Effect of Examination-Period Stress on Sleep Quality and Cognitive Performance Among Students of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, North West Nigeria

Background: Academic stress during examination periods is a well-documented precipitant of sleep disturbance and cognitive impairment among university students globally. Nigerian students face compounding stressors including power outages, inadequate study infrastructure, and socioeconomic pressures. Recent studies suggest that poor sleep quality mediates the adverse relationship between stress and academic performance. Objectives: This study seeks to evaluate the relationship between self-reported stress levels, sleep quality scores, and selected cognitive performance indicators among students of Ahmadu Bello University during examination periods. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey will be conducted on 250 students using the Perceived Stress Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and a validated trail-making test for cognitive screening. Data collection will occur during the examination period and again during a non-examination period to allow within-subject comparison. Paired t-tests and regression analysis will be applied. Expected Outcomes: Sleep quality scores and cognitive performance are expected to deteriorate significantly during examination periods, with stress level emerging as the primary mediating variable. Conclusion: Findings will support the introduction of evidence-based stress management programmes within Nigerian tertiary institutions. Keywords: academic stress, sleep quality, cognitive performance, university students, Zaria.