The University of Abuja is a tertiary institution in the Nigerian capital, Abuja. It was established in January 1988 (under Decree No. 110 of 1992 as amended) as a dual-mode university with the mandate to run conventional and distance learning programmes. Academic work began in the University in 1990 with the matriculation of its pioneer students.
PurposeThis study examined the effect of strategic resource allocation on competitiveness of SMEs, accounting for the moderating role of environmental dynamism.Design/methodology/approachUsing a two-stage sampling approach, this study used a dataset of 219 respondents from across the six geopolitical zones country. Primary data was employed using structured questionnaire. Partial least square structural equation model was used to analyse the data with the aid of SmartPLS 3.3.FindingsThe study found that strategic resource allocation has significant effect on agro-allied firms' competitiveness, and environmental dynamism also showed a significant effect on competitiveness. The study also found that environmental dynamism moderates the direct link between strategic resource allocation and agro-allied firms' competitiveness. The study concludes that agro-allied SMEs that desire improved competitiveness should ensure that resources are strategically allocated irrespective of the dynamic nature of their operating environment.Originality/valueThis study adds a new layer to the resource-based view theory as it validates it and also extends that possession of resources should be balanced with effective resource orchestration to achieve competitive advantage. This study addressed the question of how strategic resource allocation can drive competitiveness in firms while also answering the question of whether environmental dynamism is a major boundary condition that can affect this relation. Contrary to the norm in most studies that environmental dynamism could affect performance negatively, the study extends the literature on how a firm can gain competitive performance through environmental dynamism.
PurposeThis study aims to explore the potential of the metaverse in gamifying library patron engagement in public libraries in Nigeria. The research examines how immersive virtual environments can be used to create interactive, game-based experiences that attract and retain library users. Guided by four research objectives, the study applies the technology acceptance model (TAM) to examine how perceived usefulness (PU), attitude towards use (ATU) and behavioural intention (BI) relate to one another in the context of public libraries.Design/methodology/approachA descriptive survey design was used to obtain both quantitative and qualitative data from public library patrons. Data were collected from respondents using an online semi-structured questionnaire that captured demographic attributes, levels of metaverse awareness and perceptions of gamified engagement. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise awareness levels and engagement tendencies. In contrast, Pearson correlation and multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine the strength and predictive relationships among the TAM constructs of PU, ATU and BI.FindingsFindings reveal that while awareness of the metaverse remains low, patrons who are familiar with immersive environments report increased motivation, enjoyment and interest in library participation. PU and ATU significantly predicted BI, confirming core TAM relationships. However, the study also demonstrates that intention is moderated by constraints such as inadequate digital infrastructure, low digital literacy and limited access to immersive technologies. These conditions weaken ease of use perceptions and shape users' readiness to adopt gamified metaverse services. The study concludes that metaverse-based gamification has strong potential to revitalise public library patronage, but its success depends on addressing contextual barriers that influence technology acceptance. It recommends investment in digital infrastructure, targeted digital literacy programs, staff capacity development and inclusive user engagement strategies to support equitable implementation.Practical implicationsThe study provides actionable data for public library managers, policymakers and funding authorities by demonstrating that metaverse-based gamification can enhance patron engagement when supported by adequate infrastructure, staff capacity and digital literacy initiatives. The findings indicate that libraries must prioritise investment in connectivity, immersive technologies and user-centred design to translate BI into actual adoption. The results also indicate the need for inclusive implementation strategies to prevent widening the digital divide and ensure that patrons with limited technological access are not excluded from emerging service models.Originality/valueThis study is the first empirical investigation to examine metaverse-based gamification as a strategy for enhancing patron engagement in public libraries, particularly within a developing-country context. Unlike prior research that has explored virtual reality, augmented reality, or general metaverse awareness in library settings, this study uniquely integrates gamification within the metaverse and applies the TAM to analyse user perceptions, attitudes and BI. In addition, the study introduces a novel user-centred perspective and fills a significant gap in the literature on immersive technologies and library service transformation in low-resource environments.
This study examines the integration of intelligent technologies into library services, with a focus on their role in bridging knowledge gaps and improving information access. The research aims to assess global trends in intelligent library adoption, identify challenges in developing regions, particularly Africa, and propose strategies for effective implementation. A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was conducted following the PRISMA framework. Searches were carried out in Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using Boolean operators and keywords. 62 peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2024 met the eligibility criteria. Findings reveal that while libraries in developed regions have successfully integrated AI-powered chatbots, IoT-enabled inventory systems, and data-driven personalized services, those in Africa face infrastructural limitations, unreliable internet, financial constraints, and skill gaps. Additionally, cultural resistance and inadequate digital literacy among library staff hinder full-scale implementation. The study concludes that intelligent technologies hold transformative potential for modern libraries, improving efficiency, user experience, and remote access to information. However, overcoming adoption barriers requires targeted investments in digital infrastructure, capacity building, and stakeholder collaboration.
Gray leaf spot (GLS) is a major foliar disease that limits maize productivity and nutritional quality in sub-Saharan Africa. This study evaluated 16 extra-early provitamin A Quality Protein Maize (PVA-QPM) inbred lines and two checks across two cropping seasons in Oke-Oyi, Nigeria, under natural infection augmented by artificial inoculation. Grain yield ranged from 2.60 to 4.10 t ha⁻1, with TZEEIORQ-15 (4.10 t ha⁻1), TZEEIORQ-07 (4.05 t ha⁻1), and TZEEIORQ-03 (3.95 t ha⁻1) exceeding the check Obatanpa by 57.7
From a global warming perspective, methane (CH4) produced by ruminants is considered a major environmental issue. The use of encapsulated essential oils in ruminant nutrition is one of the most recent strategies to reduce enteric CH4 emission. The objective of this review is to discuss how essential oils can be used to reduce CH4 production when added to ruminant diets. Essential oils have antimicrobial and anti-methanogenic properties that may alter the rumen fermentation patterns and microbial populations. The bioavailability of essential oils is highly compromised as they pass through the gastrointestinal tract due to heat, pressure, low pH, or digestive enzymes. The encapsulation technologies, micro and nanoencapsulation, protect the essential oils from degradation and facilitate site-specific delivery in the rumen. The ability of the encapsulated essential oils to reduce CH4 production is demonstrated by their inhibitory effects on methanogenic microorganisms and enhancement of fermentation pathways. Encapsulated essential oils help to reduce environmental concerns and offer potential benefits for livestock productivity. Supplementing encapsulated essential oils to feed for livestock offers both potential benefits and challenges. The advantages include a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions and enhanced feed efficiency; however, the effectiveness varies based on the specific essential oil used, the encapsulation methods, and the unique traits of each animal. In addition, because of the importance of regulatory and safety considerations, detailed risk assessment and compliance with safety regulations are crucial for broad adoption. Further research will be necessary to optimize encapsulation techniques, explore new essential oils, and address regulatory challenges. In conclusion, encapsulated essential oils present a promising strategy for mitigating CH4 emissions from ruminants. Their ability to improve feed efficiency and reduce environmental impact aligns with global sustainability goals.
