INTERDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL OF AFRICAN & ASIAN STUDIES (IJAAS)
The Interdisciplinary Journal of African & Asian Studies (ISSN:2504-8694; E-ISSN:2635-3709) is a peer-reviewed scholarly journal that provides a platform for critical and comparative research on the histories, cultures, languages, economies, and socio-political systems of Africa and Asia. Emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches, IJAAS encourages contributions from fields such as anthropology, history, political science, international relations, literature, linguistics, development studies, and cultural studies. The journal seeks to foster cross-regional understanding and dialogue by highlighting both the unique and shared experiences of African and Asian societies in a rapidly globalizing world. By bridging geographical and disciplinary boundaries, IJAAS promotes innovative scholarship that deepens insights into the complex dynamics shaping the two continents, while advancing academic collaboration across diverse intellectual traditions. IJAAS is domiciled in the department of Chinese Studies, Faculty of Arts, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
THE FADING ROOTS OF TRADITION: HERBAL HEALING AND DIVINATION IN INDIGENOUS RELIGION AMIDST COLONIAL AND CHRISTIAN IMPACT
This paper explores the spiritual significance of herbal healing and divination in Indigenous Igbo religion, and the impact of Colonialization and Christianization on these practices. Through a critical analysis of historical and contemporary sources, including colonial records, missionary accounts, and Igbo oral traditions, we reveal the ways in which Colonialization and Christianization have eroded the spiritual significance of herbal healing and divination, threatening Igbo cultural identity. The study highlights the profound connection between spiritual practices, cultural identity, and the natural world in Igbo culture. Herbal healing and divination are deeply rooted in the use of sacred symbols and rituals, demonstrating a holistic understanding of health and wellness. However, the imposition of Western religious beliefs and practices has led to a disconnection from traditional spiritual practices and cultural heritage. Despite this, Igbo communities have resisted and preserved their cultural heritage through various means, including the continued practice of herbal healing and divination in secret. This paper calls for a renewed appreciation and respect for Indigenous religious traditions and highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage. By examining the historical context of Colonialization and Christianization, we can better understand the values and quality of Igbo culture and the significance of preserving indigenous knowledge and practices.
Mazi Orah Takuso M. (PhD., Unizik); Rev. Fr Dr. Raymond Arazu CSSp
LINKAGES BETWEEN CIVIL STRIFE, INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION AND MILITARY PUTSCH IN SAHEL AFRICA
The indirect and systemic influence of former colonial powers, along with the enduring effects of European imperialism in Africa, has contributed to intra-state conflicts, political instability, and civil strife in several parts of the continent, particularly within the Sahel and other African sub-regions. These dynamics have pushed many national economies to the brink of collapse, resulting in severe humanitarian crises. This situation has also contributed to the resurgence of military coups. Over the past three years, the Sahel region has witnessed a wave of coups détat across several countries, stretching from Guinea on the Atlantic coast to Sudan on the Red Sea. Successful military coups have occurred in Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Niger, and Gabon, while constitutional coups have been reported in Tunisia, Chad, and Sudan. During roughly the same period, coup attempts were thwarted in The Gambia, the Central African Republic, Sierra Leone, and the island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe. For decades, countries such as Liberia, Sierra Leone, Côte dIvoire, and Guinea-Bissau have been affected by conflict, civil strife, and economic decline. Although violent conflicts have generally declined in the West African sub-region, recent military coups in the Sahel—particularly in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso—as well as insurgency, banditry, and rising tensions in Nigeria signal the potential re-emergence of internal and regional conflicts. These developments are driven by multiple factors, including poverty, human rights violations, poor governance and corruption, ethnic marginalization, the proliferation of small arms, and, significantly, the lingering influence of European imperialism. These challenges have persisted over time. This paper argues that a poor understanding of these underlying causes will continue to plunge African countries into deeper crises and economic instability. Primary sources, policy documents, and relevant secondary and tertiary materials were the main sources of data for this qualitative analysis.
Conflict, Africa, Political, Military, Coup d etat
THE LIMITS TO SEXUAL EQUALITY, SOCIAL PRACTICE AND NATION BUILDING
At this 21st century, it is the candid opinion of great section of humanity that the world has made a giant stride in its affirmative actions against various forms of discrimination on the basis of sex, gender and race. The crusade against sexual inequality, for example, has so advanced that to speak a different tongue is to be seen as not fully brought into the train of modern civilization or at best not enlightened. Indeed, this consciousness has done a great deal in correcting inadequate socialization and obvious marginalization. But if we are also fair enough, we would notice that a lot of things have gone the wrong way in terms of social practice and nation building because some issues have not been properly addressed. Though some gaps have closed up in many ways, especially in terms of rights, equal treatment and insertion into the mainstream socio-political life, women have not felt their natural ease and families have suffered the worst blows ever leaving nations so devastated. All these issues arise because we have misunderstood the respects in which men and women are said to be equal and what social roles nature in all its wisdom has endowed various sexes. This article is therefore set to appraise the milestones the present age has arrived in correcting some imbalances in the social practice of mankind, and then points out the right perspective of sexual equality and roles which would contribute meaningfully to better humanity and nation building.
Sexuality, Equality, nation building, gender, race, women
FORENSIC SPEAKER IDENTIFICATION IN NIGERIA: PROSPECTS, CHALLENGES, AND IMPLICATIONS FOR THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
Forensic speaker identification has emerged as a crucial component of forensic phonetics, providing scientific methods for identifying individuals through voice evidence in criminal investigations. In contemporary criminal investigations, voice recordings obtained through telephone conversations, surveillance devices, and digital communication platforms have become increasingly common forms of evidence. In many jurisdictions around the world, forensic phonetic analysis is used to authenticate recordings, identify speakers, and evaluate the evidential value of speech data in legal proceedings. In Nigeria, particularly in the South-Eastern region, the application of forensic phonetics remains relatively underdeveloped despite its potential to enhance criminal investigations and judicial processes. This paper examines the concept of forensic speaker identification, its theoretical foundations, and its relevance within the Nigerian criminal justice system. Drawing on existing literature and empirical observations from studies on forensic phonetics in Nigeria, the paper explores the role of acoustic and auditory analysis in identifying speakers and evaluating voice recordings used as legal evidence. The findings reveal that although awareness of forensic phonetics is gradually increasing among stakeholders, its practical application remains limited due to infrastructural deficiencies, lack of trained experts, limited institutional support, and legal uncertainties surrounding the admissibility of voice evidence. The paper concludes that the integration of forensic speaker identification into Nigeria’s investigative and judicial processes could significantly improve the reliability of voice-based evidence, strengthen investigative accuracy, and reduce wrongful convictions.
forensic phonetics, speaker identification, voice evidence, criminal investigation, Nigeria
Olympian Dumebi Adigwe & Linda Chinelo Nkamigbo
Historical Drivers of Insecurity in Nigeria and Their Relevance to Contemporary Security Challenges
Nigeria’s persistent insecurity is rooted in historical processes that continue to shape contemporary security challenges. Despite its demographic significance, cultural diversity, and abundant natural resources, the country has experienced recurring cycles of violence, manifested in terrorism, banditry, inter-communal clashes, and militancy. This paper examines the historical drivers of insecurity in Nigeria and analyzes their relevance to present-day security dynamics.Drawing on historical and political analysis, the study traces the origins of insecurity to colonial governance structures, post-independence nation-building failures, entrenched ethnic and religious divisions, socio-economic inequalities, and weak governance characterized by corruption and institutional fragility. It argues that British colonial policies of indirect rule and ethnic differentiation laid the foundation for enduring political and social tensions, which were further exacerbated by military rule, economic marginalization, and governance deficits after independence. The paper also engages counterarguments that emphasize external influences or contemporary religious extremism, demonstrating that these factors are deeply intertwined with Nigeria’s historical political economy. By situating current security threats within their historical context, the study highlights the importance of historically informed, inclusive, and development-oriented approaches to addressing insecurity in Nigeria. The paper concludes that sustainable peace requires not only reactive security measures but also structural reforms that address the root causes of conflict embedded in Nigeria’s historical trajectory.
Nigeria; Insecurity; Colonial Legacy; Ethnic Conflict; Religious Violence; Governance Failure; Economic Inequality; Boko Haram; Human Security; Conflict Studies
Dr. Francis Okechukwu Ndubuisi & Dr. PhilipMary Ayika
MIGRATION AND CRISIS: A REVIEW OF AMMA DARKO'S BEYOND THE HORIZON
Migration is a complex phenomenon that transcends mere geographical movement, profoundly affecting the social, psychological, and economic lives of individuals. In many instances, it induces crises that disrupt identity, relationships, and personal stability. This study examines the interplay between migration and individual crisis in literature, with a specific focus on Beyond the Horizon by Amma Darko. It investigates how migration exposes women to vulnerability and marginalisation, as well as its profound psychological and social implications. Against this backdrop, the study employs objectification theory to critically analyse the experiences of female characters in the selected novel, highlighting how patriarchal structures intersect with migration to shape their crises. The findings reveal that migration, while often represented as a pathway to freedom and opportunity, simultaneously exposes women to systemic oppression, identity struggles, and social alienation. By examining these literary portrayals, the study underscores the need to recognise the gendered dimensions of migration and its far-reaching consequences on individual lives. It concludes that migration and its accompanying crises mark significant transformations in women’s economic conditions, social positions, and sense of self-worth.
migration, crisis, objectification, sexual-objectification, body surveillance
Luke Ndudi Okolo; Onyedikachi Rachael Nwafor
THE EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON SOCIAL MOVEMENTS: A STUDY OF THE ENDSARS MOVEMENT OF 2020 IN AWKA URBAN
The study examined the effects of social media on social movements, focusing on the EndSARS movement in Awka urban. The motivation for the study was the widespread youth protests during that period and the role social media played in spreading and sustaining the movement. The study adopted a mixed-method research design, utilizing questionnaires and in-depth interviews. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 204 respondents. Data were analyzed using percentages and frequency tables, while the chi-square (χ²) statistical test was used to test the hypotheses. The findings revealed that the factors that led to the EndSARS movement included police brutality (52.6%), human rights violations (16.3%), police extortion (12.8%), youth unemployment (10.7%), and bad governance (7.7%). The study also found that social media facilitated the success of the movement by creating massive awareness about police brutality (35.2%), providing youths with the opportunity to freely express themselves (18.4%), providing a platform for cash donations that sustained the movement (14.3%), giving a voice to the voiceless (14.3%), and through the influence of Twitter (10.7%). Finally, the study recommended that social media influencers should be sincere with their followers, participants in social movements should avoid spreading fake news, the government should stop crackdowns on activists and provide security for protesters, and the police should stop harassing youths on the streets.
Social media, social movements, protest, EndSARS, youths, police brutality
Chikwendu, Stephen Chilaka & Maduagwuna, Raymond Emeka
THE POLITICS OF CLASS: EXPLORING ECONOMIC INEQUALITY AND SOCIAL MOBILITY IN BEHOLD THE DREAMERS BY IMBOLO MBUE
Imbolo Mbue's Behold the Dreamers, published in 2016, uses the story of a Cameroonian immigrant family in New York City to examine how class, race, and immigration status interact to shape economic outcomes in America. Set against the 2008 collapse of Lehman Brothers, the novel follows Jende and Neni Jonga as they pursue stability and opportunity while working for Clark and Cindy Edwards, a wealthy family whose position exposes the distance between American promise and American structure. This article argues that Mbue constructs class not as a personal condition but as a structural one, produced and maintained by economic systems, racial hierarchies, and immigration law. Drawing on Pierre Bourdieu's theory of capital, Thomas Piketty's analysis of wealth concentration, Kimberlé Crenshaw's framework of inter-sectionality, and empirical research on racial wealth gaps and immigrant economic mobility, this piece reads the novel as a precise literary account of how inequality operates at the interpersonal level. The analysis moves through five areas: class structure and economic hierarchy in the novel, the ideology of the American Dream and its limits, the mechanisms and boundaries of social mobility, and the intersection of race and immigration with class disadvantage. Each section grounds its reading in both textual evidence from the novel and scholarship from sociology, economics, and critical theory. The article finds that Mbue's novel resists sentimentality and ideology equally. It does not present poverty as ennobling or wealth as villainous. It presents both as positions within a system that rewards accumulation and penalizes vulnerability. The Jongas' eventual return to Cameroon is read not as defeat but as a rational response to structural reality. Behold the Dreamers contributes to African diaspora literature and American social fiction by making inequality visible through specific, human, and verifiable terms.
Immigration, Intersectionality, Inequality, Diaspora
Ijeoma Chinelo Ehimen & Dr. Adaobi Ihueze
MILITARY COUPS AND THE CRISIS OF REGIONAL INTEGRATION IN WEST AFRICA: ASSESSING ECOWAS’ INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS (2010 - 2024)
Since 2010, West Africa has experienced a resurgence of military coups, which has significantly disrupted governance and regional cooperation. This development raises questions about the effectiveness of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in upholding its democratic principles and its objective of maintaining regional integration. Although ECOWAS has established a normative framework that condemns unconstitutional changes of government, the recurring coups in countries such as Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Niger reveal a significant gap between its declared commitments and its capacity for effective enforcement. This study examines ECOWAS’s responses to coups between 2010 and 2024 and evaluates the implications for regional cohesion. Employing a qualitative comparative case study approach, the research analyses official ECOWAS communiqués, policy instruments, and existing scholarly literature. The findings indicate that while ECOWAS has maintained its normative commitments, the implementation of these principles has been inconsistent. This inconsistency has weakened the organization’s deterrence capacity and gradually eroded its legitimacy among member states and regional populations. The study contributes to broader scholarly discussions on regional governance, democratic consolidation, and the stability of postcolonial states. It demonstrates that repeated military interventions have gradually transformed ECOWAS from an organization primarily focused on regional integration into one increasingly preoccupied with crisis management. These transformations have important implications for the future of regional cooperation and peace in West Africa.
BOKO HARAM, TERRORISM, AND THE CHURCH IN NORTHERN NIGERIA (1999–2015)
This study examines the emergence of Boko Haram as a terrorist movement and its impact on the Christian Church and broader Nigerian society between 1999 and 2015. It argues that Boko Haram’s evolution from a local religious sect into a full-scale insurgency was facilitated by structural weaknesses such as poverty, corruption, political exclusion, and the instrumentalization of religion. Drawing on documentary sources and existing scholarly literature, the paper analyses the social, economic, political, and religious consequences of terrorism on Christian communities in northern Nigeria. The study concludes that although Boko Haram has inflicted significant damage on religious institutions and national cohesion, the crisis is not insurmountable if addressed through coordinated security reforms, effective governance, and sustained interreligious engagement.
Professor Ifeyinwa Henrietta EMEJULU; Uchenna Kelechi IWUOZO
A SOCIOLINGUISTIC ANALYSIS OF SWEARING AND CODE CHOICE IN ANAMBRA STATE MOTOR PARKS
Swearing in multilingual urban transit hubs constitutes a layered sociolinguistic phenomenon that bridges affect, identity, language choice, and social stratification. This study explores the use of bad language in major motor parks in Anambra State, Nigeria, focusing on the interplay of Igbo, Nigerian Pidgin, and English. Data were collected from Eke Awka, Aroma, and Ukwu-Oji motor parks. Drawing on the framework of variationist sociolinguistics (Labov, 1972), the article identifies forms of bad language and analyzes how gender, age, and socioeconomic status influence their usage. The data were obtained through observation and elicitation methods. The findings reveal that motor parks function as heteroglossic arenas where code-switching, audience design, and social indexing govern profanity. Men, younger individuals, and lower-income participants tend to use more frequent and overt swearing, while older and higher-status individuals moderate or euphemize their expressions. The study underscores the need to view profanity not merely as deviance but as a communicative resource and offers implications for urban language planning and public civility campaigns.
sociolinguistic, swear words, Code Choice, Anambra State, motor parks
Ogechukwu Chinyere Mbakwe & Martha Chidimma Egenti
ABA WOMEN’S RIOT OF 1929: A REVOLUTION THAT RESHAPED COLONIAL GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA
This study investigates the Aba women's riot of 1929, a revolutionary that reshaped colonial governance in Nigeria. The Women’s riot is acknowledged as one of the most pivotal anti-colonial uprisings within Nigeria's historical context, marking a vital turning point in the evolution of indigenous resistance and the enhancement of women's political power. The paper delves into the historical circumstances that precipitated the uprising and examines the reasons for classifying the Aba Women's Riot as a revolution, as well as its effects on the reconfiguration of colonial governance in Nigeria. Employing a historical methodology, this research conducts a qualitative analysis of both primary and secondary sources. The findings indicate that the riot transcended mere protest, functioning instead as a coordinated socio-political upheaval that forced the colonial administration to reconsider its governance frameworks, taxation systems, and gender dynamics. The paper concludes by asserting that the Aba Women’s Riot served as a significant catalyst that exposed the deficiencies of colonial policies and acted as a precursor to subsequent nationalist movements in Nigeria.
Dr. Chidiebere Onuoha & Chichem Ifeoma Duru
CODE-SWITCHING IN SELECTED SONGS BY WIZKID: A STUDY OF LINGUISTIC AND CULTURAL EXPRESSION IN NIGERIAN HIP HOP
Nigerian musicians often employ code-switching, blending English with other major Nigerian languages such as Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, and Nigerian Pidgin, with particular emphasis on Yoruba and Pidgin. This study aims to critically analyze selected albums by Wizkid within the Nigerian music industry. The data for this research focus on one artist, Wizkid. The objectives of the study are to examine the nature of code-switching, investigate its underlying causes, analyze its artistic impact, and explore the consequences of this practice for musical expression. It is observed that Nigerian artists utilize code-switching in their music to connect with their intended audiences.
Akụkọ Ifo Dịka Ugegbe E Ji Ahụta Ndụ Ndị Igbo
Ndị Igbo bi na mpaghara ọwụwa anyanwụ Naịjiria nwere agụmagụ ha nke a na-agụpụta n’ọnụ tupu ọbịbia ndị ọcha. Otu n’ime agụmagụ ọnụ ndị ahụ bụ akụkọ ifo. Ifo bụ akụkọ a rọrọ arọ nke ndị Igbo ji anọrị oge ma na-akpakwa onwe ha obiọma. Nchọpụta na-egosị na ọtụtụ ndị mmadụ na-eche na o nweghizị uru akụkọ ifo bara; karịsịa n’oge ugbu a. Ebumnobi ọrụ nchọcha a bụ inyocha ifo iji mata usoro omenala na usoro ebimndụ ndị Igbo ndị gbara elu n’ifo Igbo na igosịpụta etu ifo si arụ ọrụ dịka enyo e ji ahụta ndụ ndị Igbo. Omenchọcha a nwetere njiede o jiri mee nchọcha a site n’ịgbado ụkwụ n’akụkọ ifo ndị o gerela oge ọ na-etolite, akụkọ ifo ndị o nwetere site n’akwụkwọ nchịkọta akụkọ ifo nakwa ihe ndị ọ maara dịka onye Igbo toro n’ala Igbo. Nchọpụta gosịrị na e wepụ iji akụkọ ifo nọrịa oge ma kpakwaa ndị mmadụ obiọma, na akụkọ ifo bụ otu ụzọ gbara ọkpụrụkpụ ndị Igbo si ezipụta omenala, nkwenye na usoro obibi ndụ ha. Atụtụ e ji wee mee ọrụ nyochaa bụ atụtụ keenyouche nke gbadoro ụkwụ na mmekọrịta mmadụ na ibe ya dịka o si metụta agụmagụ. Ọrụ nchọcha a nyere ntuziaka ka onye ọbụla gbasie mbọ ike ịhụ na agụmagụ ọdịnala akụkọifo anwụghị; kama ka achọpụta ụzọ ndị ga-enyeaka iji hụ na o selitere isi nke ọma n’oge ugbu a.
Akụkọ ifo, ndị Igbo, mbamuru, omenala, ugegbe
LABOUR MARKET PARTICIPATION AND EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS IN THE SOUTH-EAST OF NIGERIA
This study examined labour market participation and conditions of employment in South-East Nigeria, focusing on economically active persons, employees, employers, and labour officials across major economic hubs including Onitsha, Aba, Nnewi, and Enugu. The objectives were to assess the level and patterns of labour market participation, evaluate prevailing conditions of employment, and determine the relationship between labour market participation and employment conditions in the region. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from a sample of 220 respondents using a closed-ended structured questionnaire measured on a four-point Likert scale (Strongly Agree, Agree, Disagree, and Strongly Disagree). Mean scores and standard deviations were used to analyse responses, while hypotheses were tested using Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA). The findings indicated a relatively high level of labour market participation, with respondents reporting active engagement in economic activities (mean = 2.90, SD = 0.96) and a predominance of informal employment (mean = 2.98, SD = 0.97). However, conditions of employment were largely unfavourable, as reflected in low job security (mean = 2.32, SD = 1.07), inadequate income (mean = 2.41, SD = 1.05), and weak enforcement of labour laws (mean = 2.31, SD = 1.08). The MANCOVA results revealed statistically significant differences in employment conditions across levels of labour market participation (Wilks’ Lambda = 0.664, F = 8.941, p < 0.05). The study therefore concluded that although labour market participation in South-East Nigeria is high, it is largely necessity-driven and constrained by poor employment quality. The study recommends strengthening regulatory enforcement, improving wages and employment benefits, promoting skills development, and implementing policies that ensure not only access to employment but also improved working conditions in the region.
Employment Conditions, Human Capital Development, Informal work, Labour Market Participation, Secure Employment
MIGRANTS’ EXPERIENCES AND HYBRIDIZED IDENTITIES: A LITERARY DISCOURSE ON SELECTED NIGERIAN-AMERICANS RETURNEES
This research examines the intersections of border crossing, hybridity, and identity formation in Nigerian literature, with a specific focus on the narratives on Nigerian-Americans returnees. In engaging theories of border studies by Gloria Anzaldúa and Homi Bhabha’s hybridity theory, this research interrogates the ways in which Nigerian literary works negotiate the complexities of cultural identity, belonging, and citizenship in the context of transnational migration. Through a critical-texual analysis of selected literary texts, this study reveals the ways in which returnees' narratives embody the liminal spaces of border crossings, facilitating the emergence of hybridized identities that transcend binary cartographies of nation, culture, and identity. This research contributes to the burgeoning field of border studies, offering nuanced insights into the politics of belonging, cultural citizenship, and the complexities of transnational identity formation.
Hybridity, Border, Returnees, Migrants, Citizenship
Abigail Onowosemenmen Oaikhena, PhD; Sr. Dr. Adaoma Igwedibia; Fr. Dr. Greg Ekeh
AN ANALYSIS OF MISERLINESS IN IGBO, FRENCH AND GERMAN NOVELS
Miserliness is an act of collecting money and not spending for fear of what the future holds. It is a bad trait that prevents an individual from giving either money, emotional support or even encouragement no matter the situation. Psychoanalysis explains miserliness as a trait that arises within the human to reduce his anxiety. This paper highlights the features of a miser as depicted in Igbo, French and German novels in the character of Akubuzo, Harpagon and Herr Unrat respectively. The insight is that miserliness manifests in various forms. This work adopts the psychoanalytic theory of Sigmund Freud for the analysis of these characters. The conclusion is that a human vice or weakness is not subject to the limitations of individual localities. Instead, the three characters in their difference geographic and cultural peculiarities still depict a common human factor.
Okafor, Chioma Evangeline; Dr. Ugonna Ezinne Ubah
SEMIOTICS AND THE LANGUAGE OF COSTUMES IN NIGERIAN VIDEO FILMS: A STUDY OF CRY OF A WIDOW AND ADAEZE
This paper discuses signs and symbols of costume for visual communication and the contribution that the concept of semiotics analysis makes with regard to enhancing a costume designer’s experience and engagement with the elements of costume. The concept of semiotics is indicated as contributive factor to effective visual communications; meaning is seen as dynamic, predominantly described in terms of subjective reality. To address this, the researcher employed Semiotic theory: the foundation of contemporary film theory and qualitative methodology in order to analyze selected Nigerian video films. This form of analysis allows costume a distinct voice in words dominated film. It reinforces costume as communication through style, lines, colour, fabric and texture. This work has been able to create a communicative distinction of costumes in films using the socio-cultural and conventional interpretations of colours, lines, fabrics, styles and textures of clothes and accessories. It has attempted to understand how lines, colours, fabrics and textures convey meaning in film. This paper discovers that costume helps us to form individual opinions about characters and at the same time reconstruct their socio-cultural realities. Based on this discovery, semiotic interpretation can be recommended as a useful adjunct to traditional idealistic research, particularly when the film costume being studied is so complex that objectivity is hard to maintain. Having analyzed the costumes of selected Nigerian video films in relation to semiotics theory, the contexts of the films selected and the researcher’s experiences and observance of convention and Igbo culture; significations of costumes are presented as subjective truth, making way for further interpretations and several different meanings. The paper argues that the meaning of costumes in video films centers on the viewer’s experiences and culture. Thus this research emphasizes the participation of the audience in visual communication process and film costumes.
CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATIONAL PRODUCTIVITY IN ANAMBRA MOTOR MANUFACTURING COMPANY (ANAMMCO), EMENE ENUGU
Conflict is an ever-present process in human relations. Every organization encounters conflicts on a daily basis. It cannot be avoided, but it is possible to manage them in time. Conflict within organizations can affect productivity and profitability. This study examined the relationship between conflict management and organizational productivity in Anambra Motor Manufacturing Company Ltd (ANAMMCO), Emene Enugu State. A cross sectional survey research was conducted to generate data to answer the research questions as well as test the hypothesis. Both qualitative and quantitative research approaches were combined in the study. A sample of four hundred and thirty (430) questionnaires was administered by trained research assistants and the data from the questionnaires were analyzed with the help of Statistical package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Qualitative data were generated by in-depth interview (IDI) with heads of departments and trade union representatives. The analysis of the study data showed that poor workers welfare was the main source of conflict and collective bargaining was the conflict resolving strategy, and the organization adopts compromise as a conflict management style. Chi square was used to test the hypotheses, and results from of hypotheses were statistically significant at P≥0.05 level. This study recommended among other things that Nigeria Labour Law should be reviewed to promote harmonious relations in Nigerian industries. Also, the law must be enforced in the industry to ensure compliance, especially with respect to collective bargaining, workers’ participation, and trade union recognition.
Labour, Conflict, Conflict Management, Employee, Organization, Productivity
Ogboke, Eberechukwu Odichinma; Maduagwuna, Raymond Emeka; Okeke, Ngozi Chinenye; Egboh, Amara Frances
SOCIO-CULTURAL VALUES OF NAMES AMONG THE PEOPLE OF IGBO
This paper examines values of naming in Igbo land to ascertain a range of implications it entails. The study assumes a position that the Igbo generally do not give names to their children anyhow, that the names they give their children have social, linguistic, historical, religious and philosophic colouring. It argues that names of Igbo children are a projection of not only the whims of the parents but also a window through which we mirror their lives and concatenations. At times, such names constitute an aphorism unto themselves as well as an exemplum of their world view, what we may in Igbo refer to as Uwa Ndi Igbo. Naming reveals the people’s sociological and ideological culture, vis-à-vis, their folkways, fears and aspirations, joys and hates, ideals and values as well as their cultural and spiritual values in which they hold so dear. The paper observes that every generation sets its own value. That is why the philosophic meanings of naming of the previous generation of our forebears sharply contrast with those of the succeeding generations. The biblical Jewish names vis-à-vis the Igbo will furnish the case study of the inquiry that is so fascinating, so intriguing, but, also, at the same time, so interesting.
Prof. Jude E. Madu & Nzukoh, Aloysius Okechukwu
THEATRE AND ALBINISM IN SOUTHEASTERN NIGERIA: CENTRALIZING THE MARGINS IN A CHANGING SOCIAL SYSTEM
The traditional stereotypical image of People Living With Disabilities (PLWD) particularly in southeastern Nigeria is that of pity due to their handicap. The condition is therefore associated with begging and often attracts patronizing attitudes from the elites in society. In 2019, Nigeria passed the Disability Law. Earlier in 2018, Anambra State, located in the southeast, passed her own Disability Law. But all these laws have remained mere documents on the shelves as implementation is still far-fetched. The laws also did not actually address the problems of People With Albinism (PWA). The objective of this research is to investigate the connection and impact of theatre on albinism matters in Nigeria. The research took its sample from southeastern Nigeria which has a sizeable population of PWA. It used the qualitative methodology involving the Participant Observation and Content Analysis approaches. The research instruments used to collect primary data include a Theatre for Development (TfD) sample workshop and Focus Group Discussion (FGD). The study also applied Michael Oliver’s “Social Model of Disability” and Graham Room’s “Social Exclusion Theory” to analyze, discuss and interpret the research results. The study observed that the concerns of the PWA are quite different from what most people assume. The study also found that the PWA in Nigeria consider the theatre and creative arts as part of their challenges due to lack of diversity in the industry as well as the stereotypical representation of PWA in popular arts and cultural productions in the country. Based on these findings, the study concludes that a proactive approach is required in dealing with the challenges. It suggests that theatre practice in Nigeria should embrace diversity, be more inclusive, and engage more with the PWA in order to mitigate their marginalization in society.
Nwadigwe Francisca A. (PhD); Nwadigwe, Charles E. (PhD)
THE THEOLOGY OF SUFFERING AND THE KINGDOM OF GOD AMONG CHRISTIANS IN ANAMBRA STATE: A RE-EXAMINATION OF JOB 1:6-22
This study explores the theology of suffering and the Kingdom of God among Christians in Anambra State, Nigeria, focusing on a re-examination of Job 1:6-22. Drawing upon theological, hermeneutical, and anthropological frameworks, the research delved into the complex interplay between faith, culture, and lived experience. Through qualitative methods including interviews and textual analysis, the study sought to understand how Christians in Anambra interpret and apply theological concepts related to suffering and the Kingdom of God in their daily lives. Theoretical insights from systematic theology, biblical scholarship, anthropology of religion, and liberation theology inform the analysis, providing a holistic understanding of the theological landscape in Anambra State. The findings reveal a complex understanding of suffering among Christians in Anambra State, integrating theological interpretations, cultural influences, and experiences, while emphasizing the enduring belief in the redemptive potential of the Kingdom of God which offer implications for pastoral care, theological education, and community engagement, highlighting the importance of contextualized interpretations of biblical texts and the dynamic nature of faith in the face of adversity.
Theology of suffering, Kingdom of God, Christianity, Anambra State, Job 1:6-22, Hermeneutics, Anthropology of religion
Revd Dr. Chukwunonso Joeseph Nosike; Revd Geoffery Chiazo Nganwuchu; Geoffrey Chidebem Molokwu
DEPLOYMENT OF MODERN DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AND ICTS IN PUBLIC SECTOR HRM: BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES
This study examines the influence of the deployment of modern digital technologies and information communication technologies (ICTs) and its efficiency in public sector human resource management (HRM). With an increasing emphasis on digitalization in the public sector, understanding how these technologies impact HRM efficiency is crucial for organizational effectiveness and service delivery. Drawing on a comprehensive literature review and empirical analysis, this research investigates the extent to which digital technologies and ICTs contribute to improving HRM processes and outcomes in the public sector. Methodologically, a qualitative approach is employed, using analysis of efficiency qualitative insights from stakeholders. The findings shed light on the benefits, challenges, and implications of technology adoption in public sector HRM, offering valuable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and future research endeavors.
Deployment of digital technologies, Information communication technologies (ICTs), Public sector, Human resource management (HRM), Efficiency
"Effects of Government Policies on Recessions: Fiscal and Monetary Policy Impact on Unemployment, Poverty, and Inequality."
This study investigates the impact of government policies, specifically fiscal and monetary policies, on preventing and mitigating economic recessions, focusing on their effects on unemployment, poverty, and inequality. By synthesizing existing literature on the subject, the study employs a quantitative research design to analyze the relationship between government interventions and economic outcomes during periods of recession. The findings suggest that both fiscal and monetary policies play crucial roles in stabilizing economies during downturns, with fiscal policy primarily addressing demand-side factors and monetary policy targeting supply-side dynamics. Through an examination of various policy measures, such as government spending, taxation, interest rates, and money supply adjustments, this study identifies the mechanisms through which these policies influence unemployment, poverty rates, and income inequality. The research underscores the importance of coordinated policy responses in mitigating the adverse effects of recessions on vulnerable populations. However, the study also acknowledges the limitations of government interventions and highlights the need for further research to refine policy approaches and enhance their effectiveness in addressing economic challenges.
Government policy, fiscal policy, monetary policy, economic recessions, unemployment, poverty, inequality, recession prevention, recession mitigation
Revd Dr. Chukwunonso Joseph Nosike; Oluchukwu Sandra Nosike Ojobor
CONTEXTS OF RETURN MIGRATION AND DISILLUSIONMENT IN TAHER BEN JELLOUN’S A PALACE IN THE OLD VILLAGE
Migration, exile, globalization and their attendant discontents have remained global phenomenon which writers especially from Africa have persistently continued to address in their narratives. While so much has been written about migration to the West in search of better living conditions, or even for mere aspiration, not enough has been done in the area of return migration. This paper reflects on the seeming less discussed issues pertaining return migration and disillusionment in Africa as seen in Tahar Ben Jelloun’s A Palace in the Old Village. This is opposed to the previous interpretations which scholars have made of the text. To achieve this, the paper employs the psychoanalytic theory. The paper finds that there is a specific link between migration, return migration, development of home country and the mental health of returnees. While economic and political corruption, religious fanaticism, illiteracy, social expectations and so on in home countries mitigate against return migration, the paper argues that obsession, neurosis and aridity of some African space portend serious challenge to return home.
Return migration, Disillusionment, Obsession, Psychosis, Taher Ben Jelloun
Ifeoma Cassandra Nebeife, Ph.D; Prof. Florence Onyebuchi Orabueze
COMPATIBILITY BETWEEN BUSINESS AND ETHICS: REFLECTIONS ON IMPACT OF CODE OF CONDUCT ON WALMART
Business ethics profoundly affects companies, especially stakeholders like customers, employees, shareholders, investors, and the business’s environment. This is because of the clash between ethics and business, which raises compatibility question. To that end, this study seeks to qualitatively show the compatibility between ethics and business, drawing evidence from the case of Walmart and some extant literatures on the subject matter. The study shows that despite the clash, ethics and compliance are essential and foundational determinants of sustainably successful business. When a business organization, such as Walmart, sets ethical standards and a strong foundation, it establishes the basis for success and ensures transparency and accountability. Ethical standards also guard against legal hurdles that may arise because of the absence of those standards adding to the cost of doing business. The paper concludes that ethical business practices, as demonstrated by Walmart through its code of conduct, help business organizations to achieve success, build trust and confidence, and win the hearts of a large number of the public, for which Walmart and such other organizations top on the competition chain in the market and thereby attain high level of organizational performance, productivity and profit maximization.
Compatibility, Business ethics, Walmart, Code of conduct, Impact
CONTENDING ISSUES AND CHALLENGES HAMPERING EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF PUBLIC POLICIES IN NIGERIA: A PRACTICAL PERSPECTIVE
In Nigeria, numerous public policies have been formulated and implemented since independence. However, there is no significant development to show for these policies as evidenced by the fact that Nigeria is still classified as underdeveloped countries among the comity of nations. This implies that mere formulation of policies should become not the major issue in Nigeria but rather the effective implementation of these policies should be a matter of great concern to all governance actors, as it is only a successfully implemented policies that can bring about development. Therefore, policy implementation is central to the nation’s development trajectory. In Nigeria, the recurring challenge is essentially the problem of effective implementation of policies. In reality, it the practice of successive governments to abandon inherited policies and initiate their own policies, which their own successors usually abandon, thus leaving a chain of abandoned policies. As public policies continue to fail, citizen’s trust in government ability to achieve national development is gradually eroded. Based on this, discussion on policy implementation continually assumes a greater significance among scholars. Policy implementation is not a bed of roses, as it is often challenging and contentious, because policy’s programmes usually faced obstacles during implementation. Most policy’s programmes do not survive during execution and those that do, usually implemented haphazardly, thus, emerged mutilated or distorted, to the extent that they may no longer serve their intended purposes. Premised on this, the study examined the emerging issues and evolving challenges in policy implementation in Nigeria. In carrying out the study, the secondary sources of information or data, were mostly relied on. Thereafter, content analysis technique was adopted in the data analysis. The study found that there exists, some factors that constitute obstacles to effective policy implementation in Nigeria. These factors include; corruption, bad leadership and the influence of primordial demands on the public service, which negatively affect policy implementation processes. Recommendations are offered to overcome these challenges and to facilitate effective implementation of policies is that government should work towards ensuring the emergence of responsible political and public service’s leaderships in order to create room for the public institutions to implement public policies essentially on the basis of laid down rules and principles of public service.
DYNAMICS AND IMPLICATIONS OF NIGERIA-CHINA BILATERAL RELATIONS ON INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA (2015 -2024)
This study examined the dynamics and implications of Nigeria–China bilateral relations on infrastructural development in Nigeria between 2015 and 2024. The research was motivated by the need to address existing gaps in the literature, which tend to emphasize economic benefits while overlooking the structural imbalances, governance challenges, and socio-economic costs associated with Chinese-financed infrastructural projects. Guided by the Liberal Institutionalism theory, the study employed an explanatory research design to analyze texts, documents, and reports using content analysis. The findings revealed that while Chinese investments and technical expertise contributed significantly to Nigeria’s infrastructural growth, they also heightened Nigeria’s dependency risks, deepened external debt exposure, and reinforced reliance on foreign technical capacity. The study further emphasized the importance of strong institutional frameworks in ensuring sustainable engagement and mutual benefit. Consequently, the study recommended that Nigeria should strengthen governance frameworks, improve quality control mechanisms in project execution, and promote institutional accountability to mitigate dependency risks while optimizing the developmental benefits of cooperation with China.
Bilateral Relations, Infrastructural Development, Nigeria-China Relations, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Economic Cooperation
Chibuzor Chigozie NWEKE PhD; Emmanuel Okwuchukwu EZEAMU PhD; Anthony Maduka EMELIFE; Christian Chidi OKEKE, Ph.D
INVESTIGATING THE TRIPATRITE MODEL OF ATTITUDES TOWARDS FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNING AMONG UNDERGRADUATE LINGUISTICS STUDENTS IN UNIZIK.
This study investigated the tripartite model of attitudes towards foreign language learning among undergraduate linguistics students in Awka, Nigeria. The tripartite model posits that attitudes consist of three interrelated components: cognitive, affective, and behavioural. The study aimed to examine the extent to which this theoretical framework explains the attitudes of linguistics students towards learning foreign languages. A sample of 165 undergraduate students from the Department of Linguistics at Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka participated in the cross-sectional study. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire adapted from previous language attitude research, including items from established instruments such as the Attitude/Motivation Test Battery (AMTB). The questionnaire gathered demographic information and assessed the students' cognitive, affective, and behavioural attitudes towards learning the foreign language course- Chinese, French, and German languages, together with the correlation between these three attitudes that make up the model. The findings revealed that the students held overall positive affective and behavioural attitudes towards foreign language learning, despite exhibiting mixed cognitive views. Students identified teaching methods and peer learning as important factors shaping their attitudes. The results provided support for the tripartite conceptualization of attitudes in the foreign language learning context. The study highlighted the need to address the cognitive, affective, and behavioural aspects of attitudes in order to foster more positive dispositions towards learning new languages among linguistics students. Recommendations are provided for enhanced scaffolding, pragmatic immersion, and targeting initial obstacles and lower proficiency areas to strengthen students' learning experiences and outcomes through evidence-based program refinement.
Linda C. Nkamigbo; Chinenye L. Okoye; Ijeoma J. Korie
INTER-CULTURAL CHALLENGES FACING TRANSLATION IN IGBO AND ENGLISH LANGUAGES
This study is about inter-cultural challenges facing translation of Igbo language into English language or vice versa. English language referred to here is the British English. The study tries to find out the cultural elements that pose challenge to translation where Igbo language is the source language and English language is the receptor/target language; and where the English language is the source language and Igbo language is the receptor/target language. The study was guided by the theory of indeterminacy of translation and use theory of meaning. The researcher used face-to-face encounter with the teachers and speakers of English language who are of Igbo origin as the method of data collection. At the end of the study, the researcher discovered that sometimes when Igbo language is the source language and English language is the receptor/target language or vice versa, translators are faced with the problem of representing to the receptors what is completely outside their experiences. This is because Igbo culture is widely different from British culture. The cultural divergence is noticed mainly in some cultural exhibitions like food processing and eating habit, religious beliefs and practices, housing system, etc. At the end of the study, the researcher suggested some solutions to the problem. Some of them are adoption of words that will serve as equivalent to some of the cultural terms in both languages. There is need for indigenous Igbo-English speakers to make effort to adopt words that will be equivalent to the Igbo cultural terms in question. Then translators should pay more attention to the central message of the source language.