Oil, Inequality, and Resistance in Nigeria: The Case of the Ijo People of the Niger Delta Region
Publication Date : 13-06-2025
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.19148.32648
Author(s) :
Iti Orugbani.
Volume/Issue :
Volume 3
,
Issue 1
(06 - 2025)
Abstract :
Abstract
Oil exploration in Nigeria dates back to the early 20th century, with the Niger Delta emerging as the epicentre of petroleum production. Despite its vast contributions to Nigeria’s economy, the region continues to grapple with environmental degradation, socio-economic marginalisation, and rising conflicts linked to resource control. This study examines the historical evolution of oil exploration in Nigeria, focusing on its impact on the Ijo people, one of the most affected ethnic groups in the oil-producing areas. The objective is to assess how oil exploitation has influenced economic development, governance policies, and local resistance movements in the Niger Delta. Using a qualitative research approach, this study relies on oral interviews, historical accounts, government policies, and existing literature to trace the trajectory of oil production, illegal oil bunkering, and the state's responses. Findings reveal that while oil has significantly boosted Nigeria’s GDP and facilitated infrastructural development in some areas, the Ijo communities remain largely underdeveloped, facing high fuel costs, poor transportation networks, and environmental pollution. Moreover, the study highlights how economic exclusion and inadequate government intervention have fuelled illegal oil bunkering and artisanal refining (kpo-fire), despite military crackdowns and regulatory frameworks. The paper concludes that the persistent neglect of oil-producing communities has exacerbated economic inequality and security challenges in Nigeria. Addressing these issues requires a more inclusive governance structure, equitable resource distribution, and sustainable development policies tailored to the needs of the Niger Delta region. The study is significant in informing policy discussions on oil governance, economic justice, and conflict resolution in resource-rich but marginalised communities.
Keywords: Oil exploration, Niger Delta, Ijo communities, illegal bunkering, resource governance.
No. of Downloads :
1
PREVALENCE AND PREDISPOSING FACTORS TO DIABETES MELLITUS TYPE II AMONG FEMALES IN AURANGABAD CENTRAL ASSEMBLY CONSTITUENCY, BIHAR STATE
Publication Date : 24-10-2023
Author(s) :
Neha Rane, Ashwini S Kalsait.
Volume/Issue :
Volume 1
,
Issue 1
(10 - 2023)
Abstract :
Abstract
This study examined the prevalence and predisposing factors of type II diabetes mellitus among females in Aurangabad Central Assembly constituency, Bihar State, India. Anchored on the Health Belief Model, the study aimed to assess the relationship between socio-behavioral factors—age, alcohol consumption, and smoking—and the occurrence of type II diabetes. A descriptive survey design was employed using multistage sampling to select 440 women of reproductive age from two healthcare facilities. Data were collected through hospital records and analyzed using SPSS v25.0, applying descriptive statistics for research questions and binary logistic regression for hypothesis testing at 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed a non-hereditary diabetes mellitus type II prevalence of 8.4%. Significant relationships were identified between diabetes prevalence and age (p = .002), alcohol consumption (p = .000), and smoking (p = .000). Notably, women aged ≥60 years were over eleven times more likely to be diabetic compared to those under 20, while alcohol consumers and smokers were 11 and 12 times more likely to be diabetic, respectively. The study concludes that modifiable lifestyle behaviors—especially in the context of increasing urbanization and sedentary living—significantly influence the likelihood of developing non-hereditary type II diabetes mellitus. It recommends routine diabetes screening during female clinical visits, broadening the diagnostic focus beyond older populations, and promoting physical activity and blood pressure monitoring among women, especially those in sedentary occupations. Addressing these factors may reduce the growing diabetes burden in the region.
Keywords: Type II Diabetes Mellitus, Female Health, Lifestyle Risk Factors, Public Health
No. of Downloads :
8
DEVELOPMENT OF DIETS FOR MANAGEMENT OF OVERWEIGHT AMONG UNDERGRADUATES IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
Publication Date : 24/01/2025
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.28758.97604
Author(s) :
Onaibre Treasure.
Volume/Issue :
Volume 1
,
Issue 1
(01 - 2025)
Abstract :
Abstract
This study investigated the prevalence and determinants of dietary habits among undergraduates in Delta State, Nigeria, with a focus on developing interventions for weight management. The study aimed to explore the dietary behaviors, health challenges, and the nutritional value of locally developed diets. Four research questions and one hypothesis guided the study. The research adopted a survey and experimental design, involving a population of 89 overweight undergraduates and 950 health and nutrition professionals. The sampling techniques included non-proportionate random sampling and purposive sampling, leading to the selection of 72 students, 275 professionals, and 12 Wistar rats for experimental purposes. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, a 9-point hedonic scale, and the AOAC (2019) handbook for nutritional analysis. Two diets, Pota Snack (PS) and Unripe Plantain Pottage (UPP), were developed and analyzed. The findings revealed that 77.7% of the respondents relied on fast foods, while only 22.3% prepared their own meals. Additionally, 65.3% and 56.9% of the students did not consume vegetables and fruits daily, respectively. The main determinants of dietary habits included income size (mean = 2.91) and access to food (mean = 2.86). Health challenges linked to poor dietary habits included overweight (mean = 2.92), learning problems (mean = 2.81), and memory issues (mean = 2.96). Nutritional analysis showed that PS had a moisture content of 25.97%, crude protein of 3.70%, and carbohydrates of 68.48%, while UPP had 49.85%, 14.20%, and 30.23%, respectively. Mineral and vitamin contents were also analyzed, showing adequate levels for weight management. The study concluded that poor dietary habits are prevalent among undergraduates in Delta State, and interventions such as promoting healthy snacking and nutrition education are necessary. It was recommended that nutrition counseling be integrated into university programs to enhance students' awareness of healthy eating habits.
Keywords: Dietary habits, overweight, undergraduates, Delta State, nutrition, Pota Snack, Unripe Plantain Pottage, weight management.
No. of Downloads :
1
TEAM COLLABORATION AND EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY OF FOOD AND BEVERAGES FIRMS IN RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA.
Publication Date : 20/11/2024
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.25947.99362
Author(s) :
DIKE-WORLU, STANLEY.
Volume/Issue :
Volume 2
,
Issue 2
(11 - 2024)
Abstract :
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the relationship between team collaboration and employee productivity in food and beverages manufacturing firms in Rivers State, Nigeria. The theoretical framework incorporated Belbin’s SICCTRMPS Role Model Theory to elucidate how collaboration can enhance employee productivity. A sample size of 300 respondents was determined from a population of 1,200 using Taro Yamane’s sampling formula. Data for the study were collected through personal interviews and questionnaires. Out of 300 distributed questionnaires, 292 were retrieved and used for data analysis. The data were analyzed using Spearman’s Rank Order Correlation Coefficient, facilitated by the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23.0). The findings indicated a significant positive relationship between team collaboration and employee productivity in these firms. Consequently, the study recommends that managers of food and beverages manufacturing firms should prioritize participative management to enhance employee skills, experience, and involvement in decision-making processes. This can be achieved through fostering collaboration. By focusing on these aspects, firms can improve task accomplishment, timeliness of output, and employee innovativeness, ultimately leading to higher productivity and competitiveness in the industry.
Keywords: Team collaboration, employee productivity, food and beverages manufacturing firms
No. of Downloads :
3
Occupational Exposure to Calcium Sulfate impacted negatively on Liver Function, Oxidative Stress Biomarkers And Reproductive Parameters among Male Artisans in Rivers State, Nigeria
Publication Date : 12/12/2024
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.24657.24169
Author(s) :
Godspower Onyeso, Ekweme Bestman, Edward Lete Bohr.
Volume/Issue :
Volume 1
,
Issue 1
(12 - 2024)
Abstract :
Abstract
Background: Occupational exposure to calcium sulfate, commonly known as gypsum, is prevalent among artisans in the construction and manufacturing industries. This study evaluated the liver function, reproductive parameters and oxidative stress biomarkers among artisans exposed to calcium sulfate in Rivers State, Nigeria, by comparing them with a non-exposed control group.
Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted involving 60 male artisans exposed to calcium sulfate and 60 non-exposed males. Liver function parameters, including Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), Total Bilirubin, Direct Bilirubin, Albumin, and Total Protein, were measured. Reproductive parameters like sperm count, motility, and morphology were also assessed, along with oxidative stress markers such as Malondialdehyde (MDA), Reduced Glutathione (GSH), Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx), Catalase (CAT), and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC). Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and independent t-tests, with significance set at p<0.05.
Results: The exposed group exhibited significantly higher levels of ALT (50.7 ± 4.5 U/L) compared to the non-exposed group (44.0 ± 2.3 U/L, p<0.001). ALP levels were also elevated in the exposed group (85.1 ± 13.3 U/L) versus the non-exposed group (72.8 ± 7.2 U/L, p<0.001). Reproductive parameters, such as sperm count and motility, were significantly lower in the exposed group (50.3 ± 7.3 million/mL vs. 61.2 ± 3.3 million/mL, p<0.001). Oxidative stress markers were elevated, with MDA being higher in the exposed group (3.5 ± 0.8 nmol/mL) compared to the control (2.3 ± 0.2 nmol/mL, p<0.001).
Conclusions: The study identified significant alterations in liver function, reproductive function and oxidative stress among artisans exposed to calcium sulfate, indicating potential hepatic stress and reproductive impairment. Elevated ALT, ALP, and oxidative stress markers suggest the need for regular health monitoring and protective measures to mitigate health risks.
Keywords: Calcium sulfate exposure, Gypsum, Liver function, oxidative stress biomarkers, Reproductive parameters Occupational health, Artisans
No. of Downloads :
6
EFFECTS OF COMPUTER SIMULATION MODEL ON SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS’ UNDERSTANDING OF THE PARTICULATE NATURE OF MATTER
Publication Date : 22/11/2023
Author(s) :
Imoniwe O. Thompson, Ajaja O. Patrick.
Volume/Issue :
Volume 1
,
Issue 1
(11 - 2023)
Abstract :
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the effects of computer simulation model on secondary school students’ understanding of the particulate nature of matter. Four research questions and four hypotheses guided the study The study adopted the pre – test, post – test control group quasi – experimental design. Forty – two thousand, eight hundred and eight students made up the population for this study. Two hundred and thirty-six SS II students were the sample for this study. The sampled schools were selected using simple random sampling technique. Scholastic Ability Test in Chemistry (SATIC) and Chemistry Achievement Test (CAT) were the instruments used for data collection. CAT has a reliability coefficient value of 0.77 obtained using Kuder Richardson formula 21. The data obtained was analyzed using mean, standard deviation, t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The result of the study showed that: students taught Chemistry with computer simulation performed significantly better than their counterparts taught with lecture method; there was no significant difference in the performance of male and female students taught chemistry with computer simulation model; there was a significant difference in the mean retention scores of students taught chemistry using computer simulation model and those taught with lecture method, in favour of computer simulation model; there was no significant effect of interaction of sex and ability on students’ achievement in chemistry; there was no significant effect of interaction of sex and teaching method (computer simulation model and lecture method) on students’ retention of chemistry. The study further found that there was no significant effect of interaction among method, sex and ability on students’ retention towards chemistry. The study recommends that chemistry teachers should adopt the use of computer simulation model in teaching chemistry at the secondary school level; to enhance students’ active participation and interaction of chemistry concept.
Key words: Computer simulation model, secondary school students, particulate nature, matter.
No. of Downloads :
4
TEAM COHESION AND EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY OF FOOD AND BEVERAGES MANUFACTURING FIRMS IN RIVERS STATE
Publication Date : 10/11/2024
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.26767.19369
Author(s) :
DIKE-WORLU, STANLEY.
Volume/Issue :
Volume 2
,
Issue 2
(11 - 2024)
Abstract :
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the relationship between team cohesion and employee productivity of Food and Beverages manufacturing firms in Rivers State. The theoretical framework covered Thompson’s AMS Team Model Theory, Belbin’s SICCTRMPS Role Model Theory that explained clearly how employee productivity will be increased applying participative management and the use of organizational culture. A sample size of 300 was determined from a population of 1,200 respondents using Taro-Yamene’s sampling formula. The data for the study were gathered from the respondents through personal interview and questionnaire. 300 copies of questionnaire were distributed to the respondents out of which 292 copies were retrieved and found useful for data analysis. The data collected were analyzed using Spearman’s Rank Order Correlation Coefficient Statistics and this was facilitated through the application of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23.0). The findings of the study indicated a significant relationship between team cohesion and employee productivity in Food and Beverages manufacturing firms in Rivers State. At this point, the study recommended that managers of Food and Beverages firms should place more emphasis on increasing employee productivity through participative management, promote employees skills, experience and encourage employees’ involvement in decision making process through team cohesion, collaboration, cooperation and organizational culture guiding the entire activities of the firm with the aim to establish and sustain cordial relationship between the management and employees. Thus, Food and Beverages manufacturing firms should ensure that organizational culture of the firm is more and well managed as the basis to increase timeliness output, task accomplishment and employee innovativeness which are real measures of employee productivity in Food and Beverages manufacturing firms in Rivers State.
Keywords: Team cohesion, employee productivity, food and beverages manufacturing firms
No. of Downloads :
1
GOVERNMENT INTERFERENCE AND EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF UNIVERSITIES IN RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA
Publication Date : 24/09/2024
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.25184.08963
Author(s) :
Ijinda Valentina Christian.
Volume/Issue :
Volume 2
,
Issue 1
(09 - 2024)
Abstract :
ABSTRACT
This study investigates the influence of government interference on the effective management of universities in Rivers State, Nigeria. Politics and education are closely intertwined, with political decisions often impacting educational outcomes. The research specifically examines the extent to which political considerations affect the siting of universities, the appointment of council members, and overall university governance. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 989 teaching and senior non-teaching staff across three public universities in Rivers State. The study employed a self-structured questionnaire and utilized statistical analysis to interpret the findings. Results indicate that political interference significantly influences the management of universities, often prioritizing political affiliations over merit and due process. This interference leads to challenges such as suboptimal siting decisions, the inclusion of unqualified individuals in key positions, and compromised academic standards. The study underscores the need for insulating university management from political influences to ensure decisions are made based on strategic planning and academic merit. The findings align with existing literature, highlighting the detrimental effects of political meddling on the quality and integrity of higher education. Recommendations include policy reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, merit-based appointments, and strategic decision-making to foster the growth and development of universities in Rivers State.
No. of Downloads :
0
POLITICS INTERFERENCE AND EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF UNIVERSITIES IN RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA
Publication Date : 24/09/2024
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.13702.18248
Author(s) :
Ijinda Valentina Christian.
Volume/Issue :
Volume 2
,
Issue 2
(09 - 2024)
Abstract :
ABSTRACT
The study examined politics interference and effective management of universities in Rivers State, Nigeria. Three research objectives, three research questions and three hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. The descriptive survey design was adopted for the study and the population of the study comprised of 4872 academic and senior non-academic staff in the three public universities in Rivers State. The instrument for data collection was the researcher’s self-structured questionnaire titled, ‘Politics interference and effective management of universities in Questionnaire (PIEAUQ)’. The instruments were validated for face and content validity by the supervisor and two research experts in the department of Educational Management. The overall internal consistency reliability coefficient of 0.91 was obtained. The data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The null hypotheses were tested using Z-test at 0.05 level of significance. The study revealed that there is no significant difference between the mean ratings of academic and non-academic staff on the influence of political interference in the appointment of principal officers for effective management of universities in Rivers State, Nigeria (Z1,922=-1, p=.1.96), amongst others. The study established that political interference in university funding and management in Rivers State is a pervasive and multifaceted issue, the researcher recommended the distribution of financial resources need to adhere to well-defined standards that prioritise academic and infrastructure requirements above political factors.
No. of Downloads :
0
EVALUATING GENDER AS A DETERMINANT OF KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS SUICIDE AMONG UNDERGRADUATE IN BAYELSA STATE, NIGERIA
Publication Date : 03/09/2024
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.23114.79045
Author(s) :
Elechi C.E, Byron-Solomon Joy.
Volume/Issue :
Volume 2
,
Issue 1
(09 - 2024)
Abstract :
Abstract
Suicide is a leading cause of death both globally, regionally and locally, with over 75% occurring in low-and middle-income Countries. This study evaluated gender as a determinant of knowledge and attitude towards suicide among Undergraduates in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. This study adopted the descriptive survey research design being that information is obtained through distribution of a questionnaire to undergraduate students in six tertiary institutions in Bayelsa State which includes; Federal University of Otuoke, Niger Delta University (NDU) Wilberforce Island, University of Africa, Toru-Orua, Federal Polytechnic, Ekowe, Bayelsa State College of Arts and Science, Elebele and Bayelsa State Medical University. Also participants were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria set for the study. This design has been successfully utilized by Arnautovska, and Grad (2010) in a study on attitudes towards suicide in the adolescent population. As at the time of the study, the population of this study consists of all undergraduate students of universities in Bayelsa State. Using the Krejcie and Morgan (1970) table for sample size estimation. A total of 381 respondents were selected to participate in the study. But for the purpose of clarity and better representation of the total population the researcher employed 800 respondents to participate in the study. A self designed questionnaire was used for primary data collection. The data gathered was coded and analyzed through the Statistical Product for Service Solution (SPSS) version 25.0 and was presented on tables charts. The findings revealed that there was a significant difference in the knowledge of suicide among undergraduate in Bayelsa State based on gender (p-value = .000, p<0.05). The findings revealed that there was a significant difference in the attitude towards suicidal ideation among undergraduates in Bayelsa State based on gender (p-value = .000, p<0.05). Conclusions emerged this study that there was a significant deference in the knowledge of suicide based on gender, as well as a significant deference in the attitude towards suicidal ideation among undergraduates in Bayelsa State based on gender. Among others, the study recommended that the ministry of education at all levels (primary, secondary, and tertiary) should develop and implement educational programs aimed at increasing awareness about suicide prevention. These programs should focus on providing accurate information and dispelling myths surrounding suicide.
Key Words: Gender, Determinant, Knowledge, Attitude, Suicide, Undergraduate, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.
No. of Downloads :
1
