2025

This research work is conducted on the role of bank of industry in the development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The aims and objectives of the study is to analyze the various role played by bank of industry in developing small and medium enterprises as well as the activities of government policies, such as provision of infrastructural facilities provision of local finance facilities, funding of industries and institutions like SSICS, CIRD and FIIRO. The researcher uses the questionnaire and interview method to collect the data from the respondents. The analysis and crossed tabulation of data gathered were done using the mean statistical method with the 1-5 Likert rating scale for proper accuracy in arriving at a dependable decision rule. Lastly the researcher concluded that, the bank of industry was able to maintain its customer because they do welcome whatever kind of financial assistance, therefore, the government should also endeavour to appoint the workers to teach the entrepreneur who does not have the advantage of attending seminar or workshops especially the illiterate ones and keep supervising them in right –

Yam (Dioscorea spp.) is a vital staple crop in many tropical regions, valued for its carbohydrate-rich tubers and economic importance. Bag propagation, which uses polythene bags filled with soil, has become a viable substitute that improves plant establishment, makes fertilizer management easier, and permits controlled growth conditions. This study evaluated effects of cow dung on bag propagated yams growth and yield performance. A private farm in Ogida, Benin City was the experimental site. Two treatments (control and cow dung) utilized in the experiment were laid out as a paired plot. Cured cow dung manure was applied at planting. Data collected on the number of leaves, vine length, and stem diameter were collected and recorded at intervals whereas tuber weight, vine weight, and number of leaves were collected at harvest and recorded. Data collected were analyzed as unequal variance t-test. Results revealed that cow dung significantly enhanced the vegetative growth of yam plants, particularly during the early and mid-growth stages. Variables such as vine length (p ≤ 0.05) and number of leaves (p ≤ 0.05) showed statistically significant increases compared to the control. The most notable impact was observed in tuber weight, where cow dung application led to a highly significant increase (p ≤ 0.05), with mean tuber weight rising from 0.25kg (control) to 0.7 kg (cow dung) an increase of approximately 180%. In conclusion, cow dung was effective and is a sustainable fertilizer for bag-propagated yam, enhancing growth variables and yield while probably improving soil fertility and structure for long-term agricultural productivity.

This study examined the role of effective leadership in achieving organizational objectives at the University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State. The objectives were to: (i) examine the 5 relationship between effective leadership practices and the achievement of organizational goals in educational institutions, (ii) identify the leadership styles most commonly employed by educational leaders and evaluate their effectiveness in enhancing institutional performance, (iii) investigate the key challenges faced by educational leaders in aligning faculty and staff efforts with organizational goals, and (iv) propose strategies for improving leadership effectiveness to support goal attainment within educational institutions. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. A total of 405 staff members drawn from various faculties of the University of Benin constituted the sample. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages. The findings revealed that the majority of staff have long years of service and occupy middle management positions, indicating an experienced workforce receptive to innovative leadership. The democratic leadership style was identified as the most effective for enhancing job satisfaction, inclusiveness, and productivity. Respondents emphasized the importance of clear vision-setting, provision of adequate tools, and the moral qualities of leaders in influencing staff performance and organizational success. However, systemic challenges such as poor funding, weak managerial responsibility, inadequate communication, shortage of staff, lack of equipment, and insubordination were found to significantly impede leadership effectiveness. The study concludes that effective leadership—particularly democratic, visionary, and morally grounded leadership—is indispensable for achieving organizational objectives in Nigerian universities. However, leadership effectiveness is strongly dependent on adequate funding, institutional support, and robust communication frameworks. 6 Based on these findings, the study recommends that university administrators institutionalize participatory leadership, strengthen capacity-building programs, promote ethical leadership practices, improve funding and resource allocation, and establish effective communication systems. Suggestions for further studies include comparative analyses of leadership styles across universities, gender dynamics in leadership, the role of technology in higher education leadership, and longitudinal studies on leadership and organizational performance. This research contributes to knowledge by providing empirical evidence from Nigerian higher education, validating the democratic leadership style as optimal in university settings, and highlighting the moderating role of institutional constraints on leadership effectiveness.

A hallmark of a well-managed radiology department is minimizing the time patients spend before accessing radiology services. Timely access to diagnostic imaging plays a critical role in the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery. Prolonged wait times can lead to patient dissatisfaction, delay diagnoses, extend hospital stays, and negatively affect clinical outcomes, especially in time-sensitive conditions such as trauma or cancer. This comparative cross-sectional survey aimed to evaluate and compare patient wait times in the radiology departments of two selected hospitals in Benin City: one utilizing a scheduling system (University of Benin Teaching Hospital) and the other operating without a scheduling system (University of Benin Healthcare Centre). A total of 249 participants were recruited using a stratified random sampling technique combined with purposive sampling to ensure adequate representation of patients attending the selected radiology departments. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. Socio-demographic findings revealed that the majority of respondents (24.5%) were aged 36–45 years, followed by 46–55 years (22.5%), 26–35 years (20.9%), and 18–25 years (15.7%). Of the participants, 58.2% attended the hospital with a scheduling system, while 41.8% attended the hospital without a scheduling system. Additionally, 58.2% of respondents had scheduled appointments, while 41.8% did not. Distribution of imaging procedures among participants included X-ray (29.7%), MRI (26.1%), CT scan (24.1%), and ultrasound (20.1%). Regarding wait times, patients attending the hospital with a scheduling system were typically attended to within 10–20 minutes. In contrast, patients at the hospital without a scheduling system waited more than 45 minutes on average. Overall, 78.3% of respondents considered the waiting time acceptable, whereas 21.7% deemed it unacceptable. Communication about waiting times was rated as excellent or good by 77.2% of respondents, fair by 11.2%, and poor by 11.6%. In terms of overall satisfaction, 72.3% reported being very satisfied or satisfied, while 17.4% were dissatisfied or very dissatisfied. Hypothesis testing revealed that comparisons between the two groups yielded p-values < 0.05, indicating statistically significant differences. Therefore, the null hypothesis was rejected, and the alternate hypothesis was accepted, confirming a significant difference in patient wait times between radiology departments with and without a scheduling system. These findings underscore the importance of implementing scheduling systems to reduce patient wait times, improve satisfaction, and enhance overall efficiency in radiology departments. Hospitals without scheduling systems are recommended to adopt computerized or manual appointment protocols to better manage patient flow and minimize waiting times

The purpose of the study is to examine the dangers of self-medication practice among Undergraduates in University Of Benin. To achieve the purpose of the study, four (4) research questions were raised and answered, and important literature related to dangers of self-medication were clearly discussed. The descriptive research design was adopted for this study and the population consisted of undergraduates students in the University of Benin during the 2024/2025 academic session. With a total population of about forty three thousand, six hundred and seventy nine (43,679) undergraduate students. A total of four hundred and eighty (480) students were selected to represent the population of the study. The instrument used for data collection was a well-structured close-ended questionnaire with sixteen (16) items. The questionnaire was validated by the project supervisor and two other lecturers in the Department of Health, Safety and Environmental Education. The test retest reliability method was used to establish the reliability of the questionnaire. A total of four hundred and eighty (480) questionnaires were administered to the sample and data collected was analysed using frequency count, percentage mean, and standard deviation. The study found that undergraduates of the University of Benin engage in self-medication, often influenced by factors such as academic pressure, financial constraints, easy access to drugs, cultural beliefs, and information from social media. Commonly used medications include antimalarials, pain relievers, contraceptives, and antibiotics. Although some students reported infrequent use, the practice remains widespread and poses serious risks, including drug resistance, adverse reactions, misdiagnosis, psychological dependence, and long-term health complications. The study therefore recommended strengthening campus health services to provide affordable and accessible medical care, organizing regular awareness campaigns, enforcing stricter control of prescription only drugs, promoting peer education and student led health advocacy, and integrating health education into academic programs to equip students with the knowledge to make informed health decisions.

This research explores the representation of poverty in Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations and Buchi Emecheta’s The Joys of Motherhood, employing Marxist literary criticism as the central framework. Although the novels are set in vastly different cultural and historical contexts Victorian England and colonial/postcolonial Nigeria both works expose the struggles of the underprivileged and critique the social and economic systems that sustain inequality. Through a Marxist lens, the analysis demonstrates that poverty is not an individual failing but a structural outcome of class divisions, material scarcity, and systemic exploitation. Furthermore, the study argues that Dickens and Emecheta, despite their cultural differences, converge in their depiction of the poor as victims of social injustice, while at the same time portraying their endurance in the face of hardship.

Soil carbon storage is a key component of the global carbon cycle and plays a vital role in climate regulation, particularly within forest ecosystems. This study assessed soil organic carbon (SOC) and associated soil properties in a teak (Tectona grandis) plantation at the University of Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. A plot measuring 50 m × 50 m was marked out in the plantation and divided into three sections to represent replicates, with two plots each, resulting in six georeferenced sampling points which include USS1 - USS6 (Uniben Soil sample). Soil samples were collected from the top 0–15 cm layer, processed, and analyzed for physical and chemical properties, Standard laboratory procedures were followed, and results were subjected to statistical analysis using ANOVA. Results revealed significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) among plots and replicates in most soil properties. SOC and organic matter were highest in USS1 and USS4, indicating greater litter input and reduced decomposition, while USS3 recorded the lowest values alongside higher bulk density and exchangeable acidity. Total nitrogen and exchangeable cations followed SOC patterns, reflecting the close linkage between carbon and nutrient dynamics. USS2 and USS5 showed relatively higher total nitrogen and cation exchange capacity, suggesting better nutrient retention. Available phosphorus remained low across all sites, indicating potential nutrient limitation. Soil pH and electrical conductivity varied significantly among sampling points, highlighting micro-site differences influenced by litter accumulation, root activity, and localized decomposition. Soil texture showed no significant variation, confirming uniform parent material. Overall, the results demonstrate that teak plantations enhance soil organic carbon and nutrient status, contributing to carbon sequestration and sustainable land management, while localized conditions drive variations in soil fertility and nutrient distribution.

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in Nigeria play a pivotal role in national development, yet many struggle with digital engagement, limited digital presence, inefficient communication systems, and low donor engagement due to fragmented tools, outdated websites, and limited technical capacity. This project addresses these challenges by designing and developing a comprehensive, responsive, and secure web-based digital engagement platform tailored specifically for Nigerian NGOs. The platform integrates donation processing via local and international payment gateways (Flutterwave, Paystack, OPay, Stripe, PayPal), volunteer registration, automated email marketing (via Brevo API), impact reporting, and a dynamic news/blog section all within a single, user-friendly interface. The development followed an Agile-inspired methodology, with a strong emphasis on user-centred design, accessibility (WCAG 2.1), and compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR). The frontend was built using HTML5, CSS3, Bootstrap, and vanilla JavaScript, ensuring lightweight performance even on lowbandwidth networks. The system was rigorously tested for functionality, security, responsiveness, and usability across multiple devices and browsers. Results demonstrate that the platform successfully bridges critical gaps in NGO digital infrastructure, offering a modular, scalable, and cost-effective solution that enhances donor trust, volunteer mobilisation, and operational transparency. This project contributes to academic knowledge by providing a Nigerian-contextualised case study in ICT for Development (ICT4D) and offers a reusable framework for future civic technology initiatives in resource-constrained environments.

Background of the Study: University students frequently contend with
demanding academic schedules that can limit their opportunities for physical
activity and affect their overall physical fitness. A heavy academic load may
contribute to prolonged sedentary behaviour, increased mental fatigue, and the
development of long term health issues. Consequently, understanding the ways
in which academic pressures shape students’ physical activity patterns and
fitness levels is essential for fostering both well being and academic effectiveness within higher education settings.
Aim: This research examined the association between academic workload, physical activity, and physical fitness among undergraduate students at the University of Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to ascertain the extent of academic workload, determine the prevalence of physical activity, assess physical fitness status, and explore the interconnections among these factors in relation to gender and faculty differences.
Method: A descriptive cross sectional design was adopted for the study. Data were gathered from a representative sample of undergraduate students using validated self administered questionnaires to assess academic workload across four subscales (mental, physical, temporal, and performance) and to measure levels of physical activity. These were supplemented by standardised physical
fitness assessments. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarise
demographic and activity related data, while inferential techniques, including
Pearson’s correlation and independent t tests, were used to examine
relationships and differences between variables. The threshold for statistical
significance was established at p < 0.05.

This study investigated the impact of the language of feminism on the teaching and learning of English Language in senior secondary schools in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. The study was prompted by concerns about gender bias in English Language textbooks, classroom discourse, and teaching practices, despite growing attention to gender equality in education. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population comprised senior secondary school students and English Language teachers in selected public secondary schools within Oredo Local Government Area. Using a stratified random sampling technique, five (5) public secondary schools were selected for the study, namely Ihogbe College (19 students), Oba Akenzua Secondary School (10 students), Emotan College (10 students), Edokpolor Grammar School (2 students), and Idia College (9 students). A total of sixty (60) respondents participated in the study, consisting of fifty (50) senior secondary school students and ten (10) English Language teachers. Data were collected using structured questionnaires designed on a four-point Likert scale. The instruments were validated by experts and their reliability was established using the test–retest method. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, and mean scores. The findings revealed that English Language textbooks still contain moderate gender bias, with male characters more frequently portrayed in active and leadership roles, while female characters are often depicted in passive or domestic roles. However, the study found that English Language teachers make conscious efforts to employ gender- sensitive teaching strategies and inclusive language during classroom instruction. The results further showed that the integration of feminist perspectives enhances classroom participation, promotes fairness, and improves students’ understanding of gender equality and critical awareness of language use. The study concluded that the language of feminism has a positive impact on the teaching and learning of English Language in senior secondary schools. It therefore recommended the revision of English Language textbooks and continuous training of teachers on gender-sensitive pedagogy to promote inclusive and equitable English Language education.