Kashere Journal of Politics and International Relations

Assessment of the Application of Advertising Strategies for the Growth of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in Benue and Nasarawa States

Emmanuel Ukeyima Akumun — 2026-04-04

This study on the Assessment of the Application of Advertising Strategies for the Growth of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in Benue and Nasarawa States was carried out to examine the application of advertising strategies and the influence they have on the growth of small and medium scale enterprises in the two states. The study was anchored on Yale’s Persuasion Theory and the AIDA Model. The survey research method was adopted, using questionnaires as the data collection instrument. Data was generated from a sample of 792 respondents drawn from a total population of 2,760 registered SMEs in Benue and Nasarawa States. Findings showed that there is a high level of knowledge and awareness regarding the relevance and use of advertising strategies among SME managers in Benue and Nasarawa States. However, findings also showed that despite the high level of awareness, managers have been adopting only a few of the strategies. It was concluded that the marketing communication tools of advertising are only being moderately applied in fast-tracking the growth of SMEs in Benue and Nasarawa States. As a result, the positive impacts that could have accrued to SMEs in these states have not been as visible as one would expect. It was therefore recommended that managers of SMEs should increase their utilization of advertising strategies, building on their existing knowledge of their relevance and use, through deliberate budget allocations to ensure a holistic engagement with Integrated Marketing Communication Strategies.

Democracy and Resurgence of Military Governance in Africa: Burkina in Prospect

Plangsat Bitrus Dayil — 2026-04-20

Democracy is a system of government that is people centric. It exists to bring succor to the masses, give hope to the poor and use it dividends for the growth and development of the people. It has succeeded in countries like the United States and since Africa countries begin practicing it to date; the progression of this well praised democracy is seemingly low. The authors interrogates the resurgence of military governance in Africa in light of failure of government over the years to promote even development and grow human capacity in Africa using Burkina Faso as a current case. The paper relied on the use of secondary method of data collection. Good governance theory was adopted to analyze the thought. The scholars suggest that since the country of Burkina Faso has advanced under military leadership, bad economy among others led to the coup. It was suggested that, for military resurgence in Africa to end, all democratic states leaders must be intentional and deliberate in providing real and true leadership so they can build hope, faith and trust in the hearts of the masses to believe in democracy rather than focusing on military government like Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso have done.

Performance Appraisal and Employees Productivity: A Study of Oke-Ogun Polytechnic Saki, Oyo State, Nigeria

Moshood Olayinka Salahu — 2026-02-27

study aims at investigating the effectiveness of the performance appraisal system at The Oke-Ogun Polytechnics Saki, with particular focus on how evaluation criteria, feedback, and linkage between appraisals and rewards affect employee motivation and productivity. To achieve its objectives of examining the effect of performance appraisal on workers’ productivity and how the employee reward system associated with performance appraisal influences employee productivity in the polytechnic, the study deployed the use of survey questionnaire to elicit quantitative data from 236 respondents across the institution. Findings reveal that performance appraisal has a statistically significant and positive effect on workers’ productivity at The Oke-Ogun Polytechnics Saki; and that employees who received regular feedback through appraisal sessions demonstrated higher engagement levels and task performance The study therefore concludes that an effective performance appraisal system serves as a critical driver of employee productivity, as reward systems associated with performance appraisal play a decisive role in improving performance outcomes. It recommends that the management of the Polytechnic should institutionalize a structured, transparent, and regular appraisal process which involves continuous monitoring and timely feedback. The study equally suggests that the management should introduce digital platform that has the capacity of automating record.

Transitional Government of National Unity in South Sudan

Celestine Okechukwu Nwosu — 2026-04-21

This paper examines the Transitional Government of National Unity constituted in South Sudan in 2020 on the terms of the 2018 peace agreement entered into by the warring parties. Despite the strategic importance of the transitional government to the country’s nation building, development and democratization, transitional government in South Sudan has been understudied and requires a more rigorous and systematic analysis. This paper has addressed this gap. Utilizing secondary data and analysing from the theoretical lens of humanitarian development approach and related and relevant literature review, the paper offers three main critiques of the transitional government; its failure in carrying out its interim mandate creditably which is an obstacle to development and democratization, the continuous extension of the transitional government beyond its formally stated term limits, and the perception that the grand coalition of political elite in the transitional government is using the transitional government to pursue narrow political and economic interests at the detriment of the people. This paper charges the transitional government on the speedy implementation of its mandate and the holding of elections and transfer of power to a democratic government with the continued support of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the African Union (AU), the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, the citizenry and civil society organizations.

Rent-seeking and Fertiliser Distribution Politics in Benue state, Nigeria

Iveren Adoo Uganden — 2026-04-20

The declarations in documents on fertiliser policy rightly prioritize access to adequate fertilisers by all categories of farmers in Nigeria. However, the experience of farmers acknowledged by scholars and government is that fertilisers are scarce and expensive for smallholders or peasants. Consequently, this paper examines the role of politics and rent-seeking behaviour of public officials in the inaccessibility of fertiliser to smallholders. To ascertain fertiliser consumption by farmers, a survey questionnaire was administered on 400 respondents with a return rate of 377. Responses were analysed and results presented in a descriptive format. A key finding of the study is that public officials deploy fertiliser policy less for the benefit of smallholders and more for political and pecuniary ends.

Impact of Performance Appraisal on Employee Productivity in Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria

Moshood Olayinka Salahu — 2026-02-26

This paper investigates the effect of performance appraisal on employee productivity in the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN). Despite the existence of appraisal mechanisms put in place at the institute, issues such as inconsistency, weak feedback systems, and lack of reward linkage continue to hinder employees’ performance. Using quantitative primary data generated via survey questionnaire, supported with empirical evidence, the study analytically construct an empirical relationship between performance appraisal and employee productivity. Findings indicate that a strong, positive, and significant relationship exists between both performance appraisal and employees’ productivity at the institute . The study concludes that a good performance appraisal system to a great extent improves employee productivity. It recommends that the institute should strengthen its appraisal process through standardization, feedback enhancement, and technology-driven systems.

The Principal Place of the Divine Right Theory in Achieving Sustainable Public Accountability

Stephen Ikponmwonsa Okhonmina — 2026-04-21

Several theoretical and legal attempts have been made to achieve public accountability. Despite these, the challenge with achieving public accountability persists. Legal frameworks appear not to have been sufficient in curtailing the penchant of public officials to privatise public resources. In the consideration of this paper, something beyond legal frameworks is needed to ensure proper public accountability. This paper considers the nature of allegiance in Divine Right Theory against the backdrop of theories of public accountability and the challenge to public accountability and concludes that the ultimate test in achieving public accountability is the conscience of the public actor. Accordingly, the paper considers that the Divine Right Theory is the ultimate restraint and moderator of the conscience of public actors and therefore, the ultimate guide to achieving credible public accountability. Consequently, the theory of the Divine Right is considered as the means by which public accountability can be secured. However, the public can only measure the degree of adherence of the public actor to divine restrictions by the record of their character. Against this backdrop, it is recommended that greater attention should be given to the profile of those who seek public office.

An Analysis of Factors Responsible for Low Voters’ Turnout in the 2023 Presidential Elections in Northeast, Nigeria

Sani Garba Wakili — 2026-04-08

This study examined consolidation of democracy through election and good governance in the Fourth Republic with specific reference to factors responsible for low voters’ turnout in the 2023 Presidential Election in the North-East, Nigeria. The trend of General Elections conducted since 1999 showed that Nigeria witnessed a consistent decline in electoral voting. The voting turnout for the Presidential election was 52% in 1999, 69% in 2003, 58% in 2007, 54% in 2011, 44% in 2015, 35% in 2019 and 27% in 2023. The study area is North East Nigeria that comprises Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe states. For the purpose of data collection - Borno, Gombe and Yobe were conveniently selected. The study employed Mixed Method Research that involved quantitative and qualitative techniques of data collection and analysis. Primary and secondary data were sourced through questionnaire administration, Key Informant Interview with traditional rulers, political party members, INEC officials as well as document analysis. The findings of the study revealed that failure of democratic system in place to provide good governance that can promote and guarantee development of education, healthcare, good road network, water supply, housing and security among others. Other factors include insecurity and incidence of election related violence, CBN cashless policy (cash scarcity), desire of ruling class to remain in power at all cost and lack of internal party democracy. The study recommended the need for good governance that can guarantee security and welfare of the people.

US–China Trade War under Donald Trump 2017–2021: Trade Substitution Opportunities for Nigeria?

Joseph Bamikole Adeyanju — 2026-02-16

This study interrogates the reverberations of the US-China trade war on developing economies, with specific reference to the largest economy in Africa, Nigeria. While the US-China trade war is ongoing and becoming more intensified, concerns have been raised concerning the nature and dynamics of the trade war, the current and potential effects it has on both countries and the global economy - due to the importance of trade liberalization to global economic integration. Studies reveal that the trade war has changed the pattern of trade of many countries, especially in Asia, taking trade substitution as an alternative pathway to benefit from the trade war. Within the context of trade substitution as a viable opportunistic method, operationalized within the framework of securitization and competitive advantage theories, this study analyzes the extent of such in developing economies of Africa, in tandem with the factor of trade influence on economic development in terms of GDP. Through the use of textual data and thematical analysis, this study submits that China and the United States are key drivers in the global economy; the African economy is relatively affected by the US-China trade war; effects of the trade war is reflected in the pattern of Nigeria’s import and export; Nigeria can take more advantage of US-China trade substitution. Also, there is a need for Nigeria to make production-oriented economic policies in order to position Africa among the global supply chain to mitigate the trade war effects as they intensify.

The Impact of Point of Sales on Poverty Reduction and Employment Generation among Youths in Makurdi, Nigeria

Oryina Michael-David Orkar — 2026-04-21

The study examines the effect of point of sales (POS) services on poverty reduction, and employment creation in Makurdi, Benue State. The researcher developed four objectives: To find out whether the POS services has help in poverty reduction in Makurdi metropolis to examine if POS has created gainful employment and a means of livelihood for youth in Makurdi Metropolis, to access challenges that exist in the operation of POS services and to suggest ways of addressing challenges that emerge as a result of POS services in Makurdi Metropolis of Benue State. The research design is survey. The methods of data collection for this research were primary sources including structured questionnaire and interviews. 350 were administered and 309 were filled and returned. To answer research questions, frequencies mean and standard derivation was used. Mean scores of as above 2.5 were regarded as accepted while mean scores of less than 2.5 were rejected chi-squares test at 0.05 level of significance was used to test the hypothesis. The findings of the study reveal that POS services has reduced poverty and created jobs in Makurdi Metropolis of Benue State; therefore, POS services has significantly contributed to poverty reduction in Benue State. The research study recommends that Government should give loans to POS operators to boost, encourage and expand their business as this will further help to create employment and reduce poverty in Makurdi Metropolis.

Godfatherism, Governance and Political Development in Nigeria

Sa’idu Abdullahi — 2026-04-07

The paper aims to examine the implications of godfatherism on Nigerian political development. The phenomenon of godfatherism has been part of Nigerian politics since before the inauguration of the present political dispensation. However, the dynamics of politics since 1999 have been shaped and influenced by godfatherism. The paper found that the rentier character of the Nigerian state is responsible for the emergence of the present form of political godfatherism. The paper found that godfatherism built a symbiotic relationship between godfathers and godsons. This kind of relationship ensures that political godfathers finance the electioneering campaigns of political godsons; in the end, political godfathers reap their profit. This gives godfathers opportunities to dictate and control the government’s affairs and coffers. The situation further overburdens the state and weakens its ability to deliver, especially in terms of the welfare of citizens. The repercussions of this on politics and governance are enormous as it creates a climate of high-intense political competition that adversely affects wider political participation. This makes the possibility of a formidable democratic system of government difficult and weakens the formation of strong political opposition due to the absence of sound political competition. The paper found that godfatherism promotes clientelism and patronage. The paper recommended that for Nigeria to advance politically and have sound governance, the phenomenon of godfatherism must be brought to an end by reforming the 2022 Electoral Act and ensuring severe punishment for those who violate its provisions.

Workforce Diversity and Organizational Performance in Higher Education Institutions: Evidence from IBB University, Lapai

Umar Halilu Kobo — 2026-01-14

This research explored how having a diverse workforce affected worker performance at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai. The study particularly aimed to investigate how gender diversity, age diversity, ethnic diversity and educational background diversity impacts performance. The university staff members had a total population of the study equal to 1450. A total of 345 respondents became the sample that was determined using Yamane’s formula and stratified random sampling. This was to ensure that both academic and non-academic staffs were represented. The research utilized a survey design, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression analysis. The study outcome shows that gender diversity, ethnics’ diversity, and education background diversity positively and significantly affect employee performance. This indicates that gender diversity, ethnic diversity and educational background diversity lead to more creativity and more productivity. However, functional diversity based on age does not lead to a significant increase in performance in University. Workforce diversity is a fundamental driver of institutional performance when properly managed. The management is advised to sustain their endeavor to endorse gender equality, ethnic diversity, educational diversity, and mentorship programs, and further optimize age diversity with a view to attaining utmost performance

Globalisation and the Nigerian State: Issues, Challenges and Prospects

Dahiru Tanko Sufyan — 2026-04-21

The study explored how the Nigerian State has been faring in a competitive global environment driven by the wave global market economy and stimulated by information and communication technology. Despite Nigeria's interaction on the global scene, it has been lagging behind to grasp the opportunities abounds. The inability of the Nigerian State to key into utilizing global opportunities for national growth and development have been as a result of bad leadership, weak institutions, disconnection in resource development, both human and material, and cultural deformity and craze for foreign culture. As a result, it has denied Nigeria the opportunities to utilize its resources for international diplomacy towards its economic growth and development, and also employ and apply information and communication technology to boost industrialization and tackle its security challenges. The study adopted a decision making theory to explain the importance of state actors on foreign policy making. The actions and inactions of state actions greatly determine Nigeria’s ability to achieve industrialization and economic stability in a competitive global market driven economy. The study recommended that, Nigeria should strength it's political and economic institutions towards a reliable foreign policies which is the reflection of domestic policies. More so, it should use its culture as a tool for national cohesion and development.

Utilization of Community-Based Institutions in Addressing Farmers-Herders Conflict in Benue State, Nigeria

Terwase Shabu — 2026-04-04

This study examines the role of community based institutions in addressing farmers-herders conflict in Benue State, Nigeria. The conflict has shifted from localized disputes into a prolonged crisis which affects daily life. The study aimed to identify community institutions involved in conflict management, examine traditional mediation approaches across selected local government areas, and evaluate their outcomes and effectiveness. A cross-sectional design guided the study. Data came from 384 respondents drawn from conflict affected local government areas across the three senatorial zones of Benue State. The study used structured questionnaires, Key Informant Interviews, and community discussions. A multistage sampling procedure guided respondent selection. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis supported data analysis. Findings show strong reliance on traditional institutions as first responders to conflict, although dominant actors differ across locations. Religious leaders led mediation in Katsina Ala with 79.4% reliance. Village heads and elders accounted for more than 80 percent in Kwande. Village heads handled 66.2% of cases in Guma and 82.8% in Gwer West. Elders’ councils dominated in Agatu with 55.9% while chiefs led in Apa with 64.5%. Mediation and dialogue formed the core strategies. Compensation and spiritual rites appeared less often. These processes reduced violence but rarely produced lasting peace. Temporary ceasefires appeared as the most common outcome in several areas. Community institutions retain social legitimacy but face limits due to conflict militarization, weak enforcement capacity, and exclusion from state responses. Sustainable peace requires hybrid peacebuilding models which connect traditional authorities with formal governance and security institutions.

Artificial Intelligence and the Crisis of Electoral Integrity in Nigeria: Emerging Threats of Disinformation

Benjamin Shaibume — 2026-04-21

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies have significantly transformed the landscape of political communication, introducing sophisticated tools capable of generating and disseminating disinformation at an unprecedented scale. This study examines the implications of AI-driven disinformation on electoral integrity in Nigeria, with specific focus on the 2023 general elections. Using a qualitative research design, the paper draws insights from expert interviews, official reports, and verified online sources to explore how AI-generated content such as deepfakes, synthetic audio, chatbots, and algorithmically amplified fake news shaped public perception, influenced political discourse, and eroded trust in electoral institutions. The findings reveal that politically motivated actors exploited AI tools to manipulate information ecosystems, distort facts, and spread propaganda, thereby undermining the credibility of electoral processes. Moreover, institutional responses by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and related agencies were largely reactive, constrained by limited technical capacity, weak coordination, and absence of a comprehensive regulatory framework. The study argues that safeguarding electoral integrity in the digital era requires proactive governance measures, including the establishment of an electoral cybersecurity task force, stronger collaboration between government institutions and technology platforms, and the development of national AI and data governance policies. It further emphasizes the importance of civic education, digital literacy, and continuous research to build societal resilience against emerging AI threats.

State Fragility, Ungoverned Spaces, and the Rise of Banditry in Nigeria: Focus on the Middle-belt

Okpe Ngbede Caleb — 2026-04-20

This study examines the interrelationship between state fragility, ungoverned spaces, and the rise of banditry in Nigeria’s Middle Belt. Drawing on a qualitative research design and secondary data sources, the paper argues that the persistence of banditry is deeply rooted in governance deficits that undermine the state’s capacity to effectively control territory, provide security, and deliver essential services. The study reveals that weak institutional presence, corruption, and poor conflict management have contributed to the emergence of ungoverned spaces across rural and forested areas in states such as Benue, Niger, Plateau, Nasarawa, and Kogi. These spaces function as operational bases where bandit groups organize, recruit, and execute attacks with relative impunity. Furthermore, the analysis highlights the role of socio-economic factors including poverty, unemployment, livelihood disruption, and resource-based conflicts in sustaining banditry and facilitating local compliance or vulnerability. The study finds that a cyclical relationship exists in which state fragility produces ungoverned spaces, these spaces enable banditry, and banditry in turn deepens state fragility. It concludes that military responses alone are insufficient and emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that integrates governance reforms, socio-economic development, and community-based security strategies. The study contributes to existing literature by providing a localized and integrated analysis of insecurity in the Middle Belt and offers policy-relevant insights for addressing the structural drivers of banditry.

Impact of Leadership Styles on Disaster Response in Nigeria

Mark Wuliang Kpuduk — 2026-02-27

Nigeria faces a complex, multi-hazard environment where the increasing frequency of disasters such as the nationwide floods in 2012 and 2024, building collapses, and disease outbreaks has revealed critical vulnerabilities within the nation’s emergency management framework. Although institutional structures like the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and State Emergency Management Agencies exist, the effectiveness of disaster response remains inconsistent due to varying leadership approaches. This study examines the impact of different leadership styles on disaster response effectiveness in Nigeria, with the goal of identifying practices that enhance coordination and bolster community resilience. Utilising a qualitative research design, the study conducted ten KIIs with experts from NEMA, SEMA and pertinent ministries. The findings suggest that transformational and participatory leadership styles promote essential horizontal coordination, trust-building and rapid resource mobilisation. These approaches proved instrumental in successful interventions, such as the containment of Ebola in Lagos in 2014 and the response to the market fire in Jos in 2018. In contrast, the study emphasizes that rigid, top-down, or transactional leadership often leads to bureaucratic bottlenecks, restricted information flow, and “turf battles” among agencies. Such leadership shortcomings were particularly evident during the 2012 and 2024 floods, where delayed warnings and inadequate inter-agency alignment exacerbated both human and economic suffering. The research concludes that for Nigeria to enhance its disaster governance, a shift away from command-and-control models towards inclusive, adaptive, and collaborative strategies is essential. This transition is vital for building sustainable community trust and ensuring a more efficient and coordinated response to future emergencies.

Presidential Amnesty Programme and Peacebuilding Outcomes in the Niger Delta: Evidence from Rivers State

Henry Chinedu Ifeze — 2026-04-21

This article examines the contribution of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) to peacebuilding in the Niger Delta, with specific focus on Rivers State, drawing exclusively on secondary data from existing literature and documented evidence. Anchored in conflict transformation theory, the study situates peacebuilding as a process that extends beyond the cessation of violence to address structural and socio-economic drivers of conflict. Evidence indicates that the PAP played a decisive role in de-escalating militancy, reducing attacks on oil infrastructure, and restoring relative stability in the immediate post-amnesty period. Disarmament and reintegration initiatives, including training and financial incentives, contributed to short-term security gains and economic recovery. However, the analysis reveals that these outcomes were not matched by corresponding structural transformation. Persistent challenges, such as selective beneficiary inclusion, weak institutional coordination, politicisation of programme benefits, and inadequate attention to environmental degradation and local development, have constrained long-term peacebuilding outcomes. The article argues that the PAP functioned largely as a stabilisation mechanism rather than a transformative framework. It concludes that sustainable peace in the Niger Delta requires a shift from ex-combatant-focused interventions to inclusive, community-driven strategies that integrate governance reform, environmental remediation, and equitable development.

The Nigerian State and the African Union in Perspective

Ahmadu Ochoche Eneje — 2026-04-20

The relationship between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the African Union (AU) is a critical dynamic in understanding Pan-Africanism and continental governance. Since the era of its predecessor, the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), Nigeria has positioned itself as a pivotal actor, often championing the principles of self-determination, regional stability, and economic cooperation. This abstract examines this nexus, arguing that Nigeria's role is characterized by a complex duality of hegemonic ambition and constrained capacity. Historically, Nigeria has been a primary financial and military contributor to AU peacekeeping missions and institutions, leveraging its "Giant of Africa" status to shape continental agendas on issues like counter-terrorism and development. However, this influential role is increasingly challenged by significant internal contradictions. Endemic domestic issues including pervasive insecurity, political instability, economic volatility, and infrastructural deficits undermine its credibility and strategic focus. Consequently, a palpable gap emerges between Nigeria's continental aspirations and its domestic realities. This analysis concludes that for Nigeria to sustainably lead the AU in addressing 21st-century challenges, it must first recalibrate its approach by decisively strengthening internal governance and security. The future of this pivotal relationship hinges on Nigeria's ability to reconcile its national frailties with its Pan-African obligations, a balance crucial for both its own prosperity and the efficacy of the African Union project.

Agricultural Mechanization as a Driver of Food Security: Insights from Benue and Niger States, Nigeria

Lasisi Adejare Adegboye — 2026-02-25

Agricultural mechanisation continues to remain within the realm of imagination of larger population of Nigeria farmers, despite huge budgetary outlays on mechanisation, machinery, financial disbursement, and trainings. The failure of attaining agriculture mechanisation amidst food insecurity calls for academic concern. This study engaged Resouce Based Theory to investigate agricultural mechanization as a driver of food security with insights from Benue and Niger States, Nigeria. The study adopts survey research design. The population of the study; Benue and Niger states totals 12,924,600 and this being a large and finite population, hence this study employed scientific sampling technique determination of Krejcie and Morgan (1970) to arrive at a sample size of 384. The study utilized primary data source elicited from a structured five Likert scale questionnaire. While descriptive statistics was used to check the influence of Agricultural mechanization as a driver of food security: Insights from Benue and Niger States, Nigeria. Findings from this study revealed that agriculture mechanisation is outside the reach of most farmers whose productivity is still connected with drudgery, sheer labour, and largely classified as small placeholder farmers. Findings from the study also establish that mechanisation strategies as seen by government and her agencies has not yet established direct link to the real farming communities for training, sensitisation, financial disbursement, and equipment distribution. Based on these findings, the study recommends that Benue and Niger States government should get farming communities buy-in on agriculture mechanisation, which could lead to community ownership.

Gender and Politics: An Assessment of the Relevance of Women Political Representation on Policy Outcomes

Martha Fashimaiter Chile — 2026-04-21

Despite democratic transitions and progressive reforms, women remain significantly underrepresented in Nigerian political institutions, occupying less than 10% of elected offices and often limited to “soft” ministries. This has restricted their ability to influence structural policy decisions. This study, therefore, examines the extent of women’s political representation in Nigeria and its influence on gender-sensitive policymaking, with a focus on identifying institutional and socio-cultural factors that affect women’s leadership impact. The study adopts a mixed methods approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative data. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and key informant interviews (KIIs) with female politicians, civil society leaders, and policy advisors. Secondary sources provided complementary contextual data. The research is anchored in Critical Mass Theory and Feminist Institutionalism, which together highlight the importance of numerical representation and the role of institutional structures in shaping gender outcomes in governance. Findings reveal that while women have led notable policy shifts such as the Violence against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, barriers such as underfunding, weak institutional support, patriarchal norms, lack of political financing, and security risks continue to hinder a broader impact. The study concludes that symbolic representation is insufficient without structural support. It recommends enforceable gender quotas, inclusive party systems, and equitable campaign financing, and sustained civic engagements to enhance women’s policy impact. Empowering women in leadership is essential for inclusive governance and the development of policies that reflect the diverse needs of Nigeria’s population.

The African Growth and Opportunity Act and the Development of the Textile Industry in Nigeria

Obinna Charles Amaechi — 2026-04-08

The Nigerian textile industry, which was once a vibrant sector of the economy, has gradually declined despite the lucrative opportunities offered by the African Growth and Opportunity Act AGOA, a trade preference programme established by the United States of America with a special non-reciprocal provision for textile trade between some sub-Saharan African nations and the US. As the scheme comes to an end in 2025, this study examines how AGOA’s trade preferences impacted the contribution of Nigeria’s textile industry to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) between 2004 and 2022. While employing the Heckscher-Ohlin theory of international trade as a framework of analysis, and mixed methods of data collection involving interviews and estimation of time series data spanning 2000-2022, the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) result reveals that AGOA’s trade preferences did not significantly improve the contributions of Nigeria’s textile sector to the national GDP within the study period.

A Critical Analysis of the Implications of Farmers-Herders Conflict in Benue and Plateau State, Nigeria

Abdulrahman Abubakar — 2026-02-16

The persistent conflict between farmers and herders in Benue and Plateau States has evolved into a major threat to human security, food stability, and communal coexistence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region. This study critically analyses the root causes, dynamics, and far-reaching implications of the conflict. Drawing on qualitative and quantitative data, the research examines how environmental degradation, resource competition, weak policy implementation, ethnic tensions, and the proliferation of small arms have exacerbated violence between agrarian and pastoralist communities. The study finds that the conflict has led to widespread displacement, loss of lives and livelihoods, disruptions in agricultural productivity, and a deepening of inter-group distrust. It also highlights the socio-political consequences of the crisis, including governance challenges and the strain on state security apparatuses. The paper concludes by evaluating current mitigation strategies and recommending more inclusive, community-based conflict resolution mechanisms, strengthened security presence, and sustainable land-use policies. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, stakeholders, and development actors aiming to foster peace and socio-economic resilience in the affected states.

The Effect of Foreign Loans on Nigeria’s Economic Development

Abdulkadir Saleh — 2026-04-21

This study examines the effect of foreign loans on Nigeria’s economic development between 2023 and 2025.This is period that is marked by too much debt service obligations, macroeconomic instability; as well as currency volatility. The Marxist theory was adopted as the theoretical framework of analysis; as is seen to be significant in explaining the exploitative relationship and control the developing countries experience from the advanced countries; as well as the international financial institutions. The employment of the qualitative research design made the study to rely exclusively on secondary data which were sourced from government reports, multilateral institutions, and scholarly publications. Narrative and content analysis techniques were utilized to identify trends, patterns, and implications of external borrowing on short-term and long-term economic performance. The findings indicate that foreign loans provide a short-term stimulus by enhancing investment capacity in critical sectors such as infrastructure, power, health, and education. However, these benefits are often undermined by high debt servicing costs, exchange rate vulnerabilities, and inflationary pressures. In the long term, foreign borrowing can support sustainable development if accompanied by transparent governance, strong project-absorption capacity, and strategic allocation toward productive sectors. Comparative analysis of the Buhari (2015–2023) and Tinubu (2023–present) administrations reveals that, while gradual borrowing under Buhari allowed for fiscal adjustments, the accelerated foreign loan accumulation under Tinubu may exacerbate debt risks if not prudently managed. The study underscores the importance of fiscal prudence, effective debt management, and strategic deployment of borrowed funds to maximize developmental outcomes while minimizing economic dependency.