Edo State

This study examines the Impact of Domestic Violence on Women’s Mental Health In Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The objective of the study is to assess the prevalence and forms of domestic violence experienced by women in Benin City to examine the mental health status of women who have experienced domestic violence, to explore the relationship between domestic violence and mental health disorders among women, to identify the socio-cultural and institutional barriers prevent women from seeking help. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design also known as survey design. The sample size of two hundred (200) women within aged 18 to 60 years who have been or are currently in an intimate partner relationship whether formal (married), informal (cohabiting), or dating will be randomly selected from Oredo, Ikpoba-Okha, Egor, and Orhionmwon Local Government Areas, Benin City, Edo State. The findings of this study revealed that most of the respondents are victims of domestic violence, domestic violence is a serious issue in most community in Benin City, societal attitudes towards domestic violence contribute to its prevalence, there are organisations and agencies that support victims of domestic violence in Benin City. This study concluded that the complex nature of domestic violence and its profound psychological consequences, which are worsened by cultural, social, and economic factors prevalent in the region. The recommendation of this study is to establish and enhance support centers that provide comprehensive services for victims of domestic violence, including counseling, legal aid, and medical assistance, and these centers should be easily accessible and equipped with trained professionals who understand the nuances of domestic violence and mental health.

The study investigated the relationship between socio-economic background of
parents and students’ academic performance in senior secondary schools in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. To achieve the purpose of the study, four research questions were raised and answered. The population for this study was made up of all the 5,419 public senior secondary school students in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. The sample size for the study was made up of 70 respondents. Data collected from the respondents was analyzed using descriptive statistics, precisely mean and standard deviation. The instrument used for the data collection was a structured questionnaire titled “Relationship between Socio-Economic Background of Parents and Students’ Academic Performance Questionnaire (RSEBPSAPQ)”. The constructed questionnaire for the study was presented to the project supervisor to confirm for content validity. The Cronbanch Alpha method was used to determine the reliability of the instrument. The questionnaire was administered to a group of 20 respondents which were not part of the study but were part of the population. A Cronbach Alpha coefficient of .887 was obtained. This shows that the instrument is reliable. The findings from the study include that there is no significant relationship between parental socio-economic background and students’ academic performance based on sex. It was concluded that socio-economic background of parents such as education, occupation and cultural values significantly influence on students’ academic performance in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. The study recommended among others that the government should introduce policies and scholarship schemes aimed at supporting students from low socio-economic backgrounds. Such initiatives would help to reduce financial barriers that limit students’ access to quality education and, consequently, improve their academic performance

This study examines the impact of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in combating women trafficking in Edo State between 2003 and 2019. Edo State has long been identified as a major hub for human trafficking in Nigeria, particularly involving the exploitation of women and girls for forced labor and sexual exploitation abroad. The research explores the extent to which NAPTIP’s interventions—through prevention, prosecution, protection, and partnership strategies—have addressed this challenge over the specified period.

Using a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches, the study analyzes policy frameworks, case records, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with local and international stakeholders. Findings indicate that NAPTIP has made significant progress in raising awareness, rescuing victims, and prosecuting traffickers. However, persistent socio-economic factors such as poverty, unemployment, cultural practices, and weak community-level enforcement continue to undermine these efforts.

The study concludes that while NAPTIP has played a crucial role in reducing trafficking activities in Edo State, more sustained efforts are needed, particularly in grassroots sensitization, economic empowerment programs, and stronger inter-agency collaboration. It recommends policy strengthening and increased funding to enhance the agency’s effectiveness in the ongoing fight against women trafficking

The study investigated the influence of functional literacy in reducing unemployment among youths in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. In order to achieve the objectives of this study, five research questions were raised. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study consists of youths under-going various functional literacy programmes in both public and private organization in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. A census sampling technique was used to select one hundred and twenty-six (126) youths in Ovia North East Local Government Area. A self- structured questionnaire designed with a modified Likert Scale method made up of four- point rating scale of Strongly Agreed (SA), Agreed (A), Disagreed (D), Strongly Disagree (SD) was the instrument adopted for the study. The instrument was validated by the researcher’s supervisor and other lecturer in the Department of Adult and Continuing Education. The instrument reliability was determined using the Cronbach’s alpha procedure. The correlation of the coef icient of the instrument was found to be o.71. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics which involved frequency count, percentage and mean score analysis was used to answer the research questions. The findings of the study revealed that functional literacy programmes such as digital literacy, vocational training, entrepreneurship skills, agricultural skills are relatively available for unemployed youths in Ovia North East Local Government of Edo State. The findings also revealed that unemployment has negatively impacted the well-being of the majority of the youths. It was also revealed that there is a significant relationship between functional literacy programmes and economic empowerment of youths, as well as between functional literacy and reduction in youths unemployment. Challenges confronting the ef ective delivery of functional literacy programmes targeting youths in Ovia North Local Government Area of Edo State ranged from inadequate funding, poor infrastructure and facilities, inadequate skilled trainers and lack of awareness. Based on the findings, it was recommended that government and agencies should expand the reach of functional literacy programmes to more communities within Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. Also, more training centres should be established and adequately equipped to accommodate a large number of unemployed youths.

The distribution and marketing of leafy vegetables pose significant challenges due
to their perishable nature. This study was conducted to assess the profitability of vegetable marketing in Benin City, Edo State, by examining the socioeconomic characteristics of leafy vegetable marketers, determining the cost and margins of leafy vegetable marketing, analyzing the determinants of profit in this sector, and identifying associated challenges. A sample of 100 respondents from five markets was selected using a simple random sampling method. Data were collected through structured questionnaire administered to vegetables marketers. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics budgetary analysis and inferential statistics (linear
regression). The findings indicate that the majority (89.0%) of respondents were females, highlighting the dominance of females in vegetable marketing. Middle-aged
individuals constitute a substantial proportion (40%) of vegetable marketers, and
married individuals dominate the sector (42%). Larger households with 4-6 members contribute significantly to family labor and expenses. Total revenue (TR) from various vegetables amounted to ₦29,675.71, with variable costs (TVC) totaling ₦20,730 and fixed costs at ₦7,050. The total marketing cost (TMC) was ₦27,780, resulting in a net return of ₦1,895.71. While the net return indicates profitability, it is relatively lower compared to previous research findings. Key constraints include poor access roads, rapid quality deterioration/spoilage, seasonal price fluctuations, and high transportation costs. The perishable nature of vegetables presents a significant challenge. it can be concluded that vegetable marketing in Benin City is predominantly conducted by females, often middle- aged and married individuals. Despite profitability, the profit margin is comparatively lower than in previous studies. It was recommended that
addressing poor access roads to alleviate transportation challenges and reduce spoilage and marketing costs.

Vegetables are consumed in both the developing and developed countries of the world due to their high nutritive values, however they also contain some high levels of toxic substances including metals.This study assessed the comparative concentrations of selected heavy metals:cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) in four commonly consumed leafy vegetables: fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis), bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina), water leaf (Talinum triangulare), and scent leaf (Ocimum gratissimum) cultivated in polluted (Oluku) and unpolluted (Iyowa) sites in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Samples were analysed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS), and results were compared with FAO/WHO permissible limits. The concentrations of all heavy metals were below recommended safety thresholds, with the general trend of accumulation being polluted site > unpolluted site. Statistical analysis (p < 0.05) revealed significant variations for some metals, particularly Zn, Cd, and Cu, across the two locations. Bitter leaf and scent leaf exhibited higher tendencies for metal accumulation compared to other vegetables. Although all concentrations were within safe limits, continuous cultivation near polluted areas may lead to long-term contamination risks. The findings highlight the influence of anthropogenic activities such as waste disposal and vehicular emissions on metal uptake in vegetables and underscore the need for regular environmental monitoring, improved waste management, and public awareness to ensure food safety

This research seeks to explore the problems associated with the teaching of Fine and Applied arts in junior secondary school in Oredo local Government Benin city. Considering the importance of fine arts to a person, and even the nation, it becomes important that fine arts be integrated into our curriculum. As Fine art is a useful subject to the wholeness of Man, little attention is given to the teaching and learning of the subjects in our Secondary Schools. The methodology employed is that of survey whereby the students and teacher representative were interviewed in different secondary schools. This research found out that there is a high negligence of provision of art materials for the students in studying and exploring art. These findings will be beneficial by encouraging the schools and even down to government in restoring and conserve its neglected art for posterity sake – as failure of necessary and fundamental materials, and also lack of interest of the students. The study recommends the adequate provision of art materials be made to include what is essential for its sustenance and exploration.

This study investigates the nature and types of crimes associated with female inmates at the Oko Correctional Centre in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. It examines the reasons behind women’s involvement in crime, the specific crimes committed, the socio-demographic factors influencing female criminality, and the policies needed to address the issue. The study adopts a descriptive survey design, utilizing both primary and secondary data sources. A total of ninety-two (92) respondents, comprising female inmates and social welfare officers, were sampled from a population of 1,033 using the Yamane (1967) formula. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis within the framework of the Feminist/Gender Pathway Theory. Findings reveal that financial difficulties (43.5%), family problems (21.7%), peer pressure (16.3%), and lack of education (10.9%) are major drivers of female criminality. Theft (38.0%), fraud (21.7%), assault (16.3%), and prostitution (16.3%) emerged as the most prevalent crimes, predominantly motivated by economic survival. The majority of respondents were young (21–30 years), single, poorly educated, and from low socio-economic backgrounds. The study also found that 43.5% of inmates had experienced abuse or trauma, underscoring the intersection between victimization and criminal behavior. Furthermore, 78.3% of respondents considered existing policies inadequate, emphasizing the need for gender-responsive reforms. The study concludes that female criminality in Nigeria is largely a product of socio-economic deprivation, gender-based inequalities, and limited rehabilitation opportunities. It recommends government-funded vocational and educational programs, trauma-informed care, and the development of gender- specific correctional policies aimed at reintegration and crime prevention

This study explored the knowledge of occupational hazards and safety practices among 258 nurses in a tertiary health facility in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, through a comprehensive survey. The research examined socio-demographic characteristics, awareness of various occupational hazards (physical, biological, chemical, ergonomic, and psychosocial), exposure levels, and adherence to safety protocols. Results indicated that 60.9% of nurses possessed good knowledge of occupational hazards, 33.3% had moderate knowledge, and 5.8% exhibited poor knowledge. High awareness was noted for workplace hazards (95.3%) and their potential adverse health effects (96.5%), though knowledge of relevant laws and regulations was lower (68.2%). Exposure to occupational hazards was significant, with 41.1% of nurses reporting high exposure and 50.0% experiencing moderate exposure. Frequently encountered hazards included prolonged standing (72.5%), low back pain (68.6%), workplace stress (76.7%), and exposure to disinfectants (55.0%). Overcrowded workplaces (56.6%) and infectious diseases (37.6%) were also prevalent concerns. Safety practices were robust, with 71.3% of nurses demonstrating good adherence, particularly in regular hand hygiene (77.1% strongly agree) and proper disposal of sharps (74.0% strongly agree). However, disagreement regarding needle recapping (24.8%) suggested areas for improved training. A chi-square analysis (χ² = 104.216, p < 0.001) confirmed a significant relationship between higher knowledge levels and better safety practices, underscoring the importance of education in fostering safer behaviors. The findings highlight gaps in organizational safety systems, such as limited systematic hazard identification (59.7%), and the need for targeted interventions. Recommendations include enhanced training on hazard- specific risks, regular risk assessments, ergonomic improvements, and stricter policy enforcement to mitigate exposure and promote a safer working environment for nurses in tertiary healthcare settings.

Accountability is a fundamental pillar of good governance and economic development. This study examined the role of accountability in economic development within Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State. The research aims to assess the current state of accountability, its impact on economic initiatives, public perceptions of government officials' accountability, existing mechanisms for ensuring transparency, and challenges impeding effective governance. A structured questionnaire was administered to 300 respondents, and data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. Findings reveal that accountability within Oredo LGA is low, with a mean score of 2.32 for the general level of accountability and 1.88 for government transparency. Town hall meetings and public engagement scored 2.26, indicating limited opportunities for citizen participation in governance. The study found strong agreement that accountability significantly influences economic development initiatives (Mean = 4.67), while lack of accountability negatively impacts government-led programs (Mean = 4.48). However, confidence in officials' ability to manage public funds effectively was low (Mean = 2.68), and government accountability in cases of resource mismanagement also received a low rating (Mean = 2.67). Corruption was identified as a major hindrance to accountability (Mean = 4.66). Respondents recognized the existence of monitoring mechanisms (Mean = 4.1) but emphasized the need for stronger anti-corruption laws (Mean = 4.66) and enhanced transparency measures (Mean = 4.66). Major challenges to accountability include political influence (Mean = 4.51), lack of financial transparency (Mean = 4.58), and weak enforcement of laws (Mean = 4.61). The study concludes that weak accountability structures undermine economic development in Oredo LGA. Strengthening anti-corruption laws, increasing public transparency, enforcing legal frameworks, and fostering civic engagement are recommended to improve governance and economic growth in the region. This research provides valuable insights into local governance challenges and offers practical recommendations for enhancing accountability in Oredo Local
Government Area of Edo State.