Covenant University Journal of Politics & International Affairs (Special Edition)

Gender Equity in Technology and Innovation: Pathways to Reducing Poverty

Comfort Fatimoh Sheidu — 2025-09-01

Technology and innovation are critical for producing jobs, improving the quality of life, and generating economic growth. Still, gender disparities in access and involvement in these sectors continue to impede growth. Gender equity in technology and innovation is crucial for fostering inclusive economic growth and poverty reduction. In contextualize the findings, the study uses a qualitative research design and a thorough review of secondary sources, including industry reports and policy documents. The study employed secondary data from global databases like the World Bank, ITU, and UNESCO, using thematic analysis to identify trends, patterns, insights, and relationships between gender equity in technology and socio-economic outcomes, evaluating key indicators such as women's representation in leadership roles, access to digital technologies, participation in STEM education, and involvement in the technology workforce. Hence, addressing the intersection of gender equity, technology, and poverty reduction, the study highlights the need for transformative approaches that neutralize structural barriers, encourage inclusive policies, and harness the potential of innovation to achieve sustainable development goals, eventually leading to a more prosperous and equitable society.

Aggression as a Determinant of Juvenile Delinquency: A Scoping Review

Okwuosa, Gloria Chinweudo — 2025-09-01

Around the world, there remain major social and developmental problems related to juvenile delinquency and aggression has been shown to often predict such offenses. This scoping review analyzed research papers from 2000 to 2025 to see if aggression can predict juvenile delinquency, identify the main trends and find which subjects still need more study. We used the Arksey and O’Malley framework, with help from PRISMA-ScR guidelines, to select 15 studies that came from a variety of regions and research designs such as cross sectional, longitudinal or meta-analytic. The review revealed that many types of aggression, especially physically, reactive and impulsive aggression, are strongly linked to theft, assault and actions against social norms. Against what was widely assumed, aggression was closely linked to a variety of risks such as poor grades, family dysfunction, peer influence and experiencing violence. Experts observed that male aggression usually appeared as shouting or physical fights, while female delinquency was measured by increased risks of self-injury. Even with plenty of evidence, there are still problems, including few studies on female adolescents, too much use of cross-sectional data and a shortage of research from low and middle-income countries whose environments may vary greatly. Having various ways to define and measure aggression makes it difficult to compare studies. Even so, early action by schools, therapists and families appears essential, given the results. Having detailed strategies based on each situation is important to handle features of the person and the environment that cause delinquency. Therefore, aggression should be considered a solid and intricate predictor of juvenile delinquency which suggests that new research should focus on long-term and interdisciplinary studies to guide effective approaches for guiding at-risk youth.

Digital Transformation and Good Governance in Nigeria

Adebajo Adeola Aderayo — 2025-09-01

This study explores the intersection of digital transformation and good governance
in Nigeria, examining how technological advancements can enhance governance practices, increase transparency, and reduce corruption. The primary objective is to assess the role of digital technologies in improving public sector efficiency and service delivery. Utilizing secondary data, the research draws from governmental reports, academic articles, and case studies on Nigeria's digital governance initiatives, such as e-government platforms and digital identity systems. The study applies digital era theory and to reveal the dynamics in digital transformation and good governance. The findings suggest that digital transformation can foster transparency, reduce inefficiencies, and improve public accountability. However, challenges such as limited internet access, digital illiteracy, and infrastructural deficits hinder full-scale implementation. The study recommends enhancing digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy programs for public servants and citizens, and ensuring the protection of data privacy through robust cybersecurity policies. Additionally, public-private partnerships should be encouraged to drive innovation in e-governance platforms. By leveraging digital technologies, Nigeria can strengthen governance structures, improve public service delivery, and foster greater civic engagement, ultimately contributing to sustainable development.

Heterogeneous Ownership Structure and Audit Report Timeliness of Listed Consumer Goods Firms in Nigeria

Folorunso Paul Olugbenga — 2025-09-01

The study investigated how diverse ownership structures influence the timeliness
of audit report publication among listed consumer goods companies in Nigeria. It adopts an ex-post-facto design while considering consumer goods companies from 2013-2023. After filtering through all the possibilities, 17 consumer goods firms remained on the Nigeria Group Exchange (NGX) list as at December 31, 2023. Using the GMM estimations on panel data, the study analyses the influence of ownership concentration, institutional ownership, managerial ownership, and foreign ownership over audit report lag. Results show that ownership concentration and managerial ownership significantly delay the audit reporting process, while foreign ownership enhances timeliness. Institutional ownership shows no significant effect. These results illustrate how ownership configuration affects the efficiency of financial performance. The research therefore recommends the enforcement of stronger regulatory oversight, promotion of foreign ownership, and better corporate governance practices to fast-track audit timeliness and transparency in the Nigerian capital market.

Enhancing Climate Resilience through the Solar Energy Industry for Sustainable Development in Nigeria

Olisah Nzemeka C — 2025-09-01

Climate change, global warming and other related environmental challenges which
constitute a threat to sustainable economic growth in Nigeria have also created opportunities for youths in the solar energy industry. This study identified that the use of solar energy and a lesser reliance on fossil fuels in Nigeria which is in line with the United Nations Paris Agreement will help to reduce the excessive emission of greenhouse gases which are the major causes of global warming and climate change. Through literature review and relevant data collection, this study identified that the use of solar energy is a veritable strategy for enhancing climate resilience in Nigeria. This study concluded that there is a great need for individuals, institutions and communities to adopt the use of solar energy which is eco-friendly and has the capacity to provide green skills, green technology and green entrepreneurial opportunities for sustainable development in Nigeria.

Fostering Peaceful Coexistence: Transformational Leadership and Inter-Group Conflict Management among Youths in Nigeria

George, Kayode — 2025-09-01

Youth involvement in violent inter-ethnic and inter-religious conflicts has become
a pervasive challenge in Nigeria, thereby threatening national security and social cohesion, especially between members of neighboring communities and opposing religious groups. This study investigates the role of transformational leadership in managing intergroup conflicts among the youths in selected communities in Nigeria. Theories on leadership, fundamentalism, and conflict resolution were adopted for the study because of their relevance. Data was collected through a mixed-method approach that combined a survey and focus group discussion with 300 youths, comprising male/female and Christian/Muslim groups, from various ethnic and religious backgrounds. The study found that transformational leadership style, characterised by idealised influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individualised consideration, can significantly reduce intergroup conflict and improve relationships among the youths. The findings also highlighted the importance of cultivating a transformational leadership style that can inspire and empower youths to manage conflicts successfully and coexist peacefully, despite their ethnic or religious differences. Recommendations include mentoring, training, transparent and open engagement with the youth by community and religious leaders, as well as good governance, justice and development by the government at all levels. This study contributes to existing literature on conflict management, youth engagement, and transformational leadership by providing practical information for students, researchers, policy makers, and conflict resolution practitioners.

From Fragmentation to Unity: Assessing the Impact of Leadership and Technology in the Development of a United Igala Kingdom

Odui Okpanachi Linus — 2025-09-01

The Igala people, scattered across the globe, trace their origins to a common ancestry. While historical narratives suggest diverse points of origin—including Egypt, Arabia, Abyssinia, Mali, and Kwararafa—recent advances in technology and research have established connections between the Igala people of Nigeria and Diaspora groups such as the Nago of Brazil, the Lucumi of Cuba, and the Gullah of North America. Fragmentation of the Igala nation over centuries has been attributed to factors such as expansionist wars, colonialism, the transatlantic slave trade, and migration in search of habitable environments. The Igala Reconnection Project, initiated by His Royal Majesty Michael Idakwo Oboni and sustained by his successor, HRM Mathew Alaji Oguche Akpa II, under the scholarly leadership of Historian Ayegba Abdullahi Adojo, has leveraged research and technological tools to uncover these shared ancestries. This project has not only fostered the revitalization of Igala socio-cultural practices but also catalyzed the recognition and development of a "United Igala Kingdom." This paper provides an evidence-based exploration of the originsof the Igala people and demonstrates that many groups historically attributed to the Yoruba, Igbo, Nupe, Jukun, and Hausa ethnicities are, in fact, of Igala descent. Employing logical reasoning, historical analysis, and artificial intelligence, the study draws compelling inferences to illuminate these connections. Ultimately, this work highlights the transformative role of leadership and technology in uniting the Igala people and fostering their socio-cultural and developmental aspirations.

Sustainable Development and Corporate Strategy: Theoretical and Empirical Implications

Grace Amarachukwu Offiaeli — 2025-09-01

The purpose of this study is to assess the theoretical and empirical implications of
how sustainable development influences corporate strategy. The study uses the Scoping method to assess the key issues, priorities, and areas of focus in the research on the influence of sustainable development on corporate strategy in the Nigerian context. The study carries out a systematic literature review and expounds on the research findings with respect to the influence of sustainable development on corporate strategy. The findings show that there are few studies that have focused on the influence of sustainable development on corporate strategy in the Nigerian context. The scarcity of studies raises the questions of whether organisations have internal processes for measuring, recognizing, disclosing, and reporting their actualization of sustainable development. Specifically, the study is interested in how sustainable development influences corporate leadership. The leadership tone of organisations is measured by the board of directors and top management attitude arising from sustainable development. The study proposes an analytical framework to assess the gaps in the literature and how these gaps can be resolved by further studies on sustainable development and corporate strategy especially in the Nigerian context. The policy implications of the study are to provide a means through which managers can identify key issues to incorporate in corporate strategy arising from sustainable development issues. The study recommends that organisations have a clear corporate strategy arising from sustainable development issues. However, the cost of this strategy remains an issue of scholarly debate particularly in the Nigerian context where the business

Research and Sustainable Development in Nigeria: Challenges of Leadership in Nigeria

Kofo A. Aderogba — 2025-09-01

In Sub-Sahara Africa, research and development are occasionally characterized by
mediocrity; and often the results are underutilized. The paper examined the challenges of research and sustainable development in Sub-Sahara Africa given the frantic needs for sustainable growth and development of the communities. Nigeria is used as a case study. A survey method was applied to collect data and information from a defined population in Nigeria. Tables of percentile, Likert Scales and in-depth analysis were used for analyses and presentation. Data and information for research and development are scarce and or not easily come by; the environments are not conducive; there are evidence of mediocrity in the results of research and thus underutilized, and or not used; honesty and objectivity of research are questionable; supports for research and development are limited; and educating and developing scholars are expensive. Leadership challenges are obvious. The paper indorses due recognitions to results of robust and objective research and development; massive supports of governments, corporate organizations, philanthropists, and others; and establishment of additional well-equipped research institutions/departments. It is of necessity to ensure visionary, creative, and transparent leaders to lead and bank results of research and development.

Technology and Human Factors: Enhancing Emotional Intelligence for Safer Aviation Operations in Nigeria.

Ifeoluwa Jonathan Abdul — 2025-09-01

The integration of technology and human factors has become essential in fostering
safety and efficiency in modern aviation operations. This paper examines how emotional intelligence (EI), when supported by technological innovations, can mitigate human error and enhance operational safety in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Drawing on a qualitative methodology and secondary data, including ICAO and NCAA safety reports, the study explores critical intersections between human performance variables—such as decision making, crew resource management, and fatigue—and emerging technologies like simulation training, wearable biometrics, and AI-assisted feedback. Despite efforts by regulatory bodies to improve safety standards and adopt EI frameworks, incidents linked to human factors persist, revealing a gap in both cultural adaptation and training implementation. The paper further critiques existing literature for its limited contextual focus on sub-Saharan African aviation environments. It argues that embedding EI development within a tech-enhanced, culturally sensitive training framework is vital for sustainable safety improvements. Recommendations are made for the incorporation of targeted EI training, investment in real-time monitoring tools, and policy reforms that align with Nigeria’s specific aviation challenges.

The Role of Satellite Technology in Socio-Economic Development: Africa’s Perspective

Olufunke Olutayo Fagbeja — 2025-09-01

The overarching objective of countries across Africa is development. Consequently, various development plans have been implemented. The universal appreciation that technology is a driver of sustainable development has led to the adoption of satellite technology in developed countries. However, several African countries are lagging behind. Therefore, using Albert Hirschman’s unbalanced growth theory and Schumpeter’s innovation theory, this paper seeks to investigate the contribution of satellite technology towards development and proffer measures to facilitate Afits adoption across Africa. The study utilised Key Informant Interview in gathering data from nine experts. Based on the research findings, this study recommends that African governments prioritise investment in satellite technology in order to enjoy its multiplier effect on other sectors. It further recommends collaboration with the private sector to drive the diffusion of satellite technology towards achieving sustained development.

The Militarization of Artificial Intelligence: Implications for Modern Warfare and Global Security

Goddy Uwa Osimen — 2025-09-01

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into military operations poses significant challenges to global stability and international security, underscoring the need for a comprehensive understanding of its implications. This study examines the militarization of AI in modern warfare through the lens of Deterrence and Social Identity Theory, which provides a framework for proper understanding of the study
of militarization of artificial intelligent in warfare. Using a qualitative and descriptive approach, this study analyzes secondary data from peer-reviewed journals, military documents, and policy reports to explore the impact of AI-driven technologies on modern defence systems. The findings suggest that while AI enhances military capabilities, it also raises critical concerns regarding accountability, transparency, and unintended consequences. The study highlights the importance of balancing defence needs with humanitarian considerations and calls for further exploration of AI governance and international norms

Political Apathy and Collection of Voter Cards: Implications for Voter Turnout and Leadership Selection in Nigeria

Anthony Rufus — 2025-09-01

This article examines the nexus between political apathy and the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in Nigeria, and how that relationship shapes voter turnout. The paper was motivated by the paradox of rising registration and PVC collection alongside historically low participation, the study asks why citizens register but often fail to convert registration into votes and what institutional responses might reverse this trend. Using a qualitative, descriptive approach based on systematic review of secondary sources INEC reports, survey data, observer statements, and scholarly literature the paper identifies the principal drivers of apathy, assesses the link between PVC uptake and turnout, and proposes policy responses. Findings show that apathy is multi-causal (distrust, perceived corruption, insecurity, bureaucratic friction) and that a pronounced “PVC paradox” exists: higher collection rates have not translated into greater turnout. Analysis through the lenses of Rational Choice and Political Efficacy indicates that weakened state capacity and a perceived breach of reciprocal obligations underpin withdrawal from electoral participation. The study concludes that technical fixes to registration and distribution must be paired with measures that rebuild credibility transparent result management, targeted civic education, and security guarantees to lower participation costs and restore citizens’ sense of political efficacy. These combined reforms are essential to transform symbolic registration into substantive democratic engagement.

Leadership Innovation Through Transparency and Accountability for Sustainable Development in Nigeria

Joseph Terlumun APAV — 2025-09-01

Several studies have shown that leadership plays a pivotal role for the growth and
development of a Nation either developed, underdeveloped or developing. This can only be seen through leadership strategy known as leadership innovation initiatives (LII). Against this premise, this paper examined leadership innovation through transparency and accountability for sustainable development in Nigeria. The theoretical framework for the paper is Transformational Leadership Theory by James MacGregor Burns in (1978). Within the context of framework, this paper depended on secondary sources of data obtained from textbooks, journals, internet and other published articles relating to the study. The paper found out that, an innovative leader is the one that has the capacity
to think and bring out issues that would put it on the trajectory of development such as, vision, transparency and accountability mechanisms. Furthermore, the paper reveals some of the hurdles faced by leaders that affects her sustainable development to include; absence of political ideology, lack of vision and institutional imbalances. The paper also reveals ways of enhancing leadership innovation through accountability and transparency by enhancing civic engagement, public participation and ethical standards of the public service. The paper concluded that leadership innovation enhances good governance, economic stability, social cohesion, and institutional integrity to Nigeria’s growth and development.

From Jihadist Roots to Contemporary Realities: A Historical and Socio-political Study of the Fulani Herders in Nigeria

Adi Helen WABUJI — 2025-09-01

Nigeria’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, bringing together many ethnic groups with rich histories and cultural traditions that connect the nation to the broader African and global community. Among these groups, the Fulani hold a distinctive place, especially the subgroup known as the Fulani herders. Renowned for their nomadic lifestyle and deep-rooted attachment to pastoralism, the herders have become a central focus of national discussion due to the recurring conflicts associated with their movements across regions. This paper examines the journey of the Fulani herders, from their historical origins to their present-day realities. It traces their roots to the jihadist movements of the 18th and 19th centuries led by Uthman Dan Fodio, whose influence reshaped the political and cultural landscape of Northern Nigeria. Drawing on insights from existing literature and secondary data, the study examines how centuries of migration, environmental pressures, and limited policy attention have shaped the Fulani herders of today. The findings reveal that while the herders share language and ancestry with other Fulani groups, they maintain a unique way of life, one that often keeps them on the margins of formal education, religion, and politics. Their constant movement in search of greener pastures, however, has brought them into tension with farming communities, fueling social and security concerns nationwide. The study concludes that the Fulani herders represent far more than an ethnic identity; they embody a living socio-political reality shaped by history, environment, and governance. Understanding their story is essential not only for conflict resolution but also for building a more inclusive and peaceful Nigeria.