Privatization has been a key policy initiative in Nigeria’s economic restructuring, aimed at enhancing efficiency, fostering competition and improving service delivery across vital sectors. Despite these efforts, concerns persist regarding the effectiveness of privatization in achieving its intended objectives. Issues such as regulatory inefficiencies, governance challenges and socio- economic disparities continue to raise questions about the overall success of privatization in Nigeria. This study analysis the efficiency of privatization in Nigeria, specifically focusing on its emerging issue and potential strategic reforms that could maximize its benefits for the nation. This paper relies on legal instruments, government policies, scholarly articles and industry reports to provide a historical and analytical perspective on privatization in Nigeria up to the present day. The study evaluates how privatization has contributed to efficiency, economic growth and improved service delivery while identifying the underlying factors responsible for its shortcomings. Findings from this study reveal some of the emerging issue hindering the success of privatization, including weak regulatory oversight, infrastructural deficits, affordability concerns and social inequalities. The study further explores the broader socio-economic consequences of privatization on businesses and consumers, particularly in terms of accessibility, affordability and quality of service. Based on these findings, the study proposes strategic legal and policy recommendations to enhance the efficiency of privatization, strengthen regulatory frameworks and ensure sustainable economic benefits.

Offshore drilling operations constitute one of the most technically demanding and hazardous activities in the global petroleum industry. The complexity of these operations, combined with the challenges of deep-water environments, necessitates the implementation of rigorous safety protocols to protect personnel, assets, and the environment. This study provides a comprehensive overview of safety protocols in offshore drilling operations, emphasizing their effectiveness, challenges, and prospects for improvement. The research adopts a qualitative methodology that integrates literature reviews, regulatory reports, and case analyses from national and international offshore operations. Key focus areas include risk assessment modeling, safety management systems, regulatory compliance, human and organizational factors, and the application of modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, and digital twin systems in enhancing offshore safety performance. Findings reveal that although substantial progress has been made in safety management and regulatory enforcement, gaps still exist in the consistent application of safety standards, particularly in developing regions where limited resources and weak regulatory oversight hinder full compliance. The study further highlights that most offshore incidents result from a combination of technical failures and human factors, underscoring the need for stronger safety cultures, continuous training, and advanced monitoring technologies. It concludes that a holistic, technology-driven, and human-centered approach is essential for achieving sustainable offshore safety. The research therefore recommends the adoption of integrated safety management frameworks, proactive risk mitigation strategies, and harmonization of global safety regulations to ensure safer, more resilient, and environmentally responsible offshore drilling operations.

This study investigates the simulation of the actual maximum stress in Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) weldment using SIMUFACT Welding software. The research aimed to compare the simulated stress values with experimental results obtained in a controlled environment under varying process parameters such as current, voltage, and gas flow rate. During the design of experiment, twenty experimental runs was generated by the Central composite design and it was used to carry out TIG welding on mild steel plates. A universal testing machine was used to record the actual maximum stress on the welded joint and recorded as experimental values. The data generated from the CCD matrix was then feed into an expert system (SIMUFACT 2024) which was used to carry out TIG welding simulations with its corresponding actual maximum stress recorded alongside as the SIMUFACT result. Results from this study revealed that that increasing welding current reduces the maximum stress due to higher heat input and lower cooling rate, while voltage variation influences arc width and stress distribution. The actual maximum stress values from both datasets were analyzed and compared. The results revealed close agreement between experimental and simulated values, a fitted line plot was used to ascertain the degree of correlation between both results and a correlation coefficient of 0.98 was observed, indicating a very strong positive correlation degree between the experimental result and the SIMUFACT result. A time series plot was then used to compare if both data sets assumed the same trend. The SIMUFACT welding simulation analysis proved to be a reliable tool for simulating and predicting the actual maximum stress in TIG-welded joints thereby aiding in the optimization of welding parameters for an improved structural integrity

This study was designed to analysis the effectiveness of different Grammar teaching approaches among senior secondary school students in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. To achieve the purpose intended for the study, four research questions were raised to guide the study. The questions raised and examined include: To what extent does grammar translated teaching method improve students’ grammar mastery among senior secondary school students in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State? To what extent does direct method of teaching grammar improve students’ grammar mastery among senior secondary school students in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State? How does effectiveness of structural method of teaching influence students’ grammar mastery among senior secondary school students in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State? To what extent does task-based learning method of teaching grammar improve students’ grammar mastery among senior secondary school students in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State? The population of this study consists of one thousand eight hundred and sixty- three (1863) SS2 students from the twelve (12) public schools in Egor Local Government Area of Edo state. From the twelve (12) public schools, ten (10) schools are co-educational while two (2) schools are unitary. The sample size of this study will be two hundred (200) SS 2 students, which wasbe drawn from five (5) public schools in Ego Local

This project models the spread of information in social media networks through advanced computational techniques and simulations. In today’s digital age, social media platforms serve as primary channels for information dissemination. As a result, the rate at which information—and misinformation—spreads increases exponentially, leading to significant implications for society. Understanding the dynamics of information spread proves crucial for various applications, including public health messaging, marketing strategies, and efforts to combat misinformation. The project employs graph theory as a foundational framework to represent social networks, allowing for the visualization and analysis of user interactions and relationships. By constructing a model that captures the essential characteristics of these networks, we simulate how information propagates across different nodes and edges within the network. Key components of the study include an examination of the role of influencers— individuals who possess a higher degree of connectivity and significantly accelerate information dissemination. By identifying these pivotal nodes, the model provides insights into how targeted messaging can effectively reach larger audiences. Additionally, the project investigates the impact of network structure on the spread of information. Researchers analyze different configurations of social networks, such as those characterized by high clustering or short path lengths, to determine how these factors influence the rate and extent of information diffusion. Through a series of simulations, this study explores various scenarios, including the effects of strategic interventions, such as promoting specific influencers or modifying the network structure to enhance information flow. Ultimately, the findings from this project aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of information dynamics in social media, offering valuable insights for practitioners and researchers alike in the fields of public health, marketing, and information science. By enhancing our grasp of these dynamics, we can better leverage social media for positive outcomes while mitigating the risks associated with the rapid spread of misinformatio

This study investigates the effect of palm oil fuel ash (POFA), an agro-industrial by-product, as an additive partial replacement for cement in stabilizing laterite cubes, with a focus on enhancing compressive strength and reducing water absorption while promoting sustainable construction practices. The aim is to evaluate POFA's potential as a pozzolanic additive to mitigate the environmental and economic drawbacks of traditional cement use in lateritic soil stabilization, particularly in tropical regions like Nigeria where laterite and POFA are abundant. The specific objectives include: characterizing the physical and chemical properties of laterite soil, ordinary Portland cement (OPC), and treated POFA; assessing the compressive strength of stabilized laterite cubes at curing ages of 7, 14, and 28 days for POFA replacement levels of 0%, 10%, and 20% by weight of cement; evaluating water absorption characteristics at 28 days across these replacement levels; determining the optimal POFA dosage for the best balance of strength and durability; and comparing the results against civil engineering standards to validate practical applicability. Methodologically, laterite soil was sourced from Benin City, Nigeria, air-dried, and sieved through a 4.75 mm mesh to remove contaminants. POFA was obtained from a local palm oil mill, sun-dried, and finely ground to pass a 75 μm sieve, ensuring high pozzolanic activity due to its silica content (58.4% SiO₂). OPC conforming to ASTM C150 was used as the primary binder. Mix designs followed an additive approach, with laterite as the base (100%) and cement/POFA added in proportionsof 0, 10 and 20%. A water-binder ratio of 0.55 was maintained, and a total of 63 cubes (100 mm × 100 mm × 100 mm) were cast. Specimens were demolded after 24 hours and cured via full water immersion at 27 ± 2°C for the specified periods. Testing involved compressive strength and water absorption calculated as the percentage weight gain after 24-hour immersion. Material characterization included specific gravity (laterite: 2.65, cement: 3.15, POFA: 2.42), fineness, particle size, and oxide composition via X-ray fluorescence. Results indicate that POFA significantly influences both physical and mechanical properties. Chemically, POFA qualifies as a Class F pozzolan per ASTM C618. Dry density andWater absorption were done which gave its higher value at 10%. Compressive strength development showed marked improvements with POFA incorporation. The unstabilized control (100% laterite) yielded only 1.74 N/mm² at 28 days, unsuitable for structural use. Cement alone boosted strength to 3.93 N/mm² (10% cement) and 5.40 N/mm² (20% cement). The synergistic effect was most evident in mixes with both cement and POFA due to pozzolanic enhancement, filler effects, and accelerated hydration. Strength gains were delayed but sustained in POFA mixes, with 7day strengths lower but surpassing controls by 28 days. Overall, 10% POFA replacement optimized performance, meeting requirements for non-load-bearing applications. In conclusion, POFA at 10% replacement level is an effective, sustainable additive for laterite stabilization, reducing cement consumption by up to 50%, repurposing waste to lower environmental pollution and embodied CO₂, and cutting costs without compromising durability. This supports circular economy principles and SDGs 11 and 12. Recommendations include further field trials for long-term durability, exploration of higher POFA fineness or activation methods to extend optimal replacement beyond 10%, and policy incentives for POFA adoption in low-cost housing. Future studies could incorporate additional admixtures or assess resistance to environmental factors like acid attack or freezethaw cycles to broaden applications in diverse climateThis study investigates the effect of palm oil fuel ash (POFA), an agro-industrial by-product, as an additive partial replacement for cement in stabilizing laterite cubes, with a focus on enhancing compressive strength and reducing water absorption while promoting sustainable construction practices. The aim is to evaluate POFA's potential as a pozzolanic additive to mitigate the environmental and economic drawbacks of traditional cement use in lateritic soil stabilization, particularly in tropical regions like Nigeria where laterite and POFA are abundant. The specific objectives include: characterizing the physical and chemical properties of laterite soil, ordinary Portland cement (OPC), and treated POFA; assessing the compressive strength of stabilized laterite cubes at curing ages of 7, 14, and 28 days for POFA replacement levels of 0%, 10%, and 20% by weight of cement; evaluating water absorption characteristics at 28 days across these replacement levels; determining the optimal POFA dosage for the best balance of strength and durability; and comparing the results against civil engineering standards to validate practical applicability. Methodologically, laterite soil was sourced from Benin City, Nigeria, air-dried, and sieved through a 4.75 mm mesh to remove contaminants. POFA was obtained from a local palm oil mill, sun-dried, and finely ground to pass a 75 μm sieve, ensuring high pozzolanic activity due to its silica content (58.4% SiO₂). OPC conforming to ASTM C150 was used as the primary binder. Mix designs followed an additive approach, with laterite as the base (100%) and cement/POFA added in proportionsof 0, 10 and 20%. A water-binder ratio of 0.55 was maintained, and a total of 63 cubes (100 mm × 100 mm × 100 mm) were cast. Specimens were demolded after 24 hours and cured via full water immersion at 27 ± 2°C for the specified periods. Testing involved compressive strength and water absorption calculated as the percentage weight gain after 24-hour immersion. Material characterization included specific gravity (laterite: 2.65, cement: 3.15, POFA: 2.42), fineness, particle size, and oxide composition via X-ray fluorescence. Results indicate that POFA significantly influences both physical and mechanical properties. Chemically, POFA qualifies as a Class F pozzolan per ASTM C618. Dry density andWater absorption were done which gave its higher value at 10%. Compressive strength development showed marked improvements with POFA incorporation. The unstabilized control (100% laterite) yielded only 1.74 N/mm² at 28 days, unsuitable for structural use. Cement alone boosted strength to 3.93 N/mm² (10% cement) and 5.40 N/mm² (20% cement). The synergistic effect was most evident in mixes with both cement and POFA due to pozzolanic enhancement, filler effects, and accelerated hydration. Strength gains were delayed but sustained in POFA mixes, with 7day strengths lower but surpassing controls by 28 days. Overall, 10% POFA replacement optimized performance, meeting requirements for non-load-bearing applications. In conclusion, POFA at 10% replacement level is an effective, sustainable additive for laterite stabilization, reducing cement consumption by up to 50%, repurposing waste to lower environmental pollution and embodied CO₂, and cutting costs without compromising durability. This supports circular economy principles and SDGs 11 and 12. Recommendations include further field trials for long-term durability, exploration of higher POFA fineness or activation methods to extend optimal replacement beyond 10%, and policy incentives for POFA adoption in low-cost housing. Future studies could incorporate additional admixtures or assess resistance to environmental factors like acid attack or freezethaw cycles to broaden applications in diverse climate

This study examines Afrobeats as tools for political and social resistance in Nigeria, with a focus on how artistes employ music to influence and critique the political and social realities of the nation. The research reveals that Afrobeats has evolved beyond entertainment into a powerful instrument for social awareness, political activism, and resistance against oppression, corruption, and injustice. The study adopts New Historicism Theory as its theoretical framework, which states that understanding a literary or artistic work requires knowledge of the historical context that shapes it. This approach enables an exploration of how Afrobeats reflects and responds to Nigeria’s political and social decadence. Ten songs were analyzed, including Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Jaga Jaga” and “Tell Your Papa”; Burna Boy’s “20.10.20”, “Another Story”, “Monsters You Made”, “Common Person”, and “Wetin Man Go Do”; Falz’s “This Is Nigeria” and “Johnny”; and Teni’s “Uyo Meyo.” I’m Findings show that these artistes use Afrobeats as a medium for advocacy, self-expression, and societal critique. Their songs confront issues such as bad governance, state violence, social inequality, unemployment, and moral decay while inspiring resilience and hope among listeners. The study concludes that Afrobeats functions as a voice for the people. It educates, unites, and awakens social consciousness; thereby placing the genre as a vital tool for political and social transformation in contemporary Nigerian society

The findings revealed that maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea acts as a severe economic tax on regional trade, forcing shipping companies to incur exorbitant costs for private armed escorts, rerouting vessels, and heightened insurance premiums, costs which are ultimately passed down to West African consumers through inflated commodity prices. Culturally and operationally, the nature of piracy in the region has transitioned from oil cargo theft to high-risk kidnap-for-ransom schemes. On the policy front, the study established that while the Yaoundé Architecture (2013) provided a vital framework for regional cooperation, its full operationalization is heavily hindered by inadequate naval assets, weak intelligence-sharing mechanisms, and varying levels of political will among littoral states. Furthermore, the legal analysis indicated that prior legislative gaps in prosecuting pirates have been significantly improved by landmark domestic laws, such as Nigeria's Suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Offences (SPOMO) Act, though cross-border legal harmonization and jurisdictional boundaries remain complex hurdles.

This study examined The Impact of Financing on Food Security among Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Benin City Camp. The survey research design was adopted because data were collected from a defined sample population with specific characteristics. Four research questions were formulated and answered using simple percentage, mean, and standard deviation analysis. The population of the study comprised residents of the Internally Displaced Persons Camp in Benin City, Edo State. From this population, a total of 370 respondents were selected as the sample using a random sampling technique. The instrument used for data collection was a twenty-item self-structured questionnaire designed to elicit information on sources of financing, utilization of funds, and their impact on food availability, accessibility, and adequacy among IDPs. The study was anchored on the Sustainable Livelihood Theory and the Food Security Theory. The Sustainable Livelihood Theory emphasizes how access to financial resources enhances the ability of vulnerable populations to secure food, build assets, and recover from economic shocks. The Food Security Theory, on the other hand, explains that financial stability and funding mechanisms directly influence food availability, accessibility, utilization, and stability among populations. Together, these theories provide a framework for understanding how financial inputs affect food systems, welfare, and resilience among displaced persons in Benin City Camp. Based on the findings, the study concluded that financing plays a crucial role in improving food security among internally displaced persons. Adequate funding facilitates the purchase and distribution of food, supports small-scale income-generating activities, and ensures a steady food supply within the camp. However, challenges such as insufficient financial support, poor fund management, lack of donor coordination, and dependency on irregular aid were found to hinder sustainable food security. Respondents emphasized that consistent and transparent financial support remains essential to improving the living standards and nutritional well-being of IDPs. The study recommends that government agencies, humanitarian organizations, and camp management should strengthen financial interventions by increasing budgetary allocations to IDP welfare, encouraging partnerships with NGOs, and establishing monitoring mechanisms to ensure proper utilization of funds. Furthermore, regular financial training and accountability frameworks should be implemented to promote sustainability and enhance food security outcomes among internally displaced persons in Benin City Camp

This study assessed the knowledge and compliance with preventive measures of nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections among healthcare workers in Edo State. Nosocomial infections present a severe global threat to patient safety, prolonging hospital stays, increasing medical costs, and contributing significantly to mortality rates, particularly in developing healthcare systems. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the level of awareness regarding infection control protocols among healthcare practitioners, determine their level of compliance with standard preventive measures—such as hand hygiene, proper disposal of sharps, and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)—and identify the institutional and individual factors influencing compliance in selected healthcare facilities across Edo State.The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey research design. The target population comprised diverse healthcare workers, including medical doctors, nurses, laboratory scientists, and ward attendants, operating in both public and private hospitals within the state. Primary data were gathered using a structured, self-administered questionnaire designed to measure knowledge scores and self-reported compliance levels, complemented by an observational checklist to verify actual practices. A total sample size of respondents was selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations) and inferential statistics (such as Chi-Square or multiple regression analysis) via the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), with the significance level set at $p < 0.05$.The empirical findings revealed a high level of theoretical knowledge regarding nosocomial infections and their prevention mechanisms among the majority of the healthcare workers. However, a significant gap was observed between knowledge and actual practice, as overall compliance with standard precaution guidelines was found to be suboptimal. While compliance was relatively high for hand washing and the use of gloves, it was critically low for procedures involving recapping needles and the consistent utilization of complete PPE during high-risk exposures. The study identified several systemic barriers to compliance, including inadequate supply of basic infection control resources (such as running water, soap, alcohol-based hand rubs, and PPEs), high patient-to-staff ratios leading to work overloads, and a lack of regular, institutionalized training and strict monitoring frameworks.Based on these findings, the study concludes that having adequate knowledge alone does not automatically translate into safety compliance in clinical settings without supportive infrastructure. Therefore, it is recommended that the Edo State Ministry of Health and hospital managements institute continuous training and mandatory re-certification programs on infection prevention and control for all cadres of healthcare workers. Additionally, hospital administrations must ensure an uninterrupted supply of essential safety resources and establish functional Infection Control Committees (ICCs) to monitor compliance, enforce strict adherence to protocols, and implement punitive or corrective measures for non-compliance to guarantee a safer clinical environment