2025

Rice remains one of Nigeria’s most important staple crops, serving as both a major source of food and a significant contributor to national agricultural output. However, inconsistencies in production statistics and yield estimates have made it difficult to accurately assess the country’s progress toward self-sufficiency. This study, therefore, focuses on developing a rigorous mathematical framework for estimating and analyzing rice yield in Nigeria from 1990 to 2022. The research integrates statistical modeling and mathematical reasoning to provide a more objective and quantifiable understanding of yield dynamics, while addressing uncertainties associated with data collection, reporting errors, and environmental variability. The study utilizes secondary data from the Food and Agriculture Organization’s FAOSTAT database, which provides national figures on rice production and harvested area. The mathematical model adopts the classical yield equation � = �/� where � denotes yield (t/ha), � represents production (tonnes), and � is harvested area (hectares). To estimate the reliability of calculated yields, the propagation of uncertainty formula �� = � �� � 2 + 𝛿 � 2 was applied, allowing error terms in production and area to be combined mathematically. Statistical regression models (linear, exponential, and polynomial) were used to evaluate long-term yield trends and to test the hypothesis of yield improvement over time. In addition, stochastic simulation techniques and correlation analyses were introduced to capture the variability and interdependence between production and land-use parameters. Findings indicate that Nigeria’s rice yield followed a fluctuating but generally upward trend, rising from an average of 1.5 �/ℎ� in the early 1990s to about 2.8 �/ℎ� by 2022. The regression analysis revealed a statistically significant positive trend, confirming gradual improvements in productivity over the years. However, the propagated error analysis showed that yield uncertainties ranged between 5 –10% depending on data completeness and measurement precision. This highlights persistent limitations in the reliability of agricultural data collection systems. The study concludes that mathematical modeling provides a robust foundation for understanding agricultural yield trends and recommends the integration of error analysis and predictive modeling into national data reporting frameworks. By combining quantitative rigor with empirical agricultural data, the research establishes a replicable approach for improving the precision of yield estimation in Nigeria and other developing economies.

This study presents a semantic analysis of Forex terminologies used by online traders in Nigeria, employing J. R. Firth’s Contextual Theory of Meaning to explore how meaning is shaped by use within specific communicative contexts. The research investigates how Nigerian Forex traders interpret, adapt, and apply trading terms across digital platforms such as social media, online forums, and trading communities. By moving beyond static dictionary definitions, the study focuses on the contextual, cultural, and interactive processes through which meaning is created, modified, and understood in local usage. Data were drawn from various online trading discussions involving Nigerian traders, and key terminologies were analyzed according to their literal meaning, contextual meaning, and usage within discourse. The findings reveal that the meaning of Forex terms is not fixed or universally inherited from global standards, but rather constructed dynamically within the Nigerian trading community. Nigerian traders frequently localize and shorten international terms, often blending English, Nigerian Pidgin, and indigenous expressions to create a unique, functional dialect of Forex communication. The study concludes that this specialized vocabulary serves as a community-validated linguistic system, enabling clear and effective communication within Nigeria’s trading environment while reflecting broader cultural and social influences. It is recommended that financial institutions, educators, and linguists further study and document the evolving Forex lexicon and integrate localized terms into training programs and financial literacy materials to improve understanding, inclusion, and communication among Nigerian traders.

The scalp hair is composed of soft tissue layers that cover the cranium. This study focused on isolation, identification and antibiogram of bacteria isolates from scalp hair. With the aid of a sterile swab sticks, nine scalp hair of undergraduates’ students were swabbed and transported to the laboratory for bacteriological analysis. All the samples were analyzed within 24hrs of collection. Collected swabbed stick was submerged in a sterile test tubes label A – I contained Nutrient broth and incubated for 2hrs. 1ml was plated from each test tube. It was then incubated at 37 0 C for 24hours. The result of the bacteria isolated include; Staphylococcus epidermis 6 (15%), Staphylococcus aureus 6 (15%), Pseudomonas sp. 2(5%), Bacillus sp. 18(45%), Streptococcus spp. 5(12.5%) and Micrococcus spp. 3(7.5%). Haemolysin test on the strains of Staphylococcus auraeus Streptococcus sp. Staphylococcus epidermis, Micrococcus spp. and Psuedomonas sp. revealed they had β hemolytic activity and only strains of Bacillus spp. showed α hemolytic activity. While the gelatin test showed that all isolates produce gelatinase enzyme which breakdown gelatin. The antibiogram results revealed that All isolates were highly sensitive to ciprofloxacin, Ofloxacin and clindamycin 40(100%). Ciprofloxacin, Ofloxacin and clindamycin was proved to be the most effective against Gram positive and Gram-negative isolates studied in this work. Contamination of scalp hair from this research, could be from poor hand hygiene and environmental hygiene.

This study examined the attitudes of University of Benin undergraduates toward Coca- Cola advertisements embedded in selected skit videos. The main objectives were to assess students’ awareness and engagement with such advertisements, determine the extent to which they influence purchasing decisions, identify the factors that contribute to their effectiveness, and evaluate the overall attitudes of students toward these adverts. The study was anchored on the Uses and Gratification Theory, and elaboration likelihood model, which collectively provided a framework for understanding audience behavior and response to digital advertising. A total of 397 copies of questionnaires were distributed to undergraduate students across various faculties of the University of Benin, and the data collected were analyzed using frequency tables and percentage distributions. Findings revealed that there is a high level of awareness and engagement with Coca-Cola advertisements featured in skit videos, as most respondents reported that these adverts capture their attention and encourage them to watch skits to the end. The results also showed that Coca-Cola’s skit-based advertisements have a moderate influence on students’ purchasing decisions, with many admitting that repeated exposure through entertaining skits often motivates them to consider or purchase the product. Furthermore, the study found that entertainment, humor, relatability, and creativity are key factors that enhance the effectiveness of such advertisements. Overall, students exhibited a positive attitude toward Coca-Cola’s use of skit videos as an advertising strategy, viewing it as refreshing, engaging, and appealing to youthful audiences. The study concludes that Coca-Cola’s integration of advertisements into skit videos represents an effective form of digital marketing communication, capable of strengthening brand recognition and influencing consumer behavior among university students. It recommends that brands should invest in creative storytelling, collaborate with credible influencers, and maintain active engagement on social media platforms to sustain audience interest and loyalty.

This study presents an evaluation of Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s Social Contract Theory and explores its relevance to the Nigerian socio-political culture. Rousseau’s theory, expressed in his classical work, emphasizes that individuals give up certain freedoms in exchange for protection and civil order under a collective agreement. This contract creates a society governed by the general will, which represents the interest of all, thereby ensuring justice, equality, and the preservation of liberty. His ideas on sovereignty, popular participation, and the primacy of the common good remain central to political philosophy and provide a framework for understanding modern democratic governance. In the Nigerian context, the application of Rousseau’s Social Contract Theory reveals both its significance and its challenges. Nigeria, as a multi-ethnic and diverse nation, aspires to uphold democratic ideals, yet often faces political instability, corruption, and weak institutions that undermine the social contract between government and citizens. Rather than reflecting the general will, political power frequently serves personal or sectional interests, creating a disconnect between leadership and the governed. By drawing upon Rousseau’s vision of collective responsibility and accountability, Nigeria’s political culture can be critically examined with a view to reinforcing participatory governance, social justice, and inclusivity. However, the study also highlights limitations in directly applying Rousseau’s theory to Nigeria’s pluralistic society. The assumption of a unified will among citizens contrasts with Nigeria’s reality, where ethnic and religious divisions complicate the pursuit of a common purpose. The challenge, therefore, lies in adapting Rousseau’s principles to a diverse environment while ensuring respect for pluralism. The study concludes that Rousseau’s Social Contract Theory provides a useful philosophical framework for critiquing governance in Nigeria. While not a perfect fit, its ideals of equality, justice, and accountability offer a valuable lens for strengthening Nigeria’s democratic culture and addressing its socio- political challenges.

Noise pollution is an increasingly recognized occupational hazard within healthcare environments, where the continuous operation of medical equipment, alarms, and human activity often generates sound levels exceeding recommended limits. This study investigated noise exposure levels and the prevalence of hearing impairment among hospital workers in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A comparative cross-sectional approach was employed in two hospitals, the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (public) and Faith Mediplex Hospital (private). Noise measurements were conducted in selected wards via a calibrated AR824 sound level meter, while structured questionnaires and the Hearing Health Quick Test (HHQT®) were administered to 152 staff members to assess auditory and nonauditory effects. The findings revealed that average noise levels ranged between 63.1 dB and 77.7 dB, exceeding the permissible limit of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA). The Pediatrics, Emergency, and COPD wards recorded the highest noise intensities. Statistical analysis revealed significant variation across hospital departments (p < 0.05) but no significant difference between public and private hospitals. Among the respondents, 86.2% exhibited signs of potential hearing problems, 21.7% reported hearing difficulty, and 20.4% reported tinnitus. Nonauditory symptoms such as tiredness (52.6%), poor sleep quality (31.6%), and lack of concentration (38.8%) were also prevalent. The study concluded that hospital workers in Benin city are consistently exposed to hazardous noise levels capable of inducing hearing impairment and related health effects. It recommends regular noise monitoring, staff education, and the enforcement of hearing conservation programs within healthcare facilities.

This study examined how credit risk management affects the profitability of six listed deposit money banks in Nigeria from 2014 to 2023. Using a balanced panel of 60 observations and a fixed-effects model with robust standard errors, the results show that both the non-performing loan ratio (NPLR) and loan loss provision ratio (LLPR) significantly and negatively affect return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE). A one-percentage-point increase in NPLR reduces ROA by about 0.08 percentage points and ROE by about 0.65 percentage points, while higher provisions further weaken earnings. Bank size has a positive impact on profitability, supporting the idea that larger banks benefit from efficiency and stronger risk-absorbing capacity. This study also finds that the 2015–2016 recession and high interest-rate volatility confirmed through a persistent GARCH (1,1) effect further reduce bank performance. All diagnostic tests validate the reliability of the model. This study suggests that effective credit risk management is essential for sustaining profitability in Nigerian banks and recommends stronger credit appraisal systems, improved NPL recovery, full IFRS 9 implementation, diversified income sources, and stronger macroprudential policies

A geoelectrical imaging survey was conducted at Uwelu and its environs in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria, for Shallow site investigation in order to determine the applicability of 2-D resistivity imaging in studying the subsurface, which in turn determines how feasible the area would be in terms of erection of structures that will stand the test of time. The area is underlain mainly with low resistivity materials with minor intrusion high resistivity materials like gravel, limestone basalt and slate. Geophysical survey was carried out using 2-D electrical resistivity imaging technique. The Wenner Alpha configuration was employed. Field data were obtained for ten electrical imaging lines, at Uwelu market area in Egor Local Government Area, subjected to inversion, in order to remove geometrical effects from the pseudo-section and produce an image of true depth and true formation resistivity. The 2-D electrical investigation at the survey site showed that the soil lithology compartment will be a good site for big building and other construction works even for shallow site works.

Background: Radiographic contrast agents are widely used for diagnostic enhancement, yet concerns remain about their toxic effects on vital organs. Statement of Problem: Despite the popularity of contrast media as a radiological technique, the possible systemic and organ-level impact of this method has not been properly examined, particularly in Nigeria. Thus, the research assesses and contrasts the biological effects of selected contrast agents use in Wistar-rats so as to support the evidence that can be used to guide the use of safer contrast media that is evidence-based. Aim: This experimental study compared the biochemical, histopathological, and behavioral effects of ionic (Urographin) and non-ionic (Iohexol) contrast media on Wistar rats. Methods: Nine rats were randomized into three groups: control, Urographin, and Iohexol. Kidney and liver markers, body weight, and behavior were assessed, followed by histological evaluation. Results: Urographin produced higher renal stress, with urea increasing from 36.4 to 41.3 mg/dL (+13.5%) and creatinine rising from 3.98 to 4.15 mg/dL (+4.3%) compared to Iohexol (urea 40.1 mg/dL, +10.2%; creatinine 4.05 mg/dL, +1.8%). Kruskal–Wallis analysis showed borderline group differences for creatinine (p = 0.0628), sodium (p = 0.0628), and potassium (p = 0.0594), while other renal markers were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Hepatic markers showed a marked increase in AST with Urographin (96.9 to 162.5 U/L, +67.7%; p ≈ 0.0665), compared to Iohexol (119.9 U/L, +23.7%), while ALT changes were modest (p > 0.05). Total bilirubin increased by 22.1% in the Urographin group versus 8.6% in the Iohexol group. Body weight declined significantly more with Urographin (−5.8%) than Iohexol (−2.0%), with a borderline statistical trend (p = 0.064). Behaviorally, both agents caused reduced activity, piloerection, and appetite loss, but these signs were more severe in the Urographin group. Histopathology revealed mild hepatitis and pyelonephritis in Iohexol-treated rats, compared to zonal necrosis, vascular congestion, and glomerular degeneration in Urographin-treated rats. Conclusion: Both contrast media induced biochemical and tissue injury, but Urographin demonstrated greater toxic potential. Iohexol may therefore be considered the safer alternative for contrast-enhanced procedures.

Background: The evolution of the Arab-Israeli conflict in the 21st century has been fundamentally reshaped by the digital revolution. While traditional warfare dominated the early 2000s, the emergence of social media platforms has transformed cyberspace into a critical secondary battleground. Information dissemination, public diplomacy, and narrative framing are no longer exclusively controlled by state actors or mainstream media outlets.

Objective: This study investigates the role and impact of social media platforms in shaping, accelerating, and mediating the Arab-Israeli conflict between 2000 and 2023. It explores how digital spaces transitioned from tools of passive observation during the Second Intifada to active instruments of psychological warfare, citizen journalism, and international mobilization by the 2020s.

Methodology: The research utilizes a historical-analytical approach combined with digital discourse analysis. It examines key technological flashpoints within the conflict, comparing early internet usage to the heavy reliance on platforms like Twitter/X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok during major escalations (such as Operation Cast Lead in 2008, the 2021 Gaza clashes, and the events of late 2023).

Findings: The study reveals that social media has successfully democratized conflict reporting, giving marginalized voices a global audience and exposing human rights issues in real-time. Concurrently, however, these platforms have democratized propaganda. The research identifies a stark rise in algorithmic polarization, state-sponsored disinformation campaigns, and the "weaponization of empathy" through highly curated, emotionally charged visual content. Furthermore, the findings indicate that digital narratives have deepened global polarization, directly influencing international foreign policy and sparking a surge in diaspora-driven online and offline activism.

Conclusion & Significance: The study concludes that social media is no longer merely a mirror reflecting the Arab-Israeli conflict, but an active variable that alters its duration, intensity, and global perception. It underscores the urgent need for stricter platform governance, algorithmic transparency, and enhanced digital literacy to mitigate the real-world harms of digital warfare in protracted geopolitical crises.