CLEMENT A. IGHODARO

This study examines the impact of petroleum subsidy on the consumption of petroleum products in Nigeria from 2000 to 2020 using an Error Correction Model (ECM). The analysis reveals that petroleum subsidies significantly stimulate consumption by enhancing affordability. Surprisingly, higher inflation rates are associated with increased petroleum consumption, challenging conventional economic theory which predicts reduced consumption due to diminished purchasing power. Conversely, the relationship between petroleum prices and consumption is weak and statistically insignificant, suggesting that factors beyond price influence consumer behavior. Additionally, higher Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per Capita is unexpectedly associated with decreased petroleum consumption, indicating the presence of other influential factors independent of income levels. These findings underscore the complexity of the factors influencing petroleum consumption in Nigeria and highlight the need for evidence-based policymaking. Recommendations include conducting a comprehensive review of subsidy programs, investing in renewable energy, pursuing economic diversification, managing inflation, and strengthening data-driven decision-making to promote sustainable and resilient petroleum consumption patterns while fostering inclusive economic growth and development.

The study sought to evaluate the recruitment policy and manpower
utilization in the civil service; using Edo state as a case study. Seven
research questions were raised for the study; what considerations guide the processes of recruitment in Edo state civil service? Are respondents satisfied with the transfer policies of the Edo state civil service? Are respondents satisfied with the appraisal policies of the Edo state civil service? Are selection and placement processes in Edo state civil servi2efv ce acceptable? Are selection and placement in the civil service of Edo state done on merit? To what extent are the staff members utilized in the civil service of Edo state? Are sanctions effective in checking selection irregularities the Edo state civil service? The research method
for designs to be used is case study and survey method. This is where various ministries and departments of the state civil service are consulted. Information gathered from the different departments and ministries would be used for this project. A sample of two hundred (200) respondents was used for the study. Data collected from the questionnaire was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Frequency distribution and percentage analysis is used to analyze the research question while T-test and ANOVA was used to test the hypotheses raised. Findings show that 53% of respondents agree that the processes of selections is fair and 52.5% strongly agree and 43.0% agree that the employment equity is considered,31.0% however disagree. In distribution of manpower 101 respondents which is 50.5% disagree that government of origin is adequately represented in the Edo State civil service. 25.0%
strongly disagree that they are satisfied with the promotion system 34.0% disagree but 25.5% agree and 15.5% strongly agree. Respondents largely agree that the selection process is fair acceptable as 53.0% agree and 38.0% strongly agree. 121 respondents agree (60.5%) and 24.0% strongly agree that the manpower force in the civil service is adequate. Responses show
that sanctions are present but are not always applied. 50.5% held that cases of suspected irregularities are seldom reported to management. However 35.0% held that management takes disciplinary action often 41.0% responded that it is sometimes that management takes disciplinary action 24.0% held that the disciplinary action is seldom taken. The study recommends a review of the recruitment policy must be made expedient for the smooth implementation of the policy and the civil service commission should embark on a comprehensive audit and appraisal of workers to identify the gaps in manpower utilization in Edo state civil
service