Showing papers in "African Research Review in 2009"

Determinants of Poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract: This paper examines the determinants of poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa using a set of cross-country data drawn from 48 countries. It adopts a multiple regression analysis. The results obtained indicates that factors like increase in the rate of population, inflation and external debt servicing, lack of safe water, low economic activities, gender discrimination, ethnic and religious conflicts and HIV/AIDS have influenced the increase in the rate poverty in the sub-region. Given these results, measures such as debt forgiveness, use of family planning devices, stable macro-economic variables like inflation and exchange rate volatility and good governance are suggested as possible solutions to poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa.

ICT in University Education: Usage and Challenges among Academic Staff

Abstract: This study was a survey which explored ICT usage and challenges among academic staff. Thus, the main purpose of this study was to determine the areas of ICT usage among academic staff; identify the obstacles to their ICT usage and identify their areas of training need in ICT usage. Five research questions were posed to guide this study and a questionnaire was designed to collect data from a sample size of 80 academic staff. From the results, academic staff indicated that ICT is of much help to them in the areas of upgrading of knowledge, research and publication. Weak infrastructure, financial constraints and lack of access to ICT facilities were identified as the major obstacles to ICT usage among academic staff. Furthermore, designing of new learning activities, electronic presentation of materials and making use of internet were identified as their areas of train need in ICT usage. Recommendation made include providing compulsory free, adequate training opportunity for academic staff by the university management.

Views of Physics Teachers on the Need to Train and Retrain Physics Teachers in Nigeria

Abstract: Teacher education is an important enterprise because no education can rise above the quality of its teachers. The number of physics teachers is not as desired in Nigerian secondary schools. Many schools do not have physics teachers (Omosewo and Salami, 2002). For this reason, teachers that were teaching integrated science did not teach the physics aspect of the subject. Therefore, very few students offer physics at the senior school level because physics was strange (since they were not taught at the junior secondary school level) to students. Also, teachers that taught physics at the senior secondary school level could not teach some topics well because they were not taught while at their colleges/universities (Omosewo 2001). One hundred and thirty five physics teachers were sampled in Kwara State of Nigeria on the need for training teachers by giving them questionnaire to fill. The teachers recommended that prospective physics teachers should register for physics courses that they are going to teach at the secondary school level. They also recommended that scholarship should be granted to candidates willing to read physics education in the university and also that there should be in-service training for those on the job. Relevant recommendations are made.

Copper and Zinc Contents in Urban Agricultural Soils of Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract: Study of the Cu and Zn contents in urban agricultural soils is paramount in order to assess concerning the possible potential risks they may pose at high concentrations to life and environment through the food chain. Levels of Cu and Zn in soil samples collected from cultivated farmlands in the vicinity of abandoned industrial sites at two cities of Minna and Bida in Niger State, were determined using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry technique. The concentrations were in the following ranges; 12-89mgCukg-1 and 2.8-41mgZnkg-1 for Minna and 2.4-6.5mgCukg-1 and 0.57-36mgZnkg-1 for Bida. The accumulation of Cu in Minna cultivated farmlands was apparent, with a mean Cu content of 24 + 22ppm, which was almost five times that of the control soils, but other mean values were similar to the soil background average contents. Soil properties were also analysed, and obtained results for the cultivated farmland soils of the two cities were of the following ranges: - pH (5.0-7.5), Organic carbon (0.36-2.5)%, sand (46.4- 94.2)%, silt (2.3-20.0)% and clay (1.8-33.6)%. Cu and Zn positively correlated among themselves, Cu correlated with clay content and Zn correlated with pH and organic carbon in all the soils. Keywords: heavy metals, accumulation, environment, cultivated farmlands, abandoned industrial sites.

Spatial Variations of Values of Residential Land Use in Lagos Metropolis

Abstract: The cost of land has very strong influence on the quality and type of development that can be sustained on such land. Residential areas are no exception. This is more pronounced in economically vibrant. Lagos being the economic nerve centre of Nigeria fall into this category cities. This study is therefore to further enrich existing literature in this area but focusing on residential land values in Metropolitan Lagos. In the study, the actual prices of various components of residential land use are established which the study classified into rent, purchase price of residential apartments and purchase price of residential plots of land. This was done for different residential land use types which the study classified into three: namely high density, medium density and low density areas. The study concludes that residential land values are high in the low density areas and lower at the high density areas. The paper suggests the need to improve both physical and economic access to residential properties, privatization of the supply of infrastructural facilities, improvement in the quality of the environment and the need to release lands under public ownership to make more land available for residential use. Keywords : Residential, Land Value, Neighbourhood, Rent, Cost, Land

Ethnic Nationalism and the Nigerian Democratic Experience in the Fourth Republic

Abstract: This paper is an inquiry into the impact of ethnic nationalism on the Nigerian nascent democracy. Data for the paper were collected from (i) primary and (ii) secondary sources. The former from interviews and Focus Group Discussions, while the latter is from documents comprising of (i) Newspapers and (ii) Magazines. The paper started by identifying the factors responsible for the predominance of ethnic nationalism and these include: (i) the legacy of colonialism; (ii) the pluralistic nature and the heterogeneity of the polity; (iii) problem of a universally acceptable revenue allocation formular; (iv) lack of patriotism and loyalty of the people to their ethnic nationalities; (v) the recent on-shore/off-shore dichotomy; (vi) party formation along ethnic lines; (vii) monopoly of power by the major ethnic groups and the consequent marginalization of the minority groups. The paper posited that the impact has been very devastating as it meant a threat to political stability, thwarted efforts aimed at national integration, increased the level of political violence and fragmented and divided the civil society. In order to get out of the problems the paper suggested that Nigeria should embrace power rotation, secularism, federalism, Two-party system, reduce power in the Presidency, curtail corruption, empower the civil society, reorientate the populace and convocate a national conference. Using the functionalist framework, the paper hypothesized and concluded that the convocation of a national conference becomes a categorical imperative if Nigeria is to overcome many of the problems associated with the predominance of ethnic nationalism and thus become a strong, virile, united and vibrant democracy. Key Words: Ethnic Militias, On-Shore/Off-Shore dichotomy

Petroleum Exploitation or Human Exploitation? An Overview of Niger Delta Oil Producing Communities in Nigeria

Abstract: This paper examined the impact of petroleum exploitation on the environment of the Niger Delta oil producing communities in Nigeria. This is in furtherance of the understanding that human beings are at the centre of concerns for sustainable development. The paper observed that there was need for the adoption of measures that would provide a reasonable degree of protection of ecological and human environment from the activities of the oil industry in Nigeria

Quantitative Ability as Correlates of Students’ Academic Achievement in Secondary School Economics in Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract: The introduction of quantitative topics into the secondary school economics curriculum has attracted the interest of economics educators and researchers. This concern arose from the fact that students’ achievements in the Secondary School Certificate Economics have remained poor. It is against this background that this study investigated the relationship between quantitative ability (knowledge of Venn diagram; measures of central tendency; and percentage) and secondary school students’ achievement in economics. The study adopted survey research design of the ex-post facto type. A purposive sampling technique was used to select sample for this. Data were analyzed using Pearson Product Moment correlation and multiple regression statistics. The findings revealed that that students’ knowledge of measures of central tendency made the greatest contribution to their achievement in Economics (b = .653; p .05). It is, therefore, recommended that these factors should be taken into consideration in order to enhance the understanding of economics. Keywords: Quantitative ability, Knowledge of Central tendency, Knowledge of Venn diagram, Knowledge of Percentage and Secondary School, Achievement in economics

Repellent action of neem (azadirachta indica) seed oil cream against anopheles gambiae mosquitoes

Abstract: This paper conducted an evaluation of repellent effect of neem seed oil formulated in a vanishing type cream base against Anopheles gambiae mosquito under laboratory conditions using human volunteers. The seed oil was extracted and then prepared in five different concentrations of 0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10.0% w/w respectively in a vanishing cream base. A commercially available repellent Deet was used as control. The result shows that concentrations 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0% w/w and Deet (control) all repelled night-biting Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes at three consecutive 10mins interval for every 5-min exposure time. The duration of protection of various concentrations of neem seed oil cream and control (Deet) was of the order 10.0% > Deet> 7.5%> 5.0% >2.5%.The present study demonstrates potential of neem seed oil cream as mosquito repellent particularly at higher concentrations of 7.5 and 10.0%w/w respectively. This finding may lead tonew and more effective strategies for protection from and control of mosquitoes. Keywords: Neem, Mosquitoes, Human, Concentrations

Ethnic Militias and Criminality in the Niger-Delta

Abstract: The proliferation of ethnic militia and their activities in Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta region has moved from the closing of flow stations to kidnapping for ransom. The aim of these militia groups have changed from asking for fairness and equity in the distribution of the wealth of the Nigerian state into a serious form of criminality especially the kidnapping of indigenes and expatriates for ransom. The activities of these groups have adverse economic and security implications for the region and the nation at large. It is against this background that this paper examined the activities of ethnic militia and the consequences of their activities for the Niger Delta Region. Finally, the paper proffered solutions to the continuing crisis of militancy in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria.

The Relationship between Principals’ Managerial Approaches and Student Discipline in Secondary Schools in Kenya

Abstract: Students’ discipline is critical to the attainment of positive school outcomes. This paper presents and discusses findings of a study on the relationship between principals’ management approaches and the level of student discipline in selected public secondary schools in Kenya. The premise of the study was that the level of students’ discipline depends on whether the principals’ discipline management approach is inclusive or exclusive of teachers’ and parents’ involvement. Data were collected using a selfadministered questionnaire from a sample of 211 teachers, 28 principals and 22 chairpersons of the Parent-Teachers Association. The raw data were analysed using frequency counts, the mean and standard deviation and hypotheses tested using the t-test and one way ANOVA at alpha level of 0.05. Key findings indicated that female principals applied more inclusive discipline management approaches compared to male principals. In addition, the level of teachers and parental input and the level of student discipline were comparatively higher in female - headed schools. More experienced principals applied inclusive discipline management approaches compared to the less experienced ones. Headship experience was positively related to teacher and parental input while it was negatively correlated with the level of student discipline. The findings have important implications on determining policy guidelines on headship appointments and the strategies for upholding student discipline in secondary schools. Key words: Principal; Management approach; Student discipline.

The Gender Perspective of Household Food Security in Meskan District of the Gurage Zone, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract: Despite the considerable number of rural women in Ethiopia and their contribution in food production, processing , preparation and provision, they are often neglected and deprived of services and amenities which leads to their vulnerability to poverty, food insecurity, gender bias and effects of environmental change. Accordingly, the principal objective of this study is to assess the food security situation and the type of coping strategies pursued by female and male- headed households in two kebeles of Meskan District of the Gurage Zone, Ethiopia. The findings of the study indicated that femaleheaded households compared to male-headed households are found at a low level of food security and are non- self sufficient in terms of the food requirement of their households and the amount they produce within a year. A number of factors cause the difference in food security status between female and male-headed households as discussed in detail in this paper. The paper winds up by concluding that granting a piece of land by itself could not end the food insecurity problem of female-headed households as these households are constrained by lack of access to important factors of production such as labor, plough oxen and credit and other agricultural inputs. Moreover, cultural and social constraints in a form of gender biased customs, stereotypes and misconceptions about women are the major challenges for female-headed households in the study area.

Staff Indiscipline and Productivity in the Public Sector in Nigeria

Abstract: The existence of various acts of indiscipline in public sector in Nigeria is a source of concern to people (managers, bureaucrats, top public/civil servants and other patriotic Nigerians). The reason is that they see such negative/deviant behaviour, which include habitual lateness to work, loafing, buckpassing, bribery, corruption, embezzlement or misappropriation of public funds, misuse of government property as counter-productive and therefore detrimental to the accomplishment of organizational goals. This paper perceives such acts of indiscipline as the reasons for low productivity in the public sector and argues that they are curtail-able. It goes further to discuss the factors responsible of such official acts of indiscipline which characterize contemporary public organizations in Nigeria. The paper recommends that to overcome the problem of indiscipline and low productivity in the public sector, there is the need for the three tiers of government to regularize the payment of workers’ salaries and wages to increase their productivity. Furthermore, the current efforts of the Federal Government in fighting corruption should be sustained.

Study Habit, Self-Concept and Science Achievement of Public and Private Junior Secondary School Students in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract: This study compared study habit, self-concept and science achievement of students in public and private junior secondary schools in Ogun State, Nigeria. Twelve secondary schools were randomly selected from Egba and Ijebu divisions of the state. A sample of three hundred and sixty (360) students participated in the study. Three research instruments were used to collect data. There was no significant difference in study habit and selfconcept of students in public and private schools. However, private school students performed significantly better than their public school counterparts in integrated science (t = 3.400, p student study habit and self-concept combined together and singularly predicted science achievement. Counsellors should encourage students to study and also train them on how to improve their self-concept in order to improve science achievement. Key Words: Study habit, self-concept, science achievement, public and private schools, junior secondary schools.

Pursuing Discipline and Ethical Issues in Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria

Abstract: Discipline and ethics are twin issues that tend to undermine the provision of quality education in tertiary institutions in Nigeria. This is because the overall goals of tertiary institutions as enunciated in the National Policy of Education can hardly be achieved by all the stakeholders without strict conformity and adherence to the rules and regulations and the ideals of the entire society. The adherence is essential for the general welfare of the society. This paper critically x-rayed the causes of indiscipline in tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Such courses include laxity in home control and parental supervision, school, teacher and societal factors as well as government influence. The paper recommended among others such strategies as enculturation, acculturation as well as acquisition of a certain number of generic skills for dealing with discipline and ethical issues in tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

Classroom Climate and Students’ Academic Achievement in Social Studies in Cross River, Nigeria

Abstract: This research project examined “Classroom climate and its relationship with students’ academic achievement in Social Studies”. Ex post facto design was adopted. The population of the study comprised 14,297 JSS III students and the sample was 1,200 JSS III students selected through stratified random technique from the three Educational Zones in State Secondary Education Board, Cross River State. The instrument used was a structured six-point Likert scale questionnaire, the reliability estimate of which ranged from 0.7 to 0.8 and achievement test adapted from Junior Secondary School Certificate Examination, Ministry of Education, Cross River State (2004) were used to collect information used in the study. The data collected were analysed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation and Multiple Regression. The hypothesis was tested at .05 level of significance and 1198 and F (9,1190) degree of freedom. Based on the findings, it was concluded that all the independent variables mentioned in this study jointly contribute to the variance in students’ academic achievement in Social Studies. It was recommended that Social Studies teachers should be trained to improve their skills on an encouraging classroom climate for students’ confidence and initiative through seminars, conferences and in-service programmes.

The State of Reading in Selected Secondary Schools in Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract: The paper is a survey of reading in selected secondary schools in Oyo State, Nigeria. It covered schools selected across the three senatorial zones of the State. In undertaking the study, the researcher with the support of research assistants first observed the teachers and students in the schools in their reading activities and later administered a self-designed questionnaire on them. The questionnaire sought information on the reading related activities of teachers and students as well as the availability or otherwise of materials to facilitate reading in the schools concerned. Descriptive statistics of frequency and percentage counts were used to analyse the data generated from the study. The outcome of the study revealed that reading is not given adequate attention in the schools the way it ought to, all the subject teachers do not handle the teaching of reading while the reading activities in the school are left to the discretion of students. Among the teachers who give attention to reading, we found a majority of them who failed to give students the necessary motivation to strengthen their interest in reading. It was also found out that most school heads contributed to the poor reading culture of the students by their attitude to issues that bother on reading and how it can be promoted in their schools. This is because most of the schools have no functional libraries and other facilities that can promote effective reading of reading. Based on the foregoing, adequate recommendations that would promote reading at the secondary school level in the State have been made in the paper.

The Implementation of the Creative Arts Curriculum in Secondary Schools in Nigeria

Abstract: This paper focuses on the status of the implementation of the creative arts curriculum at the secondary school level. The New National Policy on Education recognized the creative Arts as core subjects at the junior secondary school level, but at the senior secondary school level, they are optional. With very good laid down objectives, one had expected that the curriculum would be able to produce creative, patriotic and productive Nigerians who will contribute optimally to national development, rather what we have on ground is a far cry from expectation, due to the poor implementation of the programme. Creative Art practices in our secondary schools presently is relegated to subordinate position to other subjects. Parents, sort of encourage their children/wards to paying more attention to science based discipline. Creative art teachers on their own part are not able to perform to the optimum, due to extraneous factors militating against the full realization of the laid down objectives. It is hoped that the result of this study will redirect educational planners to effect positive changes in the implementation of the creative arts curriculum. Through survey of a number of schools, interview and questionnaires administered to both teachers and students, a number of problems of implementation were identified and possible solutions were proffered.

Research and Development Potentials in Biofuel Production in Nigeria

Abstract: Nigeria is at present suffering from the worst energy crisis in her 48 years of existence as an independent nation. Even though there is a global crisis in the international oil market, Nigeria seems to suffer disproportionately from the negative impacts when compared to other oil producing nations. Although, Nigeria’s natural resource wealth (including renewable energy potentials) has been well documented and acknowledged, the contribution of renewable energy sources to the total national energy supply and demand is currently very low or negligible. There is a clear link between access to energy services and poverty reduction and hence development. Apart from its contribution to poverty reduction, it is the very diversity of biofuel that provides potential of a win-win development path for the environment, social and economic development, and energy security. It is in the light of this that this paper examines the research and development potentials in ethanol and biofuel in Nigeria. Keywords: Biofuel; Energy; Oil; Poverty reduction; Development

The Legend of Queen Sheba, the Solomonic Dynasty and Ethiopian History: An Analysis

Abstract: The legend of Queen Sheba is undoubtedly one of the oldest legends, producing the oldest monarchy in Africa comparable, perhaps, only to the imperial dynasty in Japan or the Seifuwa dynasty in the Lake Chad basin. It is clearly one of the most accepted, believed, pervasive and resonant among all the legends of origin in Africa, today. The legend is still widely believed by the majority of Ethiopians and is reflected in their day to day daily lives. The existence of the Orthodox Tewahido church and other religious ceremonies, the presence of Beta Israel, the names of people like Makeda or Sheba and organizations such as the Sheba Miles are all testimonies to the legend living in the present Ethiopian communities. It purported to explain how the Ethiopian ruling dynasty ‘the Solomonic dynasty’ was descended from Solomon and through him from Abraham and the early patriarchs. The dynasty followed a succession of rulers from Yekunno- Amlak in circa 1270AD to the last emperor in the person of Haile- Selassie 1 who was deposed in 1974. This has lasted for a period close to a thousand years and making the dynasty to be one of the longest and oldest monarchies anywhere in the world. This paper is intended to look more closely at some of the claims made by this legend and its implication on the Ethiopian peoples, their heritage and identity. It is strongly argued that the legend is only legendary and a historical travesty. It cannot be proven historically. The paper concluded by examining the political as well as the socio-economic significance of the legend in contemporary discours.

Involute Spur Gear Template Development by Parametric Technique Using Computer Aided Design

Abstract: There are many methods available for developing profiles of gear and spline teeth. Most of the techniques are inaccurate because they use only an approximation of the involute curve profile. The parametric method developed in this paper provides accurate involute curve creation using formulas and exact geometric equations. In addition, the involute curve by equation technique allows using either Cartesian in terms of X, Y, and Z or cylindrical coordinate systems to create the involute curve profile. Since spur gear geometry is controlled by a few basic parameters, a generic gear can be designed by three common parameters namely the pressure angle (a), the module (m), and the number of teeth (z). Most of the present day CAD systems have no built-in tool for designing such gears. This paper is an attempt in utilizing the concept of parametric technology to develop a template gear. The gear so developed has true involute profile, which is a realistic design. This will allow making changes to the gear design by using parametric input. If one gear file is developed using this parametric technology, with which, different size and variety of spur gears can be created. The specific objective is to design and develop a template spur gear with 3 module, 30 Teeth, 20° pressure angle based on parametric technique by using CATIA V5R14 package. The later portion it is shown how this model may be retrieved and utilized for developing gears of different modules and number of teeth with change in these input parameters. Keywords : Parametric design, Template gear, involute curve, x and y coordinates, Laws for x and y co-ordinates, Extrapolated spline, circular pattern, extrusion

Linguistic Choices and Gender Roles in New Nigerian Literature: An Examination of Alpha Emeka’s The Carnival and Razinat Mohammed’s A Love Like a Woman’s and Other Stories

Abstract: This paper is premised on the Systemic Functional approach to text analysis, which considers a work of art as a consequence of the social milieu (Senkoro, 2005). Specifically, it takes Hasan’s (1985) view that without linguistics, the study of literature remains a series of personal preferences. It examines how power is invested along gender lines through language choice in two works of fiction, both by new Nigerian writers: Emeka’s novel The Carnival and Mohammed’s short story collection A Love Like a Woman’s and Other Stories. It seeks to achieve two objectives. The first is to evaluate whether, and to what extent new Nigerian writing is holding onto, or shifting from established ideologies regarding the portrayal of women in fiction, especially by male writers. The second is to compare the two works, The Carnival, by a male writer, with A Love Like a Woman’s written by a female, to see whether and to what extent the two differ in their portrayal of characters of the two sexes. The final part of the paper draws conclusions on the basis of the evidence from the two books that would help in validating the notion of gender positioning in Nigerian fiction, or re-assessing same. The paper argues that such an examination of broader contextual properties oftexts affect their description and interpretation, and concludes that by thus determining positions available within texts, we can make a proper evaluation of how gender is grounded in new Nigerian writing. Keywords: gender, feminism, transitivity, verbs, reductive, critical discourse

Poverty Alleviation Programmes and Economic Development in Nigeria: A Comparative Assessment of Asa and Ilorin West Local Govt. Areas of Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract: This study investigates into the impact of government programmes towards poverty alleviation on the inhabitants of Nigeria with special reference to Asa and Ilorin West Local Government Areas of Kwara State. A focus group discussion (FGD) of 4 groups (2 males and 2 females) was conducted from whose scenario a questionnaire was raised. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were employed especially to see the impact of those policies on the inhabitants using household income as a proxy. The Sen's Gini coefficient revealed that agricultural sector is the highest income-contributing sector and worst hit income inequality group with about 84percent of total population in high poverty margin/region among the whole sectors studied. The study also acknowledged the existence of either one poverty alleviation program at one time or the other, but often the policy targets are at variance with the outcome. The study thus that suggests a kind of performance evaluation towards reappraising and adjusting the instruments employed by the programmes, refocus on the important sector(s) in the area of finance and credit facilities and organized buffer stock against agricultural s or bumper harvest in order to sustain price stability.

Attitude towards Epilepsy and Mental Illness in Ekiti State, Nigeria

Abstract: This study was designed to find out the attitude of people in Ekiti State Nigeria, towards epilepsy and mental illness in terms of work opportunities and marriage options and to examine whether the level of education, gender and religious affiliation would affect people’s attitude towards person with these disorders. 200 participants were used and it comprised 106 literate and 94 illiterate persons. The independent t-test and the Pearson Product Moment Correlation were used to test the hypotheses. The result showed that literate respondents had more positive attitude towards epilepsy and mental illness with mean scores of 9.78 and 8.11 respectively. Also, male respondents showed a significantly positive attitude towards epilepsy with a mean score of 11.09 as against the mean score of the female respondents (10.57). No significant difference was found between the attitudes of males and females towards mental illness, while religious affiliation had a significant effect on the respondent’s attitudes. 78.3% (for mental illness) and 43.9% (for epilepsy) of the respondents were of the opinion that people with the disorders should not be employed while 55.6% (for mental illness) and 60.3% (for epilepsy) believed that they should not marry. Recommendations were made in the light of the need for more research concerning the effect of gender on the attitude towards epilepsy and mental illness and that educating the general public will reduce the negative attitudes towards those disorders

Oil Pollution and Eastern Obolo Human Ecology, 1957-2007

Abstract: Human ecology concerns the relationship between man and his environment (Onosode 1998). In the environment are other organisms of flora and fauna whose importance to human beings need not be overstated. The occurrence of oil pollution in the Eastern Obolo ecosystem did not only degrade the human values but also deny the people of other organisms used by them to maintain and promote their living. As a result, this paper is a study of how oil pollution damaged Eastern Obolo (Andoni) human ecology. The paper started with the causes which are the exploration and exploitation of petroleum for half a century. It also analyzes the processes of extracting crude oil through which pollution emanates. The adverse effects on the flora and fauna, traditional economies and social practices of the people are parts of the text of this essay. So also are its engendered poverty, food contamination and lack of security of human life. Others are the desecration of religious, cultural and historical centres, loss of potential archaeological sites, decay in social values, increase of social vices and the health hazards experienced in the area within the period under review. Keywords: Economic-decline, environmental-degradation, hazards, poverty, social-vices, spillage.

Personnel Recruitment and Retention Strategies in Lagos State Civil Service of Nigeria

Abstract: Lagos State Civil Service (LSCS) exists to implement policies of government. To realize this goal, personnel are needed, which are products of personnel recruitment and retention strategies (PR & RSs) of the civil service (CS). This study empirically examined personnel recruitment and retention strategies in LSCS. To achieve the objectives of the study, questionnaires were administered and structured interview carried out with civil servants. The study adopted the chi-square analytical technique to analyze the variables. The results show that the strategy for personnel recruitment into the CS is based on mixtures of merit and political considerations. In the area of personnel retention, the study found that the CS put in place relatively good incentives to retain its employees. These retention strategies are however not adequate to retain competent personnel compared to what is provided by private organizations to retain their workforce. The study suggested the need for the CS to put in place appropriate incentives in line with what is obtainable in private organizations if it must retain competent workforce for enhanced performance. Keywords: Lagos State Civil Service, Personnel Recruitment, Retention, Performance

Evaluating Housing Problems through Participatory Rural Appraisal in Lokoja Nigeria

Abstract: Lokoja, a medium sized community in the Middle Belt of Nigeria experienced a massive influx of population in the last twelve years. This study examined housing problems that resulted thereafter. Through a participatory appraisal using group discussion and brainstorming, transect walk and matrix ranking, a sampled resident groups were able to identify the progress in housing, problems and perceived solutions for effective planning. It was observed that the local resident is aware of his environment, the contribution of the government towards solving housing problems and has perceived recipe to the incessant housing problems. Experience on the field using PRA showed that only when fieldworkers appeared ready to learn from local residents did they get more in depth information about their development. Key Words: development, evaluation, housing, participatory, and topdown.

Students’ Evaluation of Classroom Interactions of Their Biology Teachers: Implications for Curriculum Implementation

Abstract: This correlational study investigated students’ evaluation of their biology teachers’ classroom interaction and their feelings towards biology lessons. Three research questions guided the study. Copies of a questionnaire containing 48 items were distributed to 1,216 senior secondary two students from nine randomly selected schools in Onitsha education zone of Anambra state. Data analysed using mean scores and multiple regression analyses showed that biology students perceived their teachers mostly as leaders, understanding, admonishing and strict. The students did not perceive their teachers as helpful/friendly, allowing student responsibility and freedom, uncertain or dissatisfied. The students manifested many negative feelings about their biology lessons. Leadership, helping/friendly, and understanding teacher classroom interactions were positively correlated and uncertainty, admonishing, strict, and dissatisfied was negatively correlated with students’ feelings towards biology lessons. Implications for curriculum implementation is that, if biology teachers were to display more leadership, helpful and understanding behaviour and less uncertainty, a resultant positive effect on the students’ feelings about their biology lessons would be expected

Information Communication Technologies in the Management of Education for Sustainable Development in Africa

Abstract: The growing complexities of university governance and the challenges posed to university managers in Africa makes the application of Hi-Tech information and ICTs indispensable for quality assurance and goal attainment. The crucial role that ICTs play in effective management of university education for sustainable development in Africa was the focus of the paper. The paper analyzed the variables ICTs in students’ learning, ICTs in teaching and research, ICTs in university administration, and challenges of ICT application in African universities. On the basis of the foregoing analysis, proprietors of public and private universities and their top management were challenged to embrace the ICT revolution, integrate them into all areas of university life and properly fund the timely initiative. The need for this decision is both urgent and demanding.

Teachers’ Attitude and Gender Factor as Determinant of Pupils’ performance in Primary Science

Abstract: Teachers are regarded as the basic tools in education and curriculum implementations. The quality of any nation’s education is determined by the qualities of the teachers and their attitude to the profession. This paper seeks to examine the influence of the teachers’ attitude and gender factor on the academic performance of the primary schools pupils. Fifty science teachers were randomly selected from seventy (70) primary schools out of the ninetyseven (97) primary schools in ondo west local Government in ondo state and two hundred pupils were randomly selected and used for the same study. Two instruments were used to collect data, the Teachers’ attitude questionnaire (TAQ) and Primary science achievement test (PSAT) .The research design adopted for this study was survey design. The reliability of the instrument was 0.78 and 0.84 by using crombach alpha and k-21 respectively. Pearson moment product correlation coefficient was used to analyze the instruments. The result indicated that there exists a significant relationship between teachers’ attitude and pupils’ performance in primary science. The result also indicated that there exists no significant relationship between the performance of pupils taught by male and female teachers in primary science. Recommendations were made on how to promote further development of primary science teaching and learning in Nigeria. Key words : Attitude, Gender, Performance, Nigeria