PACKAGING AS A SILENT SALES PERSON: A REVIEW OF SELECTED CONSUMER PRODUCTS IN NIGERIA

This work, Packaging as a Silent Sales Person: A Review of some Consumer Products in Nigeria took a look at the role of product packaging in the marketing of consumer goods in Nigeria. It tried to explain the meaning of Packaging and went on to x-ray some important concepts in Advertising. The work raised several key questions about Packaging and went on to review several indigenous products in order to understand how the way they are packaged, contribute to their appeal to particular segment of people in the society. The work made some recommendations which included that manufacturers of consumer products should engage professionals in the designing of the packages for their goods.

IMPACT OF HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF HEALTH WORKERS IN NIGERIAN PUBLIC HOSPITALS

Human resource management (HRM) practices play a critical role in enhancing the performance, motivation, and productivity of health workers, which directly influences the quality of healthcare service delivery. In Nigeria, public hospitals face persistent challenges such as staff shortages, low motivation, and inadequate training, which impede effective healthcare delivery. This study investigates the impact of HRM practices—recruitment, training and development, performance appraisal, and employee motivation—on the performance of health workers in selected Nigerian public hospitals. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 200 health workers through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings indicate that effective HRM practices, particularly continuous training, fair performance appraisal, and motivation strategies, have a significant positive effect on health worker performance. Conversely, poor implementation of HRM practices is associated with low productivity, job dissatisfaction, and high staff turnover. The study concludes that strengthening HRM practices in Nigerian public hospitals is essential to improving health worker performance and overall healthcare delivery. Recommendations include implementing regular training programs, transparent performance appraisal systems, and enhanced employee motivation strategies.

MICROBIAL ANALYSIS AND FERMENTATION TECHNIQUES OF OGIRI: SAFETY AND QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Ogiri is a traditional fermented condiment widely used in West African cuisine, particularly in Nigeria, for its distinctive flavor and nutritional value. Despite its popularity, concerns regarding microbial safety and quality remain due to traditional fermentation methods and inadequate standardization. This study investigates the microbial composition, fermentation techniques, and safety parameters of Ogiri produced in selected regions of Nigeria. Samples of Ogiri were collected from local producers, and microbial analyses were conducted using standard microbiological techniques to identify bacterial and fungal populations. The study also examined fermentation methods, including duration, temperature, and substrate preparation, to determine their impact on product quality and safety. Results revealed a diversity of microorganisms, including both beneficial fermentative bacteria and potential contaminants, highlighting the need for improved hygienic practices during production. The study further identifies factors influencing sensory quality, shelf life, and safety, providing insights for standardization and commercialization. Findings from this research are expected to guide local producers, regulatory agencies, and consumers on best practices for safe and high-quality Ogiri production while preserving its cultural and nutritional significance.

ENZYMATIC DEGRADATION OF PLASTIC WASTES BY SOIL MICROORGANISMS

Plastic pollution has emerged as one of the most pressing global environmental challenges due to its non-biodegradable nature and widespread use. Conventional methods of plastic disposal, such as landfilling and incineration, pose serious environmental and health hazards. Recently, microbial biodegradation has gained attention as a sustainable alternative for managing plastic waste. This study explores the potential of soil microorganisms in enzymatic degradation of plastic wastes, with emphasis on polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polystyrene (PS). Soil samples were collected from plastic-contaminated sites, and microbial isolates were screened for their ability to degrade plastics under laboratory conditions. Enzyme assays revealed the production of extracellular enzymes such as hydrolases, lipases, and esterases, which play crucial roles in breaking down plastic polymers into simpler monomers. Results indicate that certain bacterial genera (Pseudomonas, Bacillus) and fungal species (Aspergillus, Penicillium) demonstrated significant degradation activity, with measurable weight loss and surface modifications of plastic films confirmed through Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The findings highlight the potential of soil microorganisms as eco-friendly agents in plastic waste management and underscore the need for further optimization of biodegradation processes for large-scale applications.

MICROALGAE AS A SUSTAINABLE SOURCE OF BIOFUEL IN NIGERIA: POTENTIALS AND CHALLENGES

The rising demand for renewable energy and the environmental concerns associated with fossil fuel dependency have intensified global interest in biofuels. Microalgae have emerged as a promising sustainable feedstock for biofuel production due to their rapid growth rate, high lipid content, and ability to thrive in diverse environments. This study explores the potential of microalgae as a sustainable source of biofuel in Nigeria, a country facing energy insecurity despite abundant natural resources. The paper highlights the suitability of indigenous microalgal strains for large-scale biodiesel production, examines technological approaches to cultivation and harvesting, and discusses the environmental and socio-economic benefits of microalgae-based biofuels. However, challenges such as high production costs, limited technical expertise, infrastructural gaps, and policy inconsistencies remain significant barriers to commercialization. The study concludes that while microalgae present viable opportunities for diversifying Nigeria’s energy mix and reducing carbon emissions, strategic investments in research, supportive government policies, and public-private partnerships are essential to unlock their full potential.