development Initiative Exploration and Production in Cross River State, Nigeria
Cross River State is noted as one of the coastal states of the federation, endowed with enormous Human Resource Development initiative with an estimated population of over 3.8 million in 2016. However, the state has continued to battle with human capital resource development, labour inefficiency over the years. The paper is theoretical and qualitative in nature with emphasis lay mainly on Secondary source of data collection which relies on “The descriptive qualitative data method” with a bid to enable objective exploration and production. The paper further argues on the state “Predicament”, inability to develop human mixes capital development, the socio-economic ingredient, basic resource theory and capital initiative. It is against this background that the paper stand to assess labour inefficiency; preliminary result for human capital development initiatives, exploration and production as a “Brain Drain” in Education and health. The paper recommends the need to prioritize budget for human capital development and drastic measure to be taken as a way to tackle corruption and related underhand practice among stakeholders in all sub-sectors of the state.
The Political Economy of Transnational Oil Corporations and Local Development in the Niger Delta
The study examines the political economy of transnational oil companies (TNOCs) and local development in the Niger Delta, with a focus on the ways that structural power dynamics, rent allocation, and elite capture shape development outcomes among oil-producing communities. Taking a critical political economy approach, the research examines how corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies by TNOCs intersect with local governance systems, state institutions, and community dynamics. The study employed a qualitative approach and purposeful sampling to select 25 respondents from three historically significant oil-producing communities, that is, Oloibiri, Ogoni (Bori axis), and Gbaramatu. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with youths, women leaders, and traditional leaders to examine CSR implementation challenges, community participation, distributive justice, and socio-economic impacts of oil production. Findings show that CSR interventions are mainly instruments for securing operational stability rather than transforming conditions within communities. Resources were channeled through chiefs, government, and selected opinion leaders, sustaining hierarchal governance systems and disconnecting grassroot agents, especially women and youth. This resulted in grievances, protests, and intermittent sabotage, testifying that failure in CSR results in cycles of resistance rather than peace. The study establishes that TNOC-community relations are mediated by power imbalances perpetuating underdevelopment in the context of decades of resource wealth. The article recommends democratizing decision-making to provide broad participation, and establishing transparency and accountability through people-driven monitoring of CSR funds. Such a structural transformation would make CSR more than symbolic gestures but a redemptive mechanism capable of achieving inclusive, sustainable development, and reducing conflict in the Niger Delta.
Copyright (c) 2025 Emmanuel Adi & Zikyengu Yakubu Jethro
Culture, Technology and Sustainable Development in Nigeria
This paper explores the interconnected roles of culture and technology in advancing sustainable development in Nigeria. While technology has historically promised improved living standards through scientific innovations, it has also contributed to environmental degradation, inequality, and resource depletion. Despite the rapid global diffusion of innovations, many African societies, including Nigeria, still face persistent poverty and underdevelopment, highlighting the paradox of technological progress. The study emphasizes the need to situate technology within cultural contexts, as culture embodies values, traditions, and social systems that shape how innovations are appropriated and sustained. Sustainable development, guided by the United Nations’ framework, is conceptualized through economic, social, environmental, cultural, and political dimensions. The paper argues that cultural regeneration, coupled with appropriate and context-sensitive technologies, can promote inclusive growth and ecological balance in Nigeria. It further highlights the potential of information and communication technologies, appropriate technologies, and indigenous knowledge systems to complement modern innovations. Ultimately, sustainable development in Nigeria requires integrating culture with technology, underpinned by strong governance and inclusive policy frameworks.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lukpata Victor Ikon, Salifu David Onu, John Lamba & Kalu Okechukwu Okorie
Effect of Intellectual Capital and Financial Performance of Quoted Conglomerate Firms in Nigeria
This study examines the effect of intellectual capital on the financial performance of listed conglomerate firms in Nigeria, focusing on the period from 2012 to 2023. Specifically, it investigates the impact of Human Capital Efficiency (HCE), Structural Capital Efficiency (SCE), and Capital Employed Efficiency (CEE) on Return on Assets (ROA), with Firm Size (FS) included as a control variable. Using an ex post facto research design and cross-sectional panel data sourced from audited annual reports, the study applies the Value-Added Intellectual Coefficient (VAIC) model developed by Pulic (1998). Panel regression analysis was conducted with the aid of E-Views software, alongside diagnostic tests for normality, multicollinearity, and serial correlation. The findings reveal that HCE, SCE, and CEE have statistically insignificant effects on ROA, suggesting that intellectual capital components do not exert a strong short-term influence on firm profitability. Conversely, Firm Size demonstrates a significant negative relationship with ROA, indicating that increased scale may lead to operational inefficiencies and declining returns. These results highlight the need for a more integrated and strategic approach to intellectual capital management within Nigeria’s conglomerate sector. The study recommends enhancing human capital development through continuous training and aligning structural capital investments with operational goals. It also emphasizes the importance of managing firm growth strategically to avoid diminishing profitability. Overall, while intellectual capital remains crucial for long-term value creation, its financial benefits may require complementary strategies such as innovation and efficient governance structures to be fully realized.
Information Communication Technology and the Academic Performance of Students in Federal University Lokoja
This study examines information communication technology and the academic performance of students of federal university Lokoja. The use of ICT tools like internet, search engines, smartphones, etc. is majorly found among the age bracket of 15 to 30 years who are predominantly students of post- secondary institutions. Over 78 percent of students in FUL falls within this age bracket therefore, aside the personal ICT tools available to students use, the university management has invested hugely in ICT therefore this study is poised to ascertain the impact of ICT on the grade point average of students, examine the effect ICT has on the study behavior of students and to access the impact of ICTs on the rate of graduating students. The study adopts the descriptive research design. The population of study was gotten from three departments in three faculties within the university while the Krejcie and Morgan's table (1970) was used to determine the sample size. Data was collected via primary and secondary sources and the research instrument used in this study was questionnaires and interviews. This study reveals that ICT has significant influence on the grade point average of students, study behaviour of students and of course, the number of graduating students in Federal university Lokoja. Finally, the study recommends that the university management should prioritize investment in robust ICT infrastructure, including high-speed internet connectivity, modern computing facilities, and access to relevant software applications. This will ensure that students have reliable access to ICT resources essential for their academic pursuits.
Governance and the Challenges of Insecurity in Nigeria: A Revisitation
The rising spate of insecurity in recent times with its concomitant impact on human lives and destruction of property is quite alarming. No doubt the sanctity of human lives has become worthless in our present circumstance making caricature of the primary consideration of government which is security as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution in Section 14 (1) that “the security and welfare of the people shall be a primary purpose of government”. It is against this backdrop that this paper x-rays governance and challenges of human security in Nigeria in recent times where non-state actors are holding sway and desecrating the sanctity of human lives and thereby putting our hard-earned democracy on the edge and the nation at the precipice of disintegration. The paper uses content analysis method in its discourse. It is the conclusion the paper that if the current ugly trends are allowed to fester, the resultant boomerang effect will be a complete breakdown and a reversal in the gains we have made as a democratic state and a further inexorable slide towards a state of anarchy and a total failed state like what we are currently witnessing in places like Somalia etc. The paper recommends among others the need for security architecture and apparatus to be completely overhauled and also well equipped to enhance intelligence gathering and sharing and the political will on the part of government at all levels to be committed to the ideals of good governance and the protection of lives and property.
Nigeria’s Legal Frameworks Safeguarding the Best Interests of Children: A Critical Examination of Policy Implementation Gaps, and Socio-Cultural Influences
This study undertakes a critical examination of Nigeria’s Legal Framework for Safeguarding the best interests of children, with a focus on policy implementation gaps and socio-cultural influences. Despite the existence of Laws and policies aimed at protecting child rights, Nigeria continues to grapple with challenges related to child welfare, including child abuse, neglect and exploitation. Never in the history of the nation has the children been under the kind of siege and abuse as they are today. This research investigates the extent to which Nigeria’s Legal framework is effective in safeguarding the best interests of children, and identifies the socio-cultural factors that influence policy implementation. Using the doctrinal research methods this study reviews laws protecting children’s rights. The findings showcase a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding child protection in Nigeria and provide recommendations for strengthening the legal framework and improving policy implementation to better safeguard the best interests of children.
Rural Transformation Programme and Sustainable Development in Cross River State, Nigeria
This study investigates rural transformation programmes in Cross River State, Nigeria, with a focus on their role in promoting sustainable development. It critically examines initiatives aimed at poverty reduction, food production, education enhancement, and employment generation, while highlighting the socio-political and economic challenges encountered. Emphasis is placed on the contributions of the Cross River State Government (both past and present) alongside the efforts of individuals and non-governmental organisations. Key programmes reviewed include the Poverty Alleviation Programme, the National Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy (NEEDS), and the Directorate of Food, Roads, and Rural Infrastructure (DFRRI). The findings reveal that while these programmes were well-intentioned in policy design, their implementation has often been hindered by weak political will and inadequate attention to rural realities, resulting in limited developmental impact. The study concludes by recommending the establishment of locally driven community development programmes across rural communities in the state. Such grassroots initiatives would not only strengthen collaboration with local, state, and federal authorities but also deepen the drive for inclusive and sustainable rural development.
Digital Tools and Performance of Lecturers in Federal Universities, South East, Nigeria
This study investigated the relationship between digital tools and lecturer performance in Federal Universities in South East Nigeria. The research examined how Learning Management Systems (LMS) and Virtual Classroom Software, impact various aspects of lecturer performance, including Quality Service Delivery and Lecturer Commitment. The work was anchored on diffusion of innovation theory by Everett Rogers 1962 which states that the adoption of innovation transpires gradually. The study employed a survey research design with a total population of 12,172 from academic staff of the selected Federal Universities. Taro Yamane was used to determine the sample size of 303 lecturers from five Federal universities in South East Nigeria, selected through a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient, and Simple Linear Regression. The findings revealed significant positive relationships between digital tools and lecturer performance metrics. Specifically, Learning Management Systems showed a strong positive correlation with Quality Service Delivery (r=0.682, p<0.001), indicating that LMS implementation enhances the quality of educational service delivery. Virtual Classroom Software demonstrated a strong positive relationship with Lecturer Commitment (r=0.724, p<0.001), suggesting that virtual teaching tools increase lecturer engagement and dedication. The study concludes that the adoption of digital tools has not only enhanced the efficiency of lecturers work but has also opened up new avenues for collaboration and innovation, enabling lecturers to streamline their administrative tasks, improve the delivery of course content and engage students in more interactive and immersive learning experiences. Based on the findings, the study recommends that university management need to invest in robust digital infrastructure, provide comprehensive training for lecturers, and implement effective support systems for digital tool adoption.
Effect of Dynamic Pricing Strategies on Customer Retention in the Nigerian Power Sector: Implications for Stakeholders’ Engagement
This study examined the effect of dynamic pricing strategies on customer retention in the Nigerian power sector, focusing on stakeholder experiences, behavioral responses, and communication mechanisms. A qualitative research design was employed to explore the perspectives of electricity consumers, customer service representatives and regulatory officials across six electricity distribution zones in Nigeria. Using purposive sampling, a total of six (6) participants were selected based on their direct involvement with electricity pricing, consumption, and stakeholder engagement. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed thematically. Findings revealed that a lack of pricing transparency, inadequate communication, and limited consumer engagement significantly impact customer trust and retention. While some users adjust their consumption patterns in response to tariff changes, others disengage or express dissatisfaction, especially in contexts where service quality is poor or tariff explanations are unclear. The study concludes that improving transparency, strengthening communication, and institutionalizing stakeholder engagement are critical to sustaining customer loyalty in Nigeria’s evolving power sector. It is therefore recommended that to enhance customer retention in Nigeria's power sector, it is recommended that electricity distribution companies implement structured communication strategies that prioritize transparency in pricing and service quality. This could involve regular updates on tariff changes and their justifications, as well as initiatives to actively engage consumers in decision-making processes.
Principals’ Data-Driven Decision-Making and Administrative Effectiveness in Secondary Schools in Calabar Education Zone of Cross River State, Nigeria
This study investigated principals’ data-driven decision-making and their administrative effectiveness in secondary schools within the Calabar Education Zone of Cross River State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted to collect and analyze data from a target population of 98 public secondary school principals in the zone. Due to the manageable population size, a census sampling technique was used, involving all 98 principals in the study. Data were collected using two validated and reliable researcher-developed instruments—the Data-Driven Decision-Making Practices Questionnaire (DDDPQ) and the Administrative Effectiveness Rating Scale (AERS)—each comprising 32 structured items aligned with the research objectives. Descriptive statistics and a four-point Likert scale were employed for data interpretation, with a criterion mean of 2.50 used as the benchmark for assessing the extent of practice and effectiveness. The findings revealed that principals in the Calabar Education Zone engage in data-driven decision-making practices to a high extent, particularly in areas such as student performance monitoring and resource allocation. However, systemic challenges—such as inadequate ICT infrastructure, insufficient training, and a lack of reliable data systems—continue to hinder full implementation. The study concludes that while principals recognize the importance of data-driven decision-making and apply it significantly in administrative functions, overcoming structural barriers is essential to maximizing its impact. The study concludes that principals in the Calabar Education Zone utilize data-driven decision-making practices to a high extent, but systemic challenges such as inadequate ICT infrastructure and insufficient training hinder full implementation. It is therefore recommended that the government and stakeholders should prioritize the provision of adequate technological resources, such as computers, internet access, and data management software, to facilitate efficient data-driven decision-making in schools.
The Digital Economy and the Global Workforce: Cultivating Inclusive Leadership and Global Mindsets for Managing Diversity at a Distance
The rise of the digital economy has essentially reshaped the structure and functioning of the global workforce, introducing new complexities in managing cultural, generational, and geographical diversity. As organizations increasingly adopt remote and hybrid work models, traditional leadership frameworks have become inadequate for addressing the challenges of workforce inclusion and cohesion across distributed environments. This study therefore examines the role of inclusive leadership and the cultivation of a global mindset as strategic responses to managing diversity at a distance. Drawing from qualitative and empirical data, the paper examines how inclusive leadership practices (characterized by cultural intelligence, empathy, participative decision-making, and adaptive communication framework) affect team dynamics, employee engagement, and organizational performance in virtual contexts. The study identifies significant gaps in leadership training and institutional support for inclusive leadership at the global scale. It further argues that technological tools, while enabling communication, are insufficient substitutes for value-based leadership in sustaining inclusive work cultures. Findings of the study reveal that leaders who demonstrate a global mindset and take proactively steps to address intersectional differences (including culture, gender, and work style) are more successful in fostering psychological safety and collaboration in dispersed teams. Based on the findings, the study recommends three strategic interventions: first, integrating global competence and inclusive leadership modules into executive training programs; second, institutionalizing diversity governance frameworks that support inclusive decision-making across borders; and third, leveraging digital platforms not only for task management but also for promoting intercultural dialogue and community-building. These interventions are critical for organizations seeking resilience and innovation in a rapidly evolving global digital economy.
Reimagining Nigeria’s Political Economy: An Overview of President Tinubu’s Reformist Strategies
This research examined the economic reforms launched by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu since the inauguration in May 2023, which focuses on the goals, implementation and impact on Nigeria's political economy. Literature review focused on major reforms including the removal of fuel subsidy, integration of exchange rates, infrastructure development and fiscal adjustment. Also, the researchers adopted development economic theory as the theoretical framework. The methodology adopted is descriptive research design based on secondary data and utilizing case studies and available records. The findings revealed that the purpose of these reforms is aimed at stabilizing and developing the Nigerian economy. Again, the reforms have also led to significant short-term challenges, including inflation and public dissatisfaction. The study recommends the strengthening of Social Safety Nets through expansion of conditional cash transfers and food assistance programs to cushion vulnerable populations during the transition period to maintain the speed of improvement thereby reduces the side effects on the population.
Support - Pillars for the Young and Vulnerable: Revisiting the Role of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) In Kogi State, Nigeria
With a youth population index towering above those of other countries in the African, sub-region, Nigeria faces significant challenges in youth unemployment and is aptly described as the youngest country in Africa, with 70% of its population (approximately 151 million) individuals, being youth and 60% under the age of 25. This demographic structure necessitates urgent and efficient strategies. The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) was established as a cornerstone to address youth unemployment and foster economic stability. However, the landscape of youth employment remains predominantly informal and unstructured with a staggering 92.7% of young Nigerians engaged in informal work and 13.7% entirely unemployed. This article revisits the role of the NDE, examining its strategies, programs and impact on youth employment. It highlights the organizations effort at providing vocational training, entrepreneurial development, and job placement services. By analyzing the efficiency of these initiatives, the article aims to identify both successes and areas needing improvement through qualitative and quantitative data, including employment statistics and program outline, the study evaluates how effectively the NDE is bridging the gap between the growing youth population and sustainable employment opportunities. The findings suggests that while the NDE has made significant strides, there are substantial hurdles to overcome, particularly the scaling up successful programs and training widespread access to resources and training.
Fiscal Administration Rules and Financial Efficiency in Public Universities in Cross River State, Nigeria
The purpose of this study was to find out the influence of fiscal administration rules on financial efficiency in public universities in Cross River State, Nigeria. Ex-post-facto design was adopted for this study. This study was delimited to public universities in Cross River State of Nigeria. The population of the study was 138 staff in the bursary departments in public universities in Cross River State of Nigeria. Census approach was used to sample the 138 respondents. The instrument for the study was Fiscal Administration Rule and Financial Efficiency Questionnaire (FARFEQ). The instrument after being developed by the researcher, was presented to the two experts in the departments of Public Administration of University of Calabar for face and content validation. The instrument was further administered on 30 respondents that formed an equivalent population to the study population in public universities in Akwa Ibom State and Cronbach Alpha Reliability Estimates was used to determine the reliability coefficient which ranged from .81 to .84, establishing that the instrument was reliable. Simple linear regression was used for testing the null hypothesis at .05 level of significance. The results showed that budgeting and auditing significantly influence financial efficiency in public universities in Cross River State, Nigeria. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that the management of public universities in Cross River State should adopt a participative budgeting approach, involving all stakeholders, including faculty members, staff, and students, in the budgeting process to ensure that the budget is realistic, achievable, and aligned with the university's goals and objectives.
The Quest for Good Governance in Nigeria: A Reflection
Nigeria’s governance and development experience since independent remains a paradox that continues to defy conventional wisdom. In the midst of fabulous oil wealth, mass poverty, economic stagnation, endemic corruption, political instability, weak public institutions, insecurity, and social conflict are common features that have characterised the Nigerian state. The focus of this paper therefore, is on the challenges of governance in Nigeria. The elite’s theory was used as the theoretical framework of this paper. This paper also employs a content analysis in exploring the trajectory of development and governance in Nigeria and concludes that there is need to correctly evaluate our past, boldly asses the present, so that we can make useful contributions to the glorious tomorrow for generations yet unborn. It recommends among others; the need for the political leadership and the ruling elites to imbibe and practice the core values of good governance and democracy in Nigeria and also the need for the citizens to become active participant in the governance process in Nigeria.
Challenges of Financial Autonomy in Nigerian Local Governments and their Implications for Rural Development in Kogi State, Nigeria: A Focus on Idah Local Government
This study explores the effects of local government financial autonomy on grassroots development in Idah Local Government Area (LGA) of Kogi State, Nigeria. Utilizing content analysis of academic literature, government reports, and stakeholder interviews, the research identifies key themes related to service delivery, revenue generation, accountability, and community participation. The findings indicate that local government autonomy positively impacts grassroots development by enhancing service delivery, increasing financial independence, and promoting greater accountability and transparency. However, challenges such as limited administrative capacity and political interference hinder effective implementation. The study emphasizes the need for strengthening institutional capacity at the local level and promoting transparent governance practices to maximize the benefits of local government autonomy. By fostering a more participatory and responsive governance framework, local governments can better address the needs of their communities, leading to sustainable development outcomes.
Evaluation of Demographic Factors in Local Government Autonomy in Nigeria
This paper presents the primary outcomes of a quantitative research study aimed at unraveling the influence of demographic factors on perceptions of local government autonomy in Kogi State, Nigeria. By scrutinizing the viewpoints of respondents across various demographic variables, including gender, age, marital status, education, and income. This study endeavours to shed light on the intricate dynamics that shape attitudes towards local governance. The findings contribute significantly to a nuanced understanding of the impact of these demographic factors, providing valuable insights for policymakers and researchers seeking to tailor governance strategies to the diverse needs of the population in Kogi State, Nigeria. Hence, this study recommends amongst others that there should be tailoring of Policies to Demographic Specifics, Capacity-building for Local Government Officials, Cross-disciplinary Collaboration, and Replication in Other Nigerian States.
Human Resource Reengineering and Firm Performance in North-Central Nigeria
The Nigerian business environment is increasingly becoming more competitive owing to the reality of perpetual dynamics and the economic burden occasioned by the recent fuel subsidy removal and steady increase in exchange rate. Hence, firms in the Nigeria manufacturing sub-sector requires to adopt re-engineering strategies to enable them strive efficiently. This study titled: Human resource re-engineering and Performance of Manufacturing Firms in North-Central Nigeria is written to examine the effect of human resource re-engineering on product quality of manufacturing sub-sector in North-Central Nigeria. the study adopted the Kracie and Morgan sample size statistical formula to reach respondents numbering 302 through a ten items structured questionnaire however only 284 respondents completed and returned their questionnaire given 74% retrieval rate. The research conducted Pilot study using a test re-test method and tested using Cronbach alpha to establish the reliability of the instrument. In addition, survey research design was adopted, and the statistical tools adopted were descriptive and inferential statistics, hypothesis tested using linear regression analysis. Findings revealed that there was a significant positive relationship between human resource Re-engineering and Product Quality (r = .924, p-value <0.05. In view of the finding, the study concluded that there was significant positive relationship between human resource Re-engineering and product quality of manufacturing firms in North-Central Nigeria. Premised on the findings the study therefore recommended that human resource Re-engineering techniques should be improved and periodic review be carried out in order to sustain and improve firms’ performance.