Kwararafa University Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Innovation
Kwararafa University Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Innovation is an international, peer-reviewed scholarly journal committed to advancing high-impact, interdisciplinary research across the humanities, social sciences, management, technology, and emerging fields of study. The journal is published by the Department of Mass Communication, College of Management and Social Sciences, Kwararafa University, Wukari,Taraba State, Nigeria and appears quarterly in May, August, and December.The journal provides a reputable platform for the dissemination of original research articles, theoretical papers, case studies, critical reviews, and systematic analyses that address contemporary global and regional challenges. With a strong emphasis on academic rigor, originality, and methodological soundness. All submissions undergo a rigorous double-blind peer-review process conducted by qualified international and multidisciplinary scholars to ensure quality, integrity, and scholarly relevance. Accepted articles are assigned Digital Object Identifiers (DOIs) and published in both print and Open Access formats, ensuring wide accessibility, citation potential, and global visibility. The journal is indexed in reputable academic and scholarly databases, including Google Scholar, OpenAIRE, Zenodo, ScienceGate, CrossRef, Academia.edu, and PKP, further enhancing discoverability and academic impact. Scope and Focus The journal invites high-quality submissions in, but not limited to, the following areas: Management and Social Sciences: Business administration, organizational behavior, leadership, public administration, economics, sociology, political science, development studies, and governance-related research and Humanities. Education: Educational technology, pedagogy, curriculum development, policy analysis, teacher training, digital learning, and innovation in education systems. Communication: Strategic communication, digital media, journalism, public relations, intercultural communication, media studies, and emerging communication technologies. Digital Humanities: Digital scholarship, computational text analysis, digital archives, AI-driven humanities research, and interdisciplinary digital methodologies. Language and Literature: Linguistics, literary theory, comparative literature, discourse analysis, translation studies, and language technology. Humanities, History, and Religion: Historical studies, philosophy, cultural studies, and religious studies with interdisciplinary and contemporary perspectives. Artificial Intelligence, Law, and Computing: Artificial intelligence applications, ethics of AI, legal frameworks, intellectual property rights, human-computer interaction, and digital governance. The journal aims to foster global academic dialogue by encouraging contributions from researchers worldwide, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and supporting scholarship that bridges theory and practice across diverse fields. Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief Prof. Chiakaan Jacob Gbaden -- Federal University Lokoja, Kogi State Editors Prof. Tessy Onogimesike Angba -- National Open University of Nigeria, Abuja Dr. Peter I. Ugondo -- Kwararafa University, Wukari, Taraba State Dr. Vishal Vasistha -- Noida International University, Greater Noida, India Dr. Maikomo John Moses -- Taraba State University, Jalingo, Taraba State Dr. Shadrach Idi --Taraba State University, Jalingo, Taraba State Dr. Solomon Tsokwa -- Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Taraba State Dr. Sikiru Adeyemi Ogundokun – Osun State University, Osun State Dr. Ajewole Fola --- Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo, Ondo State Dr. Chibuzor Franklin Akpati --- Glorious Vision University, Ogwa, Edo State Dr. Gabriel Adeyinka Okunade --- Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State Dr. Daniel T. Ezegwu ----University of Delta, Agbor, Delta State, Delta State Dr. Ndubuisi Umoro Nwigwe --- University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State Managing Editor Adebayo Akinsanya Atchrimi – Federal University Lokoja, Kogi State Secretary Jeremiah Ingyesi Utiki -- Kwararafa University, Wukari,Taraba State
Cybersecurity Challenges and Digital Literacy Gaps in Nigeria: Implications for Sustainable National Development
Nigeria's integration into the global digital economy has accelerated exposure to sophisticated cybersecurity threats, whilst simultaneously revealing profound gaps in digital literacy across diverse population groups. These twin challenges, escalating cyber threats and widespread digital illiteracy, constitute a significant impediment to sustainable national development. This paper examined the nature and scope of cybersecurity challenges confronting Nigeria, the extent of digital literacy deficits among different segments of the population, and the implications of these challenges for achieving sustainable development goals. Employing a library-based research methodology that draws on secondary sources, the study anchors its analysis on the Knowledge Gap Theory to explain how differential access to digital knowledge and cybersecurity awareness deepens inequality and undermines development. Findings revealed that Nigeria faces mounting threats from phishing, ransomware, identity theft, and cybercrime syndicates, while existing regulatory frameworks remain insufficiently enforced and inadequately resourced. Digital literacy gaps are particularly pronounced among rural populations, women, elderly citizens, and out-of-school youth. These deficits collectively retard progress across economic, educational, health, and governance dimensions of sustainable development. The paper recommends that the Federal Ministry of Education should integrate digital literacy and cybersecurity into curricula at all levels, using culturally relevant content and indigenous languages to reach rural populations.
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Mixed Study of Digital Impersonation on X and Its Implications for Electoral Credibility and Response Mechanisms in Nigeria’s 2027 Elections
The return of militocracy in the Sahel part of West African States represent the peak of the crisis in liberal democracy in Africa. The democratically surviving West African States are under pressure to resist democratic siege by upholding electoral credibility. In Nigeria, a head of the 2027 general elections, the abuse of digital public space and digital impersonation of X handle belonging to the current Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has resulted to polysemic interpretations of how credible will the 2027 general elections be. This study examines tweets’ posts and comments on the said impersonated X account in order to: determine reasons for digital impersonation; assess factors responsible for the twits and comments in the impersonated account; as well as evaluate the newly created X account with a view to ascertai whether the impersonated and new accounts have implications on electoral credibility of the 2027 elections in Nigeria. Using census survey and content analysis, the study found that the impersonated X account of the INEC Chairman created on September 6th 2022 contain politically biased twits and comments in favour of the ruling party and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, thereby creating electoral phobia that the 2027 elections cannot be free nor fair. Also, the new X account and the use of cybercrime act by the electoral umpire chairman in defending credibility by shutting down scrutiny in digital spaces has dented the image of the 2027 elections, thereby creating vacuum for Nigerian democracy shifting towards the new order of the Sahel Alliance in West Africa.The study concluded that the controversy surrounding the impersonated X account poses a significant risk to the credibility of the 2027 general elections and has contributed to the erosion of public trust in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under its current leadership. Major recommendations to mitigate these risks and restore confidence include the implementation of e-voting, the electronic transmission of electoral results, and the appointment of a credible and neutral INEC chairman in Nigeria.
INFLUENCE OF PROLIFERATING CITIZEN JOURNALISM ON CONVENTIONAL MEDIA IN KOGI STATE, NIGERIA
The rapid advancement of digital communication technologies and the widespread use of social media platforms have significantly transformed the journalism landscape, giving rise to citizen journalism as an alternative source of news and information dissemination. This study examined the influence of proliferating citizen journalism on conventional media practice in Kogi State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study investigated the extent to which citizen journalism influences the news agenda of conventional media, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and its implications for media credibility. The study was anchored on Reverse Agenda-Setting Theory and adopted a survey research design. A census approach was employed, involving the entire population of 186 registered journalists in Kogi State. Out of this number, 181 valid responses were obtained through the administration of structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including mean scores and standard deviations, while a hypothesis was tested using One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Findings revealed that citizen journalism has become a major force in shaping the news agenda of conventional media, as issues first reported by citizens often attract mainstream media attention. The study further found that citizen journalism presents challenges such as misinformation, ethical concerns, and difficulties in maintaining professional standards. The study concludes that citizen journalism serves as both a challenge and a resource to conventional media practice. It recommends stronger verification mechanisms, strategic collaboration with responsible citizen journalists, and increased digital adaptation by conventional media organizations to sustain credibility, professionalism, and public trust in the evolving media environment.
Cultural Advertising Appeals and Consumers' Patronage of Hero and Goldberg Lager Beer Brands in Lokoja, Nigeria
This study examined the influence of cultural advertising appeals on consumers’ patronage of Hero and Goldberg lager beer brands among residents of Lokoja metropolis, Kogi State. The study was anchored on Social Identity Theory and adopted a quantitative cross-sectional survey design. A sample of 374 respondents was drawn using proportionate stratified and purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed with descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, and mean scores) and Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). Findings revealed that respondents were highly exposed to Hero and Goldberg advertisements and significantly exposed to cultural elements embedded in the adverts. Cultural advertising appeals were found to positively influence consumers’ patronage decisions, particularly through identity recognition, cultural pride, and brand preference. The inferential analysis further confirmed a strong and significant positive relationship between cultural advertising appeals and consumers’ patronage (r = 0.78, p < 0.05). However, the study also established that cultural appeals do not override traditional purchase determinants such as price, taste, and availability. The study concludes that cultural advertising is a strong but complementary driver of consumer patronage in multicultural settings. It recommends that advertisers integrate culturally resonant messages while maintaining competitive product value to enhance market performance.
Content Analysis of Nigerian Newspapers’ Framing of Governors’ Defection from Opposition Parties to the Ruling Party after the 2023 General Elections
The increasing wave of gubernatorial defections from opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nigeria shortly after the 2023 general elections raises serious concerns about democratic accountability, opposition viability, and the role of the media in legitimising elite political realignments. Despite this development, limited empirical attention has been given to how Nigerian newspapers frame these defections in contemporary political discourse. This study therefore examines newspaper framing of gubernatorial defections between May 2024 and March 2026. The study identifies dominant frames, assesses the tone of reportage, and examines journalistic formats used in selected Nigerian newspapers. A quantitative content analysis was conducted on Vanguard, Daily Trust, and Premium Times. From a population of 1,424 relevant news stories, a sample of 306 articles was selected using the Krejcie and Morgan sampling technique and analysed through systematic random sampling, with data interpreted using frequency counts and percentages. Findings reveal a dominance of elite-centred frames, particularly Political Survival and Pragmatism (29.4%) and Conflict and Intra-party Crisis (25.5%), while Mandate Betrayal and Ethical Accountability is minimally represented (2.0%). The tone of coverage is largely neutral (57.2%), followed by positive (27.4%) and negative (15.4%), with straight news formats prevailing (69.3%). The study concludes that Nigerian newspapers tend to normalise political defection through pragmatic and neutral framing. It contributes to framing scholarship by showing how media discourse can reinforce political instability in weak party systems and underscores the need for more critical, accountability-oriented journalism.
Public Relations Strategies of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Enhancing Road Safety Awareness and Behaviour among Commercial Motorists in Adamawa State, Nigeria
Road traffic accidents remain a major public health challenge in Nigeria, necessitating effective communication interventions for behavioural change. This study examined the effectiveness of Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) public relations (PR) strategies in promoting road safety among commercial motorists in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Specifically, it assessed PR strategies employed by FRSC, levels of awareness created, motorists’ attitudes, behavioural compliance, and the relationship between PR exposure, attitude, and behaviour. A descriptive survey design was adopted, involving 321 respondents selected through multi-stage sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson Product Moment Correlation. Findings revealed that FRSC utilises a mix of PR strategies dominated by mass media campaigns, enforcement-based communication, and institutional engagements, while digital and participatory approaches were less utilised. Although awareness of road safety messages was high among motorists (grand mean = 3.96), attitudes toward FRSC PR strategies were generally negative (grand mean = 2.14), and behavioural compliance remained low (grand mean = 1.96). Correlation analysis indicated no significant relationship between PR exposure and attitude (r = 0.062, p > 0.05), PR exposure and behaviour (r = 0.048, p > 0.05), and attitude and behaviour (r = 0.089, p > 0.05), suggesting a disconnect between message exposure and behavioural outcomes. The study concludes that FRSC PR strategies generate awareness but do not significantly influence attitudes or compliance among commercial motorists. It recommends the integration of participatory, trust-based, and behaviourally oriented communication approaches alongside enforcement mechanisms to enhance road safety outcomes.
Christian Perspectives on Infertility and Assisted Reproductive Technologies: A Critical Analysis of Theological and Bioethical Documents
This paper critically examines Christian attitudes towards infertility and ARTs by analysing some of the theological, ecclesial, pastoral, legal and bioethical documents. It contends that the reaction of Christians to ARTs cannot be narrowed down to a mere religious/medical science conflict. Instead, they are indicative of more profound issues of human dignity, embryo status, marriage, sexuality, parenthood, technological power, and pastoral care. This paper critically analyses the Catholic, Anglican, Protestant, Nigerian and general bioethical sources and their understanding of infertility as a medical, social, spiritual and pastoral wound. The results show that writings of Catholics uphold the sanctity of human life from the moment of conception and that reproductive acts that are an alternative to the conjugal act or that objectify embryos are condemned. The Anglican and Protestant sources are more deliberative; the Nigerian sources highlight stigma, gendered sufferings, the lack of regulation and the need for pastoral and legal protection. The conclusion of the article is that the plausible Christian ethic of ARTs should make moral clarity and compassion work together to safeguard the vulnerable human life without disregarding the suffering of infertile couples. It demands a theologically based, pastorally grateful, scientifically aware and justice-regulation-lived-experience response in various Christian groups and current reproductive health systems of the world today.
Teachers’ Adoption of Artificial Intelligence for Classroom Practice in Nigerian Secondary Schools: A UTAUT-Informed Assessment of Use, Competence, and Barriers
Effective integration of Artificial Intelligence in the classroom requires pedagogically purposeful use, yet empirical evidence on how secondary school teachers in Nigeria adopt AI for classroom practice remains limited. This study assessed teachers’ adoption of AI for classroom practice in Nigerian secondary schools by examining use, perceived usefulness of AI tool categories, self-reported competence, and adoption barriers. The study employed a descriptive survey design. A total of 1,012 secondary school teachers drawn from the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria participated in the study. Data were collected using the Teachers’ AI Adoption Questionnaire, adapted from the UNESCO AI Competency Framework for Teachers, and analyzed using frequencies, percentages, and mean scores. From findings, 39.8% of the teachers reported using at least one AI tool in their instructional practice, indicating that adoption remains limited. General AI assistance tools were identified as the most useful category, while assessment tools and development platforms were rarely mentioned. Teachers reported an overall mean competence score of 3.93 out of 5, indicating an above-average level of self-reported competence. In addition, 57.8% of the teachers reported experiencing challenges in adopting AI for classroom instruction. AI adoption among secondary school teachers in Nigeria is still emerging and appears to be concentrated in general-purpose tools rather than specialized educational AI applications. The findings suggest the need for targeted teacher professional development, improved digital infrastructure, and school-level AI governance aligned with national policies and international competency guidance. The study also recommends the inclusion of AI in education courses for pre-service and in-service teachers.
RADIO HEALTH COMMUNICATION AND ADOPTION OF LASSA FEVER PREVENTIVE MEASURES AMONG MARKET WOMEN IN JALINGO, TARABA STATE, NIGERIA
Lassa fever remains a persistent public health challenge in Nigeria, with Taraba State identified as one of the high-burden areas despite media intervention efforts. This study examined exposure to radio-based Lassa fever prevention messages, knowledge regarding preventive measures, and the adoption of preventive practices among market women in Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria. The study was framed on Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) and applied a qualitative research design using in-depth interviews with 18 purposively selected market women across major markets in Jalingo metropolis. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide, and analysed using deductive thematic analysis. Findings reveal limited and inconsistent exposure to radio-based Lassa fever prevention messages, which were largely restricted to occasional jingles and brief awareness segments. Participants demonstrated basic awareness of rodent control as a preventive measure; however, knowledge of broader preventive practices such as food hygiene, environmental sanitation, and early symptom recognition remained inadequate and weakly linked to radio communication exposure. Furthermore, adoption of preventive measures was poor and inconsistent, with respondents reporting reliance on personal experience and informal social networks rather than media messaging. The study concludes that radio-based health communication in its current form is insufficient to generate comprehensive knowledge and sustained behavioural change among market women. The findings underscore the need for integrated risk communication strategies that combine enhanced radio programming with community-based health education and infrastructural improvements to support effective Lassa fever prevention in high-risk settings.
EFFECTIVENESS OF GOVERNMENT PUBLIC RELATIONS STRATEGIES IN SHAPING PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS OF TARABA STATE’S FREE EDUCATION POLICY
This study investigated the Government Public Relations (GPR) strategies employed by the Taraba State Government to promote its 2023 free education policy. It examined levels of public awareness, perceptions of the policy, and the systemic challenges undermining these GPR efforts. The research adopted a mixed-methods design, utilising a quantitative descriptive survey of 384 members of the public and qualitative in-depth interviews with 26 strategic stakeholders, including school administrators, traditional leaders, and information officers. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings revealed that the primary PR strategy employed by the government was media relations. This approach achieved a high level of policy awareness (Grand Mean = 3.42), but failed to foster deep understanding, favourable perception, or policy acceptance. The public largely perceived the initiative as a political gimmick. The major challenge undermining the GPR efforts was the lack of two-way communication between the government and the citizenry, resulting in a significant feedback gap due to over-reliance on traditional one-way media. The study recommends the adoption of a two-way symmetrical model that decentralises communication through localised committees, digital transparency trackers, and direct interpersonal engagement with traditional institutions.
DEVELOPMENT OF TERROR-RELATED TRAUMA SCALE AS A CULTURALLY SENSITIVE TOOL FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF TERROR-RELATED TRAUMA
Nigeria, a country in Africa, has experienced and continues to experience various forms of armed conflict, including banditry, Boko Haram insurgency, farmers–herders clashes, and other forms of organized violence. One of the major consequences of these conflicts is terror-related trauma, which manifests in diverse psychological symptoms among affected populations. This study aimed to develop a culturally relevant Terror-Related Trauma Scale suitable for use by practitioners and researchers in assessing trauma symptoms among war survivors in Nigeria. A mixed-method research design was employed, and data were collected from 230 participants, comprising males and females across different age groups. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was conducted to examine the construct validity of the scale. Preliminary analyses confirmed the adequacy of the data for factor analysis (Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin = .846; Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity, p < .001). The initial EFA of 23 items revealed a two-factor structure, supported by eigenvalues and the scree plot. Three items that failed to load adequately were removed, and a second-phase EFA conducted on the remaining 20 items yielded a clear and interpretable two-factor solution with minimal cross loadings. Reliability analysis indicated good internal consistency for the final 20-item scale, with a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of .86. Item–total statistics further showed that all Terror-Related Trauma Scale has satisfactory psychometric properties, supporting its use for research and applied psychological assessment in conflict-affected settings in Nigeria.
BBC Coverage of African Artifacts 2000-2025: A Critical Analysis of Shifting Narratives on Restitution and Representation
This study examines how the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has covered African artifacts from 2000 to 2026, focusing on the shifting narratives on acquisition, restitution, and representation of African cultural heritage. The study employs a critical discourse analysis framework to examine BBC news articles, radio programs, and digital content spanning the twenty-five-year period. The objectives of the study are to: trace the evolution of BBC coverage of African artifacts across three distinct phases (2000-2010, 2011-2019, 2020-2026); identify the dominant discursive frames employed by the BBC in reporting restitution debates; analyze how the BBC has represented African voices, British colonial history, and Nigerian perspectives on artifact return; examine the BBC's coverage of post-restitution challenges including custodianship disputes in Nigeria; and critically evaluate the BBC's handling of the historical role of the Obas of Benin in the slave trade that financed the creation of the Benin Bronzes. The methodology comprises qualitative content analysis and critical discourse analysis of 87 BBC items, including news articles, radio programs, television segments, and documentaries. The study is anchored on framing theory and critical discourse analysis framework. The results reveal significant shifts in BBC coverage across three phases: Phase 1 (2000-2010) focused on museum exhibitions with minimal attention to restitution; Phase 2 (2011-2019) restitution discourse driven by the BBC's Africa service expansion and early debates; Phase 3 (2020-2026) intensive restitution journalism catalyzed by Germany's return of Benin Bronzes in 2022 and the Netherlands' return of 119 artifacts in 2025. The findings shows that BBC coverage has progressively amplified African voices, interrogated British colonial history, and documented complex post-restitution challenges including disputes over custodianship between the Oba of Benin and Nigerian state authorities. The study concludes that BBC coverage has evolved from passive reporting of museum activities to active investigative journalism that critically examines post-repatriation challenges facing African nations. The study recommends that the BBC expand its coverage of African perspectives beyond elite voices, develop sustained reporting on post-restitution outcomes, and critically examine the historical contexts of artifact production, including the role of African political actors in the slave trade.
A MIXED-METHODS ANALYSIS OF MEDIA LITERACY AS A MODERATOR OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIAL MEDIA USE AND MISINFORMATION BELIEF
The increasing use of social media as a primary source of information in Nigeria has raised concerns about the rapid spread of misinformation, which can influence public opinion, decision making, and social behaviour. Despite the prevalence of false content online, there is limited understanding of how media literacy shapes the relationship between social media use and misinformation belief. This study aimed to examine the moderating role of media literacy in the relationship between social media use and misinformation belief among Nigerian social media users. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to provide both statistical and contextual insights. The target population consisted of Nigerian social media users, with a sample size of 20 for the quantitative survey and 10 for the qualitative interviews, selected using purposive sampling to ensure participants were active social media users and familiar with online content verification practices. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires measuring social media use, misinformation belief, and media literacy, as well as semi-structured interviews exploring participants’ experiences and strategies for engaging with online content. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, regression, and moderation analysis, while qualitative data were examined through thematic content analysis. Findings indicated that social media use significantly increased misinformation belief, media literacy was negatively related to misinformation belief, and media literacy significantly moderated the relationship between social media use and misinformation belief, reducing its impact among more literate users. Based on these results, the study recommends the implementation of targeted media literacy programs in educational institutions, the integration of fact-checking and literacy-promoting tools by social media platforms, and the encouragement of reflective and critical consumption practices among users. These measures are expected to enhance digital resilience and reduce the societal risks associated with misinformation.
Influence of OSBC “Alaafia Tayo” Television Health Campaign on Maternal Health Practices among Pregnant Women in Owode Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
This study evaluated the influence of the OSBC Alaafia Tayo TV health campaign program on maternal health practices among pregnant women in Owode Ede, Osun State, Nigeria. A mixed method research design was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Participants were selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Purposive sampling was used to select Owode Ede as the study location, and a sample of 95 registered antenatal pregnant women was used from selected primary healthcare centres across Owode Ede, Osun State. However, findings were based on 72 accessible pregnant women within the study period. The data collection instruments included a structured questionnaire in Likert scale format of close-ended questions as well as semi-structured interviews for qualitative insights. The questionnaire assessed exposure to the program, maternal health knowledge, and behavioural changes, while the interviews explored participants' perceptions and experiences. Data were analysed using SPSS for quantitative analysis and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Findings revealed that the Alaafia Tayo program significantly improved maternal health knowledge and influenced positive behavioural changes, such as increased antenatal care attendance and improved dietary practices. However, barriers such as financial constraints, cultural beliefs, and limited access to healthcare facilities hindered the full adoption of recommended practices. The study concludes that culturally tailored television health campaigns like Alaafia Tayo are effective in promoting maternal health practices but require complementary interventions to address systemic barriers.
Curriculum Pathways and Vocational/Technical Competency-Based Education for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in Education
One of the United Nations’ priorities to be achieved by 2030 are Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) using education as a core instrument. Also, Competency-Based Education (CBE) remains an innovative approach to attain a measurable level of competency in the process of pursuing the actualisation of the SDGs. However observations from public discourse reveals criticisms on the interpretation of competency-based education in curriculum practice. On this premise, the paper discussed “curriculum pathways and vocational/technical competency-based education for achieving sustainable development goals in education”. A review of the concept of sustainable development, SDG 1 and curriculum pathways was done with conceptual clarification of Competency-Based Education and an appraisal of its theoretical foundations to clear ambiguities, and for its practical relevance. Vocational and Technical Education Curriculum Pathways (VTECP) where competency-based education approaches are central for adequate knowledge and skills acquisition for employment and sustainability was also examined... As a pathway to achieve sustainable development goals, the significant position of criterion-reference assessment for learners to be vocationally competent were lucidly presented. It is recommended that the use of demonstrable pedagogy and the pre-eminence of standardized competency in skills acquisition should be made paramount in the education process for sustainable development vision to be achieved.
LEGALESE AS AN INSTRUMENT OF FOSSILIZATION OF LANGUAGE: A STYLISTIC STUDY OF NIGERIAN JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS
Abstract Nigerian legal English continues to retain archaisms in judicial writing, reflecting both linguistic traditions and the institutional authority of the courts. This study investigates the stylistic roles of such archaic expressions within a lexical semantic framework grounded in Cruse (1986). Adopting a qualitative, corpus-informed approach, the research compiles a structured dataset of archaic forms extracted from eleven annotated judgments spanning four judicial tiers: the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, and National Industrial Court. The data were purposively sampled to ensure representation across different time periods and institutional contexts, with each instance of archaism systematically tagged with relevant metadata, including court, case title, year, and immediate linguistic environment. This procedure yielded a searchable corpus that enables detailed stylistic and semantic analysis. The study aims to identify the distribution, frequency, and communicative functions of archaisms in contemporary Nigerian legal discourse. Findings reveal that archaisms remain pervasive across courts and historical periods, performing multiple, often overlapping functions, such as enhancing semantic precision, structuring legal texts, maintaining intertextual continuity, and symbolically reinforcing judicial authority. The analysis further conceptualizes legal language as a “living archive,” wherein historical linguistic forms are preserved and dynamically recontextualized within modern judicial communication. While the persistence of archaisms contributes to the continuity, formality, and prestige of legal discourse, it also raises concerns regarding accessibility and comprehensibility for non-specialist audiences. The study therefore underscores the need for a balanced approach that preserves valuable linguistic traditions while simultaneously promoting clarity and inclusiveness in contemporary legal practice.
Maiduguri Flood Disaster Online Media Content: A Gender Framing Analysis
This study analyses online media (newspapers and social media) gender framing of the 2024 Maiduguri flood disaster. The objectives of the study are to: identify gendered frames in headlines and article text (videos/images); analyse frames contents in the selected online newspapers and social media; and examine the implication of the gendered frames on the news stories concerning the Maiduguri flood. Anchored in framing theory, the study analyses 61 news items published between 8th and 17th September 2024 by the online version of the Daily Trust, Blueprint, and Punch newspapers, and those mainly published on Facebook, YouTube and TikTok. The study uses quantitative content analysis method. Findings show that framing was dominated by the victim/affected frame, with women and children largely portrayed as vulnerable and dependent, while men were more frequently associated with rescue, support, and institutional authority. Frames highlighting women’s leadership, decision‑making, and agency was largely absent across platforms. Although social media expanded the volume and visual intensity of coverage, it largely reinforces existing gender stereotypes. The study recommends the adoption of gender‑sensitive and inclusive framing practices in both mainstream and digital media especially during disaster such as flood.
Community Perception of Crisis Communication by Jos University Teaching Hospital During Health Emergencies
Effective crisis communication plays an essential role in nourishing communal trust, building compliance with control advisories and influencing social behaviour change during critical health emergencies. Against the backdrop of ineffective communication intervention by health providers during medical emergencies, this study examined community perception of crisis communication, centring on messaging, communication channels, performance and trust. Survey data were collected, using the questionnaire from 350 respondents, sampled purposively within the surrounding communities of the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) and analysed. Findings reveal that while community trust is largely affected by the fidelity and transparency of communication dissemination during public health emergencies, SMS, radio and word-of-mouth from hospital staff are the most counted on as communication channels. Furthermore, while some optics of communication intervention by JUTH were appraised positively by participants in the study, significant displeasure was noticed in critical indicators such as message clarity, consistency and speed. It is recommended that consistent engagement with afflicted communities will help diffuse tension during disease emergencies, stimulate adherence to health instructions and build institutional trust. The JUTH and other hospitals are advised to leverage SMS alert connectivity, strengthen collaboration with local radio stations and train staff as image ambassadors in order to increase the reach, credibility and overall effectiveness of communication interventions during medical crisis.