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Fruits are an essential component of a balanced diet, providing vital nutrients for human health. However, due to their high moisture content and frequent exposure to environmental contaminants, they are susceptible to microbial contamination, posing serious public health risks. This study aimed to assess the microbial quality of selected fruits (pawpaw, watermelon, and pineapple) obtained from retail outlets in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted in three major retail locations: Samaru, Kwangila, and PZ. Fruit samples were randomly collected and analyzed using standard microbiological techniques to determine the total bacterial and fungal loads. Microbial isolates were identified through biochemical and morphological characterization, while antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Pathogenicity tests were also conducted to assess the spoilage potential of fungal isolates. The results revealed high microbial contamination across all fruit samples, with pawpaw and watermelon exhibiting the highest bacterial and fungal loads. The most frequently isolated bacteria were Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus spp., Salmonella spp., Proteus vulgaris, and Shigella spp., indicating potential fecal contamination and inadequate hygiene practices. Fungal isolates included Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium spp., Candida spp., Mucor spp., and Rhizopus spp., with Aspergillus species being the most prevalent. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed multi-drug resistance in Escherichia coli and Proteus vulgaris, highlighting a growing public health concern. These findings emphasize the need for improved hygiene measures in fruit handling, storage, and retail distribution. Proper washing, disinfection, and adherence to food safety regulations should be enforced to reduce microbial contamination. Additionally, public awareness campaigns on the risks associated with consuming unwashed fruits should be promoted. Further research is recommended to explore long-term t

ABSTRACT<br> The study aimed to evaluate the effect of innovative practices on customer satisfaction in<br> service- based organizations, specifically focusing on the case of MTN Network Company in <br> Ilorin. Through a thorough analysis of various data sources and research methods, the results <br> showed that implementing innovative practicesin service-based organizations has a significant<br> impact on customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the study found that MTN Network Company in <br> Ilorin has effectively implemented innovative practices, resulting in high levels of customer <br> satisfaction. These findings have important implications for other service-based organizations <br> looking to improve their customer satisfaction levels through the implementation of innovative

ABSTRACT<br> In an era characterized by rapidly evolving media technologies and fragmented audionces, transmedia storytelling has emerged as a powerful tool for engaging communists and driving social transformation. By dispersing narrative elements across multiple media platforms, transmedia storytelling not only fosters deeper audience interaction but also enables the strategic amplification of messages across diverse socio-cultural contexts. In Nigeria—a country marked by dynamic social structures, cultural plurality, and persistent socio-political challenges—social change campaigns increasingly harness the potential of transmedia narratives to inspire awareness, shift public perceptions, and mobilize action. This study critically evaluates the role of transmedia storytelling in promoting social change campaigns in Nigeria. The researcher embarked on the study with the intent of achieving four objectives; and based on the objectives of the study, four research questions were formulated to serve as a guide for the study. The study was anchored on the Uses and Gratification Theory. The survey research design was employed for this study, and data was collected through the use of questionnaire. Findings from the study revealed that there is a growing recognition and integration of transmedia storytelling techniques in the design and execution of advocacy an<br> d public interest campaigns across the country. Transmedia storytelling, which involves telling a single story or story experience across multiple platforms and formats using current digital technologies, has increasingly become a powerful tool in driving audience engagement, emotional involvement, and participatory advocacy. The study concludes that transmedia storytelling holds considerable promise as a catalyst for social change in Nigeria. Its ability to weave complex narratives across multiple platforms enables the construction of compelling, inclusive, and participatory communication strategies. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that strategic investments be made in training and professional development. Media professionals, content creators, and campaign strategists should be equipped with the skills to conceptualize, design, and execute transmedia narratives effectively across multiple platforms. Workshops, certification programs, and collaborations with global storytelling networks can facilitate knowledge transfer and innovation.

The impact of record keeping particularly through electronic devices for effective administration in an organization cannot be over emphasized. It is against this background that this study examined the influence of electronic record keeping on administrative effectiveness in University of Ilorin, Kwara State.<br><br><br> The study was a descriptive study of the survey type and a main hypothesis was formed and tested to guide the study. The population of the study were lecturers and COMSIT staff of University of Ilorin. Simple Random Sampling technique was used to select 306 lecturers and 5 comsit staffs from the University. The data was collected using a researcher made questionnaire titled Electronic Record Keeping and Administrative Effectiveness Questionnaire (ERKAEQ) and the data were analyzed using frequency, percentage and Chi square.<br><br><br> Findings revealed that there was a significant influence of electronic record keeping on administrative effectiveness in University of Ilorin. In addition, the study also revealed that the challenges facing the use of electronic record keeping were lack of skilled personnels, shortage of electricity, cybercrime, limited budget for the maintenance of electronic record keeping facilities etc. Furthermore, the study revealed that electronic record keeping facilities were available and put to great use in University of Ilorin.<br><br><br> Based on these findings, the study concluded that there was a significant influence of electronic record keeping on administrative effectiveness. The study concluded that electronic record keeping facilities were available and effectively utilized for administrative effectiveness. In line with these findings, this study recommended among others that Government through the National Universities’ Commission should endeavor to provide Compact disk and other electronic record keeping facilities that would aid administrative effectiveness in Universities. Universities’ staff should be further encouraged to put electronic record keeping facilities to great use. Also National Universities’ Commission or University management should ensure staff are trained and retrained especially on ICT application and records management, in order to operate in a digital environment. Electronic record keeping should be further encouraged and sensitized so that more level of administrative effectiveness and efficiency can be achieved

ABSTRACT<br> This study examines the impact of cost reduction on the profitability of consumer goods manufacturing companies in Nigeria. Profitability, measured by Return on Assets (ROA), is essential for assessing financial performance, while cost reduction is a key strategy for improving efficiency and sustaining competitive advantage. The study focuses on four key cost components: Cost of Goods Sold (COGS), finance costs, salaries and wages, and cost of assets. Using an ex-post facto research design, secondary data were obtained from the annual reports of 12 selected consumer goods manufacturing firms listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) between 2019 and 2023. The analysis was conducted using panel regression techniques to determine the relationship between cost reduction and profitability.<br> The findings reveal that finance costs and salaries and wages have a significant negative impact on profitability, suggesting that high borrowing costs and excessive labour expenses reduce firm performance. In contrast, COGS and cost of assets do not have a significant effect on profitability, indicating that firms may have implemented effective cost-control measures in production and asset management.<br> The study recommends that firms minimize excessive borrowing, restructure debt, and explore alternative financing options to reduce finance costs. Additionally, adopting performance-based remuneration models and automation strategies can enhance workforce productivity while maintaining cost efficiency. Companies should also focus on optimizing asset utilization to maximize returns on investments. Policymakers are encouraged to create favourable financial policies that support cost efficiency and sustainable profitability in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.

The effect of organic fertilizer application on the growth and yicld of three varicties of cucumber were studied at the Crop Unit, Teaching and Research arm, Faculty of Agriculture,

Abstract<br><br> This study examines the global rise of Nigeria’s Afrobeats and its significance as a cultural export that shapes national identity, international perception, and soft power. Originating from Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s politically charged Afrobeat of the 1970s, contemporary Afrobeats has evolved into a hybrid genre that blends West African rhythms with global musical influences. Through the contributions of artists such as Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, and Davido, Afrobeats has transitioned from a regional sound to a global phenomenon, aided by digital platforms, international collaborations, and worldwide music festivals. The study explores how globalization and digitalization have facilitated this expansion, allowing cultural products from the Global South to achieve global prominence. It also analyses the role of Afrobeats in enhancing Nigeria’s soft power and national branding, evidenced by international awards, cross-cultural collaborations, and increased global visibility. Despite its success, the genre faces challenges related to commercialization, debates over authenticity, inadequate industry infrastructure, and structural barriers in global music institutions. Nonetheless, Afrobeats continues to reshape global narratives about Africa, inspire cross-cultural innovation, and strengthen Nigeria’s cultural influence worldwide. This research highlights the socio-cultural, economic, and political implications of Afrobeats’ global diffusion and its potential for sustaining Nigeria’s presence on the world stage.

ABSTRACT<br><br> Soybean cake (Awara), a popular protein-rich street food in Mubi metropolis, Adamawa State, Nigeria, is highly valued for its nutritional benefits but is susceptible to microbial contamination due to poor handling and storage conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the bacteriological quality of hawked soybean cake sold around Mubi, focusing on isolating and identifying bacterial contaminants and assessing their antimicrobial susceptibility. A total of 36 Awara samples were collected aseptically from different locations within Mubi and subjected to microbiological analysis including total coliform counts, bacterial isolation using selective media, biochemical identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Results revealed high total coliform counts exceeding permissible limits, indicating poor hygienic conditions. The predominant bacteria isolated were Escherichia coli (30.3%), Staphylococcus aureus (23.3%), Klebsiella spp. (20.2%), Salmonella enterica (14.1%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (12.1%). Alarmingly, many isolates exhibited multidrug resistance, particularly to ampicillin and tetracycline, though they remained susceptible to gentamicin, levofloxacin, and ceftriaxone. These findings demonstrate that Awara sold in Mubi poses significant food safety risks due to bacterial contamination and antibiotic-resistant pathogens. It underscores the urgent need for improved hygiene practices among vendors, stringent food safety regulations, and public awareness to safeguard consumer health.