Articles

Effect of Childhood Sexual Abuse on the Sexual Behaviour of Victims Among Undergraduates of the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria

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Background: Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is a major public health problem with long-term consequences on sexual and psychological well-being. Evidence suggests that CSA may influence later sexual behaviors, increasing vulnerability to risky sexual practices in adulthood.

Objective: This study assessed the effect of childhood sexual abuse on the sexual behaviour of victims among undergraduates of the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used among 400 undergraduates selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and analysed using SPSS version 22. Associations between CSA and sexual behaviors were tested using chi-square at 5% significance level.

Results: The prevalence of CSA was 26.2%. A significantly higher proportion of females experienced CSA (63.8%) compared to males (36.2%). CSA was significantly associated with risky sexual behaviors including pornography use (p = 0.006), sexual orientation (p = 0.015), and history of sexually transmitted infections (p = 0.037). Victims of CSA were more likely to engage in risky sexual and health-compromising behaviors compared to non-victims.

Conclusion: childhood sexual abuse significantly influences sexual behaviour in adulthood, increasing the likelihood of engagement in risky sexual practices among victims. Strengthening prevention programmes, counselling services, and sexual health education in universities is essential.

Patient Satisfaction with Outcome of Cervical Spine Surgery at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Dala, Kano, Nigeria

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Background: Patient satisfaction is increasingly recognised as a crucial metric for evaluating surgical outcomes, complementing traditional clinical and radiological parameters. This study assesses patient satisfaction following cervical spine surgery at the National Orthopaedic Hospital (NOH), Dala, Kano, Nigeria, and identifies factors associated with satisfaction levels.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and December 2024 among 84 patients who underwent cervical spine surgery (anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, posterior decompression, or combined procedures) at NOH, Dala, with a minimum follow-up of six months. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, clinical outcomes (pain using Visual Analogue Scale [VAS], functional status using modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association [mJOA] score), and satisfaction using a five-point Likert scale. Satisfaction was dichotomised as satisfied (very satisfied/satisfied) or dissatisfied (neutral/dissatisfied/very dissatisfied). Multivariate logistic regression identified independent predictors of satisfaction.

Results: The response rate was 82.4% (84/102). Mean age was 48.6 ± 12.4 years, with 62 males (73.8%) and 22 females (26.2%). Indications for surgery were degenerative conditions (52 patients, 61.9%) and trauma (32 patients, 38.1%). Overall satisfaction rate was 72.6% (61 patients). Mean VAS improved from 7.4 ± 1.6 preoperatively to 2.8 ± 1.2 postoperatively (p<0.001). Mean mJOA improved from 10.8 ± 2.4 to 14.2 ± 1.8 (p<0.001). Satisfied patients reported significantly greater improvement in VAS (mean change 5.2 ± 1.4 vs. 3.4 ± 1.2, p<0.001) and mJOA (mean change 4.2 ± 1.6 vs. 2.4 ± 1.4, p<0.001) compared to dissatisfied patients. Factors independently associated with satisfaction were: greater improvement in VAS (OR 3.84, 95% CI 1.92–7.68, p<0.001), higher postoperative mJOA (OR 2.96, 95% CI 1.48–5.92, p=0.002), and preoperative counselling adequacy (OR 2.54, 95% CI 1.28–5.04, p=0.008). Age, sex, indication, and surgical approach were not significant predictors.

Conclusion: Patient satisfaction following cervical spine surgery at NOH, Dala is high (72.6%) and comparable to international benchmarks. Pain relief, functional improvement, and preoperative counselling are the strongest determinants of satisfaction. These findings highlight the importance of managing patient expectations and optimising clinical outcomes to enhance satisfaction.

Comparison Between ACDF and Instrumented Posterior Decompression and Fusion in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy at the National Orthopaedic Hospital Dala, Kano, Nigeria: A Retrospective Comparative Study of 85 Patients

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Background: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a leading cause of spinal cord dysfunction. Both anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and posterior decompression with instrumented fusion are established surgical approaches, but comparative data from Nigerian populations remain limited. This study compared clinical outcomes, perioperative parameters, and complications between ACDF and posterior instrumented fusion for CSM at the National Orthopaedic Hospital Dala (NOHD), Kano, Nigeria.

Methods: A retrospective comparative study reviewed records of 85 patients who underwent surgical decompression for CSM between January 2018 and December 2024. Patients were divided into two groups: ACDF (n=48) and posterior decompression with instrumented fusion (n=37). Data extracted included demographics, operative parameters, complications, and outcomes assessed by modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score and Neck Disability Index (NDI) at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months post-surgery. Recovery rate was calculated using the Hirabayashi formula.

Results: The ACDF group had younger mean age (54.2 ± 9.8 vs. 62.6 ± 11.4 years; p=0.001) and fewer levels fused (1.8 ± 0.6 vs. 3.4 ± 0.8; p<0.001). ACDF was associated with shorter operative time (182 ± 46 vs. 236 ± 62 minutes; p<0.001), lower blood loss (210 ± 95 vs. 450 ± 240 mL; p<0.001), and shorter hospital stay (5.2 ± 2.4 vs. 8.4 ± 3.2 days; p<0.001). Both groups achieved significant mJOA improvement at 12 months: ACDF from 10.8 ± 2.4 to 14.2 ± 2.1 (p<0.001); posterior from 9.6 ± 2.6 to 13.1 ± 2.3 (p<0.001). Mean recovery rates were 56.8 ± 22.4% for ACDF and 48.6 ± 24.2% for posterior (p=0.12). NDI improved from 46.8 ± 14.2% to 24.6 ± 12.4% in ACDF and from 52.4 ± 15.6% to 29.8 ± 14.2% in posterior (p=0.08). Complication rates were 12.5% (ACDF) and 21.6% (posterior) (p=0.26). ACDF complications included dysphagia (6.3%) and graft-related (2.1%); posterior complications included C5 palsy (5.4%) and wound infection (8.1%).

Conclusion: Both ACDF and posterior instrumented fusion achieve significant neurological improvement in CSM patients at NOHD Kano. ACDF is associated with shorter operative time, less blood loss, and shorter hospital stay, while posterior approaches are preferred for multilevel disease and in older patients. Surgical approach should be individualized based on pathology, levels involved, and patient factors.

Digital Governance and E-Government Transformation in Public Service Delivery in Nigeria

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The integration of digital governance and e-government transformation has become a cornerstone of public administration reform globally, particularly in improving efficiency, transparency, and accountability in public service delivery. This study examines the impact of digital governance initiatives in Nigeria, focusing on their role in enhancing efficiency, promoting accountability, and identifying key challenges that hinder their effectiveness. The study adopted the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) framework as its theoretical foundation. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 300 respondents drawn from three key federal ministries and citizens interacting with e-government platforms. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple regression, while qualitative insights were obtained through key informant interviews. The findings reveal that digital governance initiatives have significantly improved efficiency and transparency, particularly through platforms such as the Treasury Single Account (TSA), Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), and Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS). However, the results also show that systemic barriers including weak ICT infrastructure, low digital literacy, and entrenched corruption continue to undermine full-scale transformation. The study concludes that while Nigeria has made notable progress, sustainable digital governance requires stronger infrastructure investment, enhanced digital literacy, policy consistency, and deeper citizen inclusiveness.

Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness of Men in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

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This study examined the personal characteristics, knowledge, and attitudes of expectant fathers in Uyo, Nigeria, towards birth preparedness and complication readiness (BP/CR). Utilizing a convenience sample of 120 expectant fathers, the research explored how factors such as age, marital status, occupation, and education level influenced their understanding of and engagement in maternal health practices. Data obtained were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequency and correlation. The results indicated that most fathers were in their prime reproductive years (65, 54.2%), predominantly Christians (116, 96.7%), married (72, 60%), and employed (96, 80%), often as businessmen or traders (66, 55%) with a tertiary level of education (82, 68.3%). Also, majority demonstrated high knowledge (100, 83.3%) and positive attitudes towards BP/CR (84, 70%), with marital status (0.993), occupation (0.949), and number of children (0.964) showing strong correlations with favorable attitudes (p<0.01). These findings underscore the importance of socio-cultural factors in shaping paternal involvement in maternal health, advocating for targeted interventions that consider these variables to enhance male participation in maternal care and improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.

A Comparative Review of Spine Surgeries in Two New Neurosurgery Centres in an Urban and Rural Environment in Southeast Nigeria

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Background: The Imo State University Teaching Hospital (IMSUTH) located in a rural setting commenced neurosurgical services in January 2016 with a spine procedure as the first case whereas the Imo State Specialist Hospital (IMSSH) located in an urban setting commenced neurosurgical services in April 2021 and spine procedures in August 2021. The presentation of surgically managed spine pathologies in both hospitals were compared.

Aims: The study aimed to descriptively compare the number of spine procedures performed in both hospitals including the age and gender distribution of the surgically managed spine patients, the spine pathologies and their distribution.

Methods: The surgical records of all spine patients who had surgical procedures at IMSUTH, Orlu, from January 2016 to May 2020 (42 months), and at IMSSH, Owerri, from August 2021 to July 2024 (36 months) were retrospectively reviewed.

Results: During the study periods, in IMSUTH, Orlu, there were 27 spine surgeries, giving an average of 1 spine procedure in 2 months whereas in IMSSH, Owerri, there were 157 spine surgeries giving an average of 4 spine surgeries per month. Interestingly the distribution of spine procedures revealed that the highest frequency of spine surgeries was performed in the lumbar spine (n=7, 26% in IMSUTH; n=43, 27.3% in IMSSH) followed by lumbosacral spine (n=6, 22.2% in IMSUTH; n=42, 26.8% in IMSSH) in both hospitals. And quite interesting also is that trauma (n=15, 55.6%) accounted for the highest number of spine surgeries in the rural environment of IMSUTH, Orlu, while degenerative spine diseases (n=113, 71.9%) accounted for the highest number of spine surgeries in the urban environment of IMSSH, Owerri.

Conclusion: The study revealed that spine pathologies are not uncommon in resource poor settings especially in the urban environment. There is a male preponderance for spine surgeries. Lumbar/lumbosacral spine pathologies are common in our resource poor settings but trauma related spine pathologies are more common factors for spine surgeries in rural settings.  There is need to improve access to spine care in the rural environments.

A 3 Year Review of Spine Surgeries in a New Neurosurgery Centre in an Urban Specialist Health Facility in Southeast Nigeria

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Background: The Imo State Specialist Hospital (IMSSH) commenced neurosurgical services in April 2021 and spine procedures in August 2021. This is an audit of spine pathologies surgically managed in the hospital in her first 3 years since spine surgeries were commenced.

Aims: The study aims to look at the pattern of spinal pathologies surgically managed in the hospital from the commencement of spine services, including their age and sex distribution, the pathologies and their spinal distribution.

Methods: Neurosurgery operating room records were utilized to retrieve the case files of all spine patients who had surgical operations at IMSSH from August 2021 to July 2024 (36 months), and these were retrospectively reviewed.

Results: One hundred and fifty-seven (157) spine patients had surgical operations during the study period (an average of 4 spine surgeries per month). The mean age of patients was 54±16.03 years with a male-to-female ratio of 1.7:1. The mean age for male patients was 53±17.18 years while that of female patients was 55±14.05 years. The peak age range at presentation was in the elderly age group, 60 – 79 years (n=68, 43.3%), followed by the middle age group, 40 – 59 years (n=58, 36.9%). The highest frequency of spine surgeries was performed in the lumbar (n=43, 27.3%), lumbosacral (n=42, 26.8%) and cervical spines (n=42, 26.8%) almost in equal proportion. This was followed by thoracolumbar junction (n=13, 8.3%) and thoracic spine (n=8, 5.1%), while cervicothoracic junction, sacral and lumbosacropelvic accounted for 1.9% (n=3) each. Degenerative spine diseases (71.9%) accounted for the highest number of spine surgeries, followed by spinal trauma (19.7%) and spinal tumours (3.9%).

Conclusion: The study showed a male preponderance for spinal pathologies surgically managed in the hospital, and most of the pathologies were due to degenerative spine diseases. It also highlights the fact that spine pathologies are not rare in our environment, and more doctors should be encouraged to become spine surgeons to help in tackling these pathologies in our environment.

Political Turbulence and its Impact on Foreign Direct Investment Inflows in some selected African countries

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This work examined the political turbulence and its impact on Foreign Direct Investment inflow on some selected African countries; Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa. The aim is to determine how the political climate in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa affects the inflow of foreign direct investment. The modified Cobb Douglass model was the theoretical underpinning of the study since growth in FDI is likened to output and the factors that lead to growth are the investment climate variables. Using the panel ARDL model analysis, the following findings were made: Political investment climate variable (PSI) had significant positive effect on the inflow of foreign direct investment in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa. The result showed that Political investment climate variables (political stability and corruption index) exerted significant negative effects on the inflow of foreign direct investment into Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa. It was recommended that; Efforts should be made by the governments of Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa to enhance their economic fortunes by strengthening their economy through prioritizing political stability and addressing underlying causes of political unrest, corruption, weak institution and political social inequality. As well as engaging in massive production for exports which will boost economic growth and attract more foreign direct investment.

 

Perceptive Influence of Purchasing Motor Vehicle Insurance Policy from Non-regulated Firms on the Performance of Insurance Industry in Nigeria: A Customer-Based Sentiment Analysis

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This study examined Customers’ perception on the influence of purchasing motor vehicle insurance policy from non-regulated firms on the performance of insurance industry in Nigeria. Specifically, the influence of purchasing fake insurance policy and non-renewal of expired policy bought from the regulated insurance firms on the performance of insurance industry in Nigeria were accessed.  Primary data collected through the use of structured questionnaire from 92 vehicle owners in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, that were selected through convenience sampling technique, was used in the study. Sentiment analysis was applied as the method of data analysis in the study. The result of the analysis indicated a neutral sentiment level of the respondents to both the influence of purchasing fake motor vehicle insurance policy and impact of non-renewal of expired motor vehicle insurance policy bought from regulated insurance firms on the performance of insurance industry in Nigeria. These findings implied a neutral perception of the effect of purchasing motor vehicle insurance policy from non-regulated insurance firms on the performance of insurance industry in Nigeria by the motor vehicle owners. The neutral perception found explains the below expectation performance of the insurance industry in Nigeria due to poor patronage. To enhance public perception in the insurance industry in Nigeria, targeted product features and benefits awareness campaigns as well as payment of genuine claims to deepen public trust in the industry were recommended.

Determination of Physico-Chemical Parameters of St. Nicholas River, Bayelsa State, Niger Delta, Nigeria

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The Physicochemical parameters of St. Nicholas River were determined from October, 2020 to September, 2021. Three sampling stations were identified and used throughout the duration of the studies. They were Meinmokiri, Ebierewo-bugo and Egeinkiri sampling stations. The physicochemical parameters were measured in situ with Mercury in Glass Thermometer for Temperature, Hand held Digital Salinometer for  (Model AR8012) for Salinity, pH meter (Model PH-009(1)) for pH, Digital conductivity tester (Model AR8011) for Conductivity, TDS meter (Model AR8012) for Total Dissolved Solid, Digital Water Velocity meter (Model PF LV550) for Water Velocity, Secchi Disk for Transparency, Digital Depth Founder (Model SD-5) for Water Depth and Dissolved Oxygen Meter (Model OM-51-10) for Dissolved Oxygen. The mean values of the Physicochemical parameters of water at the three sampling stations are temperature; 29.98±0.550C, Dissolved Oxygen DO; 11.89±0.33mg/L, Biochemical Oxygen Demand BOD; 2.06±0.26 mg/L, Salinity; 16.80±2.06 PPT, Conductivity; 27.54±3.03µS/cm, Total Dissolved Solids TDS; 9.44±0.50mg/L, pH; 7.41±0.14, Water Depth; 0.58±0.06m, Transparency; 27.27±0.03cm and Water Velocity; 54.79±5.71m3/s. These physicochemical parameters values are comparable with other water bodies in the Niger Delta indicating contaminated waters. The contamination was caused by anthropogenic activities in terms of parameters assessed, therefore mitigation should be put in place for biodiversity conservation and sustainability of the ecosystem.