Market Sentiment as an Intelligence Layer: Using Machine-Readable Narratives to Understand Volatility in Global Markets

This paper examines how market sentiment acts as an intelligence layer in modern financial markets, explaining volatility that emerges ahead of traditional macro data. Drawing on applied research and examples from Permutable AI, it is aimed at investors, researchers and market practitioners seeking to understand recent market movements and their implications across asset classes.

Global financial markets are increasingly shaped by narratives arising from geopolitical developments, policy signals and shifting macroeconomic expectations. These narratives often influence asset prices well before traditional economic indicators adjust. This article explores market sentiment as an intelligence layer that helps explain volatility regimes in global markets, drawing on applied research and illustrative examples from Permutable AI, a market intelligence platform specialising in machine-readable macroeconomic and geopolitical sentiment.

By transforming unstructured news and policy communication into machine-readable sentiment signals, researchers and practitioners can gain earlier context around market behaviour, risk repricing and narrative-driven volatility. Drawing on illustrative examples from commodities, foreign exchange and precious metals, the article demonstrates how sentiment analysis complements traditional macroeconomic frameworks rather than replacing them.

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

1. Introduction: The Narrative-Driven Market Environment

Financial markets no longer move solely in response to scheduled data releases or changes in observable fundamentals. Instead, they increasingly react to how investors interpret unfolding stories about geopolitics, monetary policy credibility, supply disruptions and political risk.

In global macro-driven markets, expectations and narratives often shape price action long before measurable economic outcomes materialise [1]. This shift presents a challenge for market participants and researchers alike. Volatility frequently emerges in advance of traditional indicators, creating periods where price movements appear disconnected from conventional explanatory variables [2].

Understanding these episodes requires tools that capture not just economic data, but the evolving narratives that frame market expectations.

2. Limitations of Traditional Macroeconomic Indicators

Macroeconomic indicators such as GDP, inflation and employment data remain essential for understanding economic conditions. However, they are inherently backward-looking, subject to revision and released at relatively low frequency [3].

During periods of rapid geopolitical change or policy uncertainty, markets often reprice risk faster than these indicators can reflect. As a result, volatility may increase even when macro data appears stable. Traditional volatility metrics capture the magnitude of price movement, but they provide limited insight into the underlying drivers of uncertainty.

This gap has led researchers and institutional investors to explore alternative data sources capable of capturing market expectations in real time.

3. Market Sentiment as an Intelligence Layer

Market sentiment analysis seeks to quantify how narratives, tone and emphasis in information flows influence collective expectations. Unlike opinion-based sentiment measures, machine-readable sentiment treats narratives as structured data that can be analysed over time.

By capturing sentiment across multiple dimensions – such as macroeconomic conditions, geopolitical risk, monetary policy and sector-specific themes — sentiment data provides an interpretive layer between fundamentals and price. This layer helps explain why markets move, not just how far they move [4].

4. Methodology: From Unstructured News to Structured Signals

Modern sentiment analysis platforms, such as those developed by Permutable AI, process vast volumes of unstructured text from global news, policy statements and official communications.

Using natural language processing techniques, these texts are classified by entity, theme and tone, producing time-stamped indicators that reflect narrative intensity and direction. Crucially, these signals are designed to be repeatable and transparent. Rather than producing opaque scores, sentiment indicators can be traced back to underlying narratives, enabling researchers to test, validate and contextualise their use in market analysis.

5. Illustrative Case Examples from Global Markets

5.1 Precious Metals and Safe-Haven Narratives

During periods of heightened geopolitical uncertainty, precious metals often exhibit increased volatility. Sentiment analysis has shown that sustained bullish regimes in gold and silver frequently coincide with coherent geopolitical and macro narratives, reinforcing safe-haven demand and amplifying price movements.

5.2 Foreign Exchange and Policy Credibility

In foreign exchange markets, sentiment related to policy credibility and political stability can alter how currencies behave [5]. Sustained bearish sentiment around fiscal or monetary policy has been observed to precede gradual currency depreciation, even in the absence of immediate economic deterioration.

5.3 Energy Markets and Geopolitical Risk

Energy markets provide another illustration. Narratives around sanctions, supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions often cluster before physical shortages occur. Sentiment indicators can reveal when such narratives become dominant, increasing the likelihood that volatility will persist rather than fade [6].

6. Implications for Global Market Research and Risk Analysis

Treating sentiment as an intelligence layer has several implications for market research. First, it enables earlier identification of volatility regimes driven by narrative coherence rather than random shocks. Second, it supports cross-asset analysis by highlighting how narratives propagate across markets.

Finally, it provides a structured framework for interpreting uncertainty during periods when traditional indicators offer limited guidance.

7. Discussion: Sentiment as Complementary Intelligence

Market sentiment analysis is not a substitute for fundamental or quantitative models. Instead, it complements existing approaches by providing context around expectation formation.

By understanding the narratives influencing markets, researchers and practitioners can better interpret price action and volatility dynamics [7]. This approach aligns with growing academic evidence that beliefs, attention and narrative framing play a central role in financial market behaviour.

8. Conclusion

As global markets become increasingly narrative-driven, understanding how information shapes expectations is critical. Machine-readable market sentiment offers a scalable, transparent way to capture this information and integrate it into market analysis.

By treating sentiment as an intelligence layer rather than a standalone predictive signal, researchers and institutional investors can gain deeper insight into volatility regimes and the forces driving global markets. Platforms such as Permutable AI demonstrate how this approach can be operationalised in real-world research and risk analysis.

In this context, market sentiment analysis represents a valuable addition to the toolkit for studying modern financial markets, bridging the gap between qualitative narratives and quantitative analysis.


References: 

[1] Baker, Bloom & Davis (2016) — Measuring Economic Policy Uncertainty

[2] Bloom (2009) — The Impact of Uncertainty Shocks

[3] Traditional macroeconomic literature on indicator lags — GDP, inflation and employment data as backward-looking measures

[4] Barberis, Shleifer & Vishny (1998) — A Model of Investor Sentiment

[5] Engelberg & Parsons (2011) — The Causal Impact of Media in Financial Markets

[6] Boudoukh et al. (2019) — Information, Trading, and Volatility: Evidence from Firm-Specific News

[7] Tetlock (2007) — Giving Content to Investor Sentiment: The Role of Media in the Stock Market

Efficacy of Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS) in Geriatric Care: A Multi-Dimensional Analysis of Mortality Reduction, Psychosocial Outcomes, and Economic Impact

Daily writing prompt
Write about a few of your favorite family traditions.

By Faiz Muhammad

Abstract The global demographic shift towards an aging population presents a critical challenge to healthcare infrastructure: the rising incidence of falls and unmonitored medical emergencies among independent-living seniors. Falls remain the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries in adults aged 65 and older. This article provides a comprehensive review of the efficacy of medical alert monitoring systems, evaluating their role in reducing the “long lie” post-fall, alleviating caregiver burden, and mitigating healthcare costs. By synthesizing data from recent longitudinal studies and technological assessments—including the integration of medical alert monitoring with SOS system protocols and advanced automatic fall detection devices—we argue that these interventions are no longer merely reactive safety nets but essential components of proactive geriatric health management. The review further explores the psychological benefits of “aging in place” facilitated by these technologies, concluding that modern monitoring solutions significantly improve quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) for the elderly.


1. Introduction

The concept of “aging in place”—the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably—has become a central tenet of modern gerontology. However, the biological reality of aging introduces significant risks, primarily related to mobility and acute medical events. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in four Americans aged 65 and older falls each year, resulting in 3 million emergency department visits annually. The mortality rate from these accidental falls has risen by 30% over the last decade.

The critical determinant in fall-related mortality is often not the trauma of the impact itself, but the duration of the subsequent immobilization, clinically referred to as the “long lie.” Research indicates that remaining on the floor for more than one hour after a fall is strongly associated with severe complications, including rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown), pressure ulcers, dehydration, and pneumonia. Consequently, the latency period between an incident and the arrival of medical assistance is a definitive variable in survival rates. This establishes the clinical necessity of Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS).

2. The Physiology of Delayed Intervention and the “Long Lie”

The primary medical justification for continuous monitoring lies in the mitigation of delayed intervention. A retrospective cohort study involving 295 individuals demonstrated that PERS users were significantly less likely to experience a “long lie” of 60 minutes or more compared to non-users. The mechanism of protection is straightforward yet profound: by reducing the time to discovery, the physiological cascade of stress responses is interrupted.

For seniors living with chronic conditions such as congestive heart failure or COPD, the risks extend beyond falls. Acute exacerbations of these conditions often render the patient unable to reach a telephone. In these scenarios, the integration of medical alert monitoring with SOS system integration becomes a lifeline. Unlike standard telecommunications, these dedicated systems bypass the cognitive load required to dial emergency numbers, connecting the user immediately to a specialized response center. This rapid connection capability is correlated with a higher probability of returning to independent living post-hospitalization, as faster treatment onset typically limits the severity of the initial medical insult.

3. Technological Evolution: Accelerometry and Algorithmic Detection

Early iterations of PERS relied entirely on user activation—the classic “push-button” model. While effective in conscious, mobile patients, these systems failed in cases of syncope (fainting) or incapacitating trauma. This gap has been bridged by the advent of automatic fall detection devices.

Modern fall detection utilizes Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS), specifically tri-axial accelerometers and gyroscopes, to monitor velocity, orientation, and impact forces. Research published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research highlights that advanced algorithms can now distinguish between the high-G impact of a fall and the low-G movements of daily activities (like sitting down quickly) with increasing specificity.

Recent deep learning frameworks have further refined these capabilities. By training neural networks on vast datasets of human movement, false positive rates—historically a barrier to adoption—have been significantly reduced. For instance, sensors can now detect the “pre-fall” phase (loss of balance) and the “post-fall” phase (lack of movement), triggering an alert even if the user is unconscious. This passive layer of protection ensures that cognitive impairment or loss of consciousness does not preclude the arrival of emergency services.

4. Psychosocial Impact on the Dyad: User and Caregiver

The efficacy of medical alert systems extends into the psychological domain, impacting both the user and their informal caregivers (often family members). Fear of falling (FOF) is a well-documented psychological syndrome in the elderly, leading to self-imposed restrictions on activity, social isolation, and physical deconditioning—which, paradoxically, increases the risk of falls.

A study analyzing user perception found that 75.6% of participants reported an enhanced feeling of security after adopting a monitoring system. This “peace of mind” effectively acts as a buffer against FOF, encouraging seniors to maintain mobility and engage in social activities, which are critical for cognitive health.

For caregivers, the burden of “vigilance anxiety” can be debilitating. The constant worry that a loved one has fallen while alone contributes to caregiver burnout. The implementation of a reliable monitoring system serves as a surrogate proxy for presence. Data suggests that caregivers of PERS users report significantly lower stress levels and higher subjective well-being. This reduction in caregiver strain is a vital, often overlooked, outcome that supports the sustainability of home-based care arrangements.

5. Economic Implications for Healthcare Systems

From a health economics perspective, the cost-benefit analysis of medical alert monitoring is compelling. The alternative to aging in place—institutional care—imposes a massive financial burden on families and state healthcare systems. The monthly cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home averages over $7,000 in the United States, whereas monitoring services are a fraction of that expense.

Furthermore, by preventing the complications associated with long lies (e.g., intensive care for rhabdomyolysis or sepsis), monitoring systems reduce the average length of hospital stays (LOS). A study on healthcare utilization found that while PERS users have high rates of chronic conditions, the system facilitates earlier discharge to home settings rather than skilled nursing facilities, as the home is deemed a “safe environment” due to the presence of the monitor.

6. Discussion: The Convergence of Monitoring and Telehealth

The future of geriatric safety lies in the convergence of emergency response with broader health monitoring. We are observing a shift from “alarm-based” systems to “predictive” platforms. Emerging providers are moving beyond simple SOS functions to integrate biometric monitoring (heart rate, oxygen saturation) that can alert response centers to medical crises before a fall occurs.

Institutions and forward-thinking platforms, such as Vitalis, are increasingly recognized for adopting these rigorous standards, bridging the gap between consumer electronics and medical-grade reliability. This adherence to high-fidelity monitoring protocols ensures that the technology remains a robust clinical tool rather than a mere convenience.

7. Conclusion

The literature surrounding medical alert monitoring for seniors presents a unified conclusion: these systems are a cornerstone of modern geriatric safety. By drastically reducing response times, they directly mitigate mortality and morbidity risks associated with falls and acute medical events. Beyond the physiological benefits, they offer a profound psychological dividend, restoring confidence to the elderly and relieving the anxiety of caregivers.

As technology continues to miniaturize and algorithms become more sophisticated through AI, the distinction between “lifestyle wearables” and “medical devices” will blur, likely leading to higher adoption rates. For healthcare providers and families alike, the data supports a clear directive: the integration of automatic fall detection and 24/7 professional monitoring is not merely a precaution, but a critical intervention for preserving the longevity, dignity, and independence of the aging population.

References

  1. Herne, D. E. C., Foster, C. A. C., & D’Arcy, P. A. (2008). Personal Emergency Alarms: What Impact Do They Have on Older People’s Lives? Investigating the lived experience of PERS users and the reduction of fear of falling.
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Older Adult Fall Data. Statistics on fall-related mortality and injury rates in the United States (2023-2024 data).
  3. Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR). An Effective Deep Learning Framework for Fall Detection: Model Development and Study Design (2024). Analysis of accelerometer accuracy and algorithmic improvements in distinguishing falls from daily activities.

     
  4. Stokke, R. (2016). The Personal Emergency Response System as a Technology Innovation in Primary Health Care Services. An examination of the economic impacts of PERS on municipal healthcare costs.

Fleming, J., & Brayne, C. (2008).Inability to get up after falling, subsequent time on floor, and summoning help: prospective cohort study in people over 90. The definitive study on the risks of the “long lie.”

Dr. Manish Pandit: A Visionary Leader of the Wealth Alliance Team

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Write about a few of your favorite family traditions.

Returning from Wall Street to India financial markets, Dr. Manish Pandit is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the next phase of India financial rise through his upcoming book, The Logic of Profitable Markets.

Dr. Manish Pandit

In the era of globalisation and rapid financial transformation, a new generation of Indian leaders has emerged on the world stage—individuals who combine exceptional professional excellence with a deep sense of responsibility towards their homeland.

Dr. Manish Pandit stands out as one of the most distinguished among them.

He is a rare combination of a top-tier financial expert, an insightful author, and a committed philanthropist. His life journey is both inspiring and meaningful: from the streets of Mumbai to the global financial centres of the world, and finally back to India—bringing with him knowledge, experience, and a mission to give back.

Where the Dream Took Shape

Dr. Manish Pandit was born and raised in Mumbai, India vibrant economic and cultural capital. Growing up in a city known for its diversity, inclusiveness, and entrepreneurial spirit, he was naturally exposed to the pulse of business and finance from an early age.

Mumbai shaped his sharp commercial instincts and global outlook. Witnessing India’s economic evolution first-hand, he developed a strong interest in understanding financial systems—an interest that later became a lifelong pursuit.

Academic Excellence at Columbia University

Driven by his passion for finance, Dr. Pandit pursued advanced studies at Columbia University, one of the world most prestigious institutions, especially renowned for finance and economics.

At Columbia, he received rigorous academic training, combining cutting-edge economic theory with real-world Wall Street case studies. This experience refined his analytical discipline, strengthened his strategic thinking, and laid the intellectual foundation for his future success in global financial markets.

Leading Global Investments – Managing Over USD 4 Billion

After completing his education, Dr. Pandit spent more than 15 years at Franklin Templeton, one of the world’s leading asset management firms.

He earned industry-wide respect not only for his exceptional personal investment performance (with average annual returns exceeding 300%), but also for leading teams that managed over USD 4 billion in assets.

Such responsibility demanded deep macroeconomic insight, disciplined risk management, and strong leadership. Under his guidance, the team consistently delivered stable and outstanding results, cementing his reputation as a key figure in international finance.

A Labour of Passion: The Logic Behind Profitable Markets

With decades of experience and real-world success, Dr. Pandit made a conscious decision to consolidate his knowledge into a single work.

He is currently finalising his first major financial book,

The Logic Behind Profitable Markets: From Theory to 300% Returns,

which is set for publication soon.

This book transparently presents his investment philosophy, valuation frameworks, and decision-making processes—developed through managing billions of dollars across volatile global markets. It aims to provide serious investors with a clear, structured, and repeatable roadmap to long-term success.

Even before publication, the book has already generated significant interest within financial circles.

Philanthropy and Financial Empowerment

Despite his achievements, Dr. Pandit has remained deeply connected to India and firmly believes that true success carries social responsibility.

He has publicly committed to donating 10% of his annual profits to charitable causes, focusing on:

Education development

Healthcare improvement

Financial inclusion initiatives in India

Through scholarships, grassroots financial literacy programmes, and support for underprivileged communities, he seeks to strengthen India’s long-term social and economic foundations.

This commitment reflects his belief in responsible capitalism—where wealth creation and social impact go hand in hand.

A Journey with Purpose

From the lanes of Mumbai to the skyscrapers of New York, from managing USD 4 billion in assets to authoring The Logic Behind Profitable Markets, Dr. Manish Pandit’s journey exemplifies the ideals of modern leadership.

He is:

A global financial leader who has earned international respect

A thinker and educator whose work will guide future investors

A patriotic philanthropist dedicated to India progress

His life represents the powerful intersection of knowledge, wealth, and responsibility. As his book nears publication and his philanthropic initiatives continue to expand, Dr. Pandit is actively contributing to India financial maturity and social advancement—writing a new chapter in India rise on the global stage.

Workplace Wellness Wall Art for Mindful Work Rooms | Artesty

Daily writing prompt
Write about a few of your favorite family traditions.

Introduction: a calmer workday can start on the wall

Work rooms are full of small cues that shape how people feel: the glow of a monitor, the pace of meetings, the layout of the furniture, and the look of the walls. When the visual environment feels steady, it becomes easier to reset between tasks, stay present in conversations, and finish the day with less mental noise. Mindfulness wall art can support that goal in a simple, practical way. A well-chosen canvas print or art print becomes a quiet reference point—a place for your eyes to rest for a few seconds before you return to the next task.

This guide shows how to choose wall art, canvas art, and wall decor for workplace wellness across offices, home offices, studios, and shared team rooms. You’ll learn what “mindful” design looks like, which themes tend to work well in work settings, how to pick size and format, and where to place pieces so they support focus instead of competing with it.

What mindful design means in a workplace

Mindful design reduces visual friction. In a work room, that often means fewer competing focal points, more breathing room on the wall, and decor choices that help attention stay steady. Instead of filling every surface, mindful spaces use one or two clear anchors and keep the rest calm and functional. Wall art helps because it sets the tone of the room at a glance. When the wall print feels ordered and calm, the room can feel easier to return to—especially during busy stretches.

In shared rooms, mindful artwork can help people settle into a meeting. In personal work zones, a single large wall art piece can support deep work in the morning and a slower pace later in the day. The goal is not to “decorate more,” but to choose pieces that work with the room’s purpose.

How wall art can support daily focus

A visual pause between tasks

Most workdays involve constant switching: tabs, notifications, chat messages, and quick questions. A canvas print placed in your natural line of sight can become a short “pause point” for your eyes. That tiny break—just a few seconds—can help you return to the next task with a steadier head and fewer distractions.

Less screen fatigue

Work rooms that rely on only screens and blank walls can feel sharp after long hours. Paintings, canvas art, and art prints add texture and warmth without adding clutter. For focus-first rooms, choose artwork with clear shapes and controlled detail so your attention stays where you want it. If you share a space with others, a calm piece can also make the room feel less tense during high-pressure days.

A steadier tone for meetings

Meeting rooms need a background that feels welcoming without being loud. One well-placed wall hanging on the main wall can soften the space and help conversations start on an easier note. This is especially helpful for rooms used for interviews, reviews, coaching sessions, and team check-ins—moments when the room’s feel matters.

Theme ideas for mindfulness-friendly wall decor

Start by matching the theme to the purpose of the room. A focus-first space often works best with clean lines and open space. A recovery space—like a lounge—can handle softer forms and gentle scenes. If you’re choosing for a shared work room, aim for themes that feel neutral and welcoming so the piece works well for many people.

  • Nature canvas prints: skies, water, forests, stone, and calm landscapes can support a slower rhythm.
  • Minimalist artwork: simple shapes, clean layouts, and plenty of open wall help keep attention steady.
  • Quiet abstract art prints: layered forms and smooth transitions add interest without visual noise.

If you want a reliable starting point for office walls, explore the Office Wall Art Collection, built around work-friendly themes and layouts.

Color and contrast guidelines for work rooms

Color affects mood, but workplace wellness usually benefits from restraint. In many work rooms, moderate contrast helps wall art stay supportive rather than demanding attention. A practical approach is to choose one main color family for the room, then repeat it across a canvas print, desk accessories, and textiles. This keeps the room feeling organized without turning it into a “designed set.”

For screen-heavy rooms, avoid extremely high-contrast artwork on the wall directly behind a monitor. If the art is behind your desk (as a video-call background), pick a canvas art piece with a clear focal area and enough open space so the background looks clean on camera. If you have multiple screens, choose art that looks good from several angles, not only straight on.

Picking format and size: canvas print vs art print

Canvas print: canvas adds a soft surface and a gallery-like feel. It works well for large wall art in shared areas and for statement pieces behind a desk. Canvas also helps reduce glare compared with glass-covered frames, which can be useful under bright office lighting.

Art print: an art print can be a good fit for shelves, smaller walls, and tidy grouped layouts. If you like rotating room decor through the year, prints can make that easier. Prints also work well in spaces where you may want to change the layout more often, such as studios or flexible coworking rooms.

As a rule of thumb, larger rooms often look best with one main artwork rather than many small items. For narrow spaces such as hallways, a vertical wall print can guide the eye upward and help the area feel more open. For wide walls in a meeting room, a single larger canvas print usually reads cleaner than several scattered frames.

Placement ideas by room

Office walls

Choose one main wall (often the wall you see when you enter). Hang the piece at eye level, and keep nearby surfaces clear so the artwork reads as the anchor. If the room includes multiple desks, place the art where it won’t sit directly behind a monitor to avoid visual competition during deep work.

Home office

Behind the desk works well for video calls, while a side wall works well for personal focus. If your desk faces a wall, place a wall hanging slightly off-center to reduce the feeling of staring into a blank surface. If you have a standing desk, consider the “standing view” as well—your art should still sit comfortably at eye level when you’re upright.

Hallway and entryway

These transition zones set the tone for the day. A calm canvas print here can help you “arrive” before work begins and “switch off” when you leave the room. Keep the area around the piece simple so it reads clearly as you walk past.

Lounge, studio, and gym corners

In a lounge or studio, use softer themes and leave open space around the piece so the room feels less busy. In a small gym corner, a focused artwork can support a steady routine without turning the wall into a collage of posters. The goal is clarity: one strong piece, one clear wall.

Create a mindfulness corner in 10 minutes

  1. Pick one piece. Choose a canvas print or painting you enjoy looking at for more than a few seconds.
  2. Choose one wall. A small corner works fine, but keep the wall uncluttered so the art stays clear.
  3. Add one grounding item. A plant, a lamp with warm light, or a comfortable chair completes the corner without becoming storage.
  4. Set a tiny routine. Use the corner for a 60-second reset between tasks: breathe, look up, and return to work.

Collections that fit workplace wellness

For work rooms that need clean lines and calm structure, browse the Minimalist Wall Art Collection. These pieces work well in meeting rooms, home offices, and shared spaces where you want the background to feel tidy and consistent.

If your goal is a softer mood, nature themes can help. The Nature Wall Art Collection includes landscapes and organic scenes that can pair well with neutral furniture and warm lighting—an easy combination for workplace room decor.

Simple styling recipes for workplace room decor

  • One main piece: use one large canvas art item as the anchor, then keep supporting decor small and consistent.
  • Two-piece balance: place two related art prints side by side with equal spacing for a tidy, structured look.
  • Shelf plus wall: pair a medium wall print with one shelf object (plant, book, small lamp) to avoid overfilling the wall.

Refresh a space without redoing everything

Workplace wellness improves when changes are easy to keep up with. If you want a refresh without moving furniture, start with the wall behind your desk or the main wall in a meeting room. Swap one artwork, then keep everything else stable for a week. If the room feels better, you can add a second piece later. Small, steady updates often work better than a full redesign.

Care tips for canvas art in work environments

  • Dust lightly with a dry, soft cloth.
  • Keep artwork away from direct heat vents.
  • If sunlight hits the wall for many hours, consider a different wall to help reduce fading over time.

FAQs: Workplace wellness wall art

1) What kind of wall art works best for focused work?
Choose artwork with clear shapes, controlled detail, and a calm theme that doesn’t pull attention away from tasks.

2) Should I pick a canvas print or framed art print for an office?
Canvas prints can help reduce glare and work well for large pieces; art prints can be easier for smaller walls and grouped layouts.

3) What size artwork works behind a desk?
Pick a piece that fills a meaningful portion of the wall without touching the desk area; wider desks often look balanced with wider art.

4) Is wall decor useful in meeting rooms?
Yes. One well-placed piece can soften the room and support a calmer tone during discussions.

5) How many pieces should go on one office wall?
Often one main piece is enough. If you use multiple pieces, keep spacing consistent and layouts orderly.

6) What themes fit shared workplaces?
Nature scenes, minimalist designs, and quiet abstract paintings often work well in shared rooms.

7) Can wall art help with screen fatigue?
It can. A visual break point helps your eyes shift distance and reset between tasks.

8) Where should art go in a home office?
Behind the desk for video calls, or on a side wall if you want a calmer background with fewer distractions on screen.

9) What colors should I choose for workplace wellness?
Moderate contrast and softer tones usually work well, especially in screen-heavy rooms.

10) Should I avoid busy patterns?
In focus-first spaces, yes. Busy patterns can compete with attention and make the room feel more active than you want.

11) Can abstract wall art support mindfulness?
Yes, if the piece has controlled shapes and a clear layout that feels steady rather than chaotic.

12) How do I style art for a hallway or entryway?
Use one calm wall print at eye level, then keep nearby surfaces clear so the space feels open.

13) What is the easiest way to start?
Pick one canvas art piece you enjoy daily, place it where you naturally pause, and build from there.

14) Is it better to buy one large piece or several small ones?
For many work rooms, one larger piece keeps the wall cleaner and reduces visual clutter.

15) How do I choose art for a team space?
Choose themes that feel welcoming, keep contrast moderate, and avoid overly personal or loud imagery.

Quick recommendations

  • Start with one focus-friendly canvas print on the main office wall.
  • Keep spacing consistent and nearby surfaces tidy.
  • Use controlled detail in work rooms that rely on screens.
  • Place calm artwork in hallways or entryways to set the tone.
  • Build a small reset corner with art, warm light, and one plant.

More blog topic ideas (17)

  1. How to choose wall art for a home office background on video calls
  2. Canvas print sizing guide for office walls
  3. Nature wall art ideas for break rooms
  4. Minimalist wall decor for small work rooms
  5. How to plan a two-piece wall art layout for meeting rooms
  6. Wall art for hallways in offices: layouts that feel tidy
  7. How to build a quiet corner in a studio with canvas art
  8. Abstract art print ideas for modern office interiors
  9. How to use wall prints to reduce visual clutter
  10. Office wall art for coworking spaces: what to pick and what to skip
  11. How to match wall decor with desk materials and finishes
  12. Wall hangings for entryways: first impressions at work
  13. How to create a consistent look across multiple work rooms
  14. Art placement rules for narrow rooms and corridors
  15. How to refresh an office with one new canvas print
  16. Choosing paintings for studios: keeping focus without distraction
  17. Wall art ideas for lounge areas that support recovery

Keyword set (50)

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Wrap-up

Workplace wellness is built through small decisions that support steady work habits. Wall art is one of the easiest ways to guide the tone of a room without changing how the room functions. Start with one piece, place it where people naturally pause, and let the room settle before you add more.

Work Motivation of University Lecturers: A Narrative Review and Policy-Oriented Synthesis

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What books do you want to read?

Hiếu, P. T. (2026). Work Motivation of University Lecturers: A Narrative Review and Policy-Oriented Synthesis. International Journal of Research, 13(1), 494–507. https://doi.org/10.26643/ijr/2026/24

Phí Thị Hiếu

Associate Professor, Thai Nguyen University of Education, Thai Nguyen, Vietnam

Abstract

This article presents a narrative review of selected literature on work motivation among university lecturers, aiming to synthesize key theoretical perspectives and recurring empirical themes. Drawing on established motivational frameworks, particularly self-determination theory and two-factor theory, the review examines how intrinsic and extrinsic factors interact to influence lecturers’ engagement, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment.

The reviewed literature suggests that intrinsic motivation is frequently identified as an important factor in sustaining lecturers’ long-term engagement and professional dedication. These intrinsic factors are strongly supported by autonomy, perceived competence, collegial relationships, and opportunities for meaningful teaching and research. At the same time, extrinsic conditions, including salary, workload, promotion systems, and employment stability, function as essential foundational factors that shape lecturers’ overall job satisfaction and retention, even if they do not directly generate intrinsic motivation.

The review further highlights the importance of organizational culture, leadership practices, and governance structures in shaping motivational experiences. Several studies suggest that managerialist and performance-driven environments may, in some contexts, be associated with reduced perceptions of autonomy and intrinsic motivation among lecturers. In addition, contemporary higher education reforms emphasizing accountability and performance metrics are shown to have mixed motivational effects, depending on how they are implemented and perceived by academic staff. Overall, the review underscores that lecturers’ work motivation is a multidimensional and context-dependent phenomenon with significant implications for teaching quality, research productivity, and the sustainability of higher education systems. The reviewed literature points to the potential value of higher education policies that take lecturers’ psychological needs into account when designing governance and evaluation mechanisms.

Keywords

Work motivation, academic motivation, university lecturers, higher education

Introduction

Work motivation of university lecturers has been widely recognized as a critical factor influencing the quality of higher education, institutional effectiveness, and the sustainable development of academic systems worldwide. University lecturers play a central role not only in teaching and research but also in curriculum development, academic governance, and community engagement. As higher education systems face increasing pressures related to globalization, digital transformation, accountability, and performance-based evaluation, understanding the factors that motivate lecturers to perform effectively has become an important concern for researchers, educational leaders, and policymakers.

In the context of higher education, work motivation refers to the internal and external forces that initiate, direct, and sustain lecturers’ professional behaviors, including teaching commitment, research productivity, innovation, and engagement with institutional goals. Motivated lecturers are more likely to demonstrate higher levels of job satisfaction, instructional quality, and professional dedication, which in turn positively affect student learning outcomes and institutional reputation. Conversely, low levels of work motivation among academic staff may lead to reduced teaching effectiveness, diminished research output, burnout, and higher turnover intentions.

The literature on work motivation of university lecturers draws on established motivational theories such as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, Herzberg’s two-factor theory, self-determination theory, and expectancy–value theory. These theoretical frameworks have been used to explain how intrinsic factors (e.g., passion for teaching, academic autonomy, professional growth) and extrinsic factors (e.g., salary, promotion opportunities, working conditions, leadership support) interact to shape lecturers’ motivational orientations. In academic settings, intrinsic motivation is often emphasized due to the intellectual and autonomous nature of academic work, yet extrinsic conditions remain crucial for sustaining long-term commitment and performance.

A growing body of empirical studies across different national contexts has explored how lecturers’ work motivation may be influenced by a combination of individual, organizational, and contextual factors. These include institutional policies, workload distribution, research support, evaluation systems, leadership styles, collegial relationships, and opportunities for professional development. In recent years, changes in higher education governance—such as increased performance measurement, publication pressure, and competition for research funding—have significantly reshaped lecturers’ motivational experiences. While some lecturers may feel motivated by clear performance incentives and recognition, others may experience increased stress and reduced autonomy.

In developing and transitional higher education contexts, including Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries, research has highlighted additional challenges related to limited resources, heavy teaching loads, and disparities in career advancement opportunities. These contextual factors may intensify the importance of supportive leadership, fair evaluation systems, and meaningful professional development in sustaining lecturers’ motivation. However, despite a growing body of research, existing findings remain fragmented, and systematic syntheses focusing specifically on university lecturers’ work motivation are still limited.

Therefore, a comprehensive literature review on the work motivation of university lecturers is necessary to consolidate existing evidence, identify dominant research themes, and clarify theoretical and empirical trends in this field. By synthesizing prior studies, such a review can contribute to a deeper understanding of how motivational factors operate within higher education and provide valuable insights for institutional policy and academic management. Ultimately, enhancing lecturers’ work motivation is essential for improving educational quality, fostering innovation, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of higher education institutions.

Materials and Methods

This study employed a narrative literature review approach to critically synthesize influential theoretical and empirical studies relevant to lecturers’ work motivation. The literature was collected primarily from peer-reviewed academic journals, scholarly books, and reputable academic reports focusing on higher education, educational psychology, and human resource management in academic settings. The review included both international and regional studies, with particular attention to empirical research and theoretical frameworks addressing intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and professional engagement among university lecturers.

The selection of literature was guided by the following inclusion criteria: (1) studies explicitly examining work motivation, job motivation, or closely related constructs such as job satisfaction and organizational commitment among university or college lecturers; (2) research grounded in established motivational theories, including self-determination theory and two-factor theory; (3) studies conducted in higher education contexts; and (4) publications considered relevant to contemporary higher education systems and policy environments. Both qualitative and quantitative studies were included to capture a broad range of methodological perspectives.

After the identification and screening process, the selected publications were analyzed using a thematic synthesis approach. The analysis focused on identifying recurring themes and patterns related to motivational factors influencing university lecturers. Specifically, the findings were organized around key thematic dimensions, including intrinsic motivational factors such as professional autonomy and academic identity, extrinsic motivational factors such as salary, promotion, and working conditions, and institutional and policy-related influences such as leadership practices, performance evaluation systems, and professional development opportunities.

The synthesis process involved comparing findings across studies to identify commonalities and divergences, as well as examining how contextual factors such as national higher education policies and institutional characteristics shape lecturers’ motivation. Through this thematic organization, the review aimed to provide an integrated and evidence-based understanding of work motivation among university lecturers, thereby informing future research directions and policy development in higher education.

 

Research Results

Based on the literature selection criteria and the methodological approach outlined in the Materials and Methods section, the reviewed studies provide a comprehensive and multi-layered picture of work motivation among university lecturers. Across diverse higher education systems and institutional contexts, lecturers’ motivation emerges as a complex construct influenced by individual psychological needs, organizational conditions, and broader policy environments. Drawing primarily on self-determination theory and two-factor theory, the findings are synthesized into interrelated thematic domains that collectively explain how and why lecturers experience varying levels of motivation in their academic work.

 

1. Theoretical grounding of lecturers’ work motivation in higher education research

A dominant characteristic of the reviewed literature is its strong grounding in established motivational theories. Self-determination theory is widely used to conceptualize lecturers’ work motivation as a continuum ranging from intrinsic motivation to different forms of extrinsic motivation. Many studies drawing on self-determination theory emphasize autonomy as a key motivational factor in academic work, although the strength of this relationship appears to vary across institutional contexts. Empirical studies demonstrate that autonomy, understood as control over teaching content, research agendas, and professional decision-making, is a central motivational driver for university lecturers. Research grounded in self-determination theory shows that when lecturers perceive high levels of autonomy, they report stronger intrinsic motivation, higher job satisfaction, and greater commitment to their institutions. Conversely, environments characterized by rigid managerial control or excessive administrative regulation tend to frustrate autonomy needs, resulting in diminished motivation.

Two-factor theory provides a complementary perspective by distinguishing between intrinsic motivators related to the nature of academic work itself and extrinsic or hygiene factors associated with employment conditions. The reviewed studies consistently support Herzberg’s distinction, showing that intrinsic factors such as intellectual challenge, recognition, and opportunities for academic achievement play a crucial role in sustaining long-term motivation. At the same time, inadequate hygiene factors—such as low salary, job insecurity, or heavy workloads—do not necessarily motivate when present but can significantly demotivate when absent.

Qualitative research deepens these theoretical insights by illustrating how lecturers interpret motivation through their professional identities. Interviews and narrative studies reveal that many lecturers view teaching and research not merely as occupational tasks but as vocations aligned with personal values and social responsibilities. These findings reinforce theoretical models that conceptualize academic motivation as value-driven and meaning-oriented rather than purely instrumental.

 

2. Intrinsic motivational factors in academic work

Across the reviewed literature, intrinsic motivation consistently emerges as a central component of lecturers’ engagement and persistence in higher education. Studies examining intrinsic motivation highlight factors such as enjoyment of teaching, intellectual curiosity, commitment to knowledge creation, and satisfaction derived from mentoring students. These intrinsic drivers are frequently identified as more stable and enduring than extrinsic incentives.

Research grounded in self-determination theory demonstrates that intrinsic motivation among lecturers is strongly associated with perceived competence. Lecturers who feel capable of delivering high-quality teaching, conducting meaningful research, and contributing to academic communities report higher levels of motivation and professional fulfillment. Opportunities for professional development, research collaboration, and academic recognition are therefore frequently cited as key conditions supporting intrinsic motivation.

Several qualitative studies further show that intrinsic motivation is closely linked to lecturers’ perceptions of the social value of their work. Lecturers often describe motivation in terms of contributing to student development, advancing societal knowledge, or addressing local and global challenges. This sense of purpose reinforces sustained engagement, even in contexts where extrinsic rewards are limited.

However, the literature also indicates that intrinsic motivation is vulnerable to erosion when institutional conditions undermine autonomy or overload lecturers with administrative tasks. Studies report that increasing bureaucratic demands and performance pressures can reduce the time and energy available for intrinsically rewarding activities such as teaching innovation and research, thereby weakening motivation over time.

 

3. Extrinsic motivational factors, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment

In addition to intrinsic factors, extrinsic motivators play a significant role in shaping lecturers’ work motivation, particularly through their influence on job satisfaction and organizational commitment. Quantitative studies frequently examine salary, promotion systems, workload distribution, and employment stability as key predictors of motivation-related outcomes.

The reviewed literature indicates that fair and transparent reward systems contribute positively to lecturers’ job satisfaction. While salary alone is rarely identified as a primary motivator, inadequate compensation relative to workload and expectations is consistently associated with dissatisfaction and reduced commitment. Promotion opportunities and recognition of academic achievements are similarly important, particularly for early- and mid-career lecturers seeking career progression.

Organizational commitment emerges as a closely related construct in many studies. Lecturers who perceive institutional support, fairness, and recognition tend to report stronger affective commitment and a greater willingness to invest effort in teaching and research. Conversely, perceptions of inequity, opaque evaluation criteria, or unstable employment conditions are associated with lower commitment and higher turnover intentions.

Importantly, the literature emphasizes that extrinsic factors interact with intrinsic motivation rather than replacing it. Supportive extrinsic conditions can create an environment in which intrinsic motivation flourishes, whereas poor working conditions can undermine even highly motivated lecturers. This interaction aligns with theoretical arguments that motivation in academic work is best understood as a combination of internal drives and external supports.

 

4. Organizational culture, leadership, and institutional governance

A substantial portion of the reviewed studies situates lecturers’ motivation within organizational contexts, highlighting the role of institutional culture, leadership styles, and governance structures. Research consistently demonstrates that collegial and participatory organizational cultures are positively associated with higher levels of motivation and job satisfaction among lecturers.

Studies examining leadership practices find that supportive and transformational leadership styles foster motivation by recognizing academic contributions, encouraging professional autonomy, and facilitating collaboration. Leaders who engage lecturers in decision-making processes contribute to a sense of ownership and shared responsibility, which enhances both intrinsic motivation and organizational commitment.

In contrast, studies report that managerialist governance models emphasizing performance metrics, accountability, and competition may negatively affect lecturers’ motivation. When evaluation systems are perceived as overly quantitative or misaligned with academic values, lecturers often experience increased stress and reduced intrinsic motivation. These findings suggest that governance structures play a critical mediating role between policy demands and individual motivational experiences.

Qualitative evidence further reveals that organizational culture influences how lecturers interpret institutional expectations. In supportive environments, lecturers are more likely to view performance requirements as opportunities for growth, whereas in unsupportive contexts, similar requirements may be perceived as controlling or demotivating.

 

5. Policy environments and systemic influences on lecturers’ motivation

Beyond organizational factors, the reviewed literature highlights the significant impact of national and institutional policy environments on lecturers’ motivation. Higher education reforms related to funding, accountability, and labor markets are frequently examined in relation to academic work motivation.

Studies document that performance-based funding models and publication-driven evaluation systems can alter motivational orientations among lecturers. While some lecturers respond positively to performance incentives, others experience heightened pressure and diminished intrinsic motivation, particularly when evaluation criteria prioritize quantity over quality.

Job insecurity emerges as a recurring theme in policy-related research. Studies focusing on contract-based employment and casualization report negative effects on motivation, job satisfaction, and long-term commitment. Lecturers facing uncertain employment conditions often adopt extrinsically driven motivational strategies focused on short-term survival rather than long-term academic development.

At the same time, policy environments that support academic freedom, stable employment, and investment in professional development are associated with more sustainable motivational patterns. These findings underscore the importance of aligning higher education policies with motivational principles that support both individual well-being and institutional quality.

 

6. Variations in motivation across career stages and institutional contexts

The reviewed studies reveal systematic variations in work motivation across career stages, institutional types, and national contexts. Early-career lecturers often emphasize extrinsic concerns such as job security, mentorship, and promotion opportunities, reflecting their transitional position within academic labor markets.

Mid-career lecturers tend to focus on balancing teaching, research, and service demands, with motivation shaped by workload management and recognition of achievements. Senior academics, in contrast, frequently prioritize autonomy, leadership roles, and opportunities to influence institutional directions.

Cross-institutional comparisons indicate that resource availability and institutional mission significantly shape motivational experiences. Research-intensive universities often provide stronger research-related motivators, while teaching-oriented institutions may emphasize pedagogical engagement. Cross-national studies further show that motivational patterns are influenced by cultural norms, policy stability, and economic conditions.

These variations highlight the importance of contextualized approaches to understanding and supporting lecturers’ motivation rather than relying on one-size-fits-all strategies.

 

7. Consequences of lecturers’ work motivation for individual and institutional outcomes

Finally, the literature consistently documents the consequences of lecturers’ motivation for both individual performance and institutional effectiveness. High levels of motivation are associated with greater teaching quality, research productivity, innovation in pedagogy, and engagement in academic service.

Conversely, low motivation is linked to burnout, emotional exhaustion, and intentions to leave the profession. Several studies suggest that sustained motivational decline can undermine institutional capacity by reducing staff retention and weakening academic communities.

By integrating findings across theoretical frameworks, methodologies, and contexts, the reviewed literature demonstrates that lecturers’ work motivation is a critical mechanism through which organizational practices and policy decisions influence higher education quality.

 

Discussion

The present review highlights that lecturers’ work motivation in higher education is not solely an individual psychological phenomenon but is deeply embedded in institutional practices and policy frameworks. By synthesizing findings across studies grounded in self-determination theory and two-factor theory, this discussion connects each major result theme to implications for higher education policy, governance, and management.

First, the strong theoretical grounding of lecturers’ motivation in self-determination theory and two-factor theory has important policy implications. The consistent emphasis on autonomy, competence, and relatedness suggests that higher education policies should move beyond narrow performance management approaches and explicitly support lecturers’ psychological needs. Policies that increase administrative control, impose rigid accountability mechanisms, or standardize academic work without regard for disciplinary diversity may unintentionally undermine intrinsic motivation. From a policy perspective, this implies that national and institutional frameworks should preserve academic freedom, allow flexibility in teaching and research design, and recognize the professional judgment of lecturers as a core principle of quality assurance in higher education.

Second, the prominence of intrinsic motivational factors such as intellectual engagement, enjoyment of teaching, and commitment to knowledge creation underscores the need for policies that protect the core academic mission. The results indicate that lecturers are most motivated when they can focus on meaningful teaching and research activities rather than excessive administrative tasks. Higher education policies that overload lecturers with reporting requirements or prioritize short-term output indicators risk eroding intrinsic motivation over time. Therefore, policy reforms should aim to streamline administrative processes, reduce unnecessary bureaucratic burdens, and create institutional conditions that allow lecturers to invest time and energy in pedagogically and intellectually rewarding work.

Third, findings related to extrinsic motivational factors, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment highlight the importance of fair and transparent employment policies. While salary and material rewards alone do not guarantee high motivation, inadequate compensation, unclear promotion pathways, and insecure employment conditions consistently undermine lecturers’ commitment. This has direct implications for higher education labor policies, particularly in systems experiencing increasing casualization and contract-based employment. Policies that ensure reasonable workload allocation, transparent evaluation criteria, and stable career pathways are essential not only for staff well-being but also for institutional sustainability and educational quality.

Fourth, the role of organizational culture, leadership, and governance revealed in the results points to the significance of institutional-level policy implementation. Even well-designed national policies may fail to support motivation if institutional leadership adopts overly managerial or control-oriented practices. The reviewed studies suggest that participatory governance, collegial decision-making, and supportive leadership styles are critical for sustaining lecturers’ motivation. From a policy perspective, this implies that leadership development and governance reform should be integral components of higher education policy, with explicit attention to fostering trust, recognition, and professional respect within academic institutions.

Fifth, the influence of broader policy environments on lecturers’ motivation highlights tensions between accountability-driven reforms and academic values. Performance-based funding, publication pressure, and metric-oriented evaluation systems may incentivize productivity but can also generate stress and reduce intrinsic motivation, particularly when quality and context are overlooked. These findings suggest that higher education policies should adopt more balanced evaluation frameworks that combine quantitative indicators with qualitative assessments of teaching, research, and service. Policymakers should be cautious about relying exclusively on competitive performance metrics and consider their long-term motivational and professional consequences.

Sixth, variations in motivation across career stages and institutional contexts indicate that uniform policy solutions are unlikely to be effective. Early-career lecturers, for example, are particularly sensitive to job security and mentorship opportunities, while senior academics value autonomy and opportunities for leadership. Higher education policies should therefore be differentiated and flexible, providing targeted support for different career stages and institutional missions. Such differentiation can help align policy interventions with lecturers’ evolving motivational needs and professional trajectories.

Finally, the documented consequences of lecturers’ motivation for teaching quality, research productivity, and staff retention emphasize the strategic importance of motivation as a policy concern. Low motivation and burnout are not merely individual problems but systemic risks that can undermine institutional capacity and educational outcomes. From a policy standpoint, investing in supportive working conditions, professional development, and psychologically informed management practices should be viewed as long-term investments in higher education quality rather than short-term costs.

Overall, this discussion reinforces the idea that lecturers’ work motivation is a critical link between higher education policy and educational outcomes. Policies that align with established motivational theories and respect the professional nature of academic work are more likely to foster sustained engagement, innovation, and commitment among university lecturers. Conversely, policies that neglect psychological and organizational dimensions of motivation risk weakening the very human resources on which higher education systems depend.

 

Conclusion and Policy Implications

Conclusion

This review highlights lecturers’ work motivation as an important analytical lens for understanding how organizational practices and policy environments may influence academic engagement and institutional outcomes.

Overall, the reviewed literature indicates that intrinsic motivation—such as enjoyment of teaching, intellectual fulfillment, and commitment to academic values—plays a central role in sustaining lecturers’ engagement and professional dedication. These intrinsic factors are strongly influenced by lecturers’ perceptions of autonomy, competence, and relatedness, as well as by opportunities for meaningful teaching, research, and academic contribution. At the same time, extrinsic factors, including salary, promotion systems, workload, and employment stability, remain essential baseline conditions. While these factors may not directly generate high levels of intrinsic motivation, their absence consistently undermines job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and long-term retention.

The review also highlights the critical role of organizational culture and leadership in shaping lecturers’ motivational experiences. Supportive leadership, participatory governance, and collegial decision-making are associated with higher motivation and stronger professional commitment, whereas overly managerial, metric-driven, or control-oriented environments tend to weaken intrinsic motivation and increase stress and disengagement. These findings underscore that lecturers’ motivation cannot be understood or addressed in isolation from broader institutional practices and governance structures.

Furthermore, the reviewed studies suggest that contemporary higher education reforms—particularly those emphasizing accountability, performance measurement, and competition—have ambiguous effects on lecturers’ motivation. While such reforms may enhance productivity in the short term, they risk narrowing academic work, intensifying pressure, and diminishing intrinsic motivation if not carefully balanced with academic values and professional autonomy. The evidence also indicates that motivational needs vary across career stages and institutional contexts, suggesting that uniform policy approaches are unlikely to be effective.

Taken together, the findings confirm that lecturers’ work motivation is not merely an individual concern but a systemic issue with direct implications for teaching quality, research productivity, institutional stability, and the overall effectiveness of higher education systems.

 

Policy Implications

The findings of this review have several important implications for higher education policy and institutional practice.

First, higher education policies should explicitly recognize lecturers’ motivation as a central component of educational quality and institutional sustainability. Policymakers should move beyond narrowly defined performance indicators and incorporate psychological and organizational dimensions into policy design. This includes protecting academic autonomy, supporting intellectual freedom, and ensuring that accountability mechanisms do not undermine intrinsic motivation.

Second, employment and human resource policies in higher education should prioritize fairness, transparency, and stability. Clear promotion criteria, reasonable workload allocation, and secure career pathways are essential for sustaining lecturers’ job satisfaction and organizational commitment. In contexts where short-term contracts and performance-based employment are expanding, policymakers should carefully assess the long-term motivational and professional consequences of such practices.

Third, institutional governance and leadership development should be a policy priority. Universities should be encouraged to adopt participatory governance models that involve lecturers in decision-making processes affecting teaching, research, and working conditions. Leadership training programs should emphasize supportive, trust-based management approaches that align institutional goals with lecturers’ professional values.

Fourth, policy frameworks should support differentiated and flexible approaches to motivation across career stages. Early-career lecturers may benefit from mentorship, job security, and clear developmental pathways, while mid- and late-career academics may value autonomy, recognition, and leadership opportunities. Policies that acknowledge these differences are more likely to foster sustained motivation across the academic lifespan.

Finally, future higher education policies should adopt a long-term perspective on academic work. Investing in lecturers’ motivation—through supportive working environments, professional development opportunities, and psychologically informed management practices—should be viewed as a strategic investment rather than a cost. Such investments are essential for maintaining high-quality teaching, advancing research, and ensuring the resilience and adaptability of higher education systems in an increasingly complex policy environment.

In conclusion, this review underscores that effective higher education policy must be grounded not only in structural and economic considerations but also in a deep understanding of lecturers’ motivational processes. Aligning policy design with established motivational theories and empirical evidence offers a pathway to strengthening academic engagement, institutional effectiveness, and the long-term sustainability of higher education.

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Prospects of Geographic Information System and Multi-Source Data Integration in Enhancing the Accuracy of Above-Ground Biomass and Carbon Stocks Estimation

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Citation

Omali, T. U., Akpata, S. B. M., & Onyevu, R. O. (2026). Prospects of Geographic Information System and Multi-Source Data Integration in Enhancing the Accuracy of Above-Ground Biomass and Carbon Stocks Estimation. International Journal of Research, 13(1), 484–492. https://doi.org/10.26643/ijr/2026/23

Omali, Thomas Ugbedeojo (PhD)1*; Akpata, Sylvester Balm Mifue2 (PhD);

Onyevu, Rosemary Onyinye (MSc.)3

1National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), Abuja, Nigeria.

2Department of Geoinformatics and Surveying, University of Abuja, Nigeria

3Department of Geoinformatics and Surveying, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.

Corresponding Author’s Email Id: t.omali@yahoo.com

Abstract

Evaluating Above-Ground Biomass (AGB) accurately and the successive calculation of carbon stocks are fundamental process for understanding the global carbon cycle, climate change mitigation and sustainable forest management. The traditional field-based methods for AGB and carbon stocks assessment is effective; but then, they involve more cost, time, and they are not scalable to a large area. Thus, the utilization of cutting-edge technology to support the conventional approach is expedient. This study is a mini review that discuss the prospects of Geographic Information System (GIS) and the need to integrate various data in evaluating AGB and carbon stocks. First, literature search was conducted based on which relevant and quality published articles were selected and used to discuss the topic. The result signifies that the spatially explicit GIS-based techniques can be used to create georeferenced estimates of AGB, and carbon sink/stock potential. Also, data from different sources has their unique advantages and drawbacks, which can affect the accuracy of AGB and carbon stocks assessment. However, integrating these data has proven to be highly efficient. Summarily, GIS provides the essential platform for acquiring, integrating, analyzing, and visualizing diverse data sources. This enables the creation of spatially continuous and accurate map of AGB and carbon stocks across landscapes, regions and continents.

Keywords: Above-Ground Biomass, Activity Data, Carbon Sequestration, forests, GIS, REDD+

  1. Introduction

The tropical forests are generally characterized by high biomass and carbon content, which makes them to have huge influence on the global carbon cycle. They have unlimited potential for mitigating carbon dioxide (CO2) emission through suitable conservation and management. On the other hand, deforestation alone is responsible for approximately 12% of the global human-induced emissions of greenhouse gas (GHG) and peat oxidation while fires on degraded peat lands causes another 6% [1]. Also, 10–25% of global emissions resulting from anthropological activities are linked to combined impact of logging and forest re-growth on abandoned land [2,3]. The significance of deforestation in global carbon cycle is apparent. This gave rise to the Bali Action Plan agreed on enhancement of national/international action on climate change mitigation. This includes inter alia, consideration of policy approaches and payment with regards to reducing forest-related emissions in developing nations [4].

The forest biome is a massive carbon pool that can diminish emissions of net GHG through reduction of sources that enhance sinks of CO2 [5, 6]. Precise spatial and temporal evidence of the existing condition of carbon sources and sinks is required for policy formulation to mitigate greenhouse effects [7]. Monitoring biomass and carbon stocks accurately can now be achieved, thanks to increasingly available of fine resolution and large spatial geographically referenced data. Also, the data can be used to make models that establish the relationship between biomass and their drivers can be used to estimate biomass and carbon at global level. So far, there are many GIS-based spatially explicit approaches for spatiotemporal estimation of carbon sink and stock [8,9]. GIS is a typical processing and visualization tool [9,10]. Nevertheless, much of the existing studies on estimation of terrestrial carbon sequestration and land-use spatial planning have not integrate process-based models with GIS [11].

Mapping and quantifying the tropical AGB is essential in the estimation of carbon dynamics resulting from the modification in LCLU [12]. Though site-specific estimates of AGB based on various modelling is common practice, pan-tropical or global estimates are developed through the combination of ground inventories and remotely sensed forest data. For instance, Saatchi et al. [13] mapped the pan-tropical live biomass at 1-km spatial resolution in 2011. They used a wide-ranging inventory data from 4,079 plots and many remote sensing techniques (optical, microwave and LiDAR sensors). It was revealed that the total of 247 PgC woody biomass was stored in the tropical vegetation. In this, AGB contributed 78% of carbon stocks while 22% of carbon stocks was from below ground biomass. An improved map of the pan-tropical AGB at 500m resolution emerged in 2012 as a result of additional work. The integrated data to create this map were from field inventories, 70 meters resolution LiDAR, and 500 meters resolution MODIS images [12]. Similar to this, Kanja, Zhang, and Atkinson [14] evaluated the capacity to map the AGB of Zambia’s Miombo woodlands using data from Landsat-8 OLI, Sentinel-1A, and extensive national forest inventory.

  • Methodology

This review discussed Geographic Information System and multi-source data integration for enhancing the accuracy of above-ground biomass and carbon stocks estimation. Relevant materials used consisted of research articles availed from reputable electronic databases including Web of Science and Scopus. Apart from research articles, grey literatures were equally cited in this paper. The main search for information on the review topic was conducted from September 2025 to November 2025.

  • Results and Discussion
    • Role of Geographic Information System for AGB and Carbon Stocks Estimation

A Geographic Information System is a computer-based tool for storing, retrieving, modifying, analysing, and displaying georeferenced data. It is an automated mapping and analysis system, which depends on data that are related to the geographic location of physical entities, and activities. Its intention is to locate and describe places on the Earth’s surface.

GIS data can be used for spatiotemporal monitoring of Land use and Land cover (LULC). LULC and LULC change are used as Activity Data (AD) in carbon stocks assessment. LULC is responsible for approximately 10 percent of global greenhouse gas [15]. According to Yadav [16], the boundaries of LULC classes from satellite-based analysis are typically transferred to a map to create mapping units. These units can then be digitally transformed into a GIS environment to create a vector polygon map. It is noteworthy that GIS is a spatial platform for creating data layers and databases. Apart from accurate and effective management of features [17] such as forests, GIS can be used to easily create spatial models for simulating various situations.

Additionally, georeferenced estimates of carbon sink and stock potential can be produced using spatially explicit GIS-based methods. The GIS is typically used for processing model inputs (e.g., soil texture, land cover) and visualizing the outcomes. For instance, Fatoyinbo and Simard [18] used GIS to combine height data from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) and spatial coverage of the mangrove generated from Landsat imagery with the intention of computing Africa biomass of mangroves. Furthermore, Malysheva et al. [19] studied the GIS-based assessment of carbon dynamics for Russian forests. In another study, Kehbila et al. [20] carried out a comparative multi-criteria evaluation of Cameroonia’s sustainable development plans and climate policies to create a GIS decision-support tool for the creation of the best possible REDD+ plan.

It is good to note that carbon sequestration provides a major economic value of the ecosystem. Thus, it has become an essential tool for application by United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in REDD+ programme. Generally, the financial estimation of forest environment services is significant because it assigns an amount on nature. This estimation can correspondingly serve the purpose of guiding climate change policy-makers and decision-makers [21]. The core of REDD+ initiative is the delivery of financial reward to developing nations for keeping carbon stored in their natural forests. The economic worth of carbon sink and stock of forest environment can be mapped and quantified in a GIS environment. In this case, GIS is used for developing database, executing spatial analysis and mapping economic worth. The appraisal process used to determine and monetize the amount of carbon stock and carbon sequestered was measured and validated by Pache et al. [22]. This was accomplished through combination of terrestrial scanning, and monetary valuation to display the sequestered carbon’s spatiotemporal market value

The ground-based field measurements are the most accurate methods for biomass assessment. It is used to obtain precise data on tree for creating allometric models for computing AGB [23]. But field measurements are possible only on a limited number of points at the sample plot scale. Also, their sampling density are insufficient to afford the requisite spatial variability; and it is usually hard to sample large areas [24]. The ground-based field measurements are also costly, time consuming, and labour intensive [25]. Remote Sensing technology is thus adopted for collecting data or for large-scale mapping and monitoring of various entities such as forest AGB, vegetation structure, vegetation productivity and others [26]. However, remote sensing application has its own associated issues.

By and large, three of the key data sources that are currently being employed for forest AGB mapping and assessment include ground surveys, satellite imagery, and LiDAR. Of course, each data source has its advantages and disadvantages [27]. Thus, the combination many data from various sources can help in analyses of variables that cover a large extent. Integrating multisource data including satellite imagery into a GIS is a potential method for producing spatially-explicit estimates of AGB across a large extent. The majority of current forest estimating research has shown higher accuracy and capacity over a wide area by merging multisource remote sensing data [28]. For example, Forkuor et al. [29] mapped the forest Above-ground biomass by combining Sentinel-1 (S1) and Sentinel-2 (S2) with derivative data. Ma et al. [30] used PALSAR-2 and topographic data to predict AGB in China. Tariq, Shu, Li, et al. [31] effectively analyzed prescribed forest burning and showed Using S1 data.

Many types of satellite data can be used to estimate forest biomass [32] with each type characterized by its advantages and disadvantages. For example, optical sensors were primarily used for forest remote sensing [33]. Although optical data are commonly employed in AGB estimation, their general use is constrained by data saturation issues in places with high vegetation biomass or canopy density, and regular cloud cover. The data from Radar may flow through forest canopies and clouds, unlike passive optical systems [34], however it is impacted by signal saturation [35]. Furthermore, LiDAR data can record a forest’s vertical structure in great detail, hence, it is an excellent substitute for optical and radar data. The 3D data provided by LiDAR is closely linked to forest biomass [36].

  • Conclusion and Future Scope

In this paper, we reviewed the application of Geographic Information System, and the significance of data integration in appraising above-ground biomass and carbon stocks. It has been demonstrated in this study that spatially explicit GIS techniques can be used to create georeferenced estimates of AGB, and carbon sink/stock prospects. With GIS, it is easy to process model inputs and also visualize the results. A GIS decision-support tool for creating the best possible REDD+ plan is available through the GIS-based evaluation. Also, many data sources available for mapping and estimation of AGB and carbon stocks has their unique pros and cons. Therefore, integrating them will normally produce highly accurate result.

Finally, there is likelihood that spatially precise outlines of the worth regarding forest carbon sink and stock may soon require at various scales. Thus, be mapped using GIS techniques can be used to map the forest ecosystem and its values. Of course, this will provide managers with a foundation for identifying which areas need additional focus.

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Destruction of Surface Water Bodies in Ghana and Theological Implications on Christianity and Christians in Ghana and Worldwide

Daily writing prompt
Write about a few of your favorite family traditions.

CITATION

Danquah, I. O. (2026). Destruction of Surface Water Bodies in Ghana and Theological Implications on Christianity and Christians in Ghana and Worldwide. International Journal of Research, 13(1), 453–466. https://doi.org/10.26643/ijr/2026/19

Isaac Odoi Danquah

diok1982@yahoo.com

Water Resources Engineer, Goldrain Mountain Company Limited, Koforidua, Eastern Region, Ghana.

ABSTRACT

The great commission task by Jesus Christ unto his disciples is to go out into the world and spread the good news (gospel). Then for anyone who has believed and accepted the message of salvation is to be baptized with flowing water into the kingdom of God. This is comparable to his baptism by John the Baptist in River Jordan (flowing river). Looking at the destruction and contamination of almost all water bodies in Ghana, what proves that the parameter of baptism in a flowing water is being fulfilled in this current church generation in Ghana? If baptism can even be possible, what proves it’s unto cleanliness, holiness, righteousness and perfection upon the level of contaminated water. Anyone who gets baptized in such a water body or river will be coming out of the water with sands, sediments, waste, and contaminants around the body or clothing used during the process. Still at the point of spiritual ungodliness or spiritual uncleanliness. This is basically the reason for this research work in Ghana.  The accomplishment of the great commission objective is in totality when the baptism component is completed. But looking at the rate of illegal gold mining and resultant destruction of surface water bodies makes Christianity for this current generation a problem in Ghana. Baptism should be done with flowing water/river comparable to River Jordan in Jesus days or time but is now done in water baths sited at mission houses and around church buildings. This is coupled with sunflower oil, coconut oil, olive oil etc. anointing parameters resulting in some level of questionable biblical acts. These water bodies’ needs to be treated in order to obtain a clean pure quality surface water body. These will be comparable to the attributes, features and characteristics of River Jordan and of the Holy Ghost for water baptism and Holy Ghost baptism respectively.  This is the only means to obtain quality human gold products through Christianity and Christian growth from childhood to the status of a priest or Apostle of the gospel.  Because it’s after not looking at the right, left, north or south and upon going through all the torchers of life and the agonies in life. It is also after all the test for stress, strains, standing strong and defending the faith will one be seen well refined like a gold bar or gold material unto honor and greatness in every regard and in the vineyard of God.

Keywords: God, Gold, Water, Baptism, Christians, Christianity, flowing, Commission, Theological, righteousness, River, Jordan.      

  1. INTRODUCTION

From biblical backgrounds and theology, Jesus was baptized in River Jordan which is a flowing River or flowing water. If we Christians are to work in the vineyard of God by obeying all rules, regulations, stipulations and go by the doctrines of the Bible? Then baptism after hearing the message about the good news and accepting Christ as Lord and personal saviour should be in a flowing river or flowing water body. But most current churches in Ghana are embarking on this water baptisms in water baths mounted around church buildings or in mission houses. The book of Luke chapter 3 recounts on the history of water baptism in flowing River Jordan in the Bible and the need for investigations and Justifications. Jesus is the living water and anyone who is thirsty can drink and be filled and have an eternal life. And so it is, where one makes good use of water to quench thirst and have a peace of mind during troubling, bubbling and hustling times. From the Dublin principles (Moriarty et. al., 2000), water as economic good is of great importance unto all mankind on planet earth per the usage and controlling ability of activities in the body. From the Biblical background and creation, there is no way one can substitute a drink or alcohol in the place of water hence the importance of water in the nourishment of the body and as cleansing agent used during baptism unto righteousness, holiness, beauty and perfections in Christianity and in the Christendom. Most baptism in churches in Ghana are done in water baths situated in church mission houses and those mounted around church buildings or vantage points meant for the purpose of baptism. Church leaders does this with associated anointing oils dropped into the water and so on. Is this process of baptism unto righteousness, perfection, holiness, good Christian faith and walk with Christ in water baths really meeting the great commission task by Jesus Christ? Or a new world of Christians and men of God generated to move the world to another level. That is a revolution of a new faith undercover as Christians or a devilish movement purposely with a destruction creating power ability and motive? In all situations or dispensations, water is needed in its finest and purest state to meet a purpose. Either for drinking, irrigation, for washing, hydropower generation, factory operation; water is needed in clean state. Hydropower generation depends solely on water passing through turbines under high speeds and pressure to run turbines and generate electricity. Such water need to pass through turbines in its finest or purest state to meet this purpose. If not and is contaminated, there will be clogging and rusting of turbines and generating of the energy demands will never be met. The movement of turbines under high pressures and speeds will even be a problem and that touch to generate the electricity (energy) will not be fulfilled. It is therefore a requirement that all water to be used needs to be in a clean state to meet daily demands in every regard. But illegal gold mining business in Ghana and its regions has and still destroying water bodies to a greater extent. As the various water bodies and rivers in Ghana were meeting physical demands; for irrigation, drinking, washing, hydropower generation, factory manufacturing, feeding animals, cooking, etc, spiritual demands were also being met through baptism in this water bodies and rivers. And river Birim and Supong at Osino and Nsutam are good examples. But this is not the case or the situation at hand in 2025 as most surface water bodies in Ghana have been destroyed through illegal gold mining activities and businesses in Ghana. The illegal gold mining activities has resulted in the destruction of land resources, forest reserves, vegetation’s, river bodies, vegetation’s, crops, plants and so on. And this is alarming and the need to address all issues associated with the destroyed water bodies towards meeting future water demands both physically and spiritually in Ghana and worldwide.

Desert and wilderness generations begins here when such destruction minded creations are embarked or generated. And this is the situation in the Eastern Region of Ghana where water and a lot of natural resources have been destroyed to a larger extent. And the need to look at it with critical mindset, eagle eyes, motive and worked assiduously on it in order to salvage situation and generate a world that will be beneficial to all mankind and serve future generations. If such a process breaks the hydrological cycle in the southern part of Ghana comparable to what is happening in the northern part of Ghana, then there will be water crises in the Eastern part of Ghana comparable to the northern region during the mean rainfall regimes. This is basically some of the major parameters or points this research work is investigating for answers and justifications. As to whether this process of illegal gold mining and world generation should continue towards desert creation (creation unto destruction) or full rainfall regime creation (creation unto salvation) where there will be water to meet various physical demands and spiritual demands. Creation is unto salvation and destruction is unto extinction and therefore if all surface water bodies are being destroyed at that fast rate. Then there can be a generation that will live in complete wilderness full of suffering and no water to even quench their thirst. Because the hydrological cycle seen as a complete system comprising of connection or linkage between three sources of water will not be there and hence a break in the cycle.

2          RESEARCH AREA

The study area for this research work is the whole of the southern and northern part of Ghana. But the major point of call for better assessment, scenario generation, results, modelling and output identification and justification is at Nsutam in the Eastern Region of Ghana. The people of Nsutam are involved in gold mining, farming and trading activities. Some of the farm products produced includes coconut, cocoa, plantain, yam, cassava, sugar cane and all kinds of vegetables produced during the farming seasons. The huge amount of gold discovered in the community has resulted in all kinds of illegal gold mining activities destroying water bodies, forest reserves and lands. The community has a population of about 7000 (2021 population census) with the majority being immigrants due to the gold mining business. Linda Dor at Bunso and Paradise Tourist rest stops operates in the community. The destroyed lands needs reclamation process in order to restore the infertile lands back as more fertile rich soils which will support plant growth in order to support the hydrological cycle, exchanges of oxygen and carbon dioxide between man and plants. Restoration of the degraded lands will also promote afforestation and wildlife existence for now and future generation. It will also promote tourist attraction when vegetation’s are groomed and protected with the existence of wildlife’s. That will be generation of a natural canopy for various activities such as for weddings, parties and funerals. Such interventions will also lead to the generation of Eco parks and tourist sites like Bunso Eco Park in the Eastern Region of Ghana. Fig 1 below is a view of the study area in the Eastern Region of Ghana where coconut is in mild production to boost livelihoods within the community.

Fig. 1: Map of Fanteakwa south district

3          RESEARCH FOCAL DIMENSIONS

3.1      WATER CONCEPTS FROM PHYSICAL BACKGROUNDS

3.1.1    Surface Water Bodies and their Functionality

The defined three sources of water; water below, water on the land surface and water above the earth are all contributing to the importance of the hydrological cycle and its sustenance. Ghana as a country is benefiting in this regard as all the three sources of water that is surface water, ground water and precipitation from above are contributing to water availability in Ghana all year round. With focus on surface water bodies in Ghana, they are of different types; springs, streams, rivers, wells etc. Some good examples includes river Densu, river Ankobra, Barekese, River Birim, Supong etc and all these rivers are comparable to river Jordan from biblical backgrounds. They are all flowing rivers and water bodies. As all these surface water bodies serves the purpose of meeting water needs both for physical means and spiritual means. Physical demands includes for drinking, irrigation, hydropower generation, washing, cooling, cooking, bathing and so on. For meeting spiritual demands includes for baptism and for embarking on most of the physical demands and needs towards cleanliness in every regard before encounter with the divine God. Before holiness without cleanliness is nothing to talk about and during creation, God did all kinds of groupings and classifications all towards piety, beauty and edification. So it’s of utmost importance that surface water bodies in Ghana gets treated and purified to a higher degree in meeting various kinds of demands. Even though surface water hasn’t been obtained in its finest state of purity to serve Ghana both in meeting physical demands and spiritual demands, that surface water has been used to meet demands in that regard over the years. But the rampant illegal gold mining activities in Ghana has destroyed most of these surface water bodies. The illegal miners have created different kinds of water course of direction for waters downstream after illegal gold mining on water bodies. These newly created course of direction or channels for the water bodies lacks adequate capacity and is very bad. If evaporation becomes high with huge amount of water being loss on daily basis, it will result in the extinction of most of these water bodies. This is a special case on River Birim and River Supong at Nsutam in the Eastern Region of Ghana. It’s this very same water that was meeting daily water demands at Nsutam, Bunso, Osino and its environs for all in the past Fanteakwa district of Ghana with Begoro as the district capital.

3.1.2    Illegal Gold Mining and Impacts on Surface Water Bodies

Gold as a resource is a precious mineral that is being sort for by all towards enrichment and greatness height attainment in Ghana. But gold is based on perception and is view point oriented. International gold mining companies like AngloGold, Newmont, Persus Mines, Bogoso mines, Tarkwa mines etc are constantly making use of standard operating procedures in order to access the resource. While they make use of standard operating procedures to access the mineral gold underground or through surface mining, natural resources (water bodies, forest, land, vegetation’s etc) are protected for the goodwill of mankind in all gold mining communities in Ghana.

This is not same for illegal gold miners who are also fighting for that rich great height in life. They make use of all kinds of means in order to access the mineral gold. This has resulted in the destruction of surface water bodies and is very bad. All kinds of dredging is done in the river leaving rivers like River Birim and River Supong highly polluted and contaminated. This has generated all kinds of high turbid and highly Sediment Rivers high in sand and low in gravels at the bottom of the river. Such a high turbid and sediment river or water body is low in oxygen and does not support aquatic existence and survival. With a lot of stones and gravels in the river, the life span of the river is high compared to a highly sediment river. Once the river is full of sand or sediment and evaporation becomes high during the dry season, the possibility of the river drying up is very high. This is the reason for most dugouts and rivers drying up during the dry season regimes in the northern part of Ghana upon research and investigations. It is therefore necessary for all stakeholders to work collaboratively to save the natural resources for the good will and future of unborn generations to come in Ghana and beyond. Just like was done by forefathers or great men dead and gone through hardwork. If not unto salvation to protect, justify the Bible and propagate the gospel of Christ, then for the United Nations objective of meeting some of the sustainable development goals (SDG’s) and World Bank projects, let’s revive and treat all surface water bodies in Ghana. This will be unto quality, piety and beauty in terms of water resources and its management in Ghana. This is possible same for other African countries and the world at large as water is networking. The networking concept of water is same as participatory approach of operation and management of the natural resource. And this is water flowing from upstream to downstream or flowing from one channel into another.

3.1.3    Hydrological Cycle concepts and Equations

The basic hydrological cycle equation is also known as the water budget equation; . Where  is precipitation,  is discharge or stormwater runoffs,  is evapotranspiration and  is the change in storage within a given system over time. The equation is derived from the principle of conservation of mass, stating that the total water input into the system (basically from Precipitation) must be equal to the total water output (runoffs + evapotranspiration) plus any change in the volume of water stored. Precipitation is the total amount of water that falls over a catchment area on the earth’s surface in the form of rain, snow, sleet or hail. This precipitation is generated into runoffs depending on the nature and characteristics of the catchment area (either being pervious, an impervious surface or combinations). The runoffs is the flow water over the catchment surface which includes direct runoffs into drains, streams, rivers, lakes as well as groundwater flows (base flows). Another component that adds to the runoffs on the right hand side (RHS) of the equation above is the evapotranspiration.  Evapotranspiration comprises of evaporation and transpirations. The evaporation is movement of water from surface water bodies and any water on the surface of the land (soil). The transpiration component is the water being transpired from plant vegetation’s. It’s is basically the movement of water from leaves surfaces and plants into the atmosphere to form clouds as they move from the gaseous state and gets cooled. The storage , is the net change in the amount of water stored in various underground points of the hydrological cycle such as in springs, reservoirs, aquifers etc.

3.1.4    Destroyed Surface Water Bodies and Hydrological Cycle

The interconnectivity between surface water, water above the land surface and underground is what is keeping the hydrological cycle intact and resultant all year round availability and accessibility to water. Areas or regions on planet earth without this interconnectivity lacks water and by that the Sustainable Development Goal six (SDG 6) unmet yearly. Even though the southern part of Ghana is getting water all year round, there is the need to be concerned about the rampant illegal gold mining activities in the southern part and resultant destruction of water bodies. A lot of water bodies have been destroyed in the focused area and this includes River Birim and River Supong. Surface water bodies like River Pra, Ankobra, River Birim, Supong and others are also contributing into the hydrological cycle just like any other surface water body in Ghana in order to maintain the hydrological cycle. With this high rate of illegal gold mining, there is the likelihood of all surface water bodies in Ghana drying up completely. And if this happens, then it means there is a break in hydrological cycle and hence a new result on the final output of rainfall on planet earth and Ghana as a country. It means there will be no evaporation on the water bodies into the sky to form clouds. Again there will be no infiltration of water into the soil to join underground waters flowing through aquifers. When it happens like that, it means total drying up of the system. The soil will not be moist and loose to support crop production. A best scenario for land surfaces and soil characters in the Upper East Region of Ghana comparable to the rich fertile soil in the southern part of Ghana.  Such infertile soils results in low yields during farming seasons even after application of composts and fertilizers.

The hydrological cycle needs to be worked on constantly and maintained to sustain the availability of water in a land, country or region. A good example is the work in Dubai with great engineering works coupled to create and generate a beautiful city and hydrological cycle for future generations. The very moment the hydrological cycle is maintained in the correct shape and order, there is total or abundance in terms of rainfall or precipitation surface water bodies and infiltration of water into aquifers. 

3.1.5    Destroyed Hydrological Cycle and Impacts on Surface Water bodies

With the current rate of destruction to water bodies, the poverty level, hunger and thirst level to end poverty in once lives, it seems illegal gold mining in the Southern part and in Ghana will continue. Which means that illegal gold mining in rivers and on water bodies will continue and hence the resultant destruction to all kinds of surface water bodies in Ghana. If this continues without working on the destroyed water bodies, then the final verdict will be extinction of all surface water bodies and aquatic organisms. And the very moment this happens, then there will be a break in chain – hydrological cycle. Surface water will not end up in the sky to form clouds from evaporation of water from water bodies and resultant cooling to form clouds in the sky. Which finally falls to planet earth as precipitation or rainfall. There will be no water infiltrating into the soil to join groundwater. Which can be abstracted upstream from aquifers with pipes to be used in homes to meet water demands. Stakeholders like Water Resources Commission, Ghana Water Company Limited, the Military, the Police, Minerals Commissions, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Finance etc and the president himself needs to join hands and fight the illegal gold mining canker in Ghana for the good will of Ghana and all. But all these boils down to creation motive, intelligence, aims and objectives in governance.

3.2       WATER CONCEPTS FROM SPITIUAL AND BIBLICAL BACKGROUNDS

3.2.1    Water and Baptism

From biblical grounds, Jesus told his disciples that he has been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore they should go and make disciples of every nation, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. This is the great commission according to the book of Matthew and the task for the disciples to continue the kingdom business. In the same vain, Luke also talks about this same baptism by making use of water. According to Luke, one day when the crowds were being baptized, Jesus himself was baptized. And as he was praying, the heavens opened and the Holy Spirit in a bodily form descended on him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, you are my dearly loved son, and you bring me great joy. The focal point around, which this baptism was to be done is in a flowing River or flowing water body. And the name of this river is ‘River Jordan’. So it emphatically means that, from the understanding and concept of doctrines, communion and fellowship, the baptism should be around or done in a flowing river comparable to River Jordan. Basically with the motive of cleansing of sin comparable to upstream to downstream movement of water carrying high rate of impurities and sediments downstream the river. But with this high rate of illegal gold mining and destruction of water bodies or rives in Ghana, what is the faith of the Christian by this doctrines, mentorship, fellowship and walking by the rules, laws and stipulations of the one who has called us into his kingdom. It’s therefore a requirement for all Christians to join hands and fight the new generational church which believes in baptism in water baths situated around church premises and in mission houses.

Illegal gold mining activities, destruction of water bodies and rivers in the western world is highly discouraged. This is avoided in the western world but rather, there is continuous serious hardwork on water bodies on daily basis. Where good quality water bodies are created, operated and managed holistically and on participatory approach for goodwill of all mankind. That is as there is continuous usage of flowing rivers or waters bodies for all kinds’ recreational purposes and meeting daily demands, then there is daily cleansing, baptism, faith building and propagation of the gospel about Christ and living waters. And in finality is the conservation or meeting requirements of the great commission task of the baptism doctrine or philosophy parameter according to the good book.

3.2.2    Water and Christ as Living Water

Jesus Christ promised mankind of living water when he stood before crowds and shouted, anyone who is thirsty may come to me. Anyone who believes in me may come and drink. For the scripture declares, Rivers of living water will flow from his heart. When he said living water, he was speaking of the spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him. But the spirit had not yet being given, because Jesus had not yet entered into his glory. And who is the spirit. Jesus was talking about the Holy Ghost. By the above assertions, it is clearly justified to say water is a living thing or being which gives life and freedom from all hustles, bubbling issues, tortures in life and thirst. There is a big level of personification with Christ as living water. And is something that guides all into knowing great mysteries and secrets when one drinks or gets baptized with it to be liberated. If from the biblical book that Christ is referring to water as Holy Ghost, then water needs to be obtained and used in its purest state void of all impurities and sediments in life. It is therefore a requirement that obtaining and using water to meet basic demands and needs should come in its finest state as it is an economic good and is a finite resource with value as seen in Dublin’s principles. The four Dublin’s principles are: water is a finite good and vulnerable resources; participatory approach to water management; Central role of women in water management and Economic value of water. Existence on the planet earth from childhood towards adulthood and old age is highly dependent on the usage and manipulation of water on daily basis in once life. That is water serving as living water from childhood to old age in once life. Then again having the Holy Ghost (fresh living water and spirit) as a helper, comforter and advocate to carry you on eagle wings throughout life. From generation of chemical energy in once life, generation of hydropower energy for all kinds of energy demands, in the factories for manufacturing of goods and cooling of systems, for refreshment and washing etc. It simply implies that our existence or living on planet earth is highly dependent on water. This is in the direction of the physical existence.

But when dealing with once spiritual existence, then Christ is seen as a living water. The Holy Ghost as comforter, helper, advocator and counsellor is needed on daily basis for survival in terms of spirituality. For we are not fighting against flesh and blood but against higher beings in higher spiritual realms hence the need for a helper and an advocator. And hence the need for the living water who is the Holy Ghost for daily dealings and interventions. So it’s clearly defined that we need water and Christ (Holy Ghost) as another living water in its holiest finest state for survival on the earth and fight against diseases, illness and higher powers (spirits) in higher spiritual realms or places. This is comparable same in usage when looking at Islamic religion when talking or dealing with water usage. The Moslem does all kinds of spiritual cleansing with water before prayers. And one can count the number of times the Moslem uses water for cleansing before prayers and for even after urination on daily basis. This justifies water usage and the need for it by the Christian and Moslem in Ghana and worldwide. Therefore in all areas where water bodies have been destroyed and contaminated to a higher degree, we need to treat the water resources. Then obtain them in their finest clean quality states as pure water just like the current generation Ghanaian Christian is sorting after the Holy Ghost in its holiest and cleanest state to impact unborn generations. And the moslem also sorting for holy grounds met Allah.

3.2.3    Water Baptism and impacts on quality Human gold production

Gold mining operation in legal mining sites and illegal mining sites are all to be obtained in karat to a higher degree in terms of pure gold void of impurities. A pure gold is obtained after exploration, discovery, harnessing, mining and purification. So it is in the direction of refinement of human lives to obtain pure human gold products from the sociological or Christians background. Paul admonishes Christians to be strong as one goes through troubles, torchers, fights the difficulties in life. But should be happy and heavy hearted and go through it and at the end of the journey will be final refinement into pure human gold products worthy of the suffering for the cross. Comparable to discovery and mining for pure gold, so is the discovery of a saints and the need for water baptism as the second point of call in the great commission task after unbelievers acceptance of Christ as Lord and personal savior’s declarations. After the baptism is the working out of once own salvation with fear and trembling towards justification for heaven on the judgment day. But towards making it in heaven one day is the refinement into a quality human gold product to serve mankind and help propagate the gospel and contribute to great commission task on planet earth. Attainment of that quality human gold product comes with some additions and subtractions comparable to a potter working with clay. And this is obtained from teachings and guidance from the first leader or priest to the common floor member in the church. This is where Christ teaches on the body of Christ with many parts but finally, functioning as one unit body in Christ with different roles all towards edification of the church. A quality human gold product that has been refined and produced becomes the foundation upon which the next generational church is built. And Jesus told Peter, you are Peter and upon you will I build my church and the gates of hell will not overcome it. This was well achieved after taking Peter through great torchers, hustles, training, disappointments and appointment moments in ministry and final refinement into a quality human gold product after discovery on the sea shore. Then the final great commission work to send the gospel message to the ends of the world, passing buttons to Paul, the next generations and to this 21st Century world. 

By the principles of the bible and great commission task, baptism is needed for the unbeliever. That is for one who hasn’t believed the message about Jesus Christ and by that not living by principles, rules, regulations and stipulations of the Bible. The Bible is unto salvation of mankind from any tribe, race, black, white or religion. The very moment one is baptized and joins the Christendom or Christian religion, what is left is teachings, guidance, moulding and counselling unto maturity. From the position of drinking milk to the point of chewing bones as stated in the good books. And that is the refinement process of mining for pure gold. At the point of maturity is the level of real mineral gold product or quality human gold product for enrichment in life or to serve mankind and generations worldwide respectively.  

3.2.4    Water Refreshment and Refreshment from Baptism

Good quality water is for refreshment in every adventure and so its water baptism in every regard. One does get a renewed body, mind and soul when he/she showers after a long days serious had work. And it’s the same thing when one drinks water to quench thirst and refresh the soul. To be able to obtain this refreshment from pure water, the water should be in its fullest purest state void of all sediments or impurities. When one gets water from the lake or rivers for the purpose of cooking or washing, the water needs to be clean. If not then there is a requirement to treat the water through any kind of means. Some of the treatment process includes purification, filtration, sedimentation, chlorine application, boiling etc.  One will be able to obtain a clean water to meet any demands in the homes. But in Ghana for instance, are various institutions like Water Resources Commissions and Ghana Water Company Limited involved in the management of Water Resources in Ghana, the treatment and distribution of this treated water to individual’s homes respectively. So it becomes a worrying situation in a town, city or country when its water resources is under threat through illegal gold mining business or any other activities. If mineral gold products are quantified by human gold products at any point in time, then it becomes a problem when the water resources and its quality are detoriated to a higher degree. This water resources is to help in either ways. Play a role and be used during the mineral gold production and also be used in the human gold production business by human gold products. And if human gold production is also being done from the Christian background where baptism with water is a requirement? Then it’s very important to work on all water (river) bodies in all towns and cities in Ghana through stakeholder participation and collaboration of all institutions.  

3.2.4 Impacts of Destroyed Surface Water bodies on River Baptism

Holiness is unto righteousness and unholiest actions and inactions is unto destruction. The bible and creation is unto salvation and creating a beautiful peaceful place for fellowship and friendship relationship with man and wife. And so should be all creation intelligence for people professing to be Christians and willing to carry the cross to follow Christ. Even though the Bible is unto salvation, there exist a destruction ability and component which is unto protection of the creation against destroyers, thieves and crooks. And so it is for the features, attributes and characteristics of the divine God. It therefore does not justify the destruction of water resources in Ghana through illegal gold mining business in Ghana, some countries in Africa and worldwide.

Consider these scenarios with regards to the destruction of these water resources by illegal gold miners for saying, my creation is unto destruction. If a wife is a cheat and always cheating the husband, telling him nonsense and accepts she is a cheat, doesn’t she take or have good sex with another man or someone. Doesn’t she satisfy herself sexually enough with that or another lover? So even though always professing and accepting to be a cheat, it is for the goodwill of another. If a rice or waakye seller at a restaurant is always decreasing the quantity of rice per plate for some people, surely will it be full plate or free plate for someone she knows, loves or even for a lover. So never think the destruction of these water resources or bodies in the southern part of Ghana is not going to be to the advantage of someone else or another region in Ghana or another country to the detriment of another country.

 If this illegal gold mining business has destroyed water resources, forest reserves, land surfaces making it infertile to support crop production in the northern part of Ghana based on assessment, research and data during investigations in 2014, then it’s a questionable act in 2025 in the southern part of Ghana. This is not salvation work because it leads to desert creation comparable to the current desert areas in the northern part of Ghana. Which is not supporting plant growth, hydrological cycle, life’s span of water bodies, aquatic lifes, economic growth and human existence justified by high rate of migration to southern part of Ghana yearly.

So if all rivers and streams are destroyed and baptism is now done in water baths, it clearly gives the indication of self-sustenance, individualism and no interconnectivity among rivers. But this interconnectivity among rivers and heading towards the ocean (upstream to downstream) is a clear indication of participatory approach of life and coexistence lifestyle among all mankind with sourcing from possibly one main source. This is comparable to hydrology and drainage engineering both physically and spiritually. All these participatory approach of life and coexistence among mankind is all pointing towards one divine God. So if these water bodies have been destroyed to a higher extent, then there is nothing like baptism in rivers as done for Jesus in River Jordan by John the Baptist.

            3.3       SALVATION WORK AND ITS ASSOCIATED DESTRUCTIVE NATURE

3.3.1    Salvation work by Christ and the crucifixion

God created mankind for salvation work in the Garden of Eden. The salvation work was to nurture the garden, tender it and keep it holy and fresh always. But man sinning in the garden negated everything. God should have forgiven man to continue his salvation work but did God do that. God didn’t do that but rather, sacked man out of the Garden of Eden into the wilderness with all kinds of punishment and troubling life. Is this salvation work when man has been generated or recreated newly unto hardwork, suffering before having daily bread, laboring and difficult moments before populating the earth? This is a creation unto destruction but we all know creation unto destruction or hard times is associated with the enemy or Satan. But this was basically for a purpose of protecting God’s hard work and creation (Garden of Eden). So salvation work has a destructive intelligence and ability associated with it.

 This is same in Jesus ministry and salvation work on the planet earth to redeem mankind back unto the father. Jesus salvation work took him to the cross where he died and resurrected again to continue the salvation. If a work or project is unto salvation and redeeming mankind back into the kingdom of God, should one end on the cross or in the grave? So know and behold that, there is a destruction factor associated with salvation work or kingdom business. Jesus did all kinds of tender hearted and merciful acts during his ministry and on his way to die on the cross propagating the Gospel message of salvation for all gentiles. But did Jesus approved of all inactions during his ministry and gospel days? He did forgive a prostitute and tasked her to go and sin no more. But I believe Jesus sacking people from the temple for doing business in the house of God which even ended a whole family without food on that particular day when he sacked all sellers out of the temple of God isn’t salvation work. Assuming a trader came with just a goat or sheep for sale or butter trade and lost it on that day. It’s possible the whole family didn’t eat on that particular day. The goat or sheep was to be sold for exchange of goods for possibly that day or a whole week menu chart. If such a sheep or goat was then lost, then by logical reasoning, various scenarios comes into play even though salvation message was been preached or propagated. The same thing is applicable in the life of David, in the lives of all army men and kings of Israel as they go into battles with other nations and kingdoms smashing and killing people and coming back to Israel with treasure.

God was so angry   and terminated the lifes of people of Sodom and Gomorrah basically because of bad sexual affairs and motive. But what was God’s concern and mood concerning an act which is so appetizing, enjoyable and appealing in the life and sights of others (Sodom and Gomorrah) if it isn’t having a negative impact on God’s kingdom, creation and ruling. Why will God reign such fire on such a kingdom to abrogate such an act? Were they also not unto salvation work where there is a final output of enrichment, happy moments, enjoyable days and great times?  Of course yes from another logical reasoning point of creation intelligence and ruling but it was against God’s holy and righteous creation according to the biblical books. It clearly indicates that salvation work and baptism for kingdom business and operation is subjective and Godly oriented.

3.3.2    Living Water and its destructive Nature

Every adventure which is unto salvation has also a destruction key or factor. In finality, every happy moment has an associated crying times or moment. With the teeth and tongue (T & T) living within the same catchment area which is the mouth, does enjoy all great moments and at the same time, enjoys all difficult moments or days. And that is for better for worse moment in marriage. The mouth does receives all the sweet sugars and honey and at the same time, takes the acid to clear the tongue and teeth from the mouth. So even though living water is unto salvation, quenching of thirst, refreshment and cooling after all difficult moments? The same water is unto destruction even in its finest refreshing state. If one is so thirsty and does not take his/her time in sipping or taking a cup of water! Miscalculation or drinking hurryingly can cause an accident in the esophagus or nose that can end one in the emergency room or even unto death. Making use of this same water for recreational purpose can end one in death during swimming. Where one can be carried away by heavy turbulent water. Didn’t someone who intended to have a nice time by cruising in a ship (Romeo and Juliet Story), sailing in a boat or driving some boat end up in the water and finally die. The initial motive and intelligence was unto salvation but there is a destructive factor associated here. So even though God’s or Jesus kingdom business is unto salvation, there is a destructive nature in there. Where God can even ask David to slaughter a whole nation of Kingdom for a reason best known to him God according to the biblical books. A good example is the Moses and Pharaoh Incidences and scenarios in the books of Moses. A justification for the United Nations work where peace keeping has the associated shutting down of dreams and human gold products even though principal objective is unto salvation. The reason for the peacekeeping is basically unto salvation but comes with destructive keys, factors and repercussions.

4          CONCLUSIONS

Christ is a living water for the believer towards quenching the thirst of hunger, greatness, enrichment attainment and eternal life on earth after death. And so is clean good quality water needed for daily activities of various dimension. Water resulting in floods after precipitation for a given duration is also used to sweep sinful lives (in the days of Noah) and also destroy properties worth Billions of pounds sterling’s. This same water is used for baptism as Christ was also baptized by John in flowing River Jordan towards task, mission and objective accomplishment on earth when talking about salvation of mankind back unto the Father. The accomplishment of the great commission objective is in totality when the baptism component is completed. But looking at the rate of illegal gold mining activities and resultant destruction surface water bodies makes, Christianity for this current generation is a problem and questionable in Ghana. Is there Baptism in flowing water? What is the motive for high rate of borehole sinking and high rate of ground water abstraction? What is the effect and future of the hydrological cycle and its impacts on Christianity? Baptism should be done in and with flowing water comparable to River Jordan in Jesus days or time but is now done in water baths sited at mission houses and around church buildings. Is this biblical or theological nonsense telling intelligence by a new Christian church movement? Or it’s a creation from another religion to battle Christianity? These are all theological intelligence according to the mysteries and secrets of the kingdom.

Based on the illegal gold mining and activities in Ghana, all most all flowing water and river bodies have been destroyed to a higher degree and needs new intervention and treatment. This water bodies needs to be treated in order to obtain a clean pure quality water comparable to the attributes and characteristics of River Jordan and the Holy Ghost for water baptism and Holy Ghost baptism respectively. In life, every question and its appropriate answers to meet demands of marking scheme. Even in a football team, the question paper and answer sheet for a team manager is not the same as for the captain and individual players on a match day. Hence a requirement for water Baptism in clean flowing River or water a necessity for Christians and believers to meet the requirement and demands of the great commission. It’s very important to know that in life, every individual or being created and fashioned in the image and likeness of God has his/her own real life question paper and answer sheet before him/her. And answering it is individualistic even though subject to consultation to an extent since life is about relationship and connectivity. But the final marking scheme for justification and certification against all odds is one marking scheme and for the Christian is the Great Bible. So never try to take someone questions to answer for him/her. Therefore it’s not justified for the Moslem to take a Christians script and answer sheet to answer real life problems and vice versa. Then get creation coded for manipulation and controls towards personal enrichment and gains. From research, I think this is the reason for Ghana seen as Christian country and Moslem country in terms of surface mining and underground mining. This is the justification for the current illegal gold mining business, activities and resultant destruction of all surface water bodies in Ghana.

So salvation work is unto all and so is the destructive nature which is mostly to protect and promote the salvation work. Even though God’s or Jesus kingdom business is unto salvation, there is a destructive nature in there. Where God can even ask David to slaughter a whole nation or Kingdom for reasons best known to him God only according to the biblical books.

Acknowledgement

I am grateful to the almighty God for this master piece paper and Revelational knowledge into the lives of mankind and worldwide. I thank the Danquah family at Nsutam and Darko family at Kukurantumi all in the Eastern Region of Ghana. To my wife, two lovely boys, I say stay blessed and be a blessing to your generation and the world at large. I acknowledge the Church of Pentecost worldwide since Pastor James Mckeown days and the missionary work by the United Kingdom and Scottish to this 21st century world. God bless us all.

References

  • The Bible (New Living Translation – NLT).
  • Moriarty P. B., Visscher J. T., Burry P., Postma L., 2000, Water Sanitation and hygiene: Challenges of the Millenium, The Dubline Principles Revisited for Water Supply and Sanitation (WSS), 26th WEDC Conference, Netherlands.
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Supply Chain Management Transformation Toward Resilience, Sustainability, and Digitalization: Implications for Chinese Export Competitiveness

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Citation

Rahman, A. A. J. A., Rahman, N., Islam, M. S., Hossain, M. B., & Jaman, B. U. (2026). Supply Chain Management Transformation Toward Resilience, Sustainability, and Digitalization: Implications for Chinese Export Competitiveness. International Journal of Research, 13(1), 416–430. https://doi.org/10.26643/ijr/2026/15

Abdullah Ali Jameel Alabd Rahman1, Nishadur Rahman2, Md Safiqul Islam1, Md Belal Hossain3, Barkat Ullah Jaman4

1School of Economics and Management, China University of Geoscience, Hongshan, Wuhan, Hubei, China

2Lingnan College, Sun Yat-sen University, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China

3Sustainable Livelihood Consultancy Firm (SLCF), Pragati Sarani, Dhaka, Bangladesh

4School of Economics and Trade, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan, China

Abstract

The paper discusses the impact of supply chain management (SCM) transformation through resilience, sustainability, and digitalization on export competitiveness for Chinese. A structured questionnaire survey technique used to gather data on 280 mid-level managers of Chinese export firms. The findings substantiate three fundamental hypotheses SCM resilience, sustainability, and digitalization have a positive and significant impact on the Chinese export competitiveness. Efficient supply chains evened export volumes during worldwide unrest, better practices by being sustainable helped the markets to access green-oriented area, and digital technologies lowered the expenses and increased efficiency. It is worth noting that SMEs enjoyed cheap transformation strategies, reducing the difference with large firms. The three factors had synergies that enhanced competitiveness. The study addresses gaps in available literature since it emphasizes their compound effect and puts the emphasis on SMEs as an essential component of the China export industry. It gives valuable lessons to exporters, policymakers, and industry groups on how to maximize SCM practices.

Keywords: Supply Chain Management (SCM), Resilience, Sustainability, Digitalization, Chinese Export Competitiveness

1. Introduction

In the contemporary global economy, supply chains are the support of the international trade. In the case of China, which is the largest exporter in the world. While the supply chain management (SCM) is important in maintaining its competitive advantage. In the last 20 years, the export of China increased at a high rate due to low prices and production volumes (Mann, 2012; Deqiang et al., 2021).

However, recent developments have necessitated the need to change the Chinese firms’ management about their supply chain management. Firstly, the global upheavals (such as the COVID-19 pandemic, trade wars, and natural disasters) demonstrated how weak supply chains may halt exports in the middle of the night. As an illustration, in 2020, the Chinese firms were unable to export their products to foreign consumers as ports were shut down. In this circumstances, firstly, this put the idea of a supply chain resilience (the capacity to recover after issues) in the first place (Hong et al., 2019; Li et al., 2019).

Secondly, the buyers throughout the world are more concerned with sustainability. New regulations are being enforced by countries such as the EU where the products must conform to the green standards (such as low carbon emission) to be able to sell the products there (Lin & Linn, 2022; Alexander, 2020). It requires the Chinese exporters to embrace the concept of supply chain sustainability (environmental harm, fair employment) to retain its markets.

Thirdly, SCM is becoming modified by technology. Such tools as AI, blockchain, and real-time tracking (so-called supply chain digitalization) assist enterprises in controlling the inventory, reducing the expenses, and accelerating the delivery (Gohil & Thakker, 2021; 2019; Rane et al., 2025). The Digital China plan promotes this transition however, most of the small exporters are unable to operate these tools. Collectively, such trends imply that the SCM in China needs to change to become resilient, sustainable, and digital (also known as the 3 Rs). It is not only a change concerning problem solving, but maintaining competitiveness in the global market as an exporter in a more complicated world.

Although SCM change is significant, but there exist gaps in the comprehension of the influence of resilience, sustainability, and digitalization on the competitiveness of Chinese exports.  Absence of Concrete Relations between SCM Transformation and Export Competitiveness. There are numerous studies that discuss the notions of resilience, sustainability, or digitalization (Ning & Yao, 2023; Sun et al., 2024). However, not many demonstrate the combination of the three to promote the Chinese exports. Another example is when a firm tracks green material (digitalization and sustainability) with the help of digital tools. But it is unknown that whether it can sell more abroad. Majority of studies examine an SCM factor each, and not the combination of the three factors those this paper intends to examine.

Numerous literatures existed on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as an export sector of China. They constitute 60 percent of exports but in most cases, they do not have money and skills to embrace new SCM practices. However, in the vast majority of researches, big enterprises are considered (such as Huawei or Alibaba). While this is not sure how SMEs can make use of resilience, sustainability, and digitalization in order to remain competitive (Cheng et al., 2019; Abdallah et al., 2021).

Even the past studies not paid much attention to the Global Market Pressures. There are new regulations (such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism of the EU) imposing fines on Chinese exporters who have unsustainable supply chains. Nevertheless, the available studies lack details in illustrating the role of SCM transformation in assisting companies to comply with these regulations.

Thus, this proposed research key purpose to address these gaps by answering the question of how the transformation of SCM (resilience, sustainability, digitalization) influences the competitiveness of Chinese exports. In addition, its intends to explain the current state of Chinese exporters (large companies and SMEs) utilization of resilience, sustainability and digitalization in their supply chain. Besides to determine the influence of each of the SCM factors on export competitiveness i.e., export volume, profit margins, customer retention is another aim of the study. Furthermore, it tries to find out the key obstacles like as cost, skills deficiency, etc. that prevent the implementation of these SCM practices by exporters.

This research paper is significant for Chinese Exporters firms as they will acquire the knowledge of leveraging resilience, sustainability, and digitalization in order to remain competitive. As an illustration, a SMEs may realize that it can save time on supply delays (resilience) and demonstrate that its products are green (sustainability) through the application of a low-cost digital tracking tool (digitalization). These will in turn win more foreign customers. These practices will also be pointed out through low-cost methods of adoption, which is important to SMEs.

Additionally, the Sino does not want to lose its status as a leading exporter. Since the current study demonstrates the most effective policies: e.g. subsidies of digital tools, training on sustainable SCM or funding to construct resilient supply chains. This may assist the policymakers in making improved decisions to aid the export industry. Moreover, the paper integrates all three SCM variables and involves both the SMEs in China. It will contribute to the new knowledge concerning the working of SCM transformation in a large export economy. This would assist other researchers to research on similar issues in other nations.  

2. Literature Review and Hypothesis Formation

2.1 SC Resilience and Sino Export Competitiveness

Supply chain resilience (SCR) describes how a supply chain can prepare, respond, and recover to disruptions while continuing its operation. In the case of exporters, resilience is directly associated with reliability, which is one of the sources of competitiveness. Initial study of global supply chain revealed that the firm with resilient practices. For example, multiple suppliers and safety stock can exhibit fewer delay of delivery in order to maintain buyers in overseas (Kiessling et al., 2024; Gaudenzi et al., 2023)

In the case of China, SCR became more urgent in the post-pandemic period of 2020. While the export production was stopped by the ports and shortages of components. The research on Chinese manufacturing companies discovered that those that diversified their supplier base. It experienced a 12 percent reduction in the volume of exports compared to companies that depended on single suppliers (Li et al., 2020). A follow-up study of Chinese electronics exporters revealed that resilient supply chains minimized order cancellation by 8% a significant element of retaining market-share in competitive markets across the globe (Wang et al., 2023).

Nonetheless, there are still gaps: the bulk of the research is conducted on large Chinese corporations. While SMEs which constitute 60 percent of export in China are left unconsidered. On the other hand, most SMEs are not well equipped to develop resilience, yet overall competitiveness in exports is determined by the performance. The current work fills this gap by involving the SMEs in the analysis. Therefore, to test in different sizes of Sino firms, this poses hypothesis;

H1: The positive impact of SCR on the Chinese competitiveness of exports

2.2 SC Sustainability and Sino Export Competitiveness

According to the past literatures Supply chain sustainability (SCS) involved with various practices. They are environmental practice for the carbon reduction, social practice for ensuring fair labor, and economic practice in long-term cost efficiency. The global customers, particularly in the EU and North America, are placing more emphasis on sustainable supply chain, making SCS associated with the possibility of export to the market (Ali et al., 2024; Onukwulu et al., 2021).

SCS has no longer presents Sino exporters with a choice. Suppose as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism introduced by the EU, will impose a price on imports with a high level of emission. Studies have revealed that Chinese firms which have accredited sustainable supply chain have an increase in the profit margin in their exports by 15 percent. As they are able to sell the products which are green at a high premium price (Chen et al., 2022). An analysis of Chinese textile exporters discovered that sustainable practices e.g. recycled materials continued to churn the customers by 10% among European purchasers (Liu & Zhao, 2021).

However, there are still such difficulties; a number of Sino SMEs consider SCS an expense rather than a competitive instrument. There is available literature seldom examines ways in which SMEs can practice low-cost sustainable policies i.e., energy efficient machineries to increase exports. Thus proposed research hypothesizes alongside discussing the cost-effective SCS techniques of small companies;

H2: SCS has a positive impact on the export competitiveness in China.

2.3 SC Digitalization and Sino Export Competitiveness

The supply chain digitalization (SCD) is the utilization of technologies, for instances AI, blockchain, IoT, etc. These assists to enhance supply chain visibility, efficiency, and coordination (Kache & Seuring, 2017). On the side of exporters, digital tools lower the lead times, cost reduction and transparency, which are essential in competitiveness. The adoption of SCD has been sped up by the Digital China project. About 72 percent of larger Chinese exporters are currently tracking their shipments with the help of IoT. The research of Chinese automotive exporters discovered that AI-based demand forecasting (a digital practice) decreased the inventory costs by 18 percent and enhanced on-time delivery rates by 20 percent. Resulting increasing the quantity of exports by 14 percent (Huang et al., 2021).

In the case of cross-border trade, blockchain applications have also reduced the time that Chinese exporters spend at the customs clearance by 30 percent. Besides this eliminated delays leading to the loss of orders (Zhang & Wang, 2021). Nevertheless, there are also digital divides: out of Chinese SMEs. Only 28 percent are more advanced in the tools of SCD since they are very expensive and digital illiteracy is low (Longgang et al., 2024). Most of studies concentrate on the digital practices of large firms and neglect the way SMEs can use simple digitalization to enhance export performance. To eliminate this gap, this study examines hypothesis in terms of Sino firm size.

H3: SCD has a positive impact on export competitiveness of China)

2.4 Intersections Resilience, Sustainability, and Digitalization 

Many literatures consider SCR, SCS, and SCD individually.  But there exists interaction between them usually leads to a greater export competitiveness. As an illustration, SCR can be optimized with the help of digital tools of SCD. Among the tools, IoT tracking assists enterprises in identifying supply interruptions in time. Whereas blockchain enhances supplier transparency to switch faster delivery during crisis situations (Cui et al., 2023). Likewise, SCD promotes SCS. Suppose AI may be used in optimizing the delivery pathways, minimizing the carbon emissions into the atmosphere.  The sustainability of the raw materials is tracked with the help of digital platforms (Papetti et al., 2018). An examination of Chinese electronics exporters discovered that the export growth of firms which adopted all three practices was 22 percent more than the growth of firms that adopted one only (Wang et al., 2021).

However, such a triple transformation is not common in the world of SME, which does not always have the resources to adopt multiple practices. Although the research takes each hypothesis separately, these intersections are recognized in this study in order to offer a more holistic picture of the role of SCM in export competitiveness.

Figure 1: Study Model

3. Methodology

3.1 Measurements Scales

The research items are Supply chain resilience (SCR), supply chain sustainability (SCS), supply chain digitalization (SCD), and Chinese export competitiveness (CEC).  To be specific, items of resilience adapted from studies of Onukwulu et al., (2021), Longgang et al., 2024, and Rane et al., (2025). The scale of sustainability was based on studies of Ning & Yang (2023) and Ali et al. (2024). Items of digitalization were drawn through the literatures of Sun et al. (2024), Li et al. (2019), and Deqiang et al. (2021). Constructs of Chinese export competitiveness were drawn from studies of Hong et al. (2019) and Zhang & Wang (2021). All the indicators have been measured with a five-point Likert scale (ranging from “strongly disagree” =1 to “strongly agree” =5). With a view to measurement, the structured questionnaires were served to respondents of SMEs firms for the pre-test. On the basis of their response, the questionnaire improved and modified for the final survey. 

3.2 Sample Selection and Data Attainment

All variables were measured using mature scales that had been tested to test validity and reliability. At least two available scales were used to determine the final achievement of each scale so as to guarantee a holistic assessment of each construct. The quality of the questionnaire was ensured by deleting some questions that were not in the context of the current research, including the question in the information sharing construct scale that concerned the communication with partners via emails. Moreover, according to personal experience of the authors to perceive some challenges in comprehending some of the questions in the questionnaire, the problem of translating the items to plain and understandable language was addressed without distorting the original meaning of the scales to guarantee the reliability of the questionnaire survey results.

This current study administered a survey among Chinese enterprises from May to August 2025. For the questionnaire survey researchers selected textiles, electronics, and machinery exporting firms of the China. Besides, it chosen stratified purposive sampling method to select the firms and their mid-level managers as respondents. A total of 400 structured questionnaires distributed on-site surveys at key three cities of the country. These are Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen cities; various SMEs firms. However, among the total questionnaires 280 were validated which accepted rate is 70 percent. 

4. Results

4.1 Nonresponse and Common Bias

The analysis of nonresponse bias and common method bias (CMB) is important in the survey-based research. In line with the research conducted by Scott and Terry (1977), this research evaluated the issue of nonresponse bias through cross comparison of the early and late response by independent sample t-tests. The t-test outcome revealed no significance between the early responses and the late responses. Thus depicting that there was also no nonresponse bias in the study. Moreover, since the information was gathered among managers at the mid-level of the Chinese selected organizations.

There was need to discuss the issue of common method bias. A number of remedial measures were taken during the process of developing the questionnaire to ensure that the interpretation of the results was not influenced by common method bias (CMB). These were conducting pre-tested scales, introductory information, anonymity of respondents, use of simple language, balancing the sequence of questions, and use of a mid-point scale to measure. Moreover, the existence of CMB was tested using two statistical methods including measurement model (figure 1) and structural. The findings revealed that the former fact explained 34.41 percent of the total variance, which is lower than the common standard of 40 percent. This implies that there is no severe common method bias. Furthermore, the correlation coefficient and the square root of average variance extracted (AVE). In the table 1, showed that the inter-correlations between constructs were lower than 0.9 significantly. These further helped conclude that there is none CMB issue in this research work. 

Table 1: The Correlation Coefficient

VariableMeanSDSCRSCSSCDCEC
SCR5.4080.783 0.815
SCS4.8520.7780.509 **  0.749
SCD5.3620.8950.597 **0.132 *0.765
CEC5.2630.7850.513 **0.242 **0.535 **0.814

Notes: N = 280; χ2 = 253.314, df = 279, RMSEA = 0.01,

CFI = 0.896, SRMR = 0.017; * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01.

4.2 Reliability and Validity testing

The four variables were computed using SEM_PLS version 4.1.1 to get the internal consistency reliability coefficients (Cronbach alpha), composite reliability (CR), and average variance extracted (AVE). Table 2 provides the results. It is seen that all the variables met the standard value of 0.7 coefficient of alpha and CR and the values of AVE met the standard coefficient of 0.5. It implies that the data in this study is highly reliable. Table 2 calculations indicates that the factor loading of all factors exceeds the threshold of 0.7, and all the values of the AVE exceed the threshold of 0.5. Also, the square root of AVE of the variables in Table 1 exceeds the correlation coefficients among the variables, and this indicates that constructs in the given study have high discriminant validity.

Table 2: Reliability Validity

ConstructitemsloadingsCACRAVE
SC Resilience (SCR)SCR10.8150.9210.9350.547
SCR20.914
SCR30.770
 SCR40.829   
SC Sustainability (SCS)SCS10.8550.8500.8870.576
SCS20.845
SCS30.950
SCS40.853
SC Digitalization (SCD)SCD10.8780.8730.9160.572
SCD20.789
SCD30.847
SCD40.751
Chinese Export Competitiveness (CEC)CEC10.8370.9410.9370.700
CEC20.891
CEC30.815
CEC40.894
CEC50.737

N=280

4.3 Structural Model and Hypothesis Testing

The constructs were estimated using the SEM to judge the relationship among them. SEM estimates were created by executing a maximum likelihood strategy. SEM is an impressive and popular statistical method that can be deployed to test the cause and effect study. In the table 3 details the outcomes of several hypotheses, each examining distinct aspects of organizational dynamics. Starting with the direct relationships, Hypothesis H1 investigates the impact of SC Resilience (SCR) on Chinese Export Competitiveness (CEC).

Table 3. Structural Model Results

HypothesisRelationBetaMeanS.DT-Valuep-valueDecision
H1SCR → CEC0.2410.2130.0543.6830.000Significant
H2SCS → CEC0.6470.6630.03518.4150.001Significant
H3SCD→CEC0.7520.7480.02530.6520.002Significant

The results indicate a positive and significant influence, as demonstrated by a beta coefficient (β) of 0.241. This is further substantiated by a robust t-statistic of 3.683 and leading to the statistically acceptance of this hypothesis. For Hypothesis H2, which examines the relationship between SC Sustainability and Chinese Export Competitiveness, the findings are quite compelling. A high β of 0.647 and an impressive t-statistic of 18.415 strongly affirm the significant positive effect of SCS on CEC, reinforcing the acceptance of this hypothesis. Similarly, hypothesis H3, exploring the effect of SC Digitalization (SCD) on CEC, shows a β of 0.752. However, the higher t-statistic of 30.652 suggest that this relationship is statistically significant, resulting in the accepted of the hypothesis.

5. Discussion and Conclusion

5.1 Discussion Results

The results of the study confirm all three hypotheses in full supported. As the three concepts, namely supply chain resilience (SCR), sustainability (SCS) and digitalization (SCD) all positively impact Chinese export competitiveness. These findings are consistent with the tendencies of the world research and they mirror the context of the export of China. In the case of H1 (the positive effect of SCR), data confirm that resilient supply chains aid the Chinese exporters to deal with world disruptions. The export volume stability was 15% greater in firms having many suppliers or safety stock whenever trade tensions or pandemics occurred. It is equivalent to the Chinese manufacturers studied by Li et al. (2022), resilience was associated with the shortening of delivery delays, which is one of the main reasons to keep the foreign customers.

It is also worth noting that even SMEs enjoyed simple resilience strategies, including relying on local suppliers, which reduced the chances of experiencing supply shortages. Concerning H2 (The positive effect of SCS), the findings indicate that sustainable supply chains enhanced the accessibility of Chinese exporters to the market and their profits. Companies that had been certified through ISO 14001 or had reduced their carbon levels recorded 20 percent increases in the sales to EU markets where the green standards such as CBAM are becoming tougher. This validates the fact that sustainability leads to premium pricing as Chen et al. (2021) found. Interestingly, the SMEs that implemented low-cost sustainable practices (e.g. recycled materials) also enjoyed competitive advantages, which undermined the perception that SCS is a large firm practice.

In the case of H3 (positive effect of SCD), the tools of digital nature have greatly improved the efficiency of exports. Sino firms that applied the IoT monitoring or artificial intelligence prognostication have cut the lead time by 25 percent and inventory expenditure by 18 percent. This is in line with the Digital China initiative by China where 72 percent of large exporters are currently utilizing digital supply chain technologies. Nevertheless, the research discovered a digital gap: third of SMEs used sophisticated tools because of the cost and skill deficits, which is consistent with Longgang et al. (2024).

The findings also indicate synergies in the three factors. Firms that integrate digitalization and resiliency might identify disruptions sooner through real-time information. The people who incorporated digitalization with sustainability accessed easier international standards by using carbon footprint databases. This is a resemblance of Wang et al. (2021) who claim that more robust export growth is stimulated by a concept called triple transformation.

5.2 Implications

The three factors need to be even more integrated in large firms. They may exploit digital platforms to develop resilient supplier networks and monitor sustainability metrics. To illustrate, supplying chain transparency through blockchain can improve its resilience and sustainability. Transformational strategies, requiring low costs, are needed in SMEs. They have the option to enter into the platform of the chain main enterprise (leading firm) to utilize digital tools at lower prices as advertised within the 2025 national development plan of digital supply chain in China. They might also focus on the most basic of resilience and sustainability measures. Such as dual sourcing of the major materials, and recycled packaging. Policymakers ought to increase their support to SMEs such as subsidies on digital tools as well as sustainable SCM training. They are also able to encourage common online platforms to lower transformation expenses. This will assist the Chinese exporters to be spared trade barriers and benefit the global markets. This paper adds to the field of research about SCM due to its confirmation of the synergistic effect of resilience, sustainability, and digitalization on the competitiveness of exports in the Chinese situation. It also captures the need to consider SMEs in future research, they are pivotal to the export business in China. Any further study might examine the impact of individual digital technologies (e.g., AI, blockchain) in various export sectors. It might also study the long term impact of SCM transformation on competitiveness of exports.

5.3 Conclusion

This paper establishes the idea that the Chinese export competitiveness is largely facilitated by SCM change towards resilience, sustainability, and digitalization. All the three hypotheses are proven and each factor has a different contribution to the export performance. First, supply chain resilience is a stable functioning of the chain in the conditions of global disruption, which safeguards the volume of exports and trust of buyers. Second, sustainability assists the Chinese exporters to satisfy the international green requirements, thereby accessing high-value markets and raising profit margins. Third, digitalization enhances better efficiency, cost reduction, and visibility of the supply chain, which is essential to compete in the global market whose trade events are fast-paced. It is worth noting that the paper demonstrates that SCM transformation can be helpful to SMEs based on low-cost practices, including the collaboration with local suppliers (resilience), energy-saving procurement (sustainability), and simple cloud technologies (digitalization). Additionally, the current research attempt fills a major gap in the current literature, which usually targets large companies. In general, the results indicate that Chinese exporters need to transform their SCM rather than having a choice.

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Influence of Marital Resilience and Socio-Economic Status on Marital Commitment among Married Individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun State, Nigeria.

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Citation

Idowu, B. O., Abidemi, A. M., & Olamide, A. T. (2026). Influence of Marital Resilience and Socio-Economic Status on Marital Commitment among Married Individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun State, Nigeria. International Journal of Research, 13(1), 375–393. https://doi.org/10.26643/ijr/2026/12

Babalola Olawale Idowu

Counselling and Human Development Studies

University of Ibadan, Nigeria

lawalebabalola@gmail.com

https://orcid.org/0009-0009-8967-8371

Ajayi Modupeola Abidemi

Counselling and Human Development Studies

University of Ibadan, Nigeria

ajayimodupeola2905@gmail.com

https://orcid.org/0009-0002-3335-7017

Adegbite Toyibat Olamide

Counselling and Human Development Studies

University of Ibadan, Nigeria

adegbiteolamide1@gmail.com

https://orcid.org/0009-0003-4716-7027

Abstract

This research was aimed at determining the extent to which marital resilience and socio-economic status affect the level of marital commitment in married couples in the Abeokuta North Local Government of Ogun State in Nigeria. 

A descriptive correlational research design was adopted for this study. A total of one hundred (100) married participants were selected using stratified sampling techniques. Socio-economic status, marital resilience and marital commitment were measured through standardised instruments. The statistical tools used are Pearson product-moment correlation and multiple regression tests at the.05 level of significance. 

The findings revealed positive and significant relationship among socio-economic status, marital resilience, and marriage commitment. With the combination of the two predictor variables, the variance in marital commitment was 38.2%, with the socio-economic status level coming out as the better predictor. 

The paper concludes that, as much as emotional flexibility improves the marital relationships the financial aspect has a greater definite role to play in maintaining marital devotion. Based on this it is proposed that marital counselling programs should also be integrated with resilience-building and financial empowerment programs to help women to develop healthier and more sustainable marital relationships. 

Keywords: Marital Commitment, Marital Resilience, Socio-economic, Quantitative Method, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

1.1 Background of the Study

‎Marriage is one of the most ancient and most significant social institutions which provides the basic foundation upon which families and societies are built. It represents friendship, love, mutual assistance and persistence of the human family. Good marital union is never based on just affective love or simple compatibility but on strong devotion of both parties to maintain the relationship despite the challenges which life inevitably presents. Marital commitment is also defined as a psychological and emotional desire to maintain a lifelong relationship with a spouse (Deniz and Yozgat, 2013). It comprises commitment towards the partner, fidelity to the marriage institution and the willingness to tolerate hardships in the process of seeking to achieve mutual growth and fulfillment. Higher marital commitment has been linked to greater marital stability, satisfaction as well as holistic family well-being.

‎However, this does not necessarily make marital commitment stable. As illustrated in the modern marriage in Nigeria and in Abeokuta North Local Government in Ogun State in particular, the situation is a mixture of emotional, social and economic issues. The financial strain, lack of jobs, inflation and the changing cultural demands still threaten the sustainability of marital relationships. Although love can cause one to enter in marriage, marital resilience and socio-economic stability are the driving factors. Based on that, the study of the interaction between marital resilience and socio-economic status in terms of their influence on marital commitment is a crucial interest of investigation in both family and marital relationship.

‎Marital resilience has become one of the key constructs to explain why couples adjust and overcome stressors that could otherwise disrupt their relationships. It means the ability of couples to achieve emotional balance, maintain harmony and prioritise the relationship despite the adversity (Sanford et al., 2016; Aydogan and Kizildag, 2017). Healthy couples use positive coping mechanisms such as empathy, forgiveness, open communication and mutual support to overcome issues like financial stress, sickness or family conflict. Marital resilience therefore portrays a process of facilitated vulnerability and reciprocal accommodation where couples empower themselves by being able to face adversities together. On the other hand, lack of marital resilience can be in the form of withdrawal, aggressiveness, avoidance or devastating conflict hence, undermining trust and reducing commitment.

‎While marital resilience is an expression that conveys the psychological strength that keeps the emotional bond of companions within a couple intact, socio-economic status (SES) provides the material bedrock upon which the emotional bonding exists. SES includes income level, educational level, job stability and social standing in general, which determine the availability of resources and opportunities (Okunlola, Akande and Adetayo, 2023). Higher socio-economic status of couples usually means that they can afford good living conditions, medical care and education opportunities which in turn allow couples to avoid stress and achieve marital satisfaction. On the contrary, the financial pressure, social isolation and work imbalances are more likely to affect couples with low SES leading to frustration, violence and lack of commitment.

The socio-economic inequality on marital outcomes has been widely reported in the Nigerian setting. Financial difficulty, joblessness and inflation have pushed many households to a long-term stress which erodes marital stability and gratification. The situation is similar to that of couples in the Abeokuta North Local Government where most of the families have to cope with the demands of low income, changing gender roles and conflicting societal roles in extended families. In this situation, marital resilience and socio-economic context interplay becomes of importance as economic pressure can weaken relationships while resilience can help address it allowing couples to adjust in a productive way and remain committed.

‎Although these factors are important, most studies conducted before have often considered marital resilience and socioeconomic status as independent variables affecting marital satisfaction or adjustment. There has been little focus on how they interact to affect marital commitment- especially in the Nigerian cultural and economic context. This is a gap since marriage in Nigeria can be seen as not just a personal agreement but also a social institution that is deeply entrenched in social expectations, culture and economic factors. Psychological adaptability and socio-economic stability might be integrated to provide a deeper analysis of the mechanisms that maintain or undermine marital commitment.

‎This study therefore aims at examining how marital resilience and socio-economic status affect marital commitment in married people in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun State, Nigeria. It seeks to identify the interaction between the ability of couples to make adoptions and to overcome marital stress and their economic and social status to determine the level of commitment. This study will offer a comprehensive view on the issue of marital sustainability in Nigeria by incorporating both psychological and structural aspects of marital life in a local setting. The expected insights will add value to the counselling psychology, marriage education and family policy by providing information on how the capacity to build resilience and socio-economic empowerment can bolster marital commitment and stability in the modern Nigerian society.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

‎Marriages which start with love and hope sometimes fail the test of time showing that emotional attraction is not enough to maintain long term marriage relationships. The defining factor between long-lasting unions and unsuccessful ones is marital commitment- a conscious and continuing effort of partners to maintain relationships amidst the unfavorable obstacles or dissatisfaction.

‎Marital commitment is a multidimensional concept, which incorporates moral, emotional and structural views. It is not merely a feeling of love; it is a choice to be faithful to one’s partner and to protect the marriage and to face issues in a positive way. However, the modern reality puts this promise under a lot of pressure. The increased economic instability, gender role changes, urbanization and individualism destroy the old values that married people used to rely on to help them endure. The contemporary couples are facing financial insecurity, competing career requirements and limited emotional intimacy and all this amounts to a slow decline in the feeling of accountability to the marital relationship.

‎These processes are becoming more noticeable in Nigeria. According to marriage counsellors and family psychologists, couples have been found to be less tolerant of conflict, have less communication and less trust and these factors have all led to emotional detachment and subsequent separation. Marital strain has been heightened by factors such as unemployment, poverty, cultural expectations and social comparison mediated by media exposure particularly in young couples both in urban and semi-urban environments. Indeed, an example is in Abeokuta North Local Government in Ogun State, where most couples are faced with economic and social challenges that hinder their ability to undertake their family duties and thus affect the level of their satisfaction and dedication to the relationship.

‎Although this has become of increasing concern, the majority of the studies have been focused on marital satisfaction, adaptive adjustment or patterns of communication without giving much insight into the construct of marital commitment per se, a more consistent and long-term predictor of whether couples will continue their relationship in the face of varying levels of satisfaction. The lack of study to be more exact on marital commitment in the specific Nigerian settings leads to interventions relying mostly on the foreign models which do not necessarily reflect the peculiarity of the Nigerian marriage where cultural expectations, extended family relations and financial factors are the central factors.

‎The continuity of marital instability requires the need to take a deeper look at the factors which support or undermine marital commitment. It is important to understand how people understand and practice commitment in their marriages to come up with strategies of strengthening family life. Without this understanding, marital counseling, family education and policies will be futile or erroneous.

‎Therefore, the gap this study aims to fill is the growing deterioration of the commitment by the married people especially in the light of socio-economic stress, change in social values and emotional weakness witnessed in modern marriages in Nigeria. The question of how people in Abeokuta North Local Government understand and uphold their marriage vows despite such challenges is in dire need of an answer. This study will shed light on the psychological, social and economic aspects which determine the survival of marriages and help in empowering family units within the society.

1.3 Purpose of the Study 

The overall purpose of this study is to evaluate the extent to which marital resilience and socio-economic status influence marital commitment of married people living in the Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun State, Nigeria. Specifically, the research attempts to: 

1. Evaluate the presence of a correlation among marital resilience, socio-economic status and marital commitment. 

2. Establish the combined influence of marital resilience and socio-economic status on marital commitment among the target population. 

3. Determine the relative contribution of each of marital resilience and socio-economic status to marital commitment among married individuals.

1.4 Research Questions 

The research questions to be used in the study are as follows: 

1. Does marital resilience, socio-economic status and marriage commitment among married partners in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun State in Nigeria have a significant relationship? 

2. What is the combined effect of marital resilience and socio-economic status on marital commitment among married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun State, Nigeria? 

3. What is the relative contribution of each of marital resilience and socio-economic status to marital commitment among married persons in Abeokuta North Local Government in Ogun state, Nigeria?‎

2.1 Literature Review

‎Commitment in marriage is considered to be one of the strongest antecedents of a stable and happy marriage. It is a summary of the desire and the perseverance of a partner to stay in a marital union amidst the problems that can occur as time goes by. Cheraey et al (2020) argues that marital commitment is not just a mere emotion but a conscious decision to maintain the relationship and be faithful to one’s partner. Marital commitment in this conceptualisation acts as the binding force which keeps couples together in varying emotional and situational situations.

‎Adams and Jones (1997) developed a three part model of marital commitment which they divided into personal, moral and structural elements. Personal commitment which can be motivated by affective affection and emotional satisfaction constitutes the emotive dimension; moral commitment occurs because of personal values or religious beliefs which reflect ethical imperatives and structural commitment is created by socio-economic, family or institutional pressures which make separation unattractive. Deniz and Yozgat (2013) further narrowed it down as a psychological binding that drives the individuals to stay in the marital union and even work hard to sustain the relationship as time goes by. The various views unite on a definition that makes marital commitment affective and volitional thus necessitating the need to be affectionate and intentional.

‎Empirical studies in the recent past have highlighted how significant marital commitment can be, in determining the marital satisfaction, the manner in which the marriage partners communicate and the overall well being of the partners. Couples with a greater degree of commitment were more likely to have positive communication and work together to solve the conflict. On the other hand, the low level of commitment was linked to emotional disconnection, cheating and ultimate marriage breakups. The erosion of moral values, increasing economic hardship and the changed societal priorities among others were found to have led to the reduction in the level of marital commitment among married people in the Nigerian context.

‎Intergenerational effects also occur because of commitment. Studies have proven that the emotional stability and growth of children in the family depends on the degree of commitment of the wife and husband (Cheraey et al., 2020). Kids of these strained marital connections tend to develop psychological distress, low self-esteem and insecurity in their relations and this is a highlight of the extensive consequences of deteriorating marital dedication. Therefore, determining the factors that maintain or undermine commitment like resilience and socio-economic security is pertinent in the alleviation of marital breakdowns in the modern societies.

‎Marital resilience has become a very crucial construct to explain the adaptation and sustenance of marital health to adversity among couples. It refers to the ability of a couple to recover due to challenges in marital life, stress or crisis situations and maintain emotional connectedness and commitment (Sanford, Helms and Solomon, 2016). It is therefore not the lack of conflict in marriage but the possibility of the development even in the face of adversity that constitutes marital resilience.

‎According to Aydogan and Kizildag (2017), marital resilience is a dynamic process whereby couples rely on the common strengths, trust, as well as empathy to manage challenging situations. Resilient couples are likely to be optimistic and supportive of each other and find meaning in their struggle, thus they turn adversity into a growth opportunity. Conversely, those couples which are not resilient, tend more to withdraw, become hostile or refuse to accept responsibility when conflict occurs which results in a decline of their marital relationships (Sanford et al., 2016).

‎Nigerian couples with high resilience exhibited a high level of emotional regulation and communication in times of financial hardship or crisis in the family. Also, the couples who combined their positive coping mechanisms including co-problem solving and emotional support, experienced increased intimacy and trust, therefore strengthening their marital commitment.

‎In addition, there are personal, relational and contextual factors that determine marital resilience. Personal optimism, mutual spirituality and strong social networks also make couples have the ability to overcome marital stressors (Aydogan and Kizildag, 2017). Quality of interpersonal communication has revealed itself as one of the determinants too; open and understanding dialogue can lead to understanding and reduce resentment. In Nigeria, culture tends to support endurance in marriages, though endurance is not only passive but should be active and comes with adaptation and growth amid adversities. Resilience in marriage is an important factor that provides stability and commitment in marital life. It strengthens the emotional and cognitive connections which the committed relationships are built on by enabling the conversion of adversity into unity instead of polarization.

‎The socio-economic status (SES) is a decisive element that determines the relationships in marriage life and level of commitment between the two partners. SES generally refers to the level of income, education, profession and social status that, together, define the accessibility of resources and the quality of life of a person or a family. Emotional security, mutual ambitions and marital contentment are usually cultivated in the financial and social stability linked with increased SES. On the contrary, economic distress has the potential to augment marital strain, reduce satisfaction and commitment.

‎It has been proven that partners who have steady finances are less likely to experience conflicts and are also more likely to report higher relational satisfaction (Okunlola, Akande and Adetayo, 2023). Economic stability reduces the stress associated with the achievement of the basic needs and allows partners to focus on the emotional and social aspects of relationship. Financial stress on the other hand often leads to frustration, a breakdown of communication and blame especially in families where the gender roles have specified the role of provision of finances to one partner. Also, it is noteworthy to know that economic disparity and lack of job security in many Nigerian homes has increased unhappiness and lack of loyalty in marriages.

‎Education, being one of the components of SES also determines the marital commitment. More highly educated people tend to be more aware of the emotional, legal and social demands of marriage and are probably more likely to have better communication and conflict-management skills. However, higher education can lead to a change in gender roles and expectations which at times can create conflicts where the ambitions or incomes of the partners are not similar. The social status also defines how couples perceive their relationship and their ability to deal with external pressures as social comparison, influence of peers and extended families may strengthen or weaken marital relationships.

‎Apart from the socio-economic factors influencing marriage conflicts, e.g. inflation, joblessness and the ever-growing income disparity, in Nigerian setting, marital relationships are further pressured by socio-economic challenges. Most couples especially in semi urban places like Abeokuta North Local Government cannot balance financial survival and emotional intimacy. This fight very often ends up in loss of satisfaction, loss of trust and loss of commitment in the long run (Nwamidi, 2023).

‎Socio-economic stability is the baseline on which emotional and relational well-being could thrive. When the couples achieve financial adequacy and social backing, they will be in a good position to maintain dedication and build resolute marriages. On the other hand, prolonged socio-economic stress is likely to destroy communication, trust and sense of purpose that bind marriage. 

‎This indicates that marital commitment is a multidimensional and multi faceted construct and is dependent on psychological, relational and contextual factors. Marital resilience offers an emotional system with the help of which couples deal with stress and continue to be affectionate, but socio-economic status offers structural support that would allow them to remain stable over time. Despite having different dimensions these constructs are interconnected and in resilience and the socio-economic security facilitate adaptation to socio-economic challenges and commitment in socio-economic security mitigates stress and promotes harmony. 

‎Though there is a lot of literature in different parts of the world, researches with the focus on the interaction of marital resilience, socio-economic status and commitment in the Nigerian context are limited. The cultural, economic and social peculiarities of Nigerian marriages require the practical research that would explain the impact of the factors on marital commitment. In this regard, the current research aims at sealing this gap by investigating how marital resilience and socio-economic status affect marital commitment among married people in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun State.

2.2 Theoretical Framework

‎The current study focuses on how the marital resilience and socio-economic status affect marital commitment among married couples who live in the Abeokuta North Local Government in Ogun State and is based on three major theoretical concepts: the Commitment Theory, the Family Stress Theory and the Ecological Systems Theory. The theories provide a unique and complementary point of view to explain how people are able to maintain commitment in the marital environment despite socio-economic and relationship pressures.

‎According to social psychologists like Stanley and Markman (1992), who developed the Commitment theory, commitment is a complex concept that involves individual devotion, social duty and institutional bonds which hold the partners responsible. The theory argues that commitment is not only an affective one but a decision to sustain a relationship in the long run and particularly in times of conflict or poverty. In the marital relationship, commitment is operationalized by regular effort, willingness to sacrifice as well as giving precedence to the long-term sustainability of the relationship rather than dissatisfaction in the short term. The theory also makes a difference between personal commitment, the internal motivation to be in a marital union because of love, satisfaction or shared values and constraint commitment which can be external factors discouraging separation. In Abeokuta North, where the family choices are significantly affected by the socio-economic realities, the theory helps in clarifying how the financial stability or the lack thereof, individual ambition and structural commitment impact on the marital perseverance.

‎Hill (1949) and later on, McCubbin and Patterson (1983) developed the Family Stress Theory; this approach explores how families respond to and adapt to stressful conditions. It assumes that stressors are economic hardship, job loss or relationship conflict, all of which put family stability at risk. Nevertheless, coping abilities and family resilience mediate the adverse impact of this stress. According to the model, resilience works as a buffer whereby it is through such a buffer that couples are able to constructively adapt to adversity and maintain their commitment to their marriage despite the external forces. In this research, Family Stress Theory provides a platform through which one can examine how socio-economic issues impact marital relationships. Married couples with high marital resilience are better placed to view stress as something manageable and employ adaptive coping strategies, thus protecting their commitment. This theoretical perspective is particularly relevant in the socio-economically non-homogeneous environments like Ogun State where the income change and other differences in living conditions are commonly tested in marriage relationships.

‎Ecological Systems Theory, as proposed by Bronfenbrenner (1979), is a complete perspective of human development and relational behavior that places individuals in a system of environmental nest which include microsystem, mesosystem, exosystem, macrosystem and chronosystem. In marital context, this theory argues that the commitment in marriage is only determined by the interpersonal factors but also the rest of the socio -economic and cultural context. Microsystem includes direct relationship between spouses, exosystem and macrosystem include factors like condition of the economy, cultural values and government policies which have indirect impact on marital stability. Marriage, religious beliefs and economic pressures in Abeokuta North are some of the cultural expectancies that influence marital resilience and commitment. Therefore, Ecological Systems Theory is offered as a holistic way to study an interplay between contextual variables (family values to socioeconomic structures) and individual resilience to support or undermine marital commitment.

‎Overall, the three theories can be contemplated as a combination that helps to understand the complex interconnection of individual factors, relational adaptability and environmental factors that influence marital commitment. The Theory of commitment presupposes psychological and structural attachments; The Family Stress Theory focuses on coping and other survival strategies and the Ecological Systems Theory expands the analytical scope to include socio-cultural and economic settings. They all make up an integrative design of examining how married people in Abeokuta North maintain dedication to socio-economic strains and the urgency of endurance in modern marital life.

3.1 Methodology

3.2 Research Design 

‎ The type of the research design that was used in the study was a descriptive survey research design of a correlational nature. The choice of design was informed by the fact that it allows one to investigate how variables correlate with one another without having to manipulate the variables. 

3.3 Study Population 

The sample of this study will be made up of the entire population of married people who live in Abeokuta North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria. 

3.4 Sample and Sampling Techniques 

A total of one hundred (100) married people were used as the sample. Stratified sampling was also implemented so that the representation of different socio-economic and demographic groups, including education, occupation, and income level were adequate. 

3.5 Research Instrument 

The researcher used a questionnaire as a data collection instrument, which had three standardised scales that were used to measure socio-economic status, marital resilience and marital commitment among married couples. 

Socio‑Economic Status Scale 

To determine socio-economic status of the participants, the Socioeconomic Status Scale was used (SeSS) created by Fehintola (2020). SeSS is in 4-point Likert scale with Strongly Disagree (1) and Strongly Agree (4) as the two extremes. Items are assessing different indicators of socio-economic status, such as education, occupation, income level, and access to resources (e.g., which type of transportation, how many dependents, and whether or not he/she has a home). The scale showed that it has high internal consistency with Cronbach alpha of 0.859. 

Marital Resilience Scale 

Marital resilience was measured with the help of the Couple Resilience Inventory (CRI), created by Sanford, Backer -Fulghum, and Carson (2016). The CRI measures both positive and negative relational behaviours on seven items by rating them on a 4-point Likert -type scale with Strongly Disagree (1) as the least positive and Strongly Agree (4) as the most positive. It is the adaptation and the staying of the couples in stressful situations. CRI has a two-dimensional factor structure and its Cronbach alpha of 0.90 assures of its reliability and internal consistency. 

Marital Commitment Scale 

Adams and Jones (1997) developed the Dimensions of Commitment Inventory (DCI) that was used to measure marital commitment. The DCI evaluates three variables, which are personal commitment, moral commitment and structural commitment. The rating of the items is conducted on the basis of 4-point Likert scale (Strongly Disagree = 1, Strongly Agree = 4). Adams and Jones developed reliability of the instrument in which, Cronbach alpha coefficients of personal commitment, moral commitment and structural commitment registered 0.91, 0.89 and 0.86 respectively, which imply high internal consistency.

3.6 Administration of the Research Instrument

‎The researcher handed out questionnaires and was helped out by trained research assistants. The respondents were also told the purpose of the study and were guaranteed anonymity of their responses. The data collection was done physically in the individual community centres and households within the Abeokuta North Local Government to ensure that the significant number of responses were collected.

3.7 Ethical Considerations 

‎Relevant institutional ethics committee  was consulted to grant the ethical approval. The participants were given informed consent beforehand. The research participants were promised anonymity, voluntary participation and the option to exit the study without having to be penalized. Data collected was highly confidential and was only used solely for the research.

3.8 Method of Data Analysis 

‎ The data analysis was done using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics including, frequency distributions and percentages were to summarise the demographic data. Inferential statistics was carried out at 0.05 significant level using Pearson Product-Moment Correlation (PPMC) and Multiple Regression Analysis.

4.1 Results

RQ1: Are there significant relationship Socio-economic status, Socio-economic Status and Marital Commitment among married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun state?

Table 1: Summary of correlation matrix showing the relationship between the study variables

VariablesMeanSD123
Marital Commitment26.172.571.000  
Socio-economic status20.92.67.295**1.000 
Marital Resilience25.32.73.628**S**1.000

The table 1 above reveals the inter-correlational matrix on relationship that exits among independent factors (Socio-economic status and Marital Resilience) and dependent factor (Marital Commitment) among married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun state; Socio-economic status (r =.295, p<0.05) and Marital Resilience (r =.628, p<0.05) had significant relationship to Marital Commitment among married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun state. This implies that Socio-economic status and Marital Resilience play a significant role on Marital Commitment among married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun state.

RQ2: What is the joint contribution of Socio-economic status and Marital Resilience to Marital Commitment among married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun state?

Table 2: Multiple Regression Analysis on Marital Commitment

RR SquareAdjusted R SquareStd. Error of the Estimate
0.6280.3950.3822.01735
    SUMMARY REGRESSION ANOVA
ModelSum of SquaresDfMean SquareFSig.
 Regression257.3512128.67531.618.001b
Residual394.759974.070  
Total652.11099   

Table 2 indicates that the independent variables (Socio-economic status and Marital Resilience) have joint effect on Marital Commitment among married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun state. The table shows a coefficient of multiple correlations (R) of 0.628 a multiple R2 of 0.395. This means that 38.2% (Adj. R2=0.382) of the variance in the Marital Commitment of married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun state is accounted for by the independent variables, when taken together. The table also showed that the analysis of variance for the regression yielded of F (31.618, p<0.05). The above present is significant at 0.05 level. This shows that there is joint contribution of  both Socio-economic status and Marital Resilience to the Marital Commitment of married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun state.

RQ3: What is the relative contribution of each of Socio-economic status and Marital Resilience to Marital Commitment among married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun state?

Table 3: Relative contribution of each of the independent factors to the prediction of Marital Commitment

Coefficientsa
ModelUnstandardized CoefficientsStandardized CoefficientstSig.
BStd. ErrorBeta
 (Constant)11.0442.069 5.338.000
Socio-economic status.581.083.6197.024.811
Marital Resilience.020.085.0210.240.001

The table 3 shows the relative contribution of each of the independent variables (Socio-economic status and Marital Resilience) to Marital Commitment among married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun state. The regression coefficient for Marital Resilience (β = .021, t= 0.240, p<0.05) indicates significant effect on Marital Commitment among married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun state. While the coefficient for Socio-economic status (β = .619, t= 7.024, p<0.05) also indicates relative contribution to Marital Commitment among married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun state. That is, factors such as Marital Resilience and Socio-economic status predict and determine Marital Commitment of married individuals in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun state.

4.2 Discussion

‎The results of this paper show that marital resilience and socio-economic status are major factors that are used to identify marital commitment among married people in Abeokuta North Local Government, Ogun State, Nigeria. Correlation analysis also indicated statistically significant positive relationship between marital resilience, socio-economic status and marital commitment. Most importantly, it was noted that marital resilience showed a stronger relationship compared to socio-economic factor meaning that the ability of couples to adjust to a crisis has a stronger impact on commitment as opposed to their socio economic status. This observation is not new since the study by Sanford et al. (2016) highlighted the importance of positive resilience behaviours to promote marital commitment.

Nevertheless, the results of regression analysis revealed that the combination of marital resilience and socio-economic status explain 38.2% of the variance in marital commitment ( Adj. R2 = 0.382). This means that these factors are statistically relevant but there are other external factors, which could also play a role in the commitment of marital e.g., cultural norms, extended family and personal values. Regression coefficients also indicated that socio- economic status has a stronger influence on marital commitment compared to marital resilience and this implies that despite the fact that resilience helps married couples to adapt to a poor situation, socio-economic status is a stronger predictor of long-term commitment. This shows that marital stress is lessened by high socio-economic status and it also improves the stability of marriages and leads to marital commitment among married people.

4.3 Conclusion

‎This study concludes that both marital resilience and socio-economic status significantly contribute to marital commitment. However, socio-economic status plays a more dominant role in determining how committed individuals remain in their marriages. Despite the importance of resilience counseling, the socio-economic status provides a stronger foundation for marital commitment in the context of this study. The study suggests the importance of  both emotional and financial preparedness before marriage to foster marital commitment. Although couples with higher levels of marital resilience are better equipped to handle marital stress, low socio-economic status may still impede marital commitment among married individuals in Nigeria. ‎Studies has shown how the influence of Socio-economic status on marital commitment has been the same in Denmark, Germany, Sweden, Finland and some other countries (Jalovaara, 2002). Socio-economic status has been shown to affect marital commitment according to some other research studies (e.g., Sassler, Addo and Lichter, 2012).

4.4 Recommendation

‎Based on the findings from this study, the following recommendations are suggested to Marriage Counselors and other stakeholders:

‎New Couples should be encouraged to engage in financial planning and have multiple sources of income to enhance their economic stability.

‎Government and NGOs should provide economic empowerment programs targeting married individuals to reduce the financial strain on families.

‎Marital Resilience Counseling should focus on developing positive coping mechanisms for marital challenges and fostering adjustments from each partner as a sign of commitment towards the marriage.

‎Religious and community groups should endeavour to set up marital resilience training in order to help couples especially newly wedded ones to build strong emotional bonds.

‎Engaged couples should undergo comprehensive pre-marital resilience counseling that covers both financial and emotional resilience in order to prepare their mind for any possible adversity that may arise to challenge the efforts of each individual in fostering Marital Commitment.

‎Marital commitment should be prevented by offering post marital resilience counselling to couples experiencing marital dissatisfaction or financial strain. 

The employers could also implement work-life balance policies, which are family-friendly policies, which boost marital stability. 

By focusing on both the economic and emotional aspects of marriage life at the same time, couples in Abeokuta North and other places will achieve greater marital fulfilment and long-term dedication.

References

‎Adams, J. M. and Jones, W. H. (1997). The conceptualization of marital commitment: An integrative analysis. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 72(5), 1177–1196. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.72.5.1177

‎Aduragbemi Okunlola, D. et al. “Socio‐economic Correlates of Marital Status and Marriage Timing Among Adult Men in Nigeria.” Journal of Family Issues, 44(4). https://doi.org/10.1177/0192513X211059828

‎Arriaga X. B. and Agnew C. R. (2001). Being committed: affective, cognitive and conative components of relationship commitment. Pers Soc Psychol Bull2001; 27(9): https://doi.org/10.1177/0146167201279009

‎Aydogan, D. and Kizildag, D. (2017). Marital resilience and coping strategies among married individuals: A psychological perspective. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 34(5), 603–620. https://doi.org/10.1177/1066480717731215

‎Bronfenbrenner, U. (1979). The ecology of human development: Experiments by nature and design. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press. https://doi.org/10.4159/9780674028845

Cheraey, L., Goudarzi, M. and Akbari, M. (2020). Comparison of the Effect of Imago Relationship Therapy and Feldman’s Integrated Approach on Marital Commitment in Conflicting Couples. Avicenna Journal of Neuro Psycho Physiology, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.32592/ajnpp.2020.7.1.100

‎Deniz, M. E. and Yozgat, U. (2013). The role of commitment in marital relationships: Psychological attachment and long-term orientation. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, 84, 606–611. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2013.06.617

‎Fehintola, J. O. (2020). Construction and validation of Socio-Economic Status Scale (SeSS). Ibadan Journal of Educational Studies, 18(2), 43-48. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/341966497_CONSTRUCTION_AND_VALIDATION_OF_SOCIO-ECONOMIC_STATUS_SCALE

‎Hill, R. (1949). Families under stress: Adjustment to the crises of war separation and reunion. New York, NY: Harper and Brothers. https://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.18276

‎Jalovaara M (2002). Socioeconomic Differentials in Divorce Risk by Duration of Marriage Demographic Research, 7, 537–564 https://doi.org/10.4054/DemRes.2002.7.16

‎McCubbin, H. I. and Patterson, J. M. (1983). The family stress process: The double ABCX model of adjustment and adaptation. In H. I. McCubbin, M. B. Sussman and J. M. Patterson (Eds.), Social stress and the family: Advances and developments in family stress theory and research (pp. 7–37). New York, NY: Haworth Press. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315822429

‎‎Sanford, K., Backer-Fulghum, L. M., and Carson, C. (2016). Couple Resilience Inventory: Two dimensions of naturally occurring relationship behavior during stressful life events. Psychological Assessment, 28(10), 1243-1254. https://doi.org/10.1037/pas0000256

‎Sassler S, Addo FR and Lichter DT (2012). The Tempo of Sexual Activity and Later Relationship Quality. Journal of Marriage and Family, 74(4), 708–725. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1741-3737.2012.00996.x

‎Stanley, S. M. and Markman, H. J. (1992). Assessing commitment in personal relationships. Journal of Marriage and the Family, 54(3), 595–608. https://doi.org/10.2307/353245

 Spatiotemporal Mapping and Analysis of the Land Use and Land Cover in Makurdi, Nigeria 

 Ibrahim, A. D., & Umoru, K. (2026). Spatiotemporal Mapping and Analysis of the Land Use and Land Cover in Makurdi, Nigeria. International Journal of Research, 13(1), 278–286. https://doi.org/10.26643/ijr/2026/6

Daily writing prompt
Name an attraction or town close to home that you still haven’t got around to visiting.

Abakpa David Ibrahim1, Kebiru Umoru2*

1University Library, University of Abuja, Nigeria

2National Centre for Remote Sensing, Jos, Nigeria

Correspondence: t.omali@yahoo.com

Abstract 

This study employed geospatial techniques to capture the process of land conversion taking place. The objectives include mapping the land use types. The methodology involved geospatial technique which uses remote sensing and GIS techniques to identify the past and current condition of land use change occasioned development activities in the Makurdi Metropolis for the period of 1999, 2009 and 2019. The result shows that overall, there was progressive and increasing change in built-up area and water body categories, at (17.00%) and (1.73%) respectively during the period of study. However, vegetation cover, farm land, bare land and wetland decreased by (2.51%), (3.51%), (4.61%) and (8.08%) respectively. Residential buildings are fast encroaching the flood plain of River Benue in Makurdi. There is a need to sensitize the residents on the danger of flooding and provisions should be made to relocate those already occupying the location.

Keywords: GIS, land use change, Imagery, Mapping, remote sensing

  1. Introduction

The population of the world is growing at different rates relative to the total population (Omali, 2020), and it is becoming more urbanized (Enoch, John, and Jonathan, 2020). Changes in land use and land cover (LULC), which are more common in developing countries, are a result of this population growth. Due to the “push” of rural areas and the “pull” of urban centers, Nigeria’s high rate of urbanization is changing its land use (Aluko, 2013). Unprecedented alterations in the ecosystem and environmental processes have, of course, been brought about by natural forces and human activity (Okeke and Omali, 2016). This has resulted in a decline in biodiversity and environmental degradation. Land use and cover change is a global phenomenon. While urban centers are growing in population and area the surrounding open/agricultural lands are rapidly changing. Construction is putting increasing pressure on the land use to make room for a variety of urban land uses. There are severe consequences from the ruthless reduction of available land per person, including low or decreased food production, ecological degradation, environmental problems, and socioeconomic difficulties.

Current methods for managing natural resources and keeping an eye on environmental changes heavily rely on studies on changes in land use and land cover (LULC) (Okeke and Omali, 2016). This makes it feasible to comprehend human interactions with natural resources, both past and present, as well as their effects. To get the desired outcome, the conventional approach to LULC assessment is inadequate (Okeke and Omali, 2018). Therefore, it’s critical to use cutting-edge technologies, such as sophisticated computers, remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), GPS, and the power of spatial information systems (Okeke and Omali, 2016). Since remote sensing is the only affordable technology that provides data on a global scale, it provides an important means of detecting and analyzing spatiotemporal dynamics on geographical entities (Omali, 2018a). Through the use of aerial or spaceborne sensors, remote sensing gathers data about Earth without requiring the sensors to come into direct physical contact with the target or object of interest (Omali, 2022a). According to Omali (2021) the electromagnetic radiation serves as the transmission medium for information. GIS is typically employed in the gathering, storing, modifying, analyzing, visualizing, and presenting of georeferenced data and information (Omali, 2022b). Through the manipulation, analysis, statistical application, and modeling of spatial data, it provides us with the ability to handle spatially referenced data (Omali, 2022c). In general, remote sensing data and GIS techniques have emerged as incredibly helpful tools for mapping natural resources, such as vegetation and changes in land use/cover over geographic areas. This has allowed for the removal of many of the constraints associated with traditional surveying techniques and the acquisition of a continuous and comprehensive ecosystem inventory. In light of this, research on the LULC in Makurdi was conducted using geospatial technologies over a 20-year period, from 2009 to 2019.

  • Methodology
    • Data

Both primary and secondary sources provided data for the study; some of these are listed in Tables 1a and 1b. Satellite imagery and field observations make up the main sources. During the field campaign, training site coordinates were recorded using a handheld GPS device (Garmin Etrex 32). With the GPS using satellite, almost anywhere on Earth can be located at any time (Omali, 2023a). Furthermore, it is important to note that time-series data, such as remotely sensed data from various eras, must be applied in order to study and monitor LULC (Omali, 2023b). As a result, the time-series satellite data from three epochs of multi-spectral Landsat TM/ETM/OLI imagery were used in this study. Other materials such as newspapers, journals, textbooks, World Bank publications, and maps are included in the secondary sources.   

Table 1a: Maps used in the study

 TypeDate of ProductionSourceScale
Landuse/landcover mapSecondary1999Military Air Force Base Makurd1:1000000
A base map of Makurdi LGASecondary2019Benue State Ministry of Land and Survey1:50000

      Table 1b: Satellite imageries used in the study

 TypePath/RowDate of ImagerySourceResolution
 TM (Band 1-7)Primary188/55July 5, 1999Global Land Cover Facility (GLCF) database.30m
 ETM+(Band 1-7)Primary188/55August 4, 2009Global Land Cover Facility (GLCF) database.30m
OLI+Primary188/55July11, 2019Global Land Cover Facility (GLCF) database.30m
  • Pre-processing of the Satellite Imagery

It is crucial to pre-process satellite images for accurate change detection (Andualem et al., 2018). Time series analysis requires this crucial step in order to reduce noise and improve the interpretability of image data (Yichun et al., 2008). The processes and methods used in satellite image processing include geometric correction, atmospheric and radiometric correction, and masking study areas. To produce a consistent and trustworthy image database, radiometric and atmospheric correction is applied to account for variations in the viewing geometry and instrument response characteristics, as well as atmospheric conditions related to scene illumination. Pre-processing techniques used in this study included study area masking, image enhancement, and correction for atmospheric and radiometric errors. In order to bring the image scene and the scanned topographic maps into the same coordinate system, they were also co-registered into UTM zone 32N, WGS 84.

  • Image Classification

The goal of the imagery classification process was to assign each pixel in the digital image to one of many land cover classes, or “themes” (Omali, 2018b). This allows for the creation of thematic maps of the land cover present in an image. Finding the land use and land cover class of interest was the first stage in this study’s mapping and change analysis of land use and land cover. In this investigation, we employed six classes, as indicated in table 2, by incorporating and adapting the classification scheme from Andersen et al. (1971). The classes listed in Table 2 were utilized in this study. Also, the maximum likelihood supervised classification technique was used to classify LULC images from Landsat data. The study’s training sites were first located and defined. Fieldwork yielded training samples in line with Lu and Weng (2007). For the actual supervised classification of the study area, signature files containing statistical data about the reflectance values of the pixels within the training site for each of the LULC types or classes were developed in line Ojigi (2006). The supervised classification algorithm was imputed with the signatures.

        Table 2: Land Use/Land Cover Classification Scheme

Land UseDescription
Built-up Areacomprises all developed surfaces including residential, commercial, industrial complexes, public and private institutions, recreational areas, Airport, Factories, Interstate highways, roads networks that linked most of the areas together.
Vegetation,areas covered with plants of various species. This category includes grassland and non-agricultural trees and shrubs they are mostly wild plants.
Farm Land,land used primarily for cultivation of food and fibre, it includes cropped areas, fallow land and plantations (Ochards, nursery, vineyard etc.), harvested areas and herbaceous croplands.
Bare Surface,includes open surfaces, rocky outcrops, sandy area, strip mines, quarries, gravel pits, silt etc. Exposed soil devoid of vegetal cover, that is, open spaces.
Water body,includes areas covered with water bodies such as rivers, streams, lakes, flood plain, Reservoirs. It also includes artificial impoundment of water like dam used for irrigation, flood control, municipal water supplies, recreation, etc.
Wetland.an area where water covers the soil either at or near the surface of the soil all year or for varying periods of time during the year, including during the growing season.  

       Source: Adapted and modified from Anderson et al., (1971)

  • Land Use and Land Cover change Detection

There are numerous approaches for detecting changes in multi-spectral image data, such as time series analysis, vector analysis of spectral changes, and characteristic analysis of spectral type. Time series analysis is the most common method, and it was used in this study. Its objective is to analyze the course and trend of changes by tracking ground objects using continuous observation data from remote sensing (Adzandeh, et al., 2014). Naturally, post-classification comparisons can yield results of change that are acceptable and provide “from-to” data (Okeke and Omali, 2018).

  • Results and Discussion
    • Land Use and Land Cover Classification Result

The satellite imageries covering the study area were classified in GIS environment. Tables 2 reveal that there is a progressive and significant increase in built-up area which is necessitated by the increase in commercial activities, residential growth, economic and social activities. This is in line with the findings of Etim and Dukiya (2013) who opine that urban encroachment on agricultural land has reduced the productivity of most farmers in Makurdi. The water body recorded little increase due to the increase in water works like construction of Kaptai Lake, which is the largest artificial lake in the country. The farm land, vegetation, bare land and wetland decreases throughout the period of study.

           Table 3: Land use and land cover distribution of Makurdi

  Class1999           20092019
Area (km2)(%)Area (km2)(%)Area (km2)(%)
Built-up98.07911.97170.96820.86237.4628.97
Vegetation138.2016.86125.69515.33117.65314.35
Farm Land203.5624.83184.60822.52174.73521.32
Bare Land142.48717.38122.24914.91104.56112.77
Water Body22.45902.7429.16403.5636.65804.47
Wetland214.8926.22186.9922.78148.69618.14
Total819.670100819.670100819.670100

The classified images (false colour composite) for the different periods 1999, 2009 and 2019 of study area are shown in Figures 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3 respectively. These colour composite shows the visual distribution pattern of the distribution and change taking place in the images of the areas throughout the period of study. The dominating land use and land cover category in 1999 as shown in Table 3 and figure 1 is the wetland covering an area of 214.89km2 (26.22%). This is understandable as Hemba, et al. (2017) describes the relief of Makurdi town as lying entirely in the low- laying flood Plain with River Benue forming the major drainage channel. Farm land covers 203.56km2 representing 24.83% of Makurdi.

                                        Figure 1: Land Use and Land Cover of Makurdi in 1999

 Most residents engage in farming, either crop production or livestock farming as the soil is fertile and the weather is conducive for agricultural practices. This assertion supports the views of Hula, (2010) who noted that most farmers in Makurdi cultivate land for crop production, rearing of animals for consumption and selling part of the produce to generate money to meet other needs. The populace of Makurdi comprises of indigenous farmers and migrants who are mostly engaged in farm activities as noted by Oju et al. (2011). Due to farming and hunting and other activities like sand mining carried out  in Makurdi, the size of bare land is observed to occupy large space of about 142.487km2 represented by 17.38% in 1999. This is because farmers have enough space to cultivate. Farmers relocate to other lands whenever a particular land becomes unproductive and this has been the major cause of bare land in the study area. These contradicts Tee (2019) who argued that hunting, grazing  and other factors, which lead to clearing of land through manual, mechanical and chemical means have greatly changed the original vegetation cover to bare land and other classes of land use in Makurdi. The vegetation covered a reasonable size of land and it was 138.20km2 (16.86%).This is attributed to the few number of settlers in Maukurdi and low level of human activities taking place within the urban centre as at the time. The water body was 22.459 km2 (2.74%) with River Benue forming the major drainage system in the area and is the main source of water for human use. This is in line with the views of Nnule and Ujoh, (2017) who pointed out that Benue River is the main source of water in Makurdi. This doesn’t mean that other form of water sources like borehole, ponds and dams are not important.

Table 1 and figure 2 shows that the wetland had the largest area coverage of about 186.99km2 (22.78%) in 2009 as the entire land fall within the Benue Valley and Trough. The geology of the study area influence the wetland, this infect is also confirmed by Iorliam, (2014). The farmland occupies 184.608km2 (22.52%), as most residents are farmers. The number is significant as civil

                              Figure 2: Land Use and Land Cover of Makurdi in 2009.

servants also own farms. The built-up, which was 170.968km2 (20.86%) recorded a high increase due the increase in population. This corroborates the findings of Jiang, et al. (2013) which stated that the urban expansion on agricultural land is associated with both shrinking agricultural land area and a higher level of urban development. It also agrees with the findings of Araya and Cabral (2010) that substantial growth of urban areas has occurred worldwide in the last few decades with population increase being one of the most obvious agents responsible. The vegetation cover depreciated to 125.695km2 (15.33%). This may be attributed to deforestation as more forest was cleared to provide more space for increasing human development. This is buttressed by Mugish and Nyandwi (2015) that housing development on arable farm land in most cities has become an issue on the global agenda in recent times. Bare land, which was 122.52km2 (14.91%) decreased as the spaces were being covered with more structures but the water body 29.164km2 (3.56%) slightly increased. Of course, this is an indication that most of the human activities use water and other sources of water are being developed to meet the need of the increasing populace.

The level of human activities in the year 2019 was very high, although Makurdi has no functional Master Plan to check the developmental activities, however, as shown in the image Fig5.3 and Table5.1, The built-up area of 237.46km2 (28.97%) in 2019 almost tripled its size recorded in 1999.This supports the assertion by United Nations Department of Economy and Social Affairs (UNDESA, 2010) that urban cities have changed from small isolated population

                                 Figure 3: Land Use and Land Cover of Makurdi in 2019.

centres to large interconnected economic, physical, and environmental features. In recent time, issues of Herdsmen/Farmers crisis are among factors contributing to the migration of people from neighbouring villages to Makurdi Town for safety. These numbers of people who mostly settled along the urban hinterland, which is mostly used for agricultural purpose, have converted the land for building of houses and other socioeconomic infrastructures. The farm land occupies 174.735km2 (21.32%) as it decreases with population upsurge settles in the study area. Farmers move outside of Makurdi to get land for their activities which make the cost of cultivation expensive than expected. Agencies with the mandate of protecting natural ecosystem are weak in areas of law enforcement in Makurdi as infrastructural developments are indiscriminately carried out. This observation contradicts the views of Wade quoted in Nico et al. (2000) that Various NGOs, government and international Agencies have been supporting the urban agriculture (UA) since 1970s in major world regions. There was reduction in wetland to 148.696km2 (18.14%) and vegetation cover to 117.653km2 (14.35%) compared to the previous ten years while the water body 36.658km2(4.47%) increases during the same periods.

  • Conclusion

The research findings revealed that built-up area increased all through the period of study while arable land decreases due to infrastructural development. The rapid increase in built-up area is because the surrounding agricultural land is fast decreasing. Bare land, vegetation and wetland decreased throughout the period of study as human settlement increases over the years. Of course, it was observed that the effect of the development was concentrated more to the north eastern part of Makurdi as residential buildings with high rate of economic activities is observed in the region. Generally, this study has been able to show that conversion of open/agricultural land for infrastructural development was mostly due to increase in number of people through migration and natural means of population growth. The land use and land cover change detection for the period of 20 years revealed the extent and type of conversion. The study recommends Green areas within and around the city should be properly preserved as this allows for ventilation. All effort should be put in place to prevent unofficial development and measures should be in place to curb population growth which has encouraged urban sprawl on prime agricultural land as this is feasible around Makurdi hinterland.

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