ABSTRACT

The study examined the level of adoption of green supply chain management (GSCM) technologies and practices in selected pharmaceutical and textile firms in Southwestern Nigeria. The study was carried out in 10 pharmaceutical and 10 textile firms in Lagos and Ogun States, because of the high concentration of industrial firms in these two states. Primary data were collected through two sets of structured questionnaires administered to 1 Production Manager; 2 Suppliers; 3 Distributors; 3 Retailers; and 3 Consumers in each firm, making a total of two hundred and forty (240) respondents. The harvested quantitative data were subjected to frequencies and mean analysis in SPSS. This study used five stages of adoption to measure the level of adoption of Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) technologies and practices, which were Awareness, Interested, Evaluating, Trying, and Adoption stages. Out of the eighteen technologies and practices presented, none of the selected firms is in the adoption stage for any of the technologies or practices presented. However, the firms are already in Trying stage in acquiring green materials and sourcing ethically (Mean 3.5-4.4), while all other remaining technologies and practices were still being evaluated (Mean 2.5-3.44). The study concluded that the extent of adoption of green supply chain management technologies and practices in the pharmaceutical and textile firms is very low.

Keywords: Green Supply Chain, Green Supply Chain Management technologies, Green Supply Chain Management Practices, Pharmaceutical Firms, Textile Firms.

ABSTRACT

Precipitable water vapour (PWV) is a crucial atmospheric parameter that measures the amount of water vapour in the atmosphere above a specific location. The analysis of PWV variation is required to improve the understanding of climatic variability. The state-of-the-art fifth generation of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ERA5) which provides historical PWV records has gained prominence in the research community. The ERA5 dataset requires validation using in-situ ground observations such as Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). However, there is a limited understanding of the climatic and seasonal variability of ERA5 PWV over Nigeria. The sparse GNSS data coverage in previous studies has also limited their potential for correlating the PWV variations with significant or severe weather occurrences. This study investigates the spatio-temporal and seasonal correlation of ERA5 PWV with the GNSS-derived PWV over Nigeria between 2011 and 2016, using GNSS observations from the Nigerian GNSS Network (NIGNET). The GNSS observations were processed using Precise Point Positioning software to derive the Zenith Tropospheric Delay and its products. Subsequently, the PWV was derived from the Zenith Wet Delay. The quantitative analysis was facilitated using spatial interpolation and statistical metrics. The findings reveal a very close correlation between ERA5 PWV and the GNSS-derived PWV across all climatic regions in Nigeria, with the highest correlations occurring in the Sudan/Sahel region (r: 0.96 – 0.98). In the dry season, there is a decrease in PWV from lower to higher latitudes. During the wet season of 2012 which recorded severe precipitation and flooding, the highest PWV content occurred in the mangrove and evergreen climatic regions located in south-west and south-eastern Nigeria. This study has proven the utility of the ERA5 PWV for mapping and monitoring the water vapour content and for long-term climate studies over Nigeria.

 Keywords: Global navigation satellite systems, Precise point positioning, Precipitable water vapour, Severe precipitation, ERA5

ABSTRACT

The rapid urbanization of recent years has led to a surge in urban population, driving up the demand for water resources. This has taken a toll on groundwater, both in terms of quantity and quality. Anthropogenic activities, change in land use, and changes in topography have rendered groundwater highly susceptible to contamination. To ensure sustainable water utilization, a robust water management system is essential. This study focuses on assessing groundwater vulnerability to pollution in Mainland Local Government Area (LGA) of Lagos, a region grappling with urbanization challenges. We utilized geological and hydrogeological data from existing sources and collected spatial data, including borehole coordinates, road networks, river locations, topographical features, and geological data, which were organized into a geodatabase for geospatial analysis. Our approach involved the DRASTIC model, accounting for aquifer parameters like depth to water, net recharge, aquifer characteristics, Vadose zone influence, and hydraulic conductivity. This model was used to create groundwater vulnerability and risk maps, validated using groundwater quality data. The results revealed diverse susceptibility levels within Mainland Lagos, with about 18% displaying high susceptibility, 25% moderate susceptibility, 28% low susceptibility, and 29% very low susceptibility to contamination. These maps offer vital insights for informed decision-making in water resource management. By enabling sustainable aquifer use, this study sets a precedent for resource preservation amid urbanization’s challenges.

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Keywords: Groundwater, susceptibility, DRASTIC model, groundwater quality

ABSTRACT

This study examined bacteriological and physicochemical properties of ground water within Makera district, Kaduna South Local Government, Kaduna State. A total of 10 borehole water were sampled from 5 different streets in Makera. The physiochemical parameters were determined by checking conductivity, pH, temperature, turbidity, Alkalinity, hardness, total dissolved solid, colour and odour using standard procedures. Bacteriological analysis was determined using total viable count and most probable number (MPN) technique. This was followed by characterization and antibacterial susceptibility of the isolates. The result obtained shows that conductivity had the values from 0.50 to 1.26mg/l, total dissolved solid ranges from 2.24 to 5.46 mg/l, temperature ranges from 25.7 to 31.9 °C, pH value ranges from 5.65 to 7.5, Alkalinity ranges from 16 to 55mg/l, hardness ranges from 7.6 to 10.4 mg/l. The total viable count ranges from 1.0×10³ to 4.5×10³ CFU/ml for dilution of 10³. The MPN index result revealed that none of the water samples met the standard value of WHO for drinking water which state that, the presence of coliform in drinking water should be zero/100ml. Escherichia coli (90%) was found to have the highest number of isolated organisms followed by Salmonella sp (50%) and Shigella sp (30%). The antibiotic susceptible pattern of isolates in this study indicates that all the isolates were sensitive to gentamycin, tarivid and streptomycin. Ground water in this area is characterized by the present od coliforms indicating bacteriological contamination, as such, not suitable for drinking purpose. This study suggest that the evaluation of ground water quality parameters should be carried out periodically to protect the water resources.

Keywords: Escherichia coli, Salmonella sp, Shigella sp, Most Probable Number, Coliform

ABSTRACT

Establishment of stable deformation monitoring points is a vital step in the monitoring of the stability of deformable structures. This research dwells on the establishment of a network of points to monitor the stability of Jimeta Bridge. Approximate horizontal coordinates of the monitoring points were first obtained using the GNSS receiver. The vertical coordinates of the same points were observed using a precise levelling operation.  The horizontal and vertical coordinates of the monitoring points were adjusted to get a stable network of points for the monitoring of the bridge. The adjustment was achieved using a Stability estimator model which is designed based on the principle of free network. The results show that the 66^th baseline configuration returned the maximum redundancy number of the reliability matrix of 0.59880000000000 and a minimal trace of 0.00539266393068631. The aposteriori variances were computed and found to be 0.4465, for the test on reference points and 0.6177 for the test on object points. The computed aposteriori variance both falls between the lower and the upper limit. This signifies that the geometry of the monitoring network points remains intact with no distortion. The network of the monitoring points is therefore safe to be utilised in the monitoring of the stability of the Jimeta Bridge.

Keywords: Deformation Monitoring, Mathematical Model, Least Squares Adjustment, Stability Estimator and Engineering Structure

ABSTRACT

The availability of potable water is a challenge in most developing countries, In Nigeria, more than 100 million people are required to meet Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) target for improved water by 2025 and it is unlikely to be achieved only by public supply. The Nsukka inhabitants have resorted to water vending activities in order to circumvent this problem. This aligns with SDG 6 for developing countries and propelled the quest to investigate the activities, spatial distribution and quality of vended water in Nsukka urban, Enugu State. For the study, a total number of 162 copies of questionnaire were administered to vendors which were selected by simple random sampling respectively. The result showed two main categories of water vendors namely; formal and informal vendors and their operations in Nsukka urban. Water analysis was done in the laboratory to ascertain the quality index of the source (formal vendors) which is 5 major boreholes in Nsukka urban and also samples were collected from two informal vendors for end users to ascertain the quality. Findings revealed that the water vending business especially the large scale water vendors make up to ₦8000 on daily basis while the small scale vendors gain an additional N5000 naira on the initial cost of  a full truck load of water. Laboratory analysis shows that the quality of water retailed from the different boreholes was good, in tandem with W.H.O standard but on the contrary the water quality from the vendors was not potable and contaminated from containerized supply especially rusty water tanks. We unequivocally recommend a routine and quality assurance checks before vendors are allowed to retail water to the masses in order to ensure compliance with W.H.O standard. We advocate that government should prioritize the provision of adequate pipe-borne water to residents of Nsukka Urban. 

Keywords: Water vending, Formal sector, Informal sector, Water quality, Spatial distribution

ABSTRACT

Streams are important in an ecosystem for the survival of aquatic organisms and their quality fundamentals.  Streams are important in an ecosystem and their quality is fundamental for the survival of aquatic organisms. Feroro stream is threatened from anthropogenic activities which affects the quality of its sediment temporally and spatially. Sediment was collected on monthly bases for twenty-four months from five stations along the stream based on anthropogenic activities using calibrated standard tubes. Physicochemical parameters were determined using multiparameter HANNA meter, Dissolved oxygen meter, Titration and Colorimeteric methods. All the physicochemical parameters were within World Health Organization limits and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality limits except Total Hardness (77.87-156.00mg/L), Dissolved Oxygen (1.51-3.79mg/L) and pH (6.59-8.67). There was significant (P<0.05) temporal variation in the physicochemical parameters but no significant variation spatially (P<0.05). Across the wet and dry seasons, there was significant variation except in Temperature (25.79℃ and 25.54℃) and Total Hardness (116.72mg/L and 121.66mg/L) respectively P<0.05.  There was a significant difference P<0.05, in all the parameters across the wet and dry seasons, except in Temperature (25.79℃ and 25.54℃) and Total Hardness (116.72mg/L and 121.66mg/L). 

Keywords: Feroro Stream, Physico-chemical Parameters, Spatial, Temporal, Sediment

ABSTRACT

The ongoing Ukraine war, spike in living cost, Covid-19 pandemics, academic staff union strikes for better funding of education, and urban renewal activities that constitute significant sources of stressors with mental health implication in Nigerian cities. Studies have shown stress can blunt people’s sensitivity and ability to make informed decisions. Therefore, no better time than now to assess the perceived stress scale, decision-making process, and nuclear awareness among Nigerian millennials in the face of rising emergencies. Here the study showed significant majority of millennials are lower stress, making good decisions, and nuclear aware. The survey observations were in line with previous studies in the UK and the US, but did not support the same hypothesis. Considerably, the research highlights the concern of Nigerian millennials about the Ukraine conflict, the potential nuclear threat to cities, and increasing inequalities. There is need to rethink a statistical regularity and bridge existing knowledge gaps among respondents on the catastrophic effects of a nuclear world war including the demonstrated disregard for sustainability. It is important because they are not only the future leaders, but this is the millennial generation and the United Nations has stressed the need for greater nuclear awareness. An empirical survey using mixed-method, self-reporting questionnaires with 26 questions was adopted. The randomly sampled 38 Nigerian millennials in Port Harcourt, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa states was facilitated by faculty members of institutions in these states the researchers have rapport. The mean score of data collected were analysed. The conclusion is with recommendations for achieving greater sustainability and nuclear education while contributing to the prevention of potential catastrophe for humanity and our architectural heritage by cities’ obliteration.

Keywords:Perceived Stress Scale, Decision Making, Nuclear Awareness, Sustainability, Global Trade, Architectural Preservation, Cities Obliteration, Nuclear Winter

ABSTRACT

The distal field, Sapele Deep Field, is situated in the Niger Delta’s Northwestern region. The study had access to three wells (numbers 06, 17, and 18). Thirteen reservoirs were identified across the wells, and they were found at depths ranging from 2991.62 meters (9872.35 feet) to 3761.81 meters (12413.97 feet). The field is a brownfield with a total area of 16515.73 acres, and it has been producing hydrocarbon for over three decades. As a result, digital wireline well log data, including the neutron log, resistivity log, gamma-ray log, and density log, were used to carry out the reservoir petrophysical evaluation and gain a better understanding of the reservoir lithology and hydrocarbon potential. The research area’s average values for the following parameters are 6.67 m (22.01 ft) of net sand thickness, 0.21 (21%), 1454.05 mD of permeability, 0.16 mD of shale volume, 0.47 (net-to-gross), and 0.48 (48%), respectively, for water saturation (Sw).

Keywords: Petrophysical evaluation, Lithology, Gamma-ray log, resistivity log, density log

ABSTRACT

This research reports the results of Heavy metals Zn, Pb,Cu, Ni, Cd contents of Street dust of Ketu-Mile 12 Area of Lagos – State , South – Western, Nigeria. The dust samples were collected randomly from August – December, 2022 at ten different locations of Ketu – Mile 12 Area by sweeping surface dust into plastic waste packer using plastic brush and transferred into pre-labeled polythene. The samples collected at each location were filtered through 75µm stainless steel sieve, weighed and digested with appropriate amount of HNO3 and H2O for 2 hours. The concentrations of Heavy metals were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS).Results showed that the average concentration of Heavy metals were: Zn 176.43 mg/kg, Cu 162.25mg/kg, Pb 32.22mg/kg, Ni 6.98mg/kg and Cd 0.33mg/kg with the most abundant pollutant Heavy metal was Zn while the least abundant was Cd. The most polluted site was Owode – Onirin 263.54mg/kg while the least polluted site was Alapere 2.269mg/kg. The Principal Component Analysis PCA showed that the major sources of heavy metals are mainly anthropogenic and two factors PC1 and PC2 accounted for 72.95% of the total variance. Each of these factors were identified as sources of heavy metals in dust of Ketu – Mile 12 area with Traffic/ Vehicular emission dominating. Pearson’s significant correlation analysis revealed that there is strong positive correlation between the Heavy metals at 0.01 levels. The concentration of Heavy metals exceeded the recommended limits of the Federal Ministry of Environment (FME), European communities (EC) and United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) permissible level. Therefore, there is need for environmental monitoring, safety and management of Ketu – Mile 12 dust.

Keywords: Environment, Sample, Significant, Concentration, Dust, Anthropogenic

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of spent mushroom substrate soil amendments on soybean growth and zinc (Zn) phytoaccumulation in Zn-polluted soil. In a completely randomized factorial layout, soil Zn (0 and 400 mg Zn/kg soil) and spent mushroom substrate (SMS) amendment (0, 5, and 10 % w/w) were applied as treatments and soybean plants were maintained in the greenhouse for five weeks. Stunted growth and mild chlorosis were observed in soybean plants in the Zn-polluted soil with 0 % SMS amendment, but not in those with 5 and 10 %. Plants in the 0% SMS groups in polluted soil had higher root and shoot Zn concentrations and significantly reduced plant growth indices. While SMS amendment at 5 and 10 % reduced the Zn concentrations in plants in the polluted soil, it had no effect on the root-to-shoot Zn translocation, indicating that the SMS amendment affected Zn accumulation more than in planta distribution. While Zn treatment significantly reduced the pH of the soil, SMS amendment generally increased the soil pH. It is concluded that the amendment of Zn-polluted soil with spent mushroom substrate countered the Zn-induced increase in soil acidity, reduced Zn concentrations in plant tissue, and increased soybean tolerance to excess Zn. It may therefore be considered for use in reducing heavy metal uptake and stress in Zn polluted soils.

Keywords: Zn nutrition, soil pH, growth, remediation, stress tolerance.

ABSTRACT

The present study investigated the effects of Euphorbia balsamifera Leaf and stem powders and the combination on the adult’s bruchids establishment, mortality, oviposition, and subsequent emergence. Varying quantities of the powders at 0.0g (control), 10.0g, 15.0g and 20.0g respectively were added to the 100g cowpea in each jar. Thereafter, five pairs (male and female) of newly emerged adult bruchids were introduced into each of the treated cowpea in the bottle jar. Each treatment was replicated three times and was arranged in Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The results revealed that the bruchids were able to establish but after 24hours, adult mortality commenced and increased significantly as the dosage and duration of the experiment increases, except in the control (0.0g) treatment. These had direct effects on the oviposition and subsequent progeny emergence. The mortality effects of these powders on insects may depend on chemical composition of the treated powders which may suggest a role in its pesticidal, anti-feedant and repellent potencies against C. maculatus. The highest mean mortality (88.33%) was recorded on the combination (20.0g). It can be concluded from this study that combinations of both powders at 20.0g could be used as alternative pesticides against bruchids infestations in stored cowpea grains.

Keywords: Cowpea grains, Euphorbia balsamifera, Callasobrochus maculatus, Balsam-spurge, Phytochemical.

ABSTRACT

This research reports the results of heavy metals characteristic distribution and Source apportionment of heavy metals in dust of Ikeja area of Lagos State. The dust samples were collected randomly four times a month August – December, 2022 at ten different locations in Ikeja area. Samples were obtained by sweeping surface dust into plastic waste packer using plastic brush and transferred into pre-labeled polythene bags. The samples collected at each location were filtered through 75 μm stainless steel sieve, weighed and digested with appropriate amount of HNO₃ and H₂O for 2 hours. The concentrations of heavy metals were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) PG – 990. Results of the analysis showed that the percentage contribution of each heavy metal at Ikeja area were: Zn – 62.12 %, Pb – 26.47 %, Cu – 8.34 % , Ni – 2.23 %  and Cd – 0.84 % . The most abundant pollutant heavy metal was Zn – 2445.53 mg/kg while the least was Cd – 33.10 mg/kg. The most polluted site is Ikeja Industrial area – 654.48 mg/kg while the least polluted site is Ayodele diyan  street – 150.50 mg/kg with percentage contributions 16.60 % and 3.82 % respectively. The sequence and distribution follow the pattern: Zn > Pb > Cu > Ni > Cd. The Principal Component Analysis PCA   showed that the major sources of heavy metals in  Ikeja  dust are mainly anthropogenic and two factors PC1 and PC2 accounted for 73.61% of the total variance. Each of these factors were identified as sources of heavy metals in dust of Ikeja area with industrial activities dominating. Pearson’s significant correlation analysis revealed that there is strong positive correlation (0.871) between Pb – Cd and moderate correlation (0.554) between Zn – Cu at 0.01 levels of significant. The concentrations of heavy metal obtained exceeded the recommended limits of the Federal Ministry of Environment (FME), European communities (EC) and United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) permissible level for heavy metals in dust suggesting that the study area is polluted.

Keywords: Heavy metals, Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer, Dust, Environment, Significant.

ABSTRACT

This research reports the results of heavy metals content of Street dust in Oshodi-Isolo Area of Lagos state. The dust samples were collected randomly once a week August – December, 2022 at ten different locations in Osho -Isolo Area. Samples were obtained by sweeping surface dust into plastic waste packer using plastic brush and transferred into pre-labeled polythene bags. Samples collected at each location were filtered through 75 µm stainless steel sieve, weighed and digested with appropriate amount of HNO3 and H2O for 2 hours.The concentrations of heavy metals were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) PG – 990. Results of the analysis showed that the percentage contribution of each heavy metals at Oshodi – Isolo Area were Zn – 51.52 %, Pb – 36.78 %, Cu- 8.65 %, Ni – 2.79 % and Cd – 0.25 %. The most abundant pollutant heavy metals were Zn-1445.43 mg/kg while the least was Cd – 6.99 mg/kg. The most polluted site is Agege – motor road (AGM)-1372.11 mg/kg while the least polluted site is Adewumi Ogefon (ADO)-15.41 mg/kg with percentage contributions 48.91 % and 0.55 % respectively. The sequence and distribution follow the pattern thus: Zn > Pb > Cu > Ni >Cd. The Principal Component Analysis PCA showed that the major sources of heavy metals in Oshodi- Isolo dust are mainly anthropogenic and two factors PC1 and PC2 accounted for 79.855% of the total variance. Each of these factors were identified as sources of heavy metals in dust of Oshodi – Isolo area with Traffic/ Vehicular emission dominating. Pearson’s significant correlation analysis revealed that there is a strong positive correlation amongst the heavy metals at 0.01 levels of significant. The concentration of Heavy metals obtained exceeded the recommended limits of the Federal Ministry of Environment (FME), European communities (EC) and United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) permissible level for heavy metals in the dust suggesting that the study area is polluted.

Keywords: Dust, Environment, Heavy-Metals, Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer Concentration.

ABSTRACT

Accessibility to land for crop production is among the top priorities in the lives of peasant farmers in Nigeria. Land as a free gift of nature is useful for many purposes such as: Agricultural, Commercial, Recreation and so on. The study area in this research covered the vulnerable area invaded by the Boko Haram insurgency beginning from year 2014. Consequently, due to an appreciable and progressive level of improvement recorded, it is expected that faming activities will resume in full capacity. This study therefore utilized remote sensing and geospatial information system to investigate the available locations where practicing of planting varieties of crops can be presented to prospective farmers for easy and quick identification from maps visualization. The pre and post insurgency maps were produced to provide useful information to famers to take advantage of as a result of the about 10% increase in agricultural land use from 58% to 72% over the period of 8 years under consideration. These accessibility maps find application in the area of decision-making for by the stakeholders for the realization of sustainable development goal 2 zero hunger before the end of 2030.

Keywords: Land Mapping, Crop Production, Insurgency, Remote Sensing

ABSTRACT

Water from Kiri dam is basically meant for irrigation purposes of the Savanna Sugar Company. In order for the dam to achieve its goals, there is a need to regularly monitor the trend of changes in the dam’s surface water. The dam usually experiences some changes in the surface water that resulted in a large-scale transformation, mostly during the dry season. The trend seems to be on the increase as the dam experiences large reductions in size of surface water. The study therefore, focuses on the surface water area extraction of Kiri dam reservoir in Shelleng, Adamawa State, Nigeria. The study demonstrates the use of a water index algorithm in the extraction of surface water area using Landsat OLI satellite imagery to study the variation in size, shape and to monitor surface water fluctuations in the dam. A combination of six indices were investigated. The indices showed different approaches in separation of water with background cover. Result shows that the MNDWI is most suited in mapping surface water. The dam surface area was noticed to be about 67.15 km² in 2013, 63.57 km² in 2014, 68.68 km² in 2015, 63.28 km² in 2016 and 52.64 km² in 2017. The results therefore indicate that the change in surface area of the dam between 2013 and 2017 is about 14.51 km². This shows a decreasing trend in the surface water area of the dam, apart from the 2015 which indicated a slight increase.

Keywords:Water index, Kiri Dam, LandSat Imagery, Irrigation, Surface Water

ABSTRACT

Several research has justified that the acoustic (vessel based) method of depth determination is the most reliable over other methods, however the satellite bathymetry method which utilizes multispectral images of high-resolution sensors to determine depth has been increasingly deployed as an improved alternative technique for bathymetric derivation. But the accuracy and reliability of the satellite derived depth is of outmost concern as it depends on the derivation algorithm with respect to various conditions of the water bodies. This study is aimed at assessing two empirical algorithms for bathymetric extraction of some selected rivers in Nigeria with the objective of evaluating the depth derived from the Linear Band Model (LBM) and the Band Ratio Model (BRM) with respect to the vessel based in-situ bathymetric depth. The Sentinel-2 satellite imagery in three bands with spatial resolution of 10m was acquired for a section of Opobo River, Orashi River and Badagery creek respectively. Satellite bathymetry of the study areas were extracted using the raster calculator in the ArcGIS 10.2 environment and applying the mathematical algorithms (LBM) and (BRM) after image geo-rectification. Maximum depths obtained are in the range of 16.8m for Opobo River, 6.8m, for Orashi River, and 10.8m for Badagery creek using the (LBM) while 16.9m, 7.8m and 10.9mwas obtained using the (BRM) for Opobo River, Orashi River and Badagery creek respectively. Results of accuracy check showed that the (LBM) has the highest correlation coefficient (r²) value of 0.9824 with RMSE values of 0.4082 for the study areas. This result was validated with the in-situ data which show maximum depth of16.8m for Opobo River, 6.5m for Orashi River, and 10.5m for Badagery creek respectively.

Keywords: Bathymetry; Acoustic, Algorithms, Empirical, Multispectral

ABSTRACT

The investigation examined anthropic land use impact on soil quality indicators in a typical rural – urban fringe in southern Edo State. The objectives were to (i) determine the status of soil quality indicators under each anthropic land use, (ii) ascertain the variations among the physicochemical properties of soils in the different anthropic land uses and (iii) evaluate implications of the anthropic land uses on soil quality indicators. Soil samples were collected from nine (9) different anthropic land use types at 0-15cm and analyzed for physicochemical properties using standard laboratory methods. The data obtained was evaluated using descriptive statistics and soil permissible limits. The findings revealed that Fe > Ca, Mn >SOM, Avl P, CEC, Na, Mg in the soils of the anthropic land uses. The study concluded that SOM, Avl P, CEC, Na and Mg were the deficient soil nutrients. To improve their concentrations, the incorporation of organic manures, conservation agriculture, application of chemical fertilizers and soil erosion control techniques are recommended.

Keywords: Anthropic, Fringe ,Land use, Soil quality, Rural – urban

ABSTRACT

Hydrocarbons have been a major player in growing economies and improving quality of life. In Nigeria, crude oil provides 44.1% of Nigeria’s foreign export and 36.6% of its petroleum gases. The discovery of hydrocarbons in commercial quantity in the Chad Basin in north-eastern Nigeria is another milestone in improving the income of the country. However, the Chad basin exploration was concentrated only on some portion of the basin, the northern part. Previous studies provide little information on the possibility of hydrocarbon deposits in the eastern part bordering the Cameroon republic. This study integrates satellite Remote Sensing (RS) with a Geographic Information System (GIS) to analyze and have an overview of possible concentrations of hydrocarbons in the entire basin that is within the Nigerian territory. Results show that nine local government areas are liable to have
a high concentration of hydrocarbon deposits at a commercial quantity. Only three local governments so far that was undergoing full exploration. This study will serve as a reconnaissance survey for NNPC and other relevant bodies in exploring the hydrocarbons in the other six local
councils in Borno State Nigeria.

Keywords: Remote Sensing, Chad Basin, Hydrocarbon, Exploration

ABSTRACT

The main thrust of this research is to investigate comparatively three (3) selected interpolation techniques for hybrid geoid modeling in Rivers State, Nigeria. The approach deployed is hinged on the Ex-Post factor research design demonstrated in the hybrid geoid model, which involves the integration of geometric geoid and gravimetric geoid models obtained from the zonal harmonics of the earth gravity field (EGM 2008), using a surface interpolation technique as independent variables. The results of the study gave the root mean squares error of 0.00035, 0.000645 and 0.000894 for the inverse distance weighting interpolation, kriging interpolation method and Radial Basis Function respectively. The 3-D surface model of the three interpolation models were generated. The result analysis reveals that the Kriging Interpolation model is the most optimal interpolation models for hybrid geoid modeling in Rivers State.

Keywords: Hybrid, Interpolation, Geoid, Kriging.

ABSTRACT

The construction industry is regarded as the lifeline of a country’s economy because it affects all facets of human activities. Despite all the positive attributes of the construction industry to the economy, its negative impact on the environment cannot be over-emphasized. This study examined the perception of Estate Surveyors and Valuers’ (ESVs) on the adoption of Alternative Construction Materials (ACMs) The objectives of the study are to investigate ESVs’ level of awareness of ACMs and to ascertain their perception of the benefits and barriers to the use of ACMs. Eighty-two ESVs in Ikeja, Lagos were sampled using a questionnaire and sixty-one (representing 74.39%) were found useful for analysis. Data was analysed with descriptive and inferential statistics. The results of the analyses indicate that though ‘ACMs’is not a new term among the ESVs in the study area, their level of awareness of the usage for construction purposes is low (46%). The results of factor analysis further showed that three (environmental protection, waste reduction, and reduction in cost of construction) out of the ten benefits accounted for 66.984% of the overall variability. Finally, the study revealed that the major barriers to using ACMs include: stakeholders’ satisfaction with conventional building materials (RII 0.938); lack of policies to support sustainable construction (RII-0.928) and inadequate encouragement and support from professional bodies (RII-0.885). Among other suggestions, the study makes a case for the introduction and implementation of government policies that support the use of ACMs, since their adoption can only work with the full support of the government

Keywords: Alternative Construction Materials, Building Materials, Construction Industry, Conventional Building Materials, Sustainable Development

ABSTRACT

The Minimum quadratic unbiased estimate (MINQUE) Variance Component Estimation (VCE) technique has not been used in gravity network adjustment and is therefore herein proposed for computing the error budget in the adjustment of a regional gravimetric network using numerical examples from terrestrial gravity data covering the south western region of Nigeria. Suitable parametric model was chosen to enhance analysis of the gravity dependent, position dependent and height dependent error contributions in the resulting gravity network. Results obtained show variance components of 0.001 in gals +2.222mm, +0.554mm and +0.296 in the gravity, Latitude, Longitude and height data types. It is concluded that while low accuracy horizontal positioning may be acceptable, centimeter level accuracy is required for heights if 0.001mgals accuracy is to be achieved in regional gravity network.

Keywords: Variance Component Estimation (VCE), MINQUE, gravity network, Ordinary Least Squares (OLS)

ABSTRACT

Twenty water samples were collected to assess the level of groundwater contamination at Ojota landfill sites. 25 parameters analyzed include temperature, turbidity, total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, pH, total alkalinity, total acidity, chloride, nitrate, phosphate, sulphate, bicarbonates, dissolved oxygen, magnesium, zinc, calcium, copper, iron, arsenic, lead, chromium, sodium, potassium, manganese and cadmium. The results showed that the mean value for pH was 6.1 and the concentration of total alkalinity ranged from not detected to785mg/L, chloride from not detected to 250mg/L, nitrate from not detected to 15.6mg/L, phosphate from not detected to 1.9Img/L sulphate from not detected to 15.6mg/L, bicarbonates from 8.9 to 36.6mg/L, dissolved oxygen from 1.42 to 5.71 mg/L, magnesium from 0.01 to 0.47 mg/L, zinc from 0 to 0.01mg/L, calcium from 0.61 to 8.3mg/, copper from 0.01 to 0.8mg/L iron from not detected to 0.49mg/L, arsenic was not detected, lead from not detected to 0.269mg/L, chromium from 0 to 0.1mg/L, sodium from 0 to 0.69mg/L potassium from 0 to 0. 651mg/L and total hardness from 8 to 87mg/L. The concentration of total alkalinity, nitrate, dissolved oxygen, iron and lead did exceed the limit of WHO drinking water standard of 200mg/L, 10mg/L. 2mg/L, 0.03mg/L and 0.015mgL respectively in some samples. However, the concentration of zinc, copper, phosphate, sodium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sulphate, bicarbonate and chloride are within the limit of WHO drinking water standards. Arsenic, chromium and cadmium in most of the samples were below the detection limit or not higher than 0.1mg/L. Gibb’s diagram showed that the concentration of the dissolved chemical constituents was the result of t dissolution of host rock minerals due to water – rock interaction. Water in the study area is not potable due to contamination by total alkalinity, nitrate, dissolved oxygen, iron and lead. therefore water should be discarded or treated before use.

Keywords: Landfill, Leachates, Physico-chemical, Pollution, dissolution

ABSTRACT

This study carried out an assessment of heavy metal contamination and microbial counts of soils in selected auto-mechanic workshops within Benin metropolis, Edo State, Nigeria. The study assessed the distribution of some heavy metals and microbial counts across three soil depths of the auto mechanic sites; determined the extent of contamination of heavy metals in the soils and; evaluated significant relationships among the selected heavy metals and microbial counts. A total of 27 soil samples were randomly collected from the three sites (Ugbowo and Uwelu auto-mechanic sites, and control site) at the 0-15, 15-30 and 30-45 cm soil depths. Each soil sample was analyzed for copper

-Cu, iron-Fe, chromium – Cr, lead – Pb, cadmium – Cd, manganese – Mg, total heterotrophic bacteria count – THB and total heterotrophic fungi count – THF. Results revealed that Cu, Cr. Pb and Mn were within the permissible limits for heavy metals in soils established by World Health Organization and Department of Petroleum Resources. Concentrations of Cd exceeded the permissible limit with the contamination/pollution index indicating very severe contamination to slight pollution. Geogenic sources rather than anthropogenic sources accounted for the high Fe values. The study found that auto-mechanic activities had greater negative impact on bacteria counts than fungi counts. Significant positive and negative relationships were observed between the selected heavy metals and microbial counts. The study concluded that auto-mechanic activities increased the concentrations of Cd in all the soils and recommended phytoremediation to reclaim soils contaminated with Cd

ABSTRACT

The main thrust of this research is to investigate comparatively three (3) selected interpolation techniques for hybrid geoid modeling in Rivers State, Nigeria. The approach deployed is hinged on the Ex-Post factor research design demonstrated in the hybrid geoid model, which involves the integration of geometric geoid and gravimetric geoid models obtained from the zonal harmonics of the earth gravity field (EGM 2008), using a surface interpolation technique as independent variables. The results of the study gave the root mean squares error of 0.00035, 0.000645 and 0.000894 for the inverse distance weighting interpolation, kriging interpolation method and Radial Basis Function respectively. The 3-D surface model of the three interpolation models were generated. The result analysis reveals that the Kriging Interpolation model is the most optimal interpolation models for hybrid geoid modeling in Rivers State.

Keywords: Hybrid, Interpolation, Geoid, Kriging.

ABSTRACT

Grazing reserves are the main source of livestock feeds, and thus the quantity of foliage in a grazing reserve will determine its sustainability for livestock grazing. Over the years, growth in the population, increased in commercialized agricultural production, and climatic changes have resulted in shifts in vegetation species distribution, decreased grazing land biodiversity, lower production of foliage, and increase plant cover erosion. This resulted in low foliage productivity that can sustain grazing livestock in most parts of Africa. Many studies associated Earth Observation (EO) data with ground-measured biomass to quantify the amount of foliage in a particular area. However, few studies were conducted in African savannahs to investigate the sustainability of their grazing lands in terms of foliage availability. This study uses satellite remote sensing to investigate the status of the Gujba grazing reserve in the Savannah region and its level of sustainability for grazing. From the result, it was found that the total quantity of foliage calculated was 2,581,788,982kg, while, the recommended livestock intake was 22,523,869,644kg. This clearly indicates that the grazing reserve was seriously overgrazed and is not sustainable. The findings of the study will contribute to decision-making for proper management of grazing reserves by relevant ministries and other government agencies, thereby minimizing the persistent crop farmers and herders’ conflicts in Nigeria and boosting livestock productivity.

Keywords: Mapping, Status, Grazing-land, Satellite Remote Sensing

ABSTRACT

This study evaluates concentrations, probable sources, potential ecological and health risks of 16PAHS in the surface water from Buguma, Krakrama and Bonny communities along River Niger, Nigeria.

Surface water sampling were undertaken in these communities and PAHs were analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The GC-FID analyses of the PAHs were made on a Hewlett Packard Agilent 6890 series with a flame ionization detector (FID). The concentrations of total PAHs (EPAHs) ranged from 32.89 to 81.60 mg L in surface water with a mean value of 53.32 mg L while that of carcinogenic PAHs (Ec-PAHS) was 10.27 mg L. which corresponds to 19.3.% of the EPAHS Low molecular weight (LMW) PAHs were recordedigher in concentrat ions (59.4%) as compared to high molecular weight (HMW) PAHS (40.6%). Phanthrene with the maximal concentration of 16.51 mg L’ was the dominant PAH in surface water. Results revealed the alarming levels of PAHS and the unsuitability of water for drinking purpose. PAHs in water exerted very high ecological risks with phanthrene (20.8%), naphthalene (14.6%), pyrene (14.1%), and chrysene (10.4%) as the main contributors. The primary source of PAHs was hoth pyrolytic and petrogenic. The sum of the ingestion and dermal lifetime cancer risk is 2.40x 10, which was higher than the acceptable value recommended by WHO. It means I lifetime cancer case in 42 residents in the three commumities, indicating significant carcinogenic risk through long-term exposure via ingestion and dermal routes.

Keywords: Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon, Surface Water, Health Risk, dermal contact, Molecular Diagnostic Ratios

ABSTRACT

One of the natural disasters being experienced in world is flooding, particularly, areas within flood plains. There are Numerous research conducted by scholars in mitigating flood occurrences to minimise loses in lives and properties. However, there is little study on flood mitigation in the north east part of Nigeria. This study use satellite data to prepare a flood mitigation map of Damaturu Town northeast Nigeria. The map shows highly vulnerable flood area covering approximately 2,669 hectares. The moderate and less risk areas have and area of 10,313 hectares. Only 3,438 hectares of land that has little or no risk of flooding. The flood mitigation map created will be used as a decision-making process by the town planners and engineers for proper planning for flood mitigation. Hence, contributing towards the reatization of Sustainable Developiment Goal (SDG Target 13.1.3 Implementation of local disaster risk reduction strategies: and 11.1 ensuring access for all to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums.

Keywords: Flood, Elevation model, Built up area, Roads

Abstract

This study aims at predicting gully head retreat at the University of Benin gully erosion site and to provide an understanding of its effective management. Three main processes in gully head retreat namely head cut (upstream retreat), channel widening, and channel deepening are common features contributing to gully size increase that is responsible for mass destruction to life and infrastructure in the area under study. The morphological parameters measured include (length, Width, and Depth). Soll samples taken from the gully site were analyzed at the University of Benin geotechnical laboratory following the British Standard Specification (BS), 1377, 1990, and American (ASTM) standard method. Rainfall data obtained from Nigerian Metrological Agency (NIMET) were analyzed from 1989 to 2016. Channel Hill Slope Integrated Landscape Development (CHILD) model was adapted to model the gully head retreat. Soil loss was analyzed with a Surface Difference Tool (SDT) in a GIS environment. The results generated with the Model and the surveyed gully extent of the same year were compared. Wilcoxon sign ranking tests, t-Test statistic,s and regression analysis were run to ascertain the level of statistical relation between the model and the surveyed/satellite image data. From sieve analysis, critical gully bed share stress (t) to run the CHILD model was obtained to show a standard based on soil distribution particles as derived from the U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigation report. Rainfall analysis report shows average annual rainfall of 2,156.63 mm, 687.9 mm for September 1998, while the lowest rainfall data of 1,532.99 mm recorded in 2015, which could be responsible for the low gully growth as seen in the Historical Google Earth images from 2015 to 2019. Statistical comparison of head retreat for the CHILD model, Survey data, and the Google Earth imagery shows a strong correlation. Furthermore, the results obtained with Historic Google Earth images, show gully arms A and B to be 130.26 m and 73.31 m, while those obtained with the CHILD model for the same gully arms showed a cumulative retreat length of 112.30 m and 86.95 m. The average gully head retreat rate for the period of 2010-2019 from observed data using satellite imagery and the CHILD model for gully arms A and B is 6,94 m/yr. and 3.92 m/yr, and 5.92 m/yr. and 4.61 m/yr, respectively, showing a strong correlation with gully growth. The result of total soil loss computed for the study area is 64.130.89 m. The length of the gully by the year 2025 from prediction is 237.90 m and the land area at risk is 101,019.70 Mr. The application of GIS/Remote sensing technology alongside the CHILD model has proven very useful in the prediction and management decision of gully head retreat and can be employed for similar studies in related areas of Engineering

Keywords: Gully, CHILD, Soil loss, GIS, RS

ABSTRACT
This study was carried out to evaluate the ecological and health risks associated with metals in soils around major cement companies in southern Nigeria. Twenty-one soil samples including a control sample were collected around the cement company. Metals such as Cd, As, Co, Cr, Cd, Pb, Ni, Fe, and Zn were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS). Results showed that the average concentration of Cu, Co, Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb, Zn is 7.95 mg/kg, 0.50 mg/kg, 3.00 mg/kg, 1.00 mg/kg, 0.95 mg/kg, 2.00 mg/kg and 6.80 mg/kg while the average concentration of Cu, Co, Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb, Zn around the cement production area is 6.30 mg/kg, 1.50 mg/kg, 1.75 mg/kg, 2.09 mg/kg, 2.62 mg/kg, 6.40 mg/kg and 3.58 mg/kg respectively. The concentration of metals in this area was lower than the recommended standards but higher than those in the background soil. Contamination assessment of metals in soils of Okpella area revealed that they pose a very high degree of pollution and deterioration of the environment. Furthermore, ecological risk assessment revealed that the metals pose medium ecological risks. Health risks assessment uncovered that children residing in this area are prone to non-carcinogenic health risks through dermal contact with Cobalt in contaminated soils of the area. The statistical evaluation showed that metals in the soils might have originated from related sources. It is recommended that proper environmental monitoring of the area be carried out to reduce its impact on the health of the populace.

Keywords: Ecological risk, Cement processing factory, Health risk, Contamination assessment, Heavy metals

ABSTRACT
This study investigated the use of speed bumps on Nigeria highway with specific reference to the section of the federal road that start from the University of Benin main gate to Oluku Junction Benin city. Using survey methodology for the collection of information from a sample of individuals through their responses to questions like who, how much, what, where, when, how many, and how, 50 units of questionnaires each were designed and administered to drivers, motorist and residents at various reference points on the road section to sought information on the effect of the devices on the drivers, motorist and residents. Measurement of the height, width, length and spacing of the device was also carried out with a Measuring tape and digital distance measuring wheel. The result shows that speed bumps in the study area have been effective in speed and accident reduction. However, the devices were not built to specification as the height, width, length, and spacing were at variance. In order to promote safety, it was thus advised that speed bumps be taken into consideration on roadways where concentrated generators of pedestrian activity are present for possible prevention of any unlawful placement of the device.

Keywords: Road Safety, Calming, Traffic Management, Speed bumps and Geometry

ABSTRACT
Access to quality health services determines human health and well-being, especially in this pandemic era. The objective of the study is to examine the factors that affect the utilization and accessibility of public healthcare services within selected local government areas in Benin City. The study adopted the use of 400 questionnaires, which were administered to respondents within the study area. ArcGIS 10 was used to depict health facility disparities within the city, while Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation was used to test healthcare utilization. The results indicate that public healthcare facilities are clustered in distribution, having a 0.28 nearest neighbour ratio. The public healthcare facilities are accessible and there are no shortages of healthcare within the study area. Socio-demographic variables such as gender, age, marital status, education, and employment at a were positively related to healthcare accessibility. Approximately 73% of patronage and the type of public healthcare facility influence facility utilization in the study area. Factors influencing accessibility and utilization of healthcare facilities are means of transportation, travel distance, and challenges within healthcare facilities. The quality of services at 48% improves healthcare utilization. This study recommends that health care facilities need to be maintained to encourage more patronage and better service delivery that includes a policy framework for the regular maintenance and provision of necessary equipment and infrastructure that would encourage accessibility and utilization of public healthcare facilities.

Keywords: Accessibility, utilization, public health facility, determinants, healthcare service

ABSTRACT
A 35-year annual rainfall was collected from NIMET to determine the Standard Precipitation Index (SPI) and also to study the trend of rainfall parameter in the Kano State, Northern Nigeria. The paper captures the average rainfall (normal rainfall) data for thirty-five years period which implies a rainfall of about 1081.56mm. The positive values (above zero) signify rainfalls that were higher than normal (wet); while the negative values (below zero) imply rainfalls that were lower than normal (dry). From the rainfall anomaly, 18 years (52.9%) recorded wet due to the fact that rainfall occurred in those years were greater than the normal rainfall of 1081.56; while 16 years (47.1%) recorded dry because the rainfalls that occurred in those years were below normal rainfall. In the study, Weilbul method was used to determine the return period in order to predict the year of occurrence of maximum rainfall. In addition, Standard Precipitation Index was used to determine periods of dry, normal or wet temperatures. September 1991 recorded the minimum SPI value of -0.86 (moderately dry), while October 2011 recorded the maximum SPI value of 1.88 (moderately wet). This study is carried out because of the importance of agriculture in the region and to Nigeria at large. Kano state is well known to support food production in the country. Also, the presence of dams further buttresses this study. Dams have many purposes; one is agriculture during dry and wet season. It is observed that the rainfall in the basin has no definite pattern.

Keywords: Standard Precipitation Index (SPI), Statistical Analysis, Rainfall, Anomaly, Return period

ABSTRACT
Orange flesh sweet potato (OFSP) is one of the world’s most important food security-promoted root crops. Unfortunately, the crop is underutilized in Nigeria due to its poor storability technics and rapid deterioration in storage. To establish baseline data for its better storage and utilization for upgrading its value chain, an alternative approach of processing is thereby expedient to curb the menace. Thus, the nutritional evaluation of orange-fleshed sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) flour extracted from various processing techniques was evaluated. OFSP used for the study was sourced from National Root and Tubers Research Institute, Umudike, Nigeria. The experiment was carried out in the Department of Crop Production Laboratory, University of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Owerri, Nigeria. The three different processing techniques used were peeled; scratches peeled, and puree samples. The result of the proximate composition, mineral analysis of the flours and the puree showed significant differences among the samples evaluated. However, the crude protein content for both puree and scratched OFSP was insignificantly different. The puree sample recorded the highest protein content (5.48±0.24) and moisture content (85.95±3.89), respectively, and was closely followed by scratched OFSP with (5.02±0.01) while the least was recorded in the peeled sample (4.03±0.04). The study concluded that scratched OFSP through cabinet drier processing was considered the best alternative to the puree method of storage of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes and the best method of processing in areas where electricity is erratic or not available.

Keywords: Deterioration, Nutrient composition, Orange-fleshed Sweet Potato, Proximate composition, Puree.

ABSTRACT
The physicochemical characteristics of ground water (well) located at Obajana in Kogi Local Government Area (LGA) of Kogi State were investigated using standard methods. This study was conducted with the aim to determine the impacts of Dangote Cement factory activities located in the area. A total of four (4) ground water samples from different points and the physicochemical parameters and heavy metals were analysed. The pH value ranges from 6.62 – 7.97, total dissolved solids (TDS) values ranges from 320 – 890 mg/L, electrical conductivity (EC) values ranges from 581 – 850 mg/L, Phosphate ranges from 0.68 – 1.05 mg/L, Nitrate ranges from 5.94 – 6.49 mg/L. Turbidity ranges from 7.87 – 8.24 NTU, alkalinity ranges from 0.1 – 0.4 mg/L, dissolved oxygen ranges from 4.2 – 5.2 mg/L, total hardness ranges from 179 – 476.2 mg/L, CT ranges from 29.89 to 73.74 mg/L and temperature ranges from 27°C to 31°C. Metals like Arsenic ranges from 0.027 – 0.029 ppm, Lead ranges from 0.029 to 0.40 ppm, Zinc ranges from 0.002 to 0.006 ppm, Cadmium ranges from 0.061 to 0.074 ppm, Copper ranges from 0.002 to 0.006 ppm, while Iron ranges from 0.015 to 0.069 ppm, and Nickel ranges from 0.002 to 0.006 ppm. These results obtained fell within the maximum allowable limit set by the Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality and World Health Organization for drinking water except for turbidity, dissolved oxygen, phosphate and electrical conductivity and also suggested the need to take adequate and necessary steps in regulating and monitoring of drinking water in settlement around industrial areas.

Keywords: Well water, physicochemical parameters, heavy metals, Obajana, cement

ABSTRACT
Exploring green energy options constitute a contemporary tenet in designing a sustainable future. This study investigated the independent variables (milling scales, types of fresh fruit bunches and seasons) that define the dynamics of biochemical methane potential (BMP) or bio-methane and organic content in palm oil mill effluent (POME) generated in ADAPALM (large-scale mill) and palm oil mills in its surrounding communities, located in Ohaji/Egbema LGA, Imo State, Nigeria. The eight communities that constitute ADAPALM were categorised into three strata in relation to the number of small-scale mills in each community (1-5mills, 6-10mills, 11-15mills). Besides the lone large and medium-scale mills, a small-scale mill was randomly sampled from a community in each stratum. Four homogenous samples of POME were collected from each mill for laboratory analysis of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total organic carbon (TOC) and total carbon (TC) using standard methods for wastewater analysis. Prediction of BMP for each sample of POME composition and fraction of substrate used for cell synthesis (fs) wherein POME is classified was computed using biogas package. Data was analysed using tools of SPSS. Multiple linear regression reveals that there is a significant relationship between the predicted volume of BMP with milling scales and seasons (p<0.01), R²=0.927. Similarly, multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) shows that the organic content of POME is significantly related to milling scales and seasons (p<0.01). At fs=8% in methanogenic condition, BMP is 22.800±0.282LCH₄/m³POME and 75.532±0.149LCH4/m3POME in the wet and dry seasons respectively. These respectively correspond to methane production capacity of 0.057±0.005KgCH₄/KgCOD and 0.014±0.001KgCH₄/KgCOD. The variance explained by the dependent variable (R²) indicates the importance of these independent variables in determining the BMP and organic content of POME in the area. The predicted dynamics of BMP and their associated wastewater composition provide useful tools in regulating the wastewater content and evaluating its feasibility for bio-energy development.

Keywords: Dynamics, Bio-methane, Prediction, POME, ADAPALM, Biogas package

ABSTRACT
The release of toxic gases and spills into the ecosystem prior to anthropogenic activities can increase the level of pollutants in hydrological systems. This possibly influences the number of harmful substances that percolate into aquifers. The drilling of polluted aquifers for domestic and drinking purposes and consuming such water untreated consequently increases the risk of developing water-related health issues. The study presents the quality and purification of groundwater samples in the Warri metropolis through water-quality analysis and biosand filtration method Aappropriatemethod (Appropriate Technology Enableds Development technique), respectively. The pH results were very low in all the groundwater samples presented with values ranging from 5.16±0.03 to 6.81±0.09, except for table water samples serving as controls. Total iron concentration was above the regulatory limits of 1.00 mg/L in some locations, recording concentrations between 0.758±0.340 mg/L and 1.204±0.740 mg/L. Groundwater samples contaminated with coliform bacteria were recorded in some locations. It suggests that the groundwater quality of the studied locations is relatively poor and unsafe for drinking untreated. This is possibly due to high hydrocarbon exploration and production activities, together with other anthropogenic activities in the area. Nevertheless, the filtration of the groundwater samples with biosand filter effectively improved the taste, reduced the iron content, removed particles, and eliminated microbial contaminations. However, the pH was relatively low after filtration and was further enhanced in the filtration with the carbon dots. The carbon dot filtration can be viewed as a better substitute to for granites in the filter beds of the biosand filter unit to influence pH conformance.

Keywords: Biosand filter, Carbon dots, Groundwater, Purification, Water quality

ABSTRACT
Digital imaging is a fast and reliable method for cultivar identification and discrimination. Computer seed digital imaging was utilized in this study to evaluate the differences in seed metric traits in ten genotypes of mung bean as affected by the seed production environment. A hundred seeds in each of the mung bean genotypes were subjected to digital imaging analysis using the ‘WinSEEDLE™’ software to differentiate the seed metric characters. For every replication, a hundred seeds were placed on the lighting hood in such a way that the embryo axis of the seed faces the image analysis system and the longitudinal axis runs parallel to the surface of the scanner. Seeds were automatically analyzed by the scanner and the image of the seed was recorded by the ‘WinSEEDLE™’. The procedure of hundred seeds placement on seed digital image was repeated three times for each genotype. The parameters observed were seed area, straight length, curve length, straight width, curve width, width length, and seed perimeter. Scan data collected from ‘WinSEEDLE™’ were subjected to analysis of variance and principal component analysis. The result revealed that the Mung bean genotypes evaluated were highly variable in all the seed metric traits evaluated. The study recommended that attention should be given to genotypes and seed production environments in the seed production of Mung bean. Genotypes Tvr-73, Tvr-27, Tvr-98, and Tvr-78 have been identified with consistent and high seed morphometric characteristic performance for most of the attributes examined, hence, can be important criteria in selecting superior seed physical traits and could be used as parental material, in the development of high seed yielding varieties.

Keywords: Genotypes, seed imaging, seed metric, seed quality, seed scanner, Mung bean

ABSTRACT
This paper examines the process involved in selecting outsourced consultants by the banking and telecommunication sectors in Lagos state, Nigeria with a view to providing information to aid the real estate consultants in their CRE outsourcing practice. The study comprised of all the commercial banks, merchant banks, non-interest banks and the major Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) organizations in Lagos, Nigeria. Primary data were obtained from 33 questionnaire that were distributed which represents the overall population of banks and telecommunication companies selected from the Nigerian Stock Exchange list and all questionnaire were retrieved which amounted to 100% retrieval rate due to accessibility and readiness to divulge information concerning their real estate operations. The data were analysed using mean deviation, frequency and percentage. The study showed that organisations adopt the World Bank procedures for selecting outsourced consultants. It further established that skills such as market knowledge (0.52), investment analysis (0.21) and negotiation (0.18) were the three most important skill needed to be possessed by consultants providing real estate services. Further findings revealed that overall professionalism (0.27) was the most important personal attribute to be possessed by the real estate consultant and that in choosing outsourced consultants organisations are influenced by factors such as proven track record and specialisation in the process to be outsourced. It was also established that the method used in identifying these consultants was through advertisement (78.79%). This study will aid corporate real estate consultants in identifying the processes involved in outsourcing and what qualities they need to possess so that they can meet up to the standard put in place for outsourcing by the various organisations in Nigeria.

Keywords: Banking, Telecommunications Sector, Corporate Real Estate, Outsourcing, Consultants

ABSTRACT
Nigerian forest resources are constantly threatened due to many anthropogenic activities and considering their importance in recycling oxygen, preventing erosion, biodiversity habitats etc. This study was carried out to determine the diversity and population status of trees. A 50km2 plot was studied using the line transect method, and the Point Centered Quartet technique was deployed to enumerate standing tree biomass. Total Height, Diameter at Breast Height and Crown cover were also measured and recorded. The results showed that 200 trees spread across fifteen (15) families and forty (40) species were identified. The Fabaceae Family had more representatives 12 (30%) while Bignoniaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Meliaceae, Sapotaceae, Rutaceae and Olecaceae had 1 (2.5%) representation each. Parkia biglobosa had highest abundance 37 (18.5%) while Anacardium ocidentale, Brachystegia eurycoma, Ceiba pentandra, Cocos nucifera, Combretum molle, Ficus thoninngii, Khaya senegalensis, Haematostaphis barterii, Lannea microcarpa, Limonia. acidissima, Mangifera indica, Mitragyna inermis, Nauclea latifolia, Newbouldia laevis, Psidium guajava and Tamarindus indica all recorded the least abundance of 1 (0.5%). Diversity indices of Hʹ=2.65 (North), Hʹ=2.49 (South), Hʹ=2.72 (East) and Hʹ=2.37 (West) were recorded. The results also showed that 90% of the tree species enumerated are in need of serious conservation efforts. Parkia biglobosa had the highest Importance Value (46.84%) while Psidium guajava recoded the least (2.21%). It was then concluded that trees in Bakin-dutse community of Ardo-kola LGA needs conserving, hence, we suggest that a concerted effort from Governmental Organizations, Non-Governmental Organization and the Local Community to curtail the rapid decline in the population of these important biodiversity resources.

Keywords: Biodiversity, Line, Transect, Point, Centered, Quartet

ABSTRACT
The aim of this study is to assess the water quality of the surface water body in the study area (Ikpoba River) in Benin City using the Geographic Information System (GIS). The present research involved the spatial analysis of water quality for four stations along the Ikpoba River in Benin City. The four stations were delineated using satellite images of Google Earth. At the same time, water samples were collected at these stations and the parameters such as Temperature, Turbidity, pH, Total Dissolved solids (TDS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), Dissolved Oxygen (DO), COD, Biochemical BOD, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Zn, Cl, NH4N, Ca, Pb, SO4, Fe, Mg, NO3, PO4, and Total Hardness were analyzed in the laboratory. The analytical result of water samples was compared with WHO (World Health Organization) maximum permissible limits for the parameters tested and it was found that DO, TDS, EC, pH, NH4N, Zn, Ca, Mg, NO3, and Cl all fell below the WHO standard at all four points along the Ikpoba river. Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) was employed for the spatial analysis using ArcGIS software. The database for all spatial data was created using GIS interpolation according to the IDW method to obtain the spatial distribution of each selected water quality parameter. It was estimated and concluded that the quality of water from the four different stations on the river varies comparatively with the permissible limits given by WHO Standards, with only a few parameters falling below the acceptable limit and the spatial extent of water quality is changing with respect to the parameter and its values.

Keywords: Geographic Information System (GIS), Water Quality Analysis, Surface water quality parameters, Water Quality Index (WQI)

ABSTRACT
This study analysed the stress and displacement responses of an all-clamped rectangular thick plate subjected to a uniformly distributed load using polynomial displacement functions. A polynomial shear deformation function was incorporated in the determination of the general governing equations; hence, there is no need for shear correction factors. Approximate Polynomial Displacement Functions w, u, and v for all the clamped thick rectangular plates subject to transverse loading were obtained. Numerical results were obtained using displacement equations obtained from the literature for the non-dimensional form of displacements and stresses of an all clamped (CCCC) plate at different aspect and span-depth ratios to determine the efficiency of this theory. The results obtained were validated as they showed good agreement with the results obtained by other researchers available in literature. Hence, this theory can be used as a reliable, concise, easy and dependable means for the stress and displacement analysis of thick plates. The results obtained also indicate that at a span-depth ratio of 100 and above, the classical plate theory (CPT) can be used to analyse plates, as the numerical values obtained are approximately equal to that of the CPT.

Keywords: Shear deformation, Displacement, Stress, CCCC, Thick plate

ABSTRACT
The need for the estimation of the future state of electric power supply in the power system can no longer be avoided. This is due to the inevitable operational, maintenance, planning and expansion obligations of the power sector. In this work, the future trend of power supply by the 33kV feeders that supply power to the customers in the central part of Edo State, Nigeria was forecasted from 2020 to 2030 using Artificial Neural Network. The findings showed that there will be a 13.84% reduction in the power supplied by the utility provider by 2030 if the current trend was sustained. To avoid the adverse impact of such a negative performance by the power supplier, there is a need to increase system capacity by constructing mini grids and implementation of other contingency plans within the study area.

Keywords: Forecast, Nigeria Power Sector, ANN, Nigeria, NERC, Electric Power Load Forecasting

ABSTRACT
Housing is one of the three basic needs of man and is crucial to man’s survival. The goal of providing any type of shelter is to ensure maximum satisfaction and convenience for its users. Over the years, residents’ satisfaction with private housing estates in Nigeria has not attracted much attention from researchers, compared to public housing estates. This study therefore investigated residents’ perception of the quality of facilities and services provided in “The Residence”, Festac Town, Amuwo-Odofin, Lagos, Nigeria. This was done in order to determine the level of satisfaction of residents with the quality of facilities and services. The study’s objectives are to investigate the state of the building’s facilities and services and to ascertain residents’ perceptions of their housing environment in terms of maintenance and security. A total of 119 questionnaires was administered to the residents in the study area, and a response rate of 71% was achieved. The data obtained was analysed using descriptive statistical tools. Out of the 17 parameters presented to the residents, they ranked 3 as “excellent”, 13 as “very good” and 1 as “fair”. Moreover, the respondents admitted that the property is well-maintained (RII=0.917) and the maintenance personnel are skillful (RII=0.816). Finally, they also affirmed that “The Residence” is secure due to the presence of functional CCTV (RII=0.896), adequate number of security men (RII=0.868) and a reasonable restriction on visitors’ access to the building (RII=0.851). The study urged the managing agents of “The Residence” to pay constant attention to its facilities and services, which would result in enhanced long-term resident satisfaction. This study is expected to serve as a benchmark for investors in residential buildings, since it offers information on how privately-owned estates in Nigeria – and by extension in other developing nations – may be improved qualitatively.

Keywords: Facilities, Festac Town, Multi-unit Residential, Residents, The Residence

ABSTRACT
Understanding the Spatial distribution of ambient air quality in an active mining and solid mineral processing community is important in order to determine pollution hot spots and cold spots, as well as the trend. This will help Air Quality Managers to evaluate areas that are highly exposed to air pollution for mitigation purposes. In this study, dust particles in the form of ambient PM2.5, and PM10 were measured on weekly basis for a period of one year at 73 sampling points located in Ikpeshi, a mining and mineral processing community in Edo State, Nigeria using Double Parameter HoldPeak HP-5800D model Laser PM2.5 Meter. Geospatial data was also collected by means of Garmin GPSmap 78s model. The PM2.5 and PM10 data were preprocessed in MS Excel 2010 computer software to obtain the mean pollutant concentrations for the two parameters. The mean PM concentrations were analyzed and mapped using ArcGIS 10.0 software to generate various geostatistical surfaces to describe the ambient air pollution pattern and spatial distribution of pollutants in the community. The predicted mean concentrations ranged from 5.25 to 88.75µg/m3 for PM2.5 and 8.15 to 552.85µg/m3 for PM10. Mann-Kendall’s test showed that the observed pattern in ambient air quality exhibits a linear trend at 5% significant level with pollution hot spots found in the South-Eastern part of the community where the mills and quarries are domiciled while the cold spots appeared in the residential areas found in the North-Western part of the community. It was therefore concluded that the ambient air pollution pattern in the study area exhibits a linear south-east to north-west trend which is statistically significant at 5% level.

Keywords: Ambient air quality, Mining, Mann-Kendall, Geostatistical Analysis, Spatial distribution

ABSTRACT
This paper presents the study of crushed sandstones wastes (CSW) aiming at their utilization as main materials for the base layer of flexible pavements with series of geotechnical laboratory tests contained in American Society for Testing and Materials adopted for their evaluations. The tests conducted included particle size distribution, Atterberg limits, compaction characteristics, California bearing ratio, unconsolidated undrained compressive strength, free swell index and one-dimensional consolidation tests. Statistical analyses using proprietary computer software were used to investigate the spatial variations of the geotechnical data, and degrees of relationships that exist among the tested parameters. From the results, the Atterberg limits tests revealed intermediate plasticity with less than 35% fines (percentage passing No. 200 British Standard sieve) in majority of the samples; an indication of good highway materials. The relatively high maximum dry density, low optimum moisture content and high shear strength recorded by the tested CSW materials proved their usability in most road projects such as sub-base and subgrade. The strength indicators adopted to evaluate the validity of the CSW as pavement materials showed relatively high shear strength as the undrained cohesion values satisfy the requirement of greater than 103 kN/m2 values specified for base course materials. The empirical correlations analyses verified the influence of moisture on the strength parameters and gave a general overview of the geotechnical behaviors of the examined quarry wastes. Therefore, CSW materials are adjudge suitable but in order to achieve long term strength gain and stability especially in high volume applications, stabilizations will be required.

Keywords: Amasiri, Highway, Quarry waste, Subgrade, Moisture

ABSTRACT
Cabbage is a highly nutritious vegetable, yet faced with pest challenges. At present, synthetic pesticides are the major control measure and this has some side effects such as; resistance by pest, adverse effect on non-target organisms and hazardous effects on environment. All these problems bring the sustainability of ecosystem to danger. Exploring varietal mixture of cabbage as an alternative for sustainable pest management of cabbage was investigated during the rainy (April, – August 2020) and dry (November, 2020 – March, 2021) seasons. Treatments consisted of Purple-ball, GloriaF1, Oxylus (sole each and mixture) in ratio 1:1 respectively, all raised in nursery beds and transplanted to treatment plots, given a total of 7 treatments, all laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates each. The insect associated with the crop were sampled using sweep net, pitfall traps and the mechanical hand-picking methods. The phytochemical components of each variety were also carried out. Results showed that cabbage which was mixed with purple-ball variety showed reduced attack by insects as compared with Gloria and Oxylus planted sole. This could be attributed to the higher value of cardiac glycoside, tannins, steroids and anthraquinone in Purple-ball variety than other varieties. These compounds are responsible for plant defence which may have caused the low insect population in Purple-ball variety. The yields from Purple-ball variety plots in both seasons were however significantly lower compared with other varieties in both seasons. Notwithstanding, the yield from the mixture of purple-ball with other varieties was not significantly different from others. Therefore, the inclusion of Purple-ball variety in GloriaF1 and Oxylus production is recommended as this may serve as a natural defence against insect pests. Also, the use of this cropping system is not only effective but inexpensive and safe for human health and the environment relative to synthetic insecticides.

Keywords: Cabbage varieties, Crop mixtures, Pest management, Sustainable, feeding guilds, Phytochemical composition

ABSTRACT
The concentration and contamination levels of some heavy metals in Fadama soils utilized for agricultural activities within the vicinity of dumpsites in Lokoja were assessed and presented. The reconnaissance was conducted, and soil samples were collected from four different locations to test the type of soil and heavy metal content. Simple random sampling technique was adopted for plot selections, soil samples were analyzed with atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The value of the Zn content ranged between 37.10mg/kg at Banda and 50.96mg/kg at Kabawa, Mn ranged between 212.92mg/kg at Nataco and 452.14mg/kg at Kabawa. Iron ranged between 1071.80mg/kg at Banda and 1913.40mg/kg at Nataco. Cu and Pb level vary little amongst the different plots, from 3.56mg/kg at Ganaja to 6.84mg/kg at Nataco and 1.80mg/kg at Banda to 3.38mg/kg at Nataco. The heavy metals did not show significant correlation with the particle size fractions and organic matter of the soil. The heavy metals of respective plots were very low compared to European Union maximum permissible level; suggesting that the level of metals in this study are not threatening for now, but there is need for continuous monitoring to checkmate future trend for agricultural sustainability.

Keywords: Contamination, Fadama Soils, Heavy metals, Particle size distribution, Lokoja

ABSTRACT
The threat of urban fire disaster has been and is still a serious problem in Kano metropolis resulting to increased risk exposure of human and properties, thereby rendering the metropolis unsafe for business, residence and recreational activities. This study examined the spatio-temporal patterns of fire disaster and it causes and consequences. The study adopted a mixed method integrating quantitative and geospatial data from various sources. Fire incidents data (2009-2019) was obtained from the records of the existing fire stations and subjected to Global Positioning System (GPS) surveying for spatial mapping. Three fire incident clusters were identified and selected within which questionnaire survey was conducted. Coefficient of Variance and simple percentages were used for the qualitative data analysis. The result revealed the influence of space-time relationships in fire disaster recurrence throughout the period of study. Annual incident trend indicated general increase in occurrence of fire disaster. Seasonally, the trend revealed the highest incidents during the cool and dry season (32%). Diurnally, there were more fire incidents in the morning (26%) and evening hours (24.7%) than in the early night hours (8.8%) due to low temperatures especially during the cool and dry season. Electric related problems and negligence constituted the dominant causes of fire disaster which is being responsible for about 36% and 73% of the total incidents recorded respectively. Residential and commercial landuses experienced the highest number of fire disaster with about 72% and 14% respectively. It is concluded that recurrence of fire disaster in Kano metropolis is influenced by space-time relationship and landuse. Massive enlightenment campaign on fire disaster prevention and preparedness measures should be embarked on especially within the high population density residential areas, stressing on negligence and electric related faults as the two major causes of fire outbreaks within the metropolis.

Keywords: Incident Density, Space-time Relationship, Landuse, Fire hub, Fire Season

ABSTRACT
This paper investigated climate change-associated agricultural losses, food scarcity and adaptation strategies in the freshwater and mangrove swamps of Delta State in the Niger Delta region. A total of 1600 respondents were selected comprising 800 respondents equally selected from two local government areas per ecological zone. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data for this study. Findings show that a combination of loss of farm land and inputs and crop failure mainly accounts for agricultural losses due to climate change while flooding is primarily responsible for food losses due to climate change in both ecological zones. Purchase of food within and outside the community account for over 80% and 74% of the respondents main sources of food during climate change incidence in the freshwater and mangrove swamps respectively. Dietary management, change of occupation and livelihood diversification account for over 80% of the respondents coping strategies against climate change-induced food shortage in the freshwater swamps while dietary management, out migration and relief materials make up over 65% of the respondents adaptation strategies in the mangrove swamps. While the paper recommends ecological zone-specific prioritization in tackling climate change-induced agricultural losses and food shortage, there should be provision of nutrition education for households in both ecological zones.

Keywords: Climate Change, Agriculture, Food, Adaptation, Niger Delta

ABSTRACT
Income variability plays a determinant factor in the volume of waste materials generated. The research examined the variability of household income on the volume of waste materials generated by residents in Benin City. The objective of the study was to examine the variabilities of household income on the volume of solid waste generated in the study area. Primary data were obtained from 25 selected communities which comprise 110 settlements from the 3 Local Government areas that constitute Benin City. A total of 1,781 copies of questionnaires were administered in the 768 pollen unit stations and 192,250 numbers of registered voters were used for this study. Systematic sampling techniques from the selected streets and houses were used for the study. In each of the selected streets 2nd, middle and 2nd to the last households were administered questionnaires. Secondary data were sourced from published and documentary materials. The 2-way ANOVA statistical techniques were used for the study. On examinations, the results revealed that income variabilities, number of persons per household and economic determinants have positive impacts on the volumes of waste materials generated. High-income earners consumed more packaged products and by implication generate a huge volume of waste items and vice versa. The correlation analysis between monthly income and waste materials generation revealed that a 99% level of significance and relationship exists between monthly income and waste materials generation (r = 0.82). The Sum of Squares and Mean squares between Groups and Within Groups were 3.606 and 1.802 for the former and 3237.861 and 1.994 for the latter respectively. Furthermore, since the P-values are less than 0.5 level of significance, there was no significant variation (0.000) in the variability in household income and volume of waste materials generated among residents of the study area.

Keywords: Assessment, Variability, Household Income, Volume of Solid Waste Materials Generated