Journal of Research Administration

Shaykhah Obid AL-Saedi, Hala Gabr Mahmoud, Asmaa Mostafa Abdel-Ghani PDF

Background: Nurses are uniquely positioned to promote environmental sustainability in healthcare, yet their knowledge and green behaviours remain limited despite positive attitudes. Aim: To evaluate the effect of a training program on sustainability development management on nurses' green management behaviour at Medina General Hospital, Saudi Arabia. Design: Quasi-experimental (pre-post) design. Setting: All inpatient departments at Medina General Hospital, King Salman Medical City. Sampling: Convenience sample of 120 nurses with ≥1 year of experience. Tools: Four questionnaires assessed nurses' knowledge, sustainability consciousness, attitudes, and green management behaviours at pre-test, immediate post-test, and three-month follow-up. Results: The training program significantly improved nurses' knowledge (from 78.3% low pre-test to 98.3% high immediate post-test), sustainability consciousness (from 40.8% low to 81.7% high), and green management behaviors (from 68.3% low to 83.3% high). Strong positive correlations were found between green behaviors and knowledge, consciousness, and attitudes (r = 0.940–0.973, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The training program effectively enhanced nurses' sustainability-related knowledge, consciousness, attitudes, and green behaviors. Recommendations: Integrate sustainability into mandatory nursing training, establish Green Nurse Teams, incorporate sustainability into nursing curricula, and develop Arabic-language educational materials. Keywords: Green Management Behavior, Nurses, Sustainability Consciousness, Sustainable Development Management, Training Program.  

Thepparat Phimolsathien PDF

This paper examines the contractual dispute between King Power Duty Free Co., Ltd. (KPD) and Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) concerning duty-free concession agreements spanning from 2020 to 2034. The unprecedented impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, combined with a sustained decline in Chinese tourism, shifting domestic fiscal policies, and broader global economic uncertainties, have rendered KPD unable to meet its contractual Minimum Annual Guarantee (MAG). KPD has consequently sought to terminate or renegotiate the contract citing force majeure and hardship. This study provides an in-depth analysis of the dispute by contrasting two legal perspectives: strict civil law, which views these challenges merely as assumed business risks, and administrative law, which recognizes the state's obligation to maintain financial equilibrium within public concession agreements. The findings suggest that by treating the agreement as an administrative contract, KPD's claims gain significant legal legitimacy. Ultimately, this paper proposes that the most legally sound and mutually beneficial course of action is to restructure the existing contracts through negotiation, thereby restoring contractual equilibrium, maximizing public benefit for AOT, and ensuring operational fairness in the post-pandemic era.

Eyo, Uforo Etim; Iseh, Matthew Joshua; Iyoho, Emem Ubong PDF

The contribution of tricycle operations to urban development in Nigeria, with a focus on Uyo Metropolis, is examined in this paper together with the role that transportation policy plays in the economy. This study aims to determine how tricycle operations contribute to urban development by increasing employment creation in the capital city of Uyo and by investigating how tricycle operation lowers the number of traffic accidents. The study used a survey research design, collecting data from primary and secondary sources through a thorough and structured questionnaire/interview process and Focus Group Discussions (FGD) from cross-sectional surveys of federal road safety corp-Akwa Ibom State Command, market women, civil servants, and commercial tricycle operators. Through a well-structured model and hypothesis testing, the study used economic/statistical development theory as a theoretical framework to determine how transportation operations improve urban growth. According to the results, commercial tricycles have helped people who would have otherwise been unemployed find work directly (as riders) and indirectly (as mechanics and sellers of spare parts), which has aided in socioeconomic development. Additional research demonstrates that tricycle transportation contributes to a lower accident rate in the city of Uyo. Among other things, the report suggests that a government insurance policy be put in place to help Keke operators deal with issues like theft or breakdowns. The goal of the policy is to support the tricycle industry as urbanization increases.  

Bello A. S., Jiya S. N., Liman H. M., Abdulmaliq S. Y. PDF

Climate extremes pose significant threats to rain-fed agricultural systems and vulnerable communities in West Africa. This study examined the spatial heterogeneity of extreme rainfall and temperature indices across Niger State, Nigeria, covering a 33-year period from 1990 to 2023. Using the 27 Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices (ETCCDI) climate extreme indices derived from daily observations at nine meteorological stations, the study characterised spatial patterns across the Sudan Savanna and Guinea Savanna ecological zones. Spatial autocorrelation was assessed using Global Moran's I, while Mann-Whitney U tests quantified inter-zonal differences. Results revealed a pronounced north-south gradient in precipitation extremes, with annual total precipitation ranging from 1,048 mm in the northern Sudan Savanna (Mokwa) to 1,327 mm in the southern Guinea Savanna (Suleja), representing 27% spatial variation. Maximum 1-day precipitation ranged from 55.6 mm to 81.3 mm, while consecutive dry days were 17–25% longer in northern stations. Temperature extremes exhibited an inverse gradient, with absolute maximum temperatures increasing from 38.9°C in the south to 42.3°C in the north and very hot days (SU35) occurring 36% more frequently in northern stations. Global Moran's I analysis confirmed strong to very strong positive spatial autocorrelation for all indices (I = 0.658–0.823, p < 0.001), with temperature indices exhibiting stronger spatial clustering than precipitation indices. These findings underscore the need for zone-specific climate risk management frameworks and spatially differentiated adaptation strategies tailored to Niger State's diverse ecological contexts.  

Hughes Dimka & Wilson E. Herbert PDF

Financial inclusion has been widely recognized as a catalyst for sustainable economic development, yet its effectiveness often depends on how firms, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), harness financial resources to drive productivity. This study investigates the moderating role of MSME performance in the relationship between financial inclusion and economic growth in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Specifically, it evaluates the effect of digital finance adoption and financial service usage on economic growth, while testing whether MSME performance strengthens these interactions. A quantitative research design was employed, using survey data from 400 MSME operators in Abuja. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was applied to assess the measurement and structural models. The results show that digital finance adoption (β = 0.255, p < 0.01), financial service usage (β = 0.087, p < 0.01), and MSME performance (β = 0.418, p < 0.01) significantly and positively influence economic growth. MSME performance did not significantly moderate the digital finance–growth relationship but showed a positive moderation on the financial service usage–growth nexus. These findings highlight the central role of MSMEs as drivers of growth and the importance of strengthening their capacity to effectively leverage financial services. The study recommends targeted policies that enhance MSME digital literacy, expand access to user-friendly fintech products, and improve structural infrastructure to maximize the growth potential of financial inclusion.  

Ikwunne Chinenye Ndidiamaka, Ale Felixa, John Momoh, Agboola Olufemia, Abdullahi Ayegba PDF

In tropical Africa, high temperatures, intense solar radiation, seasonal rainfall, humidity variations, dust accumulation, and frequent atmospheric changes are some of its features, and all these significantly influence solar photovoltaic (PV) system performance or output. This study reviewed the impact of climatic variables on solar photovoltaic output in tropical Africa using machine learning techniques. The review focused on major climatic factors such as solar irradiance, module temperature, rainfall, dust and soiling, humidity, wind cooling effect, seasonal angle of the sun, and cloud transients. The findings from the reviewed works showed that excessive module temperature, humidity, rainfall, cloud cover, and dust accumulation reduce photovoltaic power generation by limiting solar radiation reaching the panels or increasing thermal losses. On the other hand, it was observed that solar irradiance and wind cooling effects were found to improve photovoltaic output under favourable conditions. The review further revealed that machine learning techniques such as artificial neural networks, random forests, support vector machines, and deep learning models provide more reliable and accurate predictions of solar photovoltaic output under varying climatic conditions when compared to traditional statistical methods. The study concluded that climatic variables significantly affect solar PV performance in tropical Africa and that machine learning approaches are effective tools for improving solar energy forecasting and photovoltaic system optimization.  

Sule Ibrahim, Chika Euphemia Asogwa PDF

This study examines the audience interpretation of the televised prostate cancer messages in Kogi State, Nigeria and its implication for prevention and management. Anchored in the Health Belief Model (HBM), the research examines the role that television programmes such as Hello Doctor and Health Talk have on perceptions of susceptibility, severity, benefits, barriers, cues to action and self-efficacy related to prostate cancer. Using a qualitative design, 60 purposively selected participants in six local government areas in Kogi State were interviewed in order to explore patterns of engagement, message interpretation and subsequent influence on attitudes and health behaviours. Thematic analysis showed that audience engagement was episodic and topic-dependent limited by occupational schedules, signal quality and access, pointing to structural problems in accessing media on a regular basis. Participants showed partial adherence to preventive behavior such as attention to the initial signs and lifestyle changes, affected by perceived risk and benefits. Peer discussions increased the interpretation of messages but cultural norms and financial constraints reduced complete behavioural uptake. Exposure to the programmes had a positive impact on reframing attitudes towards screening, fear and motivation towards early detection consistent with HBM constructs of severity, benefits and self-efficacy. The results indicate that although television health programmes are useful motivators, they must be paired with readily available, culturally acceptable, and community-based interventions if positive attitudes and awareness are to be converted into long-term preventive behaviours. The study strengthens the value of HBM to understand media-based health behaviour change in Sub-Saharan contexts.

Anas Salih Algdeou, Prof. Dr. Jasem Zakaria PDF

This research addresses the dilemma of balancing the principle of state sovereignty with the imperatives of humanitarian intervention within the framework of contemporary international law. Through an analytical and comparative study of the United Nations Security Council's role in handling humanitarian crises—specifically in Syria and Libya—this paper highlights that sovereignty is no longer an absolute principle; rather, it has become circumscribed by international obligations, particularly in the field of human rights. The study discusses the legal framework governing the Security Council’s functions and its mandates under the UN Charter, alongside an analysis of the concept of humanitarian intervention and the legal controversies it ignites. It further explores the "Responsibility to Protect" (R2P) principle as a modern development aimed at reconciling respect for state sovereignty with the necessity of civilian protection. On a practical level, the research reveals a stark disparity in the Council’s positions. While it adopted decisive and binding resolutions during the 2011 Libyan crisis—authorizing military intervention to protect civilians—it failed to reach a similar consensus regarding the Syrian crisis due to political polarization and the exercise of the veto power, which severely limited its effectiveness. The research concludes that the Security Council’s conduct reflects double standards in the application of international law, heavily influenced by the interests of major powers. This inconsistency undermines the Council's ability to provide just humanitarian protection, necessitating a reform of its operational mechanisms to enhance impartiality and effectiveness in addressing global crises.  

Ebisi Ebuka Promise; Prof. Ike Oluka; Okere Christian Ngozi PDF

This study investigated the impact of climate change on agricultural productivity specifically evaluating crop and livestock production in Nigeria over a 47-year period (1975–2022). Grounded in the Ricardian theoretical framework, the study adopted a diagnostic research design utilizing secondary time-series data sourced from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the Nigeria Meteorological Department. To ensure data reliability and prevent spurious results, the Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) test was employed, revealing that rainfall was stationary at level, while temperature, relative humidity, and agricultural outputs became stationary after first differencing. The Johansen Co-integration test confirmed the existence of a stable long-run equilibrium relationship among the variables. Data analysis was executed using the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) multivariate regression technique. The empirical findings demonstrate that climate change exerts a significant, detrimental effect on Nigeria's agricultural sector. Specifically, average temperature had a profound negative impact on both crop and livestock production, indicating that thermal stress severely reduces farm yields and animal welfare. Conversely, relative humidity and irrigation coverage exhibited a statistically significant positive relationship with crop output. Carbon dioxide emissions and input prices yielded statistically insignificant effects. The study concludes that adverse climatic fluctuations, particularly rising temperatures, pose a critical threat to Nigeria's agricultural economy and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for food security. Consequently, the study recommends the aggressive promotion of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA), heavy investment in national irrigation infrastructure to reduce reliance on rain-fed farming, and the subsidized distribution of drought-tolerant crop varieties and heat-resilient livestock breeds.  

Dambush Negasi Hadush, Mesfin Yemaneberhan Sibhatu, Abraham Gebrehiwet Yihdego PDF

Ethiopia possesses significant potential for dairy development, supported by its large livestock population and favorable climate for improved breeds. The Northwestern Zone of Tigray, in particular, offers high milk production capacity but remains underexplored in scholarly research. This study investigates the determinants of dairy marketing practices in the region, thereby addressing a critical gap in Ethiopian dairy scholarship.  Primary data were collected from 354 dairy producers through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Districts and sub-districts were purposively selected based on agro-ecological suitability and milk production potential. Descriptive statistics, including percentages and frequencies, were employed to summarize the data, while multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify the major factors influencing the volume of dairy supplied to markets.  The findings revealed that dairy marketing is constrained by limited storage facilities, long distances to markets, poor infrastructure, inadequate processing technologies, and weak coordination among supply chain actors. In addition, deficiencies in knowledge, skills, attitudes, and policy, largely due to insufficient training and lack of awareness creation, were identified as major barriers to effective linkages among stakeholders. Socioeconomic factors such as education, farming experience, family size, and access to credit were found to significantly influence market participation, while ownership of crossbred cows and landholding size enhanced supply. Conversely, greater distance to marketplaces reduced the volume of dairy supplied. To enhance dairy marketing, stakeholders should prioritize investments in infrastructure, storage, and processing technologies, alongside capacity-building programs and institutional strengthening. These interventions are essential to reduce post-harvest losses, stabilize supply, and improve the profitability and sustainability of dairy production in Northwestern Tigray.   

Ebisi Ebuka Promise, Onwuekelu Izuchukwu Humble, Okere Christian Ngozi PDF

This research work studied the effect of different pre-treatment methods used on sweet potato flour and different substitution levels on the quality characteristics of wheat-sweet potato composite bread. Sweet potato tubes passed through three pre-treatment methods: Chipping (sample A), blanching (sample B) and citric acid steeping (sample C). The Composite bread samples were initially formulated at 20% sweet potato flour substitution and evaluated for specific loaf volume and sensory qualities. The pre-treatment method with the best performance was used to produce bread at varying substitution levels of 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%. Standard baking procedures were employed, while specific volume was determined using the millet seed displacement method. Sensory evaluation was conducted using a 9-point hedonic scale with fifteen trained panelists, and statistical analysis was carried out using the SciPy and NumPy libraries in python and the results were considered statistically significant at p ≤ 0.05. The Results showed that blanching significantly improved the specific volume of the composite bread when compared to other treatment methods. Sensory evaluation results also revealed that bread produced with blanched sweet potato flour recorded the highest scores in appearance, texture, taste, and overall acceptability among the composite samples. At increasing substitution levels, bread containing 10% and 20% blanched sweet potato flour maintained sensory qualities and loaf volumes comparable to the wheat control, while 30% and 40% substitutions resulted in significant reductions in loaf volume, texture quality, and consumer acceptability. Proximate analysis indicated a gradual decrease in protein and fat contents with increased sweet potato substitution, whereas fibre, ash, and moisture contents increased. The study concluded that blanching is the most suitable pre-treatment method for sweet potato flour in composite bread production, and up to 20% substitution of wheat flour with blanched sweet potato flour can produce acceptable bread with improved nutritional quality and reduced dependence on imported wheat flour.  

Tolulope Ajayi-Ayodele PDF

Previous studies have explored various strategies implemented to enhance the awareness and practice of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF). However, there is still need to examine the impact of Women Radio’s Radio Doctor programme, which focuses on female-related health issues, on the adoption of EBF among nursing mothers. Therefore, this study investigates the influence of Women Radio FM’s Radio Doctor programme on the knowledge and adoption of EBF practices among nursing mothers in Ikeja, Local Government Area (LGA), Lagos state. Specifically, the challenges nursing mothers encountered while adopting EBF were also examined through the theoretical lens of Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovation Theory. The study adopts a qualitative research design, using FGD approach with an interview guide as the instrument of data collection. Findings indicate that participants demonstrate a high level of awareness regarding the importance of EBF, attributing the RadioDoctor programme on Women Radio FM as their major source of getting information about EBF. However, despite a high level of awareness, more than half (60%) of the nursing mothers admitted not practicing EBF for their babies as a result of some inhibitors such as cultural norms, maternal health conditions, nature of job/job status and peer influence. Based on findings, it is recommended that these influences can be addressed through targeted interventions at each stage of the adoption process as informed by diffusion of innovation theory.

Ebisi Njideka Lilian (PhD); Ozoji Amara Prisicilia (PhD) Nwachukwu Basilia Chiamaka (PhD) PDF

This study investigates the impact of audit committee attributes on the financial reporting quality of listed industrial goods companies in Nigeria, focusing on audit committee independence (ACIDP), audit committee gender diversity (ACGD), and audit committee meetings (ACM). Additionally, it examines company size (CSIZE) as a control variable. Utilizing a sample of 16 industrial goods companies from 2009 to 2023, the study employs descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis to evaluate these relationships. The findings reveal that audit committee independence and gender diversity have significant positive effects on financial reporting quality, indicating that independent and gender-diverse audit committees enhance the accuracy and transparency of financial disclosures. Conversely, the frequency of audit committee meetings does not significantly impact financial reporting quality, suggesting that meeting quantity alone is insufficient for improving reporting standards. Moreover, company size is found to have a significant negative effect on financial reporting quality, highlighting the complexities larger firms face in maintaining high reporting standards. These results underscore the importance of promoting independence and diversity within audit committees and implementing robust internal controls for larger firms. The study’s limitations include its focus on a single sector and geographic region, and its cross-sectional design. Future research should explore these relationships across different sectors and regions, employ longitudinal data, and consider additional audit committee characteristics. This research contributes to the corporate governance literature by providing empirical evidence on the crucial role of audit committee attributes in enhancing financial reporting quality.  

Ajijola Opeyemi Ebenezer PDF

This study assessed the compensation practices of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and their effect on employee performance in selected private universities in Southwest Nigeria. The Employees’ Compensation Act (ECA) 2010 mandates the NSITF to provide comprehensive compensation for work-related injuries, disabilities, diseases, and death, funded solely by employers through a 1% monthly payroll contribution. Despite this statutory framework, low awareness, employer non-compliance, and weak enforcement have constrained the scheme’s effectiveness. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 356 academic and non-academic staff from six purposively selected private universities across Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo States using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire (NCPEPQ) with 106 items across seven sections, achieving high reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.94). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlation, and hierarchical multiple regression. Findings revealed low overall awareness of NSITF provisions (mean = 2.62) and moderate implementation of NSITF practices (mean = 2.80). Significant positive relationships were found between NSITF practices and job satisfaction (r = 0.342, p < 0.01), organisational commitment (r = 0.298, p < 0.01), and productivity (r = 0.186, p < 0.01). Employee awareness significantly moderated the relationship between NSITF practices and overall employee performance (β = 0.118, p = 0.018). The study concludes that NSITF compensation practices positively influence employee performance, but this influence is constrained by low awareness and uneven implementation. Recommendations include intensified awareness campaigns, improved claims processing transparency, and integration of compliance into strategic human resource management.  

Ajayi-Ayodele, Tolulope Ayobami PDF

This study evaluates the effectiveness of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)’s Behavioural Change Communication (BCC) strategy in promoting behaviourial change among People Who Inject Drugs (PWIDs), and the influence of these strategies on their knowledge regarding the harms associated with drug injection and curbing drug use in Oyo State. Using purposive sampling technique, the study respondents include seven (7) NDLEA officials in the NDLEA’s Demand Drugs Reduction Unit (DDRU), Ibadan Northwest LGA, Oyo State, and two hundred and fifty (250) PWIDs currently undergoing rehabilitation at the NDLEA-run centre in Iseyin, Oyo State. This study adopts a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative and qualitative methods, using the survey, and in-depth interview. Findings reveals that social media campaigns, community outreach and peer education are the major communication strategies used by NDLEA in the campaign against the injection of illicit drugs in Oyo state. However, the PWIDs revealed not to have any prior awareness and knowledge of harms related to the injection of illicit drugs before their enrolment into the rehabilitation centre. Based on the findings, it is recommended that more preventive campaigns on drug abuse highlighting harms injection associated with injection of illicit drugs should be intensified.  

Prof. Ali H. Al-Shuaili PDF

The hazardous waste is generated from discarded consumer products, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, personal care products, electronic products, industrial by-products, sludge, and waste oils. Hazardous products have the potential to harm humans or the environment. While education is key to addressing this issue, this paper responds to this gap by investigating a small sample of pre-service university students' (n=74) knowledge of the hazardous waste sources and their impacts on the natural environment. A quantitative-method questionnaire revealed that the level of knowledge of hazardous waste was not good among most of the students. Students’ knowledge means scores show significant differences with respect to gender in favor of female students and with respect to the field of study in favor of science-related programs.  Accordingly, the study suggests introducing some relevant extracurricular activities besides the enhancement of concepts related to environment, pollution and waste management in university syllabi. Additionally, academic institutions and other concerned organizations should conduct intense information dissemination on waste and its management. A recommendation for further relevant studies is drawn.  

Victoria Ebong Nkebem; Njoku Raymond Amanze; James, Runyi Daniel; Mbu, Theresa Azin; Imanyi Victor Ushie; Florence Patrick Ebiowei; Ogar Angela Andornimye; Okorie Jenefail Paul; Ekpenyong Kingsley Bassey PDF

The study investigated the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourist resorts within Calabar Municipality, Cross River State, Nigeria. Specifically, the research sought to identify the tourism facilities and recreational activities available in the selected resorts and to evaluate the pattern of visitor patronage before and during the pandemic period. Data for the study were gathered through the administration of questionnaires and the use of observational checklists. A hypothesis was formulated to determine whether any significant variation existed in visitor arrivals prior to and during the COVID-19 outbreak. The findings indicated noticeable differences in the level of tourist patronage and revenue generated across the resorts during the two periods under review. The study further revealed that reduced customer turnout, decline in revenue, and workforce downsizing were among the major difficulties faced by resort operators during the pandemic. Based on these findings, the study recommended that resort managers should make adequate financial provisions to support staff welfare and minimize job losses during periods of crisis. It also suggested that the government should strengthen security measures within tourist destinations to ensure the protection of both employees and visitors.

Oyakhiromhe Bamidele Agbadua; Ebisi Njideka Lilian PDF

In Nigeria, where remittances have become a vital lifeline for millions of households and the broader economy, persistent foreign exchange unpredictability continues to create uncertainty for businesses and investors alike. Remittances inflows and FX swings, intersect with economic innovation in the Nigerian financial sector, in this study, we examine the extent to which strong corporate governance and high-quality financial reporting can help turn challenges into opportunities. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines qualitative insights from secondary literature and policy documents with quantitative multiple linear regression models, the study finds that remittances serve as a relatively stable source of foreign capital that fuels innovation in fintech, digital banking, and payment solutions. However, sharp exchange rate fluctuations often disrupt planning and investment, while firms with robust corporate governance and reliable financial reporting are better positioned to absorb shocks and channel remittance flows into innovative products and services. The findings highlight that good governance and transparent reporting act as important cushion and facilitators. They enhance confidence among stakeholders, improve access to capital, and encourage the kind of strategic risk-taking that drives meaningful economic innovation. In a sector often criticised for non-transparency and weak oversight, this research reiterates the practical value of strengthening institutional quality. Furthermore, the study offers timely insights for policymakers, regulators, and bank executives in Nigeria and other remittance-dependent emerging markets, reinstating that improving corporate governance and financial reporting is not just a compliance issue, it is a strategic lever for building resilience and fostering innovation in turbulent economic conditions.  

Ebisi Ebuka Promise (M.Eng); Prof. Eje Brendan Ekete ; Itodo Agatha Chizoba (M.Eng) PDF

Drying is a key method for preserving agricultural products. It slows down the growth of microbes and extends shelf life by lowering internal moisture. This study looked into the drying process of sweet potato chips using three different pre-treatment methods: standard chipping (Control, T1), 20% citric acid soaking (T2), and thermal blanching (T3). The samples were dried with a solar dehydration system, and we measured their weight loss over time until they reached a stable state. We then fitted the moisture ratio data to three well-known thin-layer drying models: Newton, Henderson and Pabis, and Page, using non-linear least squares regression in Python. The results showed that all samples displayed a falling-rate drying pattern, with internal mass transfer being the main factor that slowed the process. The sample soaked in citric acid (T2) lost moisture the fastest and had the lowest final weight due to changes in the cell structure. In contrast, blanching (T3) initially slowed down moisture loss because of surface starch gelatinization, but stabilized dehydration rates later on. Our statistical analysis found that the Page model gave the best fit for all pre-treatments, achieving the highest Coefficient of Determination (> 0.992) and the lowest Root Mean Square Error (RMSE < 0.016). In conclusion, while citric acid soaking delivers better efficiency, thermal blanching helps preserve quality more effectively. The results confirm that semi-empirical models, especially the Page equation, work well for simulating the solar dehydration of pre-treated starchy tubers.   

Muhlis; Mansyur Ramly; Masdar Mas,ud; Junaidin Zakaria PDF

This research was carried out with the objective (1). To find out and analyze the influence of Ambidextroous Leadership, HR Orchestration, and Bureaucratic Isomorphism on Adaptation Capacity in City Regency Governments in South Sulawesi. (2). To find out and analyze the influence of Ambidestrous Leadership, HR Orchestration, and Bureaucratic Isomorphism on Organizational Resilience in City Regency Governments in South Sulawesi. (3). To find out and analyze the influence of Adaptation Capacity on organizational resilience in City Regency Governments in South Sulawesi (4). To determine the Influence of Ambidextroous Leadership, HR Orchestration, and Bureaucratic Isomorphism on Organizational Resilience through Adaptation Capacity in City Regency Governments in South Sulawesi. Data collection was conducted using a questionnaire of 384 respondents, with the data analysis method used in this study being descriptive analysis and SEM (structural Equation Modeling) analysis with the help of the AMOS program. The results of the study show that (1). Ambidextroous Leadership, HR Orchestration, and Bureaucratic Isomorphism have a positive and significant effect on the adaptation capacity of city district governments in South Sulawesi (2). Ambidextrous leadership has a direct effect on the organizational resilience of the city district government in South Sulawesi. (3). HR orchestration, and Bureaucratic Isomorphism have a direct positive effect on organizational resilience. 4). Adaptation capacity has a significant effect on organizational resilience. (5). Ambidextroous Leadership, HR Orchestration, and Bureaucratic Isomorphism have a positive and significant effect on organizational resilience through adaptation capacity.  

Benjamin Okezie Kalu (PhD), Ugonna Obi-Emeruwa (PhD) PDF

This study investigates the potential of community-based adaptation financing models, specifically green taxes and public-private partnerships (PPPs), to address climate adaptation challenges in Nigeria. Employing a qualitative research design, the study analyses institutional frameworks, financial mechanisms, and community engagement strategies to evaluate their effectiveness in mobilizing resources for climate resilience. Data were collected through document analysis, key informant interviews with 25 stakeholders from government, private sector, and local communities, and thematic analysis to identify patterns and insights. Findings reveal that Nigeria faces significant barriers in accessing international climate funds, including weak institutional frameworks, limited technical capacity, and over-reliance on external aid. However, innovative domestic financing solutions such as green taxes and PPPs offer transformative pathways to bridge funding gaps and enhance local adaptive capacity. Green taxes incentivize sustainable practices while generating revenue for adaptation initiatives, promoting environmental stewardship. PPPs leverage private sector capital, innovation, and operational efficiency alongside public sector oversight to implement large-scale adaptation projects in critical sectors such as agriculture, water management, and renewable energy. The study underscores the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge and participatory decision-making processes to ensure context-specific and inclusive adaptation strategies. It also identifies structural reforms, including policy incentives and robust regulatory frameworks, as essential to unlocking the full potential of these financing mechanisms. By fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration and embedding adaptation initiatives within local governance structures, Nigeria can create resilient and equitable climate action systems. The study concludes by advocating for a holistic approach that combines innovative financing, institutional strengthening, and inclusive stakeholder engagement to advance Nigeria’s climate resilience. These findings provide actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders seeking to address climate adaptation challenges through sustainable and community-driven solutions.  

Nagya Saidu Kudu , Anifowose O. Maroof , Wasiu Adeniran Ola-Awo & Oyewobi Lukman Oyekunle PDF

The survival of Quantity Surveying Firms (QSFs) in Nigeria has been undermined by rising competition, economic pressures, and the absence of an effective learning organisation model that promotes continuous learning and adaptability. This study develops and validates a context-specific Learning Organisation (LO) model for enhancing the survival of Quantity Surveying Firms (QSFs) in Nigeria. A quantitative, explanatory research design was adopted. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to registered QSFs in Abuja and Kaduna, Nigeria. A total of 474 valid responses were analysed using SPSS and Smart PLS 3. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test hypothesised relationships and develop a predictive learning organisation model. The results reveal that learning leadership significantly influences learning organisation characteristics, while learning environment has a direct and significant effect on organisational survival. Learning organisation characteristics strongly predict firm survival and mediate the effect of leadership on survival outcomes. In contrast, learning processes show no significant direct influence on learning organisation characteristics. The validated model demonstrates strong explanatory power and predictive relevance. The study is limited by its cross-sectional design and focus on two major Nigerian cities, which may constrain wider generalisation. Future research could apply longitudinal approaches, test the model across other regions or professional service firms, and explore moderating effects such as firm size, digital maturity, or market conditions.  

Abdulsalam Kamara; Silas Ndace (PhD); Koroma, Fatmata Madiana PDF

Purpose: This study examines how sustainable logistics management (SLM) practices emissions reduction, resource efficiency, green packaging, and eco-friendly transportation affect both environmental and operational performance. It highlights implications for global supply chain competitiveness with a focus on emerging markets. Design/methodology/approach: Survey data from 412 supply chain professionals in manufacturing industries were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). SLM practices were assessed at strategic, tactical, and operational levels, and their effects on service quality, firm performance, and environmental outcomes were evaluated. Findings: Results show that SLM practices significantly improve environmental performance and moderately enhance operational performance. Firm performance mediates the SLM–environmental performance relationship, underscoring the interconnected roles of sustainability, service quality, and competitiveness in supply chains. Originality/value: This research extends the Resource-Based View (RBV) and Triple Bottom Line (TBL) perspectives to network-level sustainability. It offers actionable insights for managers in emerging and advanced economies on aligning logistics practices with global sustainability and performance goals.