AKU: An African Journal of Contemporary Research

RELIGION AND NIGERIA'S NATIONAL INTEGRATION: AN APPRAISAL

Opara Eucharia Ugochi PhD — 2025-07-16

There are certain factors that work against national integration, such as ignorance, cultural clashes, biased minds, the proliferation of religious organizations, lack of good governance, religious bigotry and lack of patriotic spirit. The state of experiencing the presence of the ultimate reality, the Almighty, Transcended God, and expressing the divine encounter to the people around is religion.Man and religion existed simultaneously. Human being establishes integrity in relationship with God which enhancesthe spirit of progression and development of his environment.Religion, whose etymology is "religare," which means "binding together," is a force of cultural integration. People from different religious ideologies and personalities gather to express their shared beliefs and practices in God. People who are forming a nation should work to promote national unity.This paper looks into how religion promotes or hinders national integration in Nigeria. It examines the connections between religion and national integration coupled with suggestions of potential solutions that will promote a solidly united nation with one voice. Qualitative and descriptive inquiry methods are used. Data were gathered through interviews and personal observations as primary sources. While secondary data sources form the foundation of the library which are thematically analysed. The study finds out that religion has become an obstacle to national integration due to false doctrines, indoctrination and bigots. The studyrecommends certain proposals on factors to promote national integration through religious tolerance, patriotism, knowledge of other religions, good governance and national reconciliation. There should be frequent roundtable discussions on conflict, peace, and resolution, intra and inter-religious dialogue and relationships conferences and workshops, leadership orientations, and shared value systems. Schools should place a strong emphasis on instilling patriotism in students at all levels, while avoiding ethnicities. All citizens should value these four common religious values of: humility, commitment, contemplation, and compassion.

THE DIALECTICS OF ZENO'S DENIAL OF CHANGE AND ITS COMPATIBILITY WITH AN AFRICAN (ANNAN) THOUGHT SYSTEM

Inameti Lawrence UdoPh.D — 2025-07-16

Abstract & inametiudo@aksu.edu.ng inamsifon2004@yahoo.com Phone No. 08069007369 The focus of this paper is to examine Zeno's denial of change in reality and its compatibility with Annan thought system. This will be done using myth being one of Africa's epistemological tools. Zeno in a bit to defend his master Parmenides against Heraclitus and Pythagoras credos on the possibility of motion/change upheld the thesis of motionless reality through his paradoxes some of which include; the paradoxes of dichotomy, Achilles and the tortoise, the flying arrow and the stadium among others. What was Zeno and by extension the Eleatic Philosophers understanding of change to warrant such conclusion? Can his denial of change/motion be found in African cultures especially Annan thought system? How can we reconcile his thesis with the common sense experience of reality characterized by motion/change? An attempt to address these questionsmakes this study relevant to scholarship as it intends to further debunk some Western scholar's conception that there is no Africans philosophy. The paper employs expository, library research and analytic methods of discourse. In its analysis of Zeno's understanding of change as an illusion, the paper argues that his position though contrary to common sense experience is not peculiar to the West, but also evident in Annan thought system as epitomized in some of their proverbs/wise sayings. The paper mentions such proverbs as“ekpuho se ekpuhoagwoikpuhokemfi, “AgwoisibenneitieakpaninnoUdo” “Agwoisinuke Alana eched” “Akpoisikpahakeetokilung yak ebenekaaekaillungekebuk” etc as some of the epistemological tools through whichAnnandemonstrate their denial of change in line with Zeno's thought.

RELIGIOUS CONVERSION IN NIGERIA: AN ENDLESS CONTROVERSY

Samuel, Walele Amadi — 2025-07-16

This study explored the phenomena of religious conversion in Nigeria. It examined how religious pluralism and technological advancements reshaped religious identities and practices. The paper highlighted the historical, social and cultural factors that influenced conversion in Nigeria. It further analyzes the role of internal migration and Western education in shaping religious conversion as well as the consequences of such conversion in a religiously diverse society like Nigeria. The study also considered the impact of the internet and social media as key drivers among younger generations. In other to develop a structural framework for this study, the conversion theory of Pail (1973) served as the lens. The aim of this research was to explore the issues and challenges of conversion among Nigerian Christians and to x-ray the extend agents of modernity have influenced the phenomenon in Nigeria. It employed a historical approach in data collection and descriptive analysis in the discussion. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how religious beliefs and practices are negotiated in contemporary Nigerian society. The work concluded that the issues of conversion and reconversion are endemic and remains a teething challenge among Christians in Nigeria. It recommended that church leaders should incorporate elements of modernity to retain the youths in their fold.

CONNECTIVIST APPROACH TO ENGLISH-FRENCH EDUCATION IN NIGERIAN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS

Adeuga Francisca Folake Ph.D — 2025-07-16

The article is about the relevance of ICT measures to quality and pragmatic English French Education in Nigerian higher institutions.The study looks into the roles of different ICT materials in preparing young graduates for various linguistic challenges th that could deter personal socio-economic growth in the 20 century in an anglophone country that is bordered by French speaking nations on all sides. The objectives are to draw the attention of lecturers of the two languages to the importance of ICT measures in their teaching exercises, to awaken the learners of English and French languages to the need to see the provision of electronic media as a means to greater academic excellence other than for mere social interactions and to encourage government, institutions and even parents to show more commitment to the adequate and timely provisions and maintenance of technology materials that could improve linguistic competence. The research which is narrative adopts the literature review method for data collection.The application of ICT measures for better academic and professional results is an area that has been comprehensively looked into by various scholars. The article therefore, relies on reports from related literature for data. Though the role of ICT in different areas of education especially in the linguistic domain has been extensively treated, educationlike life is very dynamic, the significance of the study is its delving into new and more recent types of technology tools and their uses to equip Nigerian young graduates to meet up with the linguistic competence needed to face the challenges arising from the demands of globalization.

RETHINKING AFRICAN SOLIDARITY AMONG DIASPORAS IN THE RESISTANT READING OF DANIEL 1:8

Moses Idemudia — 2025-07-16

The reading of Daniel 1:8 ostensibly show that the desire to maintain solidarity with one's homeland isan age-long common denominator for those separated from their homes throughout human history. This paperexaminesthe need for African solidarity among Africans in the Diaspora in the light of Daniel 1:8. The study uses both qualitative and quantitative research designs. It adopts the resistance reading and the African cultural hermeneuticsmethodsin its interpretation of Daniel 1:8. The work also deploys the questionnaire survey methodto assess Africans in the Diaspora's perception of issues of African solidarity. The work findsthat the resistance approach to the interpretation of Daniel 1:8 is a viable inspiration for reframing and championing African solidarity abroad. It also discoversthat the majority of Africans in the Diaspora feels a deep connection to Africa as their root, with a deep sense of pride as Black Africans, and sees the need for African solidarity.It finds, in addition, that there are African Diaspora groups, especially with common ethnic interests, who use various aspects of African culture, such as name, song, food, and medicine, among other things, in showcasing African solidarity in the Diaspora. The paper concludes that the resistance to the pressure of assimilation into foreign systems could gain momentum with the idea of African solidarity amongAfrican Diasporas and reinforce the existing foundations of cultural preservationand the sustenance of the collective identity of Africans in the global space.

ASSESSING THE EFFICACY OF CORPORATE GOVERNANCE MECHANISMS IN PREVENTING FINANCIAL FRAUD IN MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES IN ANAMBRA STATE

Abunike, Uchenna Evelyn — 2025-07-16

This study assesses the efficacy of corporate governance mechanisms in preventing financial fraud within manufacturing industries in Anambra State, Nigeria. Financial fraud poses significant risks to the economic stability of organizations, and effective corporate governance is essential in mitigating these risks. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from surveys distributed to key stakeholders in selected manufacturing firms and qualitative insights from interviews with corporate governance experts. The primary objectives of the study are to identify the existing corporate governance practices, evaluate their effectiveness in fraud prevention, and explore the challenges faced in implementing these mechanisms.The findings reveal a correlation between robust corporate governance structures—such as the presence of independent boards, effective internal controls, and transparent reporting practices—and the reduction of financial fraud incidents. However, the study also highlights several obstacles, including inadequate regulatory enforcement, a lack of awareness among stakeholders, and cultural factors that may impede the adoption of best practices in governance. Furthermore, the analysis indicates that organizations with strong ethical cultures and training programs are more likely to prevent fraudulent activities.This research contributes to the understanding of how corporate governance can be leveraged to enhance accountability and integrity in manufacturing sectors. It provides actionable recommendations for industry stakeholders and policymakers, emphasizing the need for improved training, regulatory frameworks, and ethical leadership. Ultimately, the study underscores the importance of effective corporate governance as a critical factor in safeguarding the financial integrity of manufacturing firms in Anambra State and fostering sustainable economic growth.

MARTIN HEIDEGGER’S PROBLEM OF BEING: IMPLICATIONS FOR AUTHENTIC LIVING IN THE 21ST CENTURY NIGERIAN SOCIETY

Ejikemeuwa J. O. NDUBISI — 2025-07-16

Abstract The question of being is a controversial concept throughout the history of philosophy. Every philosophical understanding of the concept of being in all epochs is an historical configuration existing in relation to their historical periods. This study establishes that philosophers throughout different periods have tried to give their own interpretation and understanding based on the way they have conceived being. Heidegger, a 20th century existentialist and metaphysician, a philosopher of being, responding to the problem of being develops a largely acceptable interpretation of what he conceives as being. Heidegger begins with Dasein since man is the only being that asks the question of being. Man is the only being in the world that has relations to himself and to other being. Man is essentially a being-with-others. Being is not a fixed or static concept but dynamic and temporal, revealing itself through our everyday experiences and interactions. The basic ontological structure of man's being is in the three basic dimensions of time; the facticity, existentiality and fallenness. Heidegger emphasizes the importance of authenticity, urging individuals to confront the question of their own being and to live in accordance with their true selves rather than conforming to societal norms or expectations. The 21st century Nigeria has witnessed deficiency and negativity projecting inauthenticity and depersonalizing the beingness of man and the other. Against this framework, this study aims to evaluate Heidegger's problem of being for authentic living. Employing the philosophical methods of analysis and evaluation, the study reveals that Heidegger's philosophy of being captures the totality of the beingness of man as he lives, experiences existential realities and the ways he engages with the world through his past, present and future. The study concludes that Heidegger's two dimensions of reality; time and the world, provide 21st Century Nigerian people with a base for authentic living and conscious relation of Dasein with Co-Daseins and other entities.

THE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ECOSYSTEM AND ITS AFRICAN ADAPTATION: AN IGWEBUIKE PERSPECTIVE

ONYIAH,Stephen Chukwuemeka — 2025-07-16

The Artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem refers to the interconnected network of technologies, stakeholders, and applications that enable the development, deployment, and use of artificial intelligence. An Igwebuike perspective offers a unique lens through which to explore the African adaptation of this ecosystem. In the context of AI, the researchers argue that an Igwebuike perspective which would emphasize collaboration, community-driven innovation, and the importance of cultural context in shaping AI solutions for Africa, can ensure that the AI ecosystem in Africa will become more inclusive, culturally sensitive, and effective in driving positive change across the continent.In the course of this research, the phenomenological and hermeneutical methods of inquiry were employed. This study gives a background of AI and the AI ecosystem. It also presents an overview of Igwebuike Philosophy and thereafter outlines the Igwebuike perspective of the AI ecosystem as it pertains to Africa. The study submits that cultural misappropriation and insensitive deployment of AI can be avoided when keeping in mind that community-driven AI developments and its cultural contextualizations are what Africans need, given the continent's cultural diversity and its socio-economic realities

THE IMPACT OF MOTIVATION IN ORGANIZATIONAL PRODUCTIVITY

EGBE JUSTIN ARINZE, PhD — 2025-07-16

This study examines the significant relationship between motivation and organizational productivity. Motivation, a psychological force that drives individuals to achieve their goals, plays a crucial role in enhancing employee performance and overall organizational productivity. The research reveals that motivated employees exhibit higher job satisfaction, increased job commitment, and better work quality, ultimately leading to improved organizational productivity. Conversely, demotivated employees tend to experience decreased job performance, absenteeism, and turnover, negatively impacting organizational productivity. The study identifies several motivational factors, including recognition, rewards, autonomy, and opportunities for growth and development, as key drivers of employee motivation and productivity. The findings suggest that organizations can enhance productivity by implementing effective motivational strategies, fostering a positive work environment, and promoting employee well-being. By understanding the impact of motivation on organizational productivity, managers and leaders can develop targeted interventions to boost employee motivation, drive business success, and achieve competitive advantage.

MMEJO OMENALA IGBO DI KA IHE SO ECHERE ASUSU IGBO AKA MGBA

Florence Uju Ibeh, Ph.D. — 2025-07-16

Omenala buka ndi si ebi ndu ha.