Awareness As A Determinants Of Utilization Of Covid-19 Vaccines Among Academic Staff Of Colleges Of Education. View PDF    View Abstract

Abstract


The purpose of this study was to assess awareness as a determinant of the utilization of covid-19 vaccines among colleges of education academic staff in Northern States, Nigeria. To achieve the purpose of the study, one research question and hypothesis were formulated and tested for the study. The research design for this study was ex-post facto research design. The target population for this study comprised 4,947 academic staff of the twelve Colleges of Education in the Northern States of Nigeria. Therefore, the sample for this study consists of 650 academic staff which were selected among colleges of education academic staff in Northern States, Nigeria by using multi-stage sampling techniques. The instrument used for data collection was a researcher-developed closeended questionnaire titled “Assessment of the Determinants of COVID-19 vaccines among the academic staff of Colleges of Education in the Northern States of Nigeria which was validated by five experts in the Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, Public Health and Nursing Science at Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. Descriptive statistics of frequencies and percentages were used to describe the demographic information of the respondents; means and standard deviations to answer the research question, and inferential statistic of one-sample t-test was used to test the null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The study findings revealed that awareness is a significant determinant of COVID-19 vaccine utilisation among academic staff of Colleges of Education in Northern Nigeria (t=105.99, P=000). Based on the findings of the study it was concluded that; awareness was observed to determine the utilization of the COVID-19 vaccine among the academic staff of the College of Education in Northern States, Nigeria. It was therefore recommended that the government should provide more means of enlightenment about COVID-19- vaccines for the academic staff as well as the general public such as more posters, billboards, media houses, such as FM radios state and national televisions etc. to promote awareness.

Relationship Between Personality And Emotional Intelligence On Sports Performance Of Students - Athletes In Taraba State University, Jalingo. View PDF    View Abstract

Abstract


This study was designed to determine the relationship between personality traits and emotional intelligence on sports performance of student-athletes in Taraba State University, Jalingo. The design of this study was a correlational study. The target population of the study are Students of Taraba State University, Jalingo for five elected Faculties 400. Convenient sampling technique was used to select five (5) Faculties consisting of 50 registered Student-athletes with the Sports Unit. The total number of student-athletes male (n=30) and female (n=20). The age of the student-athletes participating in the research range from 19 to 28 years. The mean age of the respondents is 21.5. The instrument used for data collection was Sports Personality Traits Questionnaire and Emotional Intelligence Sports Questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics of mean, standard deviation, and percentage count to answer the research questions. Spearman's Correlation Coefficient (rho) tested the only hypothesis and used Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 at 0.05 level of significance. Therefore, there is a significant relationship between personality traits and Emotional Intelligence on Sports Performance of Student-athletes in Taraba State University, Jalingo. The result shows that the hypothesis was rejected since there is a significant relationship between personality traits and Emotional Intelligence on Sports Performance of Student-athletes Taraba State University, Jalingo. It was also recommended that coaches, Sports Psychologist, Athletic trainers should employ the use of personality traits and the Emotional Intelligence of Student-athletes place them on training session.

Satisfaction With National Health Insurance Scheme Services Among Civil Servants In North Central Zone Of Nigeria. View PDF    View Abstract

Abstract


The purpose of the study was to assess satisfaction with National Health Insurance Scheme Services among Civil Servants in North Central Zone of Nigeria. To achieve this purpose, the ex-post facto research design was employed, the population for the study consisted of 966,852 Civil Servants who were registered with the National Health Insurance Scheme. A sample size of 398 was drawn from the population using a multistage sampling technique which involving stratified, simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. North Central Zone was stratified into three strata to select 3 States from the Zone. Consequently, Kogi, Benue and FCT Abuja were selected. A simple random sampling technique was used to select six (6) Local Government Areas from each of the selected States. Therefore, a total of 18 Local Government Areas were selected and used for the study. Data was collected using close-ended questionnaire. A total of 398 copies of the questionnaire were distributed to Civil Servants who registered with National Health Insurance Scheme using purposive sampling technique, out of which 384 (97.5%) were duly completed and returned for statistical analysis. The completed questionnaire was analysed using descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviations to answer the research question and One Sample t-testto test the null hypothesis on satisfaction with National Health Insurance Scheme Services among Civil Servants in North Central Zone of Nigeria. The results revealed that Civil Servants significantly satisfied with the National Health Insurance Scheme services. This is because the calculated t-value of 4.115 was greater than the t-critical value of 1.96 at 0.05 alpha level of significance (p=.0000). Based on the findings of this study, the study concluded that Civil Servants in North Central Zone of Nigeria were satisfied with National Health Insurance Scheme Services. And based on the conclusion drawn, it was recommended that: 1. Government should provide adequate health care services for satisfactory treatment, access and utilization of the National Health Insurance Scheme by the workers in order for them to participatefully in Scheme.

Assessment Of Awareness And Availability Of UNICEF Water, Sanitation And Hygiene (Wash) Towards Eradication Of Open Defaecation Among Communities In Gombe State, Nigeria. View PDF    View Abstract

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This study assessed the awareness and availability of UNICEF Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) towards eradicating open defecation among communities in Gombe State, Nigeria.. Specifically, the study assessed the level of awareness of communities about UNICEF WASH activities towards eradication of open defaecation as well as the availability of UNICEF WASH facilities in communities towards eradication of open defaecation. Descriptive survey research design was used. The population for this study was 3,871,179 human habitats of Gombe State Nigeria. The sample size of 783 was selected using multistage sampling procedures of stratified, simple random and proportionate sampling techniques. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire by the researcher. Descriptive statistics of frequency, simple percentage, mean and standard deviation were used to analyse the data collected. The result revealed that there was significant awareness of UNICEF WASH activities towards the eradication of open defaecation among communities in Gombe State, Nigeria (t = 153.845, p = 0.000); there was no significant availability of UNICEF WASH facilities (t =1.621; p = 0.71). Based on the findings, the study concluded that community members in Gombe State, Nigeria are aware of UNICEF WASH activities towards the eradication of open defaecation; UNICEF WASH facilities towards the eradication of open defaecation are not available and the available ones are not utilized; The study recommends among others the need to enhance the awareness of UNICEF WASH activities for open defaecation eradication among community members and the need to address the factors contributing to non-compliance with UNICEF WASH campaigns against open defaecation which includes improving water supply infrastructure, and rehabilitation and maintenance of latrines to ensure they remain functional and sanitary.

Assessment Of Awareness, Attitude And Practice Of Non-pharmaceutical Interventions In Prevention Of Severe Acute Respiratory Tract Infections Among Non-civil Servants In Northern Nigeria. View PDF    View Abstract

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The study was conducted to assess the awareness, attitude and practice of nonpharmaceutical interventions in prevention of severe acute respiratory tract infections among non-civil servants in the northern Nigeria. Descriptive survey research design method was used. The study has population of 67,140,593 non-civil servants and sample size of 398 were selected through multi-stage sampling procedures consisting of stratified sampling, simple random sampling, proportionate sampling and convenience sampling procedures. The instrument used for the study was researcher structured questionnaire where 398 copies were administered and 389 were retrieved (97.7%). A split-half method was used for pilot test of Spearman-Brown Prophecy formula and 0.599 was obtained. Descriptive analysis of frequency counts and percentages were used to analyze the demographic information of the respondents, mean scores and standard deviation was used to answer research questions while inferential statistics of one sample t-test was used to test the formulated null hypotheses The result revealed that non-civil servants in northern Nigeria have positive attitude towards wearing face mask in public (t=1.97,df:388; P<0.05), hand washing (t=1.97, df:388; P<0.05). Based on the results, the following conclusions were drawn; non-civil servants in northern Nigeria have positive attitudes towards wearing face mask in public, washing hands. Based on the conclusion, it was recommended that government should make non-pharmaceutical interventions of severe acute respiratory tract infection preventive items available and affordable to noncivil servant in northern Nigeria.

Effect Of Parental Occupation On Nutritional Status Of Primary School Children In Northwest Nigeria. View PDF    View Abstract

Abstract


Child malnutrition remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria, particularly in the northwest region. This study investigated the potential link between parental occupation and the nutritional status of primary school children in this area. The researcher hypothesize that parental occupation significantly influences children's nutritional status due to variations in income, food security, and knowledge of healthy dietary practices. The study employed a cross-sectional design that involved primary school children from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. An anthropometric measurement (height, weight) is used to assess nutritional status, categorized as underweight, stunting, or wasting according to WHO guidelines. Parental occupation is categorized based on established classifications (agriculture, skilled labour, formal employment). Data is collected through standardized research instrument administered to parents and anthropometric measurements of children. Statistical analysis is explored potential associations between parental occupation and nutritional status. The study aimed to identify specific occupations associated with increased risk of malnutrition in children. The study established that Mothers' and Fathers' occupations (Civil Servants, trader, self-employed, unemployed, housewife) did not significantly affect nutritional status of primary school children in North-West, Nigeria. The finding contributes to the understanding of socioeconomic factors influencing child nutrition in Nigeria. This knowledge can inform targeted interventions to improve child health outcomes, potentially including parental education programs on nutrition and income-generating initiatives. The occupation of the fathers had similar contribution in the nutritional statuses and their children attending primary schools in the study area. The occupation of the mothers has similar contribution to the nutritional statuses of their children in primary school. The children are compared with WHO standard are Stunted, underweight, normal, overweight and obese .

Effect Of Aerobic Dance On Glucose Levels Among Obese Female Students At The University Of Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. View PDF    View Abstract

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The research investigated the effect of glucose levels among obese female students. A one-group repeated measures design was employed, and participants aged 19–25 were purposively selected based on their BMI. Specifically, female students with a BMI ranging from 30.0 to 34.9kg/m2, aged 19 to 25, and students whose glucose levels ranged from 117-137mg/dL [6.5-7.6mmol/L] were included. Data collection utilized a Glucose meter (Accu-Chek, Aviva Plus, Japan), ensuring all selected participants met the inclusion criteria. These students were assigned to a group-based aerobic dance programme with pre-test values at the baseline. The aerobic dance sessions, lasting 30 to 45 minutes with a cool-down, occurred on alternate days (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays) between 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. for twelve consecutive weeks. The training intensity ranged from 45-50% of the estimated maximum Heart Rate for the first 4 weeks, increased to 50–55% for weeks 5–8, and further increased to 55–60% from weeks 9-12 of the aerobic dance protocol. One-way ANOVA was used as the statistical analysis of the collected data, using SPSS version 20 and the independent t-test at a 0.05 alpha level, indicated significant effects of glucose level (P = 0.001). The study concluded that a 12- week aerobic dance programme had a significant effect on the glucose levels of obese female students. Recommendations included encouraging obese female students to engage in regular physical activities, particularly aerobic dance, to mitigate cardiovascular disease risks associated with obesity. Additionally, there was a suggestion for increased awareness and a shift from sedentary lifestyles to an exercise-oriented attitude among obese female students.

Co-morbidity Diagnosis And The Utilization Of Assisted Reproductive Technology Services In North Central Zone Of Nigeria. View PDF    View Abstract

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The purpose of this study was to assess co-morbidity diagnosis and the utilization of assisted reproductive technology services among infertile couples in North Central Zone of Nigeria. To achieve this purpose, one (1) research question and one (1) hypothesis was developed. The ex-post facto research design was used for the study. The population of the study was two million, nine hundred and fifteen thousand, seven hundred and twenty nine (2,915,729) infertile couples in North Central Zone of Nigeria. To obtain adequate data for representation, a sample size of seven hundred and sixty eight (768) respondents comprising of males and females was drawn from the target population representing 4% of the target population. Stratified sampling technique, simple random sampling technique, purposive sampling technique and proportionate sampling technique were adopted to have proper representation of respondents for the study. A validated questionnaire of 4 point modified Likert scale of Strongly Agreed (SA), Agreed (A), Disagreed (D) and Strongly Disagreed (SD) was used as instrument to elicit information from the selected respondents. The questionnaire consisted of Section A and B. Spearman Brown Rank Order (SBRO) and Gutman Split Half method were used to determine the reliability of the instrument. 0.801 and 0.789 reliability coefficient was obtained respectively. A total of seven hundred and sixty eight copies of the questionnaire were randomly distributed among infertile couples in North Central Zone of Nigeria for data collection out of which seven hundred and fifty one (751;97.4%) were duly completed and used for analysis. Descriptive statistics of frequencies and simple percentages were used to describe the demographic characteristics of the respondents. Descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research question, and an inferential statistics of one sample t-test was used to test the hypothesis at 0.05 alpha level of significance. The results revealed that co-morbidity diagnosis significantly determine the utilization of Assisted Reproductive Technology services among infertile couples in North Central Zone of Nigeria (t=52.212; p=0.000). Based on the finding of the study, it was concluded that co-morbidity diagnosis is determinant for the utilization of Assisted Reproductive Technology services among infertile couples in North Central Zone of Nigeria. Based on the conclusion drawn, it was recommended that reproductive health technology experts should initiate collaborative efforts that bring the innovation and development of new treatment procedures to public knowledge, in order to disabuse the minds of people of the assumed notion that infertile couples with malformation infections and other reproductive health concerns such as tubal factor infertility cannot conceive and give birth in their lives. This will go a long way to reduce the burden of infertility treatment on couples seeking ART treatment.

Knowledge Of Hazardous Medical Waste Disposal Among Primary Healthcare Workers In Plateau State, Nigeria. View PDF    View Abstract

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This study assessed knowledge of hazardous medical waste disposal among primary healthcare workers in Plateau state, Nigeria. To achieve this purpose, ex-post facto research design was used. A total sample of 300 healthcare workers was used for the study. The instrument used for the study was researcher developed close ended questionnaire. Out of the 300 copies of questionnaire distributed, 297 or 99.0% were retrieved and considered valid for analyses. Inferential statistics of one sample t-test was used to analyse the formulated hypotheses at 0.05 probability level. The results revealed that the knowledge of primary healthcare workers on hazardous medical waste disposal in Plateau state is significantly positive (p=0.000). Based on the results, it was concluded that primary healthcare workers in Plateau state have knowledge about hazardous medical waste disposal. Based on the conclusion, it was recommended that health educators should carry out sensitization campaigns targeted at healthcare workers through refresher trainings and mass campaigns to further enlighten healthcare workers on medical waste disposal so as to further sustain the existing knowledge of medical waste disposal among the healthcare workers in the state.

Assessment Of Aerobic Dance Exercise As Medicine On The Aerobic Capacity Of Overweight Young Girls In Benue State University, Makurdi, Nigeria. View PDF    View Abstract

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This study examined the effect of aerobic dance exercise as medicine on the aerobic capacity (VO max) of overweight young girls in Benue State University, Makurdi, using a 2 pretest-posttest control group, thirty-seven (37) participants were randomly assigned into either control group (n=19) or experimental group (n=18). The experimental group performed aerobic dance training three (3) times in a week for eight (8) weeks at moderate – high intensity levels while the control group did not take any form of training. VO max 2 was measured before and after the aerobic dance exercise using Cooper 12-minute run/walk test. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation to describe the physical characteristics of participants while the hypothesis was tested using student's independent t-test at significant level of 0.05,the data were analysed through statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) for windows version 25. The results of this study revealed that eight (8) weeks of aerobic dance had a significant increase(p = 0.001) on VO max of overweight young girls in Makurdi. 2 Nigeria. Based on the findings of this study, the researcher concluded that participation in eight (8) weeks of aerobic dance significantly improved the aerobic capacity of overweight young girls in Makurdi, Nigeria and recommended that, overweight girls should regularly engage in aerobic dance to increase their aerobic capacity.

Assessment Of Attitude Towards Health Seeking Behaviour Among The Aged In Kaduna State, Nigeria. View PDF    View Abstract

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The study assessed the Attitude towards health seeking behaviour among the aged in Kaduna state, Nigeria. Ex-post facto research design was used for the study, the population of the study comprised all aged population in Kaduna state, totaling 255,834 with 663 sample size population. The researcher employed multi-stage sampling procedure which includes; stratified simple random and proportionate sampling procedure to select the respondents. The instrument used for data collection was researcher developed questionnaire. One sample t-test was used to test the hypothesis on the attitude towards health seeking behaviour at 0.05 level of significance. The study found that there was significant attitude towards health seeking behaviour among the aged in Kaduna State (p=0.000). The researcher concluded that the aged population possessed positive attitude towards health seeking behavior in Kaduna state. It is recommended that it is important to further cultivate and reinforce positive attitude towards seeking healthcare when needed. Strategies such as community engagement initiatives, peer support networks, and campaigns highlighting the benefits of early intervention and regular check-ups could help foster a more proactive approach to healthcare among the elderly in the region.