THEME: DELVING INTO ISSUES AND RESOURCES FOR SUB-SAHARA AFRICAN GROWTH IN THE MILLENNIUM ERA
DATE: 28TH June, 2023
VENUE: UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN, UNILORIN, KWARASTATE, NIGERIA
ORGANIZERS: MEDITERRANEAN RESEARCH AND PUBLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL
DOWNLOAD THE CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS (NO. 1)
DOWNLOAD THE CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS (NO. 2)
CONFERENCE ABSTRACTS:
EFFECTS OF CULTIVAR AND AGE OF MOTHER-PLANT ON THE VIABILITY AND VIGOUR QUALITIES OF FOUR BELL PEPPER (Capsicum annuum L.) PLANTS.
MUSTAPHA, A., IBRAHIM, H., GANA, A.S., SALAUDEEN, M.T. & ADEDIRAN, A.O.
Department of Crop Production, Federal University of Technology Minna
ABSTRACT
Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is an important fruit vegetable belonging to the family Solanaceae. The demand for this crop as a vegetable has increased especially in the urban centres, however, availability of quality seeds for sustainable production to meet the high demand has become a big challenge. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of cultivars and ages of mother-plant on the viability and vigour of bell pepper seeds. The experiment was arranged in a 4 × factorial using Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The factors were four cultivars of pepper and 6 plant ages. The experiment was carried out in the Laboratory of Department of Crop Production, Federal University of Technology Minna in 2020. The seeds were stored in an incubator set at 37 C and 75% relative humidity to accelerate the aging process for 8 weeks and the following parameters were tested weekly; seed germination percentage, seed vigour index and seed leachate electro-conductivity. The seeds of “Dan Damaso” and harvesting physiologically matured fruits when the mother-plant was 99 days old produced seeds with superior germination and vigour in the study.
ASSESSMENT OF LIVING CONDITION OF THE ALMAJIRI CHILDREN IN THE URBAN CENTRES OF NORTHERN NIGERIA.
IBRAHIM MUHAMMAD1Y.A SANUSI2L.M SANNI3 C.B OHADUGHA4
Department of Urban and Regional Planning Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi, Department of Urban and Regional Planning Federal University of Technology Minna
Abstract
Several empirical studies have assessed living condition in different perspective. However, few have examine the Almajiri’s children living condition in urban northern Nigeria. Note that many Almajiri children have lost their lives through street violence, ritual killing, kidnapping, disease and hunger. The study asses the living conditions of the Almajiri children in urban centres of northern Nigeria vis-a-viz: socio economic background of the parent, children formal education background, medical attention of the children, their personal hygiene include access to cleaning accessories, personal possession of the children like ownership of sweater for use during harm tan, children recreational activities include access and location to television children feeding that include feeding pattern, their source of food and it adequacy with the view of its negative influence on the pupils. Eight hundred and eighty-one (881) Almajiri children across the urban centre of Northern Nigeria interview to elicit information on the Almajiri children living conditions using structured questionnaires. Mean mean score, frequency, percentage, mean, median, standard deviation used to analyse the data and Mann-Whitney U Test is adopted in this research to analyse the differences between living conditions of Almajiri school children by the selected cities. The Findings reveals among others that; Majority of the Almajiri children in the northern Nigeria were identified to be of the parents of low socio economic status and poor homes ; largely informal occupation in farming, trading, services and others where 97% of the parents are found, The Almajiri children in the northern Nigeria were identified to be subjected to a serious hardship that’s why they often resort for street begging and takes menial jobs for survival, The Almajiri children in all the Tsangaya houses in the northern Nigeria were identified to be of poor personal and environmental hygiene. And have no place to go for medical treatment in the event of ailment, always pay for their treatment where they found one and they have no access to cleaning accessories, Most Almajiri were identified not barbing their hairs, appearances disgusting, their living environment lettered with open defecation characterised as unsanitary and unpleasant to the eyes, All the Almajiri children Tsangaya houses in northern Nigeria were identified to be seriously overcrowded with a high risk of epidemics outbreak Occupation there are serious scarcity of sleeping rooms, poor sleeping materials, high number of pupils per room, many sleep on veranda, incomplete buildings or any other vacant places, they have poor water and sanitary facilities, poor condition of building components having negative influence on the pupils. The study recommended regular and effective supervision and monitoring of Almajiri system of education by every state authorities and provision of social amenities like accommodation. provision of access to education and vocational training to breaking the cycle of poverty and giving Almajiri children a chance to build a better future. To ensure good and habitable living environment that will be conducive for living and leaning as recommended by the child right convention
Key Words: Almajiri, Children, living Condition, Urban Centre, Northern Nigeria
EFFECT OF PEER DISCOURSE ON SENIOR SCHOOL STUDENTS’ PERFORMANCE IN DIFFERENTIAL CALCULUS
BAKARE A. BASIRAT; AMAO D. ONAOLAPO PhD.; PROF. SALMAN F. MEDINAT
Department of Science Education University of Ilorin, Ilorin
Abstract
Further mathematics is very important to everyday life especially in a society that is technologically increasing. It is being studied by learners who intend to study mathematics related courses at the tertiary level of education. Senior school students’ performance in Calculus has not been encouraging and has been concern to researchers. Factors that affect the performance of students include the fact that calculus involves abstract and complex ideas, inadequate understanding, and interest on the part of students and teachers’ inability to use innovative and differentiated instructions. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of peer discourse on senior school students’ performance in differential calculus based on gender and score levels. This study adopted the pre-test post-test non-randomized non-equivalent control group design of the quasi-experimental research design. The pre-test post-test of 2×2 was used with experimental levels occurring at 2 levels (peer and teacher-presentation discourses), and gender at 2 levels (male and female). 95 students that were selected from two purposively sampled schools participated in the study. The validated research instrument, Further Mathematics Performance Test on Calculus (FMPT-C) was used for the study. The reliability coefficient of the test was 0.87 and it was obtained using Pearson’s Product-Moment Correlation. The research hypotheses were tested using the t-test and the Analysis of Co-variance. Findings from the study revealed that there is: (i) a significant difference in the performance of students taught using peer discourse and teacher-presentation discourse, p< 0.05; t=9.86; (ii) no significant difference in the performance of male and female students when taught calculus using peer discourse, The study concluded that students that were taught calculus using peer discourse performed better than those taught using teacher-presentation discourse. The study then recommended that teachers of further mathematics should adopt the use of peer discourse in teaching calculus and all other concepts in further mathematics.
Keyword: Discourse, Peer Discourse, teacher-presentation discourse, Calculus
EFFECT OF CATTLE DUNG IN THE BIOENHANCEMENT OF INDIGENOUS FUNGI FOR THE BIOREMEDIATION OF USED ENGINE OIL CONTAMINATED SOILS
1EGHOSA OSAZEE; & 2MATTHEW OMONIYI ADEBOLA,
1Department of Biological Sciences, SuleLamido University, Kafin Hausa, Nigeria. 2Department of Plant Biology, Federal University of Technology Minna, Niger State.
Abstract
Used engine oil (UEO) contaminated soils were collected from five mechanic workshops located in Minna. Non-oil contaminated soil samples were collected from Biological Garden of the Department of Plant Biology, Federal University of Technology, Minna. The fungi were isolated from the mechanic workshop soils using dilution plate method in mineral salt medium. The experimental design was arranged in a split-plot in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with seven (7) levels of treatments in each main plot and five (5) in each sub-plot. The germination toxicity test was carried out using germination and growth parameters. All the fungi were identified based on macroscopic and microscopic features of the fruiting bodies, spores and hyphal mass. A total of fifteen (15) fungi were isolated from the five mechanic workshop soils. Standard suspension (10.02 104CFU/L) of each of the five best performing pure fungal isolates (Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus stolonifer, Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium oxysporium and Trichodermal harzianum) among all the fungal isolates were added to the pots and thoroughly mixed with each of the 5ml of UEO contaminated soil. The populations of A.niger and F. oxysporium counts in all the soils amended with the various weights of cattle dung were higher compared to that of un-amended control pots. The highest enhancement was observed in CD75 which was able to enhance A. niger and F. oxysporium for optimum remediation when compared to other treatment options like CD100 and CD125 which were lower as showed in the THC with decreasing order of treatment CD75 > CD125 >CD100 > CD50 > CD25. The effect of the residual UEO on the germination of Vigna unguiculata showed that the plant grows successfully in all the negative control pots as well as CD75 treated pots but decreased in all other treatment options where retarded growth was observed.
Keywords: Enhancement, Toxicity, Remediation, Germination, Biostimulant
TRADITIONAL ROLE OF WOMEN AND ITS IMPLICATION IN SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN BAUCHI METROPOLIS
BOGORO A. G., AJIJI M.H AND NZELIBE T.N.
Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Nigeria Army University, Biu, Borno State
ABSTRACT
Women have both knowledge and expertise, whose recognition can lead to more efficient, effective, sustainable, and fair waste management operations. Studies have shown that the failure to take cognizance of the traditional role of women in the management of urban environment results in a serious loss of efficiency and productivity. However urban managers in the developing countries are yet to identify and integrate those critical roles of women into urban environmental management. This research is motivated not only due the poor solid waste management but also total neglect of the role of women in solid waste management in Bauchi metropolis. Systematic random sampling technique was adopted for the selection of the samples and 4% of the study population was taken as the sample size. The major instruments used for data collection were questionnaire, interview and direct measurement of household solid waste at source and the data is presented in tables and charts. It is found that over 95% of sweeping, cooking and food preparation are exclusively reserved for women in the study area. The women dominate generation, storage and collection of household solid waste with 81%, 96% and 91% respectively within the study area. It is also discovered that segregation can be 95% effectively carried out by women that have free time. However, urban manager in Bauchi metropolis are yet to identify the role of women with a view to integrating them into solid waste management in order to achieve a healthy and clean living environment in Bauchi metropolis. Among other suggestions, the paper recommends that role of women should be identified and integrated in developing and implementation of policies and programmes on solid waste management for a clean and healthy living urban environment, This will not only improve the environmental quality but would also increase the income base of the family.
Key words: Role, Women, Solid Waste, Integration, Segregation
ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT DETERMINANTS OF WORKING CONDITION ON PERFORMANCE OF QUANTITY SURVEYORS IN CONSTRUCTION ORGANISATIONS IN ABUJA
- SULAYMAN; & A. D. ADAMU
Department of Quantity Surveying, Federal University of Technology, Minna
ABSTRACT
Surviving in a competitive business world, every company must function under performance-based conditions. In a competitive setting, staff working conditions are critical to customer happiness and organization effectiveness. Employees value work conditions as essential ingredients to their satisfaction; requiring regular maintenance and replacement of facilities that aid their comfort and reduce their stress of abandoning their duties in search of convenient place where comfort facilities are not only put in place but also maintained regularly for optimum enjoyment of their workforce. Nigerian working conditions is however one of the poorest among the developing countries in the world. In regards to this, this study set out to examine the impact of working condition of Quantity Surveyors in construction organizations in Abuja. The study employed the Purposive sampling technique a type of non-probability sampling, adopted questionnaire for collecting data and used the Mean Item Score (MIS) and Relative Importance Index (RII) as method of data analysis. It was found out that safety of employees, good relationship with co-workers and job security were ranked 1st, 2nd and 3rd to signify their order of importance with MIS values of 4.47, 4.39 and 4.11 respectively. It was concluded based on the study that the most important working conditions of Quantity Surveyors in construction organisations in Abuja are safety of employees, good relationship with co- workers, and job security. The study further recommended that Safety of employees and job security are factors that firms should invest so much in to be able to attract and keep employees.
EFFECT OF MODERN TECHNOLOGY ON YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS: EVIDENCE FROM POS AGENT BANKING IN KANO STATE
HAUWA GARBA AHMED
Department of Continuing Education, Bayero University, Kano-Nigeria
Abstract
The study aimed to assess the effect of modern technology on teeming young entrepreneurs: Evidence from POS Bank Agents banking in Kano metropolis. The study used descriptive survey research design. It used primary data from the administered questionnaire. The population size used for this study was 122 selected POS Bank Agents in Kano Metropolis during the period under review, while the same number was implemented as the sample size. Census sampling method was employed for the study while multiple regression analyses using E-view version 23 statistical software package was used to analyze the data and tested only one out of the three formulated hypotheses at 5% level of significance. The study found that there is a significant impact between modern technology of ATM Banking on or amongst young entrepreneurs from the selected POS Bank Agents in the Metropolis. The study concluded that most of the researchers found modern technology of POS using ATM Banking/Card as a catalyst for entrepreneurship creation and financial service delivery as various banking agencies have promoted the various financial services delivery through the imminent young POS entrepreneurs, ATM, and mobile banking services in Nigeria with specific reference to Kano metropolis. The study recommended that as modern technology in POS system has become more advanced and accepted amongst young entrepreneurs it can also be used to offer additional services to customers beyond just processing. This will create new job opportunities for individuals with the necessary skills to provide these additional services.
Keywords: Young Entrepreneurs, Modern Technology, Banking and POS Agents
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF A 1K BASED AUTOMATIC TOLL TAX SYSTEM: A CASE STUDY OF SECOND NIGER BRIDGE IN NIGERIA
- U. UDEZE1*, J.E. CHIEGBOKA2 **
1,2Department of Electrical & Electronics Engineering, Federal Polytechnic Oko, Oko, Anambra State.
ABSTRACT
The developed system has the ability to collect toll fees from drivers directly from their bank account using a smartcard. The system is made up of a designed microcontroller based and has a barricade done with a servo motor to allow only vehicle with the approved collected toll fee to pass. The traditional development methodology was adopted for the development of this system. Top-down design approach was adopted for both hardware and software developments. The main sub units of the system include power supply unit, smart card unit, Keypad input unit, control unit, display unit and servo motor unit. This system works with the principle that when the driver swipes his card on the card reader, the system will request for a password, when the entered password is correct, it will deduct the cost of the gate fee directly from the driver’s account. If this transaction is successful, a signal logic will be sent to the servo motor to remove the barricade so that the vehicle can pass.
COTTON PEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND THE SELECTION OF PYRETHROID RESISTANCE IN ANOPHELES GAMBIAE POPULATION
SIKIRU GBENGA K., OLORI OKE OLUSOLAPE., OLORUNDARE.O., AYORINDE JAMES.,OLADEJO AFOLABI O., ADEDIRE O.
Department of Pest Management Technology, Federal College of Forestry Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria
Abstract
Pyrethroid insecticides, carbamate and organophosphate are the classes of insecticides commonly used in agriculture for crop protection in Northern Nigeria .Cotton crop protection represents 90% of the insecticide use in West Africa. Pyrethroid insecticides, carbamate and organophosphate are the classes of insecticides commonly used in agriculture for crop protection in Northern Nigeria. This study aims to investigate agricultural practices in cotton growing areas, and their direct impact on An. gambiae. Collection of agro-sociological data where farmers were subjected to semi-structured questionnaires based on the strategies used for crop protection was done. This was complemented by bioassay tests to assess the susceptibility of malaria vectors to various insecticides. Molecular analysis was performed to characterize the resistance genes and the molecular forms of An. gambiae. Insecticide residues in soil samples from breeding sites were investigated to determine major factors that can inhibit the normal growth of mosquito larvae by exposing susceptible and resistant laboratory strains. There is a common use by local farmers of mineral fertilizer NPK at 200 kg/ha and urea at 50 kg/hectare following insecticide treatments in both the Calendar Control Program (CCP) and the Targeted Intermittent Control Program (TICP). By contrast, no chemicals are involved in Biological Program (BP) where farmers use organic and natural fertilizers which include animal excreta. Susceptibility test results confirmed a high resistance to DDT. Mean mortality of An. gambiae collected from the farms practicing CCP, TICP and BP methods were 33%, 42% and 65% respectively. An. gambiae populations from areas using the CCP and TICP programs showed resistance to permethrin with mortality of 50% and 58% respectively.
Keyword: pest management, pyrethroid, practices, Anopheles gambiae, cotton
COMPARISON OF SIMPLE REGRESSION MODELS VIA CRITERIA MEASURES
*ESEMOKUMO PEREWAREBO AKPOS; & **OPARA JUDE
*Department of Statistics, School of Applied Science, Federal Polytechnic Ekewe
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. **Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education Rivers State P.M.B. 5047, Port Harcourt, Rivers Nigeria
Abstract
The study is on comparison of simple regression models via criteria measures. The source of data set used for this study was secondary, on weight and pulse rate of 90 patients. The response variable is pulse rate, while the explanatory variable is weight. Ten regression models; Linear, Quadratic, Polynomial, Logarithmic, Hyperbolic, power, Exponential growth, Square root, Sinusoidal and Arctangent were stated and employed for the study. For ease of data analysis, E-views package was implemented. Three model selection criteria measures for comparison known as; Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), Schwarz Information Criterion (SIC) with Hannan-Quinn Information Criterion (HQIC) was employed. The result revealed that the polynomial regression model outperforms the other nine models studied to examine the relationship between weight and pulse rate of patients. Hence; other models that were not employed in this study should be studied by researchers and as well compare results with other goodness of fit measures other than the criteria measures employed in this study.
Key words: AIC, SIC, HQIC, Simple Linear Regression, Simple Nonlinear Regression, Model Comparison
INVESTIGATION INTO THE EFFECT OF ABATTOIR WASTE ON GROUND WATER, A CASE STUDY OF BANGAIE ABATTOIR SOUTHERN PART NIGER STATE NIGERIA
1 DZUKOGI, A. N., 2MAHMUD, M. B. AND 3ASHAFA, A.
Department of Civil Engineering, Federal Polytechnic Bida
ABSTRACT
The effect of abattoir waste on ground water was carried out to establish the nature and extent of abattoir waste pollution on the environment of southern part of Niger State. These will enable effective pollution control measure to be carried out. Abattoir effluents discharge poses serious threat to the environmental health. In this study, physico-chemical and chemical Analyses of some water samples collected from abattoir environment and other sample of water outside the abattoir environment as control using analytic method. In this study, fourteen (14) parameters for water where determined among which are temperature, colour, turbidity, PH,TSS, TDS, Electrical Conductivity ,odor, taste, total hardness, alkalinity, chlorine, COD and BOD. The results obtained were analyzed and compared with the National Environment Regulation NER (1999) and Federal Ministry of Environment Effluent Limit FMEEL (2010) standard. The average temperature of the samples collected was 27 oC,, which slightly exceeded the 25 0C maximum limit of NER (1999) standard, color of the samples were average 6.5, which exceeded the NER (1999) and FMEEL (2010) standard of 5. These implied the water from Bangaie abattoir is contaminated and has high potential to dissolved soluble substance and accommodate bacterial from the waste discharge into the earth subsurface and river channels. In order to reduce the hazard and it effect, the waste should be treated before discharge into the river or earth surface.
Key words: water, hydrologic, abattoir, bacterial, environment
NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND LIFESTYLE OF FEMALE STUDENTS IN NIGER STATE POLYTECHNIC BIDA CAMPUS
NDALIMAN M.B, CHINEKEOKWU S, ADENIRAN A. AND EMMANUEL A.
Department of Nutrition Dietetics, The Federal Polytechnic Bida
Department of Hospitality and Management, The Federal Polytechnic Bida
Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Kaduna Polytechnic Kaduna State
Abstract
This research is to study nutritional status and lifestyle of female students in Niger State Polytechnic Bida campus. The study adopts the descriptive and cross-sectional method of study among female students of Niger state polytechnic, Bida campus which involves collection and analysis of large data and information through questionnaire. The findings of the study will demonstrate the response of the respondent. Furthermore, the study will find out whether snacking affect the nutritional status of both male and female students for consuming healthy or normal diet.
SMART CONTROLLER USING FPGA FOR HYBRID PV/WIND DISTRIBUTED GENERATION SYSTEM: A REVIEW.
1OKOTIE LUCKY EDAFE, 2OKOEKHIAN JOSHUA
1,2Department of Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology, National Institute of Construction Technology and Management (NICTM) Uromi, Edo State.
Abstract.
The renewable energy sources are sustainable, cheap and clean energy sources. It represents an alternative form of energy for use and assures a pollution-free environment and continuity of the energy sources. Research on the best ways to harvest the energy from these sources has open ways to new discoveries in the energy sector, especially those sources that are continuously changing due to the movement of the earth around itself and around the sun, the terrain of the surface of earth. In trying to solve this problem of variation in the output of some of these energy sources by reason of their uncertain nature/existence, researchers would have to combine the operations of two or more renewable energy sources in a hybrid system linked and coordinated by a controller for effective operation. One of the most common energy sources combinations in trend is the hybrid solar/wind turbine energy system which combines the characteristics of both the PV and wind turbine systems. The usual practice of most researchers is to get the MPPT of the hybrid system by using effective controlling techniques which could be achieved by adopting either the classical or intelligent methods [1]. This paper therefore presents a review of various controlling techniques that have been developed and executed on a field programmable gate array (FPGA) for PV/wind hybrid energy system through the past few years and made comparison of their findings/submissions.
Keywords: Field programmable gate array (FPGA), Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), Perturbation and Observation (P&O) algorithm, Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Photovoltaic electricity, Fuzzy Logic Controls (FLC), Solar cells, wind turbines,
AN OVERVIEW OF CORPORATE FAILURE AND AUDITING CHANGE IN NIGERIAN ECONOMY
SHADRACH MONICA & ALI, MATHEW BELLO
Accountancy Department & Bursary Department, Federal Polytechnic, Mubi – Nigeria, P.M.B., 35
ABSTRACT
The paper studies, view and examines the relative literatures on the concepts, causes and possible recommendations of business failure, with emphasis on auditing resolution option. The economic cost of business failure is relatively large, government, providers of capital, as well as management and employees are severely affected. More critical are the reporting accountant who are likely to face potential litigation if there reports failed to provide an early warning signal. To stem distress and its debilitating effect, there is a need of adopting a new audit framework which stresses on time limit of audit tenure with a client, forensic audit, retrospective audit procedures and auditor’s skepticism. This will ensure and yield effective corporate governance that can curve and detect potential problems leading to corporate failure.
Keywords: Corporate Failure, Auditing Change
UTILIZATION OF SMART ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN THE NEXUS OF URBAN COMMUNITY SERVICES
YEKINI SUBERU MOHAMMED1, AND ABDULLAHI AL-HASSAN AHMED2
1Department of Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology, School of Engineering Technology, Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. 2Department of Estate Management, School of Environmental Studies, Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa, Nasarawa State, Nigeria.
Abstract
The quest for existing and emerging cities around the world to use new technologies for the management of their activities has brought about the notion of “smart cities. Life-supporting technologies improve the standard of living for citizens, but they are obviously not without challenges. A combination of smart cities and smart renewable energy microgrids enables the development of information and communication technology (ICT)-led sustainable smart energy cities. A smart city utilizing renewable energy systems based on distributed generation is a digitally-facilitated low-carbon city. The conceptual applications of smart energy technologies for the sustainable development of urban community services are presented in this paper. The introductory part of the paper presents the context of sustainable smart cities. A summary of the perspectives on sustainable smart energy in smart metropolitan communities was also provided. The essential technologies that shape the development of smart cities were highlighted, including the roles of the Internet of Things (IoT), the risk of cyber security, and the benefits of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the framework. The paper concluded with deliberations on the present trend and future prospects and made the submission that renewable energy integrated into smart cities through the technologies of smart grids is a better approach to the sustainable development of cities.
Keywords: Urban area; Smart city; Smart energy; Renewable energy; Climate Change; Sustainable development
LEADERSHIP SOLIDARITY AND CONFLICT IN WEST AFRICAN SUB-REGION: A CALL FOR INTERNAL COLLABORATION
LAWAL M.K
Department of Local Government Studies, the Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki
Abstract
The paper aims at resolving conflict through the modicum support of West-African religious leaders. The paper discusses the conceptual analysis of the key concept, international dimension of conflict in West Africa, sub-regional dimension of conflict as well as initiation for conflict revolution and peace keeping. The study reveals that geographical and language differences impair the cooperation and development among the member countries in West African sub-religion. Therefore the paper concludes that African leaders should uphold and respect the treaty of West-Africa signed in Lagos on May 28, 1975 as an agreement by all member state.
Keyword: political leadership, solidarity, treaty, conflict, resolution, African
EFFECTS OF ANTHROPOGENIC ACTIVITIES ON FLORAL DENSITY AND DIVERSITY IN DAGONA WATERFOWL SANCTUARY GASHUA, YOBE STATE, NIGERIA
AKWARANDU, K. E. 1; AHMED, M. A. 1; ALHAJI MUSTAPHA G.2; ABUBAKAR, A. M.; AHMED B.G.1 AND AHMED S. B.3
1Forestry Technology Department, Yobe State College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Gujba, Nigeria. 2Yobe State (Nigeria) Coordinator, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. 3Basic Science Department, Yobe State College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Gujba, Nigeria
Abstract
Wetlands in the tropical sudan savanna are ecological niches to many threatened organisms. However, impacts of rising human populations daily threatens biodiversity, particularly in underdeveloped and impoverished communities where survival on the forest may be direct, crude, and absolute. In a research conducted in Dagona waterfowl sanctuary, Yobe state, Nigeria, to assess types and impacts of anthropogenic activities on the diversity and density of its plants, a structured questionnaire was employed in eliciting information on anthropogenic activities in the area while total count on line transect method was used in assessing the density and diversity of available plants. The Geographic information system (GIS) was employed in determining change in land cover over a ten year period. Results obtained shows that activities on the sanctuary were mostly carried out by males (82%), most of whom were married (54%) and within the 20-30 years class of age (42%) with farming as their major occupation (44%). In study area 1, 32 tree species from 20 families, making up a total of 644 individuals were encountered, while tree density ranged from 0.002km2-0.143/km2 with Balanites aegyptiaca having the highest density (0.143/km2), while Saba florida, Eclipta prostratara and Ipomoea carneat had the least (0.002/km2). Simpson diversity was low (0.891). In study area 2, tree density ranged from 0.002-0.021/km2 with Hyphaene thebatica and Feretia apondenthera having the highest densities and Althernantha nodiflora, Ipomea involucrate, Maerua angolensis and Acacia sieberitona recording the lowest densities. Simpson’s diversity index was very low (0.969). Unauthorized grazing was the most frequently carried out offence (30.59%). Between years 2009 and 2019, the river valley was observed to have shrank by 4.16 % (88.329 Km2 to 84.656 Km2), while the vegetation cover reduced by 62.58% (362.957 Km2 to 135.818 Km2). It is recommended that more surveillance should be carried out to curb the activities of illegal grazers, deforesters and poachers.
Keywords: Dagona waterfowl sanctuary, Yobe state, anthropogenic, transect, vegetation cover
A REVIEW OF THE EFFECTS OF EXTRUSION COOKING ON THE QUALITY OF EXTRUDED FOOD PRODUCTS
BULUS DANIEL SADIQ (PHD); & TANKO O. ODENI
Dept. of Food Technology, Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda. P. M. B1012 Kaura Namoda Zamfara State
ABSTRACT
The effect of extrusion cooking on the quality of extruded food was studied. Extrusion cooking is a process of cooking by forcing it (food material) to pass through a die. This is a high temperature short time (HTST) process. The major components of the extruder are the pre-conditioning bin, feeding system, the screw, barrel sleeves, and the cutting machine. The two types of extruders majorly used in food processing are; the single screw extruder and the twin-screw extruder. During extrusion, the composition of a raw material can be altered through leakage of oil and evaporation of volatile compounds at the die. Amylose and amylopectin are partially hydrolyzed to maltodextrins due to high temperature and shear. Proteins undergo denaturation and antinutritional factors are deactivated. Under extrusion temperatures, Lipids act as lubricants because they reduce the friction between particles in the mix and between the screws; fibres are affected because of the redistribution of insoluble fibres to soluble fibres. Increase temperatures from 140-1800C result in proportional decrease in disulphide linkages. Temperatures lower than 90oC hinder expansion and layer formation. Most vegetative organisms yeast and moulds are destroyed under extrusion condition. Products obtain with high temperature and short extrusion normally present a porous open structure referred to as” crunchy” texture. Also, to obtain a nutritionally balanced extruded product, careful control of process parameters is essential.
Key words: Extrusion; Cooking; Extruder; Screw; Die; Quality
IMPACT OF EUCALYPTUS SPECIES ON THE UNDERSTORY OF NATIVE SPECIES IN SOME SELECTED LOCATIONS IN SOUTHERN BAUCHI STATE
GARBA A1*, YAKUBU I¹., ABUBAKAR I. A2 AND AHMAD I. A.1
1Department of Forestry Technology, Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, Bauchi State, Nigeria. 2Department of Agricultural Technology, Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, Bauchi State, Nigeria.
.
ABSTRACT
The study accessed native species regeneration in two Eucalyptus plantations and adjacent open savanna located at Magamar Gumau (MG) Toro local government area and Bununu (BN) Tafawa Balewa local Govt. in Bauchi state, Nigeria, with the view of understanding the ecological impact of Eucalyptus species to naturally rejuvenate native species. Three quadrats of 10mx10m were selected in both the plantations and adjoining open savanna at the two locations and a total species were counted. Results from the study at MG shows that, there were 184 and 125 tree stands representing 25 and 9 tree species cutting across 24 and 9 genera and 13 and 7 families in the open savanna and the adjoining Eucalyptus plantations respectively. While at BN the results shows there are 236 and 90 tree stands representing 18 and 12 tree species cutting across 10 and7 families and 13 and 10 genera in the Eucalyptus plantation and the adjoining open savanna. At MG Isobalinia doka and Eucalyptus toroliana recorded the highest frequency and percentage frequency of 77 and 46, and 41.8% and 36.8% in the open savanna and the plantation respectively followed by Piliostigma reticulatum and Isobalinia doka with frequency and frequency percentage of 26 and 14.1% nd 44 and 35.2% in the respective sites. While at BN Eucalyptus camaldulensis and Combretum glutinosum recorded the highest frequency and percentage frequency of 98 and 39, and 41.53% and 43.3% in the plantation and open savanna respectively. At MG plantation, Dichrostachys cinerea have the least frequency and frequency percentage with 1 and 0.8% respectively. While in the savanna the list frequencies where recorded with Boerhavia diffusa, Kedrostis foetidissima, Amblygonocarpus andongensis, Bauhinia rufescens, Parkia biglobosa, Dialium guineense, Diospyros mespiliformis and Acacia ataxacanta with 1 and 0.5 each. At While the species with the least frequencies values at BN were Anogeissus leiocarpus and Acacia polyacanta with frequency of 1 and percentage frequency of 1.1. in the open savanna. At MG the families Fabaceae/Leguminosae recorded the highest frequency and percentage frequency of 5 and 45.45 while Myrtaceae, Sapotaceae, Apocynaceae, Ebenaceae, Oligocaceae and Zygophyllaceae recorded the lowest frequency of 1 and 1.23% each. At BN Combretaceae and Fabaceae have the highest frequency of 3 and frequency percentage of 3.3, Leguminaceae has frequency of 2 and frequency percentage of 2.2. Ebenaceae, Rhamnaceae, Apocynaceae and Zygopyllaceae all have the frequency of 1 and frequency percentage of 1.1. Although the introduced Eucalyptus species is the dominant species in the plantation, natural regeneration could be said to be relatively fair probably caused by periodical harvesting of the Eucalyptus species.
Keywords: Tree species composition, Savanna, Indigenous tree species, Forest Conservation
ENRICHMENT FACTORS OF SECONDARY RADIONUCLIDES IN SOIL SAMPLES FROM KALTUNGO AND ITS ENVIRONS
AREMU S.O1, HAQUE M.F2, OLASOJI O.W2, MAINA IBRAHIM2
1Federal polytechnic Bauchi. 2Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi. Bauchi State.
Abstract
The enrichment factors of secondary radionuclides in soil samples from Kaltungo Local Government Area of Gombe State and its environs was determined by investigating the concentration of radionuclides of secondary source in twenty soil samples collected from Kaltungo, Billiri, Shongom and Balanga Local Government Areas of Gombe State. Materials used include Rigaku Energy Disperse XRF machine, GPS, analytical balance and polythene bags. Six radionuclides were detected with concentration ranging from 2.74ppm to 124ppm. The enrichment factors estimated ranges -57.2 to 100.
Keywords: Enrichment factor, Secondary, Radionuclide, Soil, Kaltungo.
ASSESSMENT OF ABSORPTIVE CAPACITY ON PERFORMANCE OF SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED ENTERPRISES (SMEs) IN ABUJA
MUHAMMAD, A. AND OYEWOBI, L.O.
Department of Quantity Surveying, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B. 65, Minna, Nigeria
ABSTRACTS
Acquisition and assimilation of new knowledge and technology by construction SME is a crucial component for their survival and will enable them to cope with the level of technological advancement. As a result, this study aims to assess the absorptive capacity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Abuja with the view of providing adequate information for improving firms’ performance. The study adopted a quantitative research approach, which included the use of a questionnaire. The population for this research consists of construction professionals, namely, owners and managers of SME construction firms. The questionnaire was then served randomly to the respondents in the population, and one hundred and thirty-three (133) were retrieved, representing a response rate of 57%. The collected data were analysed using the mean item score and RII. The findings revealed that the company highly values the attitudes that promote internal changes (RII = 0.92, ranked 1st), and the company constantly seeks relevant external information for its business (RII = 0.80, ranked 2nd), which are the most important acquisition dimensions of absorptive capacity that assist organisations in improving their performance. The findings revealed that all the factors affecting the implementation of absorptive capacity in the study area were important. The findings of the study indicated that human resources management of the firm (MIS = 4.09, ranked 1st) and research and development activities of the firm (MIS = 4.02, ranked 2nd) were the most important factors, respectively. The study concluded that skills required by organisations, if adopted, will help improve absorptive capability and performance. As a result of the conclusions drawn in this study, it is recommended that owners and managers be more prepared and committed to changing their management style and implementing the necessary adjustments that foster dedication, engagement, and the desire to learn and share what they have learned.
Keywords: Absorptive, Capacity, Performance, Small and medium sized enterprises
PROPOSED TOPOLOGY OF SMALL CELLS FOR MILLIMETRE-WAVE BACKHAULING
USMAN, L. A.; MOHAMMED, A. S.; & ALENOGHENA, C. O.
Telecommunication Engineering Department, Federal University of Technology, PMB 65 Minna Niger State, Nigeria
ABSTRACT
The fifth generation (5G) of cellular network has emerged as a result of the rapid increase in the need for data. The capabilities of 5G, such as its tremendous network capacity, significantly wider bandwidth than those of previous generations, and incredibly low latency, make it highly appropriate for meeting the demands or requirements of 5G technology as specified by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Densification is a key technique that facilitates the implementation of 5G networks by deploying numerous small cells within its coverage area. To connect or backhaul these small cells with the core network, a popular method is to use the millimeter-wave spectrum, which is the dominant wireless technology for transmitting 5G traffic particularly in urban areas due to its abundant spectrum availability. Previous researches have proven the superiority of the mesh topology of mobile backhaul over the star topology; however, this paper proposes a topology that mitigates the issue with overall system transmit power associated with the mesh topology.
Keywords: 5G, Millimetre-wave, Mobile Backhaul, Small Cells, Topology, Wireless Network.
AVAILABILITY AND USAGE OF CLOUD COMPUTING TECHNOLOGIES FOR TEACHING AND LEARNING IN NIGERIA UNIVERSITIES.
OLAWOYIN SERIFAT JOKE; & PROF. G.O AKINOLA
Department of Management & Accounting, Faculty of Administration, OAU, Ile-Ife.
Abstract
This paper identified the different types of cloud computing technologies that are available for teaching and learning among universities in Southwestern Nigeria. It also examined the level of the application or usage in teaching and learning among selected universities in Southwestern Nigeria. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey research design. Lecturers from Southwestern Nigeria public and private universities served as population for the study. Three hundred lecturers and 700 students were selected from the universities using stratified sampling technique. Data for the study was collected using two instruments: “Questionnaire on Acceptance and Application of Cloud Computing Technologies for Teaching” (QAACCTT) and “Questionnaire on Acceptance and Application of Cloud Computing Technologies for Learning” (QAACCTL). The data was analyzed using percentage, mean and standard deviation.The result identified cloud computing technologies for teaching and learning by these grouping; Learning Management system had Google Classroom as the most commonly used with (78.50%) for teaching and (80.06%) for learning. Cloud Storage Apps had Google Drive as the highest used with 43.00% for teaching and 38.40% for learning. The Cloud Based Video Conferencing Platform had Zoom as the most commonly used with 67.20% for the lecturers and 61.60% for the students, Google Meet followed with 43.01% and 43.00% for both lecturers and students respectively. Lastly the Social Media group had WhatsApp as the most commonly used with (65.05%) and (65.18%) for both teaching and learning activities respectively. The level of application of these technologies for teaching and learning among the selected universities was discovered using data gathered from 15 and 9 items in the lecturers’ and students’ questionnaires respectively. The Mean, frequency counts and standard deviation of replies for each item are available in the body of the paper. The study concluded that the awareness of the use of cloud computing technologies in teaching and learning was not popular then in Nigerian public universities while private universities have a little knowledge of the usage.
Keyword: Availability, Cloud Computing, Technologies, Teaching, Learning.
ASSESSMENT OF THE STATE OF ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION IN GWALE LOCAL GVERNMENT AREA, KANO STATE, NIGERIA
AISHA M. YOLA1 ILIYASU M. ANZAKU2, Y.A UBANGARI (Ph.D)3
1&2Department of Geography, School of Continuing Education, Bayero University, Kano. 3Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Isa Mustapha Agwai Polytechnic, Lafia, Nasarawa State
Abstract
Sanitation generally refers to the provision of facilities and services for the safe disposal of human urine and faeces. Sanitation also refers to the maintenance of hygienic conditions promoting health through prevention of human contact with the hazards of waste as well as the treatment and proper disposal of sewage or waste water (WHO/UNICEF, 2014). Subsequently environmental sanitation as stated by “WHO/UNICEF”, is the control of environmental factors that form links in disease transmission. Subsets of this category are solid waste management, water and waste treatment, individual waste treatment and pollution control. Environmental sanitation is a set of actions geared towards improving the quality of human health by providing a clean environment and breaking the circle of diseases, and improving the quality of the environment. This paper, State of Environmental Sanitation in Gwale Local Government Area of Kano State, A total of 400 respondents were selected across various areas within the local government using random sampling technique. Hence, 356 were retrieved and the analysis was carried out on them. Little problem were encountered during the distribution and collection of the questionnaire; some of the respondent were not able to attempt all the questions, some did not answer correctly, and the researchers also gave enough time to the respondents before they collected back the questionnaires, “almost two weeks”. The method of administering questionnaire was through direct contact. Quantitative method was used in collecting data from the respondents. The study employed survey method through the administration of a structured questionnaire to the respondents. It contained questions on the socio-demographic profile. It also contained both closed-ended and open-ended questions. These questions revolve around the research questions raised to be answered. The analysis was done with aid of simple statistical method” for the data analysis, such as bar chart in analysis of the question related to occupation, source of waste etc. pie chart in analysis of grading environmental sanitation etc. table was used for sex, age etc. percentage is for marital status, etc. histogram for house duties the respondent engage in, lastly cumulative frequency polygon was used in this research work in the analysis of question related to source of environmental sanitation knowledge, number of persons in a room etc. The finding shows that environmental sanitation knowledge helped in the study area in one way or the other Subsequently, based on this research work conducted in Dorayi, environmental sanitation in the area is “fairly good”.
Keywords: State, Sanitation, Environment, Hygienic, Diseases
PHYSICO-CHEMICAL ASSESSMENT OF SOME SELECTED HAND DUG WELLS WATER IN BIDA METROPOLIS, NIGER STATE, NIGERIA.
1DZUKOGI, A. N., 2MAHMUD, M. B. AND 3ASHAFA, A.
Department of Civil Engineering, the Federal Polytechnic Bida
ABSTRACT
Physico-chemial analyses of selected hand dug wells in Bida Metropolis of Bida Local Government Area of Niger State were conducted. Twenty five water samples were collected from selected hand dug wells in the study area. The analysis was aimed at determining the physic-chemical parameters and safety of the water samples for consumption and domestic purposes. The results were compared with world health organization standard and National standard for drinking water quality limits. From the result of the analysis, it was found that PH value of the samples has the highest value of 7.56 (Alkaline), bicarbonate ranges from 0.52 mg/l to 47.94 mg/l. Chlorine ranges from 29.40 mg/l to 161.7 mg/l. The result of BOD and COD ranges from 8.00 mg/l to 17.0 mg/l and 16.0 mg/l to 56.0 mg/l respectively, it was found that turbidity test range from 0.30 NTU to 1.94 NTU. The electrical conductivity of the hand dug well water samples range from 93 ohms/cm to 1583 ohms/cm the mean average value of total dissolve solid was 186.33 mg/l and the result of calcium ranges between 3.36 mg/l to 65.60 mg/l. All the analyzed samples fall within the allowable limit of world health organization standard and National standard for drinking water quality. Therefore the water samples were free from all health related diseases like kidney stone, constipation and others. Hand dug well should be constructed at least 15 m away from waste dumpsite, pit latrine or soak away.
Key words: Raw water, Analysis, Contamination, Treatment
POLITICS OF ELECTORAL ACT AMENDMENT IN NIGERIA. A CASE STUDY OF THE 9TH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
AISHA MUHAMMED KUCICI; BULUS JAMES NGADA; & SALISU UBA
Department of Political Science, Yobe State University, Damaturu
Abstract
Electoral system determines political growth and democratic stability of a country. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is a body charge with conducting and organizing free, fair and credible election in Nigeria, right from independence of 1960 to date and since then, election and electoral process are short of transparency accountability and fairness. This led to enactment of various electoral Act in order to enhance and improve general acceptability of election results, minimize errors during collation of result and unnecessary delays in declaration of results. This research is a content analysis and the study laid emphasis on the electoral process with a view to examine the politics of 2010 Electoral Act Amendment in favour of e-voting and e-transmission of results across the country. The aim is to improve the responsiveness of electoral process to public desire and expectation. The study utilizes secondary source of data and content analysis as its methodology. This research optioned that electronic voting and transmission of result electronically in our electoral lexicon law is fundamental toxic to banish election banditry, improve integrity and hence, extension of our democratic frontiers. The study recommends among others that INEC should be independent and strengthened, they should also be given full autonomy in order to enforce the law as enshrined in the Act.
IMPACT OF SHAREHOLDERS’ CONTRIBUTION ON ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE – (A Study of Selected Companies Listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange)
- SAMUEL OYEKAN ASHOGBON
Department of Accounting Education, Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
This study was an empirical work on the impact of shareholders’ contribution on organizational performance which focused on eleven selected companies listed on the Nigerian stock of exchange. The shareholders’ contribution was measured by equity paid-up capital (PUC) as funding and shareholders’ corporate governance responsibility of appointing directors. While organizational performance used net profit margin (NPM) and turnover performance (TR). The objectives of the study were to determine the relationship between shareholders’ paid-up capital (PUC) and net profit margin (NPM) performance as well as shareholders governance contribution (SGC) and net profit performance. In achieving the objectives, a multivariate model was used. Secondary data were collected from the sampled firms’ financial statement from 2016 to 2020. Ordinary least square (OLS) technique was employed to estimate the empirical model which revealed a positive significant relationship between shareholders’ paid-up capital (PUC) and net profit margin (NPM) performance. The results also suggest a positive relationship between shareholders corporate governance contribution (SGC) and net profit performance. Finally, the results also revealed a strong positive significant correlation between shareholders’ capital contribution and turnover performance (r = 0.8639, p < 0.05). The study recommends that major shareholders should ensure close monitoring the of the directors and managers and if found to be negligent and misappropriating business funds, they should not hesitate to wield the big stick and vote for their removal.
Keywords: Shareholders’ Contribution, Organizational Performance, Governance
ISSUES ON ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION IN NIGERIA AND THE WAY FORWARD.
ANYANWU I.U; & ELEKWACHI C.M
Department of Urban and Regional Planning and Estate Management, Abia State Polytechnic Aba.
Abstract
Environmental education is a process that allows individuals to explore environmental issues, engage in problem solving, and take action to improve the environment. As a result, individuals develop a deeper understanding of environmental issues, face challenges and have the skills to make informed and responsible decisions. Over the years, environmental education and protection have become inevitable in Nigeria considering the numerous environmental problems such as soil erosion, desert encroachment, oil spillage etc, which disturb the country in many places. This underscores why the objectives of the paper include: To identify some of the environmental problems confronting Nigeria, challenges of environmental education; and to proffer solutions to the persistent problems. The manifestation of these problems us her in environmental policy and environmental education with a view to prevent and ameliorate environmental damage. Despite these measures, challenges such as the complex interdisciplinary nature of environmental education, shortage of trained teachers for the classroom dispensation of the new course, the increase in human population that puts more pressure on the environment, etc, continue to challenge our environmental policy and education. It is concluded that the environment suffers great abuse by man; and is being beset with enormous problems. Therefore, it is recommended among others that the Federal Government should promulgate a law thatputs an end to unwise way of exploiting the natural environment.
Keywords: Environment, Education, sustainability, Challenges, Issues.
ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE AND ITS IMPACT ON STAFF PRODUCTIVITY IN RESEARCH INSTITUTES
OZIMEDE, ELIZABETH IRAGBESON1 & ABDULLAHI, IBRAHIM2
Department of Business Administration & Management, Federal Polytechnic, Bida1. Department of Marketing, Federal Polytechnic, Bida Niger State2
Abstract
This research work focused on organizational change and its impact on staff productivity in research institutes using National Cereals Research Institute, (NCRI) Badeggi as a case study. To achieve the research main objective which was to examine two organizational change variables (planning and leadership) and their impacts on staff productivity in research institutes, the study adopted survey research design and used Taro Yamane method to arrive at a sample size of 217 respondents from the population of 475 staff of the NCRI, Badeggi, Niger State. The respondents were selected via convenience sampling and close-ended questionnaires were carefully designed and administered as research instrument to elicit information from the selected staff and they were analysed using SPSS and path analysis with two models. Finding of the study indicated that there is a strong relationship between planning and productivity of staff in NCRI, Badeggi, Niger State. Therefore, effective planning has a positive and significant impact on staff productivity; it also showed that effective leadership style has a positive and significant impact on staff productivity in research institutes. It was therefore concluded that an organization can impact on its staff productivity during change if it will be in a position to determine the needs and wants of the staff. The affirmed relationships between effective planning leadership and staff productivity were positive and significant thereby leading to the rejection of the stated hypotheses (H1 and H2) and acceptance of alternative ones. It was recommended therefore that the best way to attain enhanced staff productivity through organizational change is by introducing global competition, downsizing and new technology. It was also recommended that management board should embrace enhanced strategic change mechanisms to influence staff attitude towards change and instil organizational culture of pursuing productivity in the members of staff. Also, it is imperative for drivers of change to think about the need of workers in order to conquer effective and successful organizational change.
Keywords: Organizational change; Impact; Staff; Productivity; Organization.
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION AND SECURITY DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA: THE COGNIZANCE OF COMMUNITY-BASED VIGILANTE GROUP
*LAWAL, MOSHOOD KAVODE; *AMUSAT, RASAKBAMIDELE; & ***AJIBADE, QUADRI T.
*Department of Local Government Studies The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki. **Department of Business Administration and Management, the Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki. ***Department of Public Administration The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki
ABSTRACT
The government of any nation has the major responsibility of protecting lives and property of her citizens. As a result of the complexities associated with the nature of the conduct of government businesses, most of her duties are lagging behind. This occurrence necessitates the assistance of citizens in complementing the security effort of government in order to achieve a greater level of development. The study focuses on the security lapses of government in protecting her citizens due to the inability and non-recognition of some security groups or segments that are capable of promoting adequate societal security development of their respective areas in Nigeria. This paper adopts secondary source of data collection. It discusses some relevant keywords, consequences of insecurity in the Nigerian nation, security sector transformation as well as security as an intrinsic aspect of development. The paper concludes that non-recognition of community-based security measure to complement government hinders security development in Nigeria. Therefore, it recommends that government should try to encourage community-based vigilante groups in Nigeria in order to provide security services to the citizenry. Community people and government should work together so that insecurity can be brought to the barest minimum or eliminated completely.
Keyword: Citizen Participation, Community, Security, Development, Nigeria
DEALING WITH IMPRECISE DATA IN BUILDING PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT OUTLINING MACHINE LEARNING APPROACH
- O. ZUBAIRU1, SEVIL SARIYILDIZ2, LAWAL DALHATU ENEYEMIRE3, & AMINAT AKINYEMI-AYOOLA4
1, 3Department of Building, School of Environment Design, College of Environmental Studies, Kaduna, Polytechnic, Kaduna, Nigeria. 2Architectural Engineering, Faculty of Architecture, TU Delft, Delft, The Netherlands 4Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria, 20 Oba Adesida road Iyaganku GRA., Ibadan
ABSTRACT
Built Environment Design and Construction are usually tied to the needs and general desire of users, which may either be the owners, or temporary/permanent users of the facilities. Whichever one is the case, the need to ensure best satisfaction of the users is paramount to the designers and/or constructors. The means by which the needs of the users are established, apart from the professional knowledge of the built environment experts are through inputs the bulk of which are obtained through feedbacks. This can be as simple as asking questions within the context of inquiries. But quite often the diversity of users, on account of culture, beliefs, exposure, and general socio-political leanings tend to taint the feedback obtained. This is even made more difficult by the fact that a high percentage of the populace lack cognitive capacity on account of senility, either temporary or permanent, in this category we have the mentally disabled, the aged, and the sickness induced temporary senility. The foregoring account for the existence of imprecise data arising from feedback. For the good of the society it is still within our responsibility as professionals to cater for the interests of such group of people, hence the need for making sense out of such data so as to satisfy their needs, This present a challenge to experts in the building/built environment domain. This paper seek to present the methods for dealing with such data to ensure that the decisions made in design, construction, and sustenance of the built environment are based on near perfect reality of what the users within this bracket need. This is to pave the way for an Artificial Intelligence Based Real Time Building Performance Evaluation and Decision Model.
Keywords: Imprecise Data; built environment; feedback; senility; Design; and Construction
EFFECT OF EMPLOYEE APPRAISAL ON ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE: A STUDY OF FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, MUBI NIGERIA
HABU JINGI UMAR, NWADIUKO OKIKE AZU; AND FATIMA SULE
Department of Office Technology Management, Federal Polytechnic Mubi, Adamawa State. **National Lottery Trust Fund, Abuja Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
The nonchalant attitudes of public sector workers towards their duties and responsibilities have become a matter of great concern to the government at all levels and other well-meaning Nigerians. There has been a persistent public outcry in the mass media indicting public sector employees for their negative attitude to work which has led to low productivity. The main objective of the study was to examine the effect of employee appraisal on organizational performance in Federal Polytechnic, Mubi. The data collected for this study was subjected to descriptive statistics and hypotheses were tested using regression statistics with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of this study revealed that there exist significant and positive influence between perceived feedback and employees’ organizational performance. However, employees’ perceived accuracy shows insignificant influence on employees’ organizational performance meanwhile perception appraisal practices revealed negative significant influence on employees’ organizational performance. Therefore, the study recommended that management should ensure that Performance Employee Appraisal (PEA) provide technology feedback that should be fair and satisfactory. Various appraisal method should be introduced to encourage objectivity and eliminate biasedness in the appraisal of employees.
Keywords: Effect, Performance Appraisal, Employee Performance, Feedback, Perception.
IMPACT OF WORKING CAPITAL MANAGEMENT ON THE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF LISTED CONSUMER GOODS FIRMS IN NIGERIA
*ADAMU ABDULKADIR; & **ABUBAKAR SADIQ USMAN, PhD
*Department of Business Administration and Management, Gombe State Polytechnic Bajoga. **Department of Business Administration, Gombe State University, Gombe
ABSTRACT
The study investigates the effect of working capital management on financial performance of listed consumer goods firms in Nigeria. Four dimensions of working capital management: day sales outstanding (DSO) and day payables outstanding (DPO) while return on asset (ROA) is used as proxy to financial performance. A sample of 16 consumer goods firms were selected out of 21 listed consumer goods firms in the industry based on the data availability within the time period (2013-2021). Secondary data from audited financial reports of consumer goods firms were collected for 9 year-period (2013-2021). Descriptive statistics were used to find the basic demographic characteristics of the data and some diagnostic test (normality, stationarity, serial autocorrelation etc) were carried out and met the minimum requirement for testing hypotheses. Vector Autorepression Granger causality test was used to test the hypotheses developed. Result indicates that Day Sales Outstanding (DSO) has insignificant positive impact on financial performance of listed consumer goods while Day Payables Outstanding (DPO) show positive significant effect on financial performance of listed consumer goods firms. The study also recommends that Consumer Goods Firms should always maximise Day Payables Outstanding as this will improve financial performance of the firms of listed consumer goods firms in Nigeria. The researcher acknowledges the support of TETFund in funding the research to publication.
Keywords: working capital management, financial performance, day payables outstanding, return on assets.
BOARD CHARACTERISTICS AND PERFORMANCE OF LISTED DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS IN NIGERIA
ALI, MATHEW BELLO & SHADRACH MONICA
Bursary Department & Accountancy Department, Federal Polytechnic, Mubi – Nigeria, P.M.B., 35
ABSTRACT
This study examines board characteristics and performance of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria for the) years from 2010 to 2021. Eight (8) listed deposit money banks were sampled out of a population of fourteen (14) using convenient sampling. The study data were collected from the annual reports and accounts of the sampled companies and were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation coefficient and multiple regressions using STATA software version 13.00. The study revealed that board size and board independence has a negative and positive significant impact on performance respectively. Thus, the study recommends that the board should be small enough to conduct high-quality, active debates, but large enough to give the skills and practice required for the board to function well, it should not be too high as it negatively affect financial performance. The Study also recommends that there is need for increase in the independent non-executive directors on the board as it promotes better performance of the banks.
Keywords: Financial performance, Return on equity, Board size, Board independence.
A STUDY OF SURFACE RADIO REFRACTIVITY OVER NEW BUSSA, NIGERIA.
JAMES Z.,1 OYEDUM, O. D.,2 MOSES, A. S.2 AND OLUBUSADE, J. E.2
1Federal College of Wildlife Management, New Bussa, Niger, Nigeria. 2Physics Department Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger, Nigeria.
Abstract
The use of wireless communication, has rewarded us with manifold possibilities which is not limited to internet of things, mobile phones, GPS systems, broadcast and remote-control systems. However, the stratification of the atmosphere has impacted the propagating EM waves in multiple ways, thereby making communication systems defective at some points in time. Hence, there is a mandate for radio scientists to study the extent to which a travelling radio wave would be impaired or enhanced in the atmosphere. This study is focused on exploring propagation conditions which may occur due to the refractive nature of the atmosphere over New Bussa and environs. Computations were made in line of ITU-R P.453 recommendations using the mean monthly air temperature, relative humidity and atmospheric pressure data obtained from the meteorological squadron operations support wing of the Nigerian Airforce base, Kanji-New Bussa for a period of four years. The results have proven that surface radio refractivity is highest in the wet seasons and mainly super-refractive over the study area, with minimum and maximum values of 292 N-units and 392 N-units respectively. The study identifies relative humidity as the major factor to watch out for when confronted with link outages which may ensue from the refractive nature of the atmosphere. The study recommends that more weather stations be installed with emphasis on modern equipment, dedicated staff and good welfare scheme.
Keywords: Surface refractivity, radio communication link, k-factor and refractivity gradient.
ASSESSMENT OF LAND USE PATTERN AND CHANGE IN ZARIA CENTRAL AREA KADUNA STATE
KAUTHAR ABUBAKAR MIKAIL, AND HALEEMA JA’AFAR
Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Zaria
ABSTRACT
The study assessed the land use pattern in Zaria central Kaduna state. Land is used to meet multiple and variety of human use. Land use pattern is based on the functional dimension of the land for different human purpose or economic activities. The increase in economic activities has brought about the occurrence of conversion of land use to other which if left uncontrolled or planned for in the future will lead to danger on growth and development of the area. These changes have resulted to the transformation in the structure and pattern of the area with implication on traffic congestion, parking difficulties and encroachment of commercial activities and increase in pressure on the existing utilities, facilities, services and infrastructure. The data for this study is collected through self administered survey questionnaire and data have been analysed and presented. The paper suggests the need to address the problem by establishing the scale and trend of conversion and identify possible implication. The study therefore recommends that an effective policy should put in place to ensure the cooperation and support of the governing bodies placed at the disposal of the planning. The policy should also be adhered to and enforced by all related parties to ensure its workability.
KEYWORDS: Land use Pattern, Economic Activities, Conversion, Encroachment Occurrence
A STUDY OF THE IMPACT OF BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS INFECTION ON THE SOCIAL AND EDUCATIONAL LIFE OF PREGNANT WOMEN IN DELTA NORTH
SENATORIAL DISTRICT
JOHN O. OKARA, AUGUSTINA C. OGBE, MERCY N. OGOCHUKWU-ISIEKWENE & ESTHER U. FADAIRO
Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba, Delta State
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is one of the most prevalent vaginal infections among women in Africa. It is a polymicrobial syndrome resulting in a decreased concentration of Lactobacilli and an increase in pathogenic bacteria, mainly anaerobes in the vagina. This study investigated the impact of BV on the Social and Educational Life of Pregnant Women in Delta North Senatorial District and suggested possible interventions to avoid BV-associated complications in pregnancy. The women were studied at the different stages of their pregnancy. One thousand five hundred (1500) high vaginal samples were collected from pregnant women and examine for BV using Nugent criteria. A structured questionnaire was used to gather information on socio demographic characteristics, medical and treatment history of patients after informed consent by the patients. Statistical analysis was based on cross-tabulation of variables and association between different variables were determined using Chi-square. Two hundred and nineteen (14.6%) were at their first trimester, five hundred and eighty-five (39.0%) were at their second trimester and six hundred and nighty-six (46.4%) were at their third trimester. Eight hundred and eighty-nine pregnant women (59.27%) were BV positive. Of the 889 positive patients, 640 (72%) were symptomatic and 249 (28%) were asymptomatic. Bacterial vaginosis was more prevalent among pregnant women in their second trimester (64.9%) and age group 21 to 30 years (68.8%). Educational qualifications had no significant association with BV among pregnant women (P>0.05). All the patients using antibiotics were BV negative. Consequently, high rate of BV among pregnant women attending Anti-natal clinics Delta North Senatorial District demands adequate attention to prevent BV-associated complications in pregnancy and also reduce referrals that may ensue from such complications. Pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in various hospitals in Delta North Senatorial District should be screened routinely for BV to avoid infection sequelae. Adequate laboratory facilities should be provided and laboratory personnel should be trained in the use of Nugent criteria for effective diagnosis of BV since the method is convenient and reliable. This will aid prompt and adequate diagnosis of BV in pregnancy. Effort should be made to discourage promiscuity among sexually-active age group and self diagnosis/medication among pregnant women.
Keywords: Bacterial vaginosis, Gynaecological problem, Pregnancy, Complications, Anti-natal, Treatment
ENTREPRENEURSHIP EDUCATION AND ENTREPRENEURIAL INNOVATION AMONG POLYTECHNIC STUDENTS IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA
*TOPE IGE; **DANGANA KAYODE ABIODUN PhD; & **OTAYOKHE ESTHER YEMI
*Department of Mass Communication, Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State **Department of Procurement and Supply Chain Management, Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin **Department Of Banking And Finance, Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin
Abstract
This study aims to assess the relationship between entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial innovation among polytechnic students in Kwara State, Nigeria. The study adopted a quantitative survey design and used a structured questionnaire to collect data from a population of 6,671 students participating in entrepreneurship programmes at the Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin and The Polytechnic, Igbo Owu. The study estimated a sample size of 364 using the Raosoft online sample size calculator. Data analysis was carried out using Pearson’s Correlation. The study found a significant positive correlation between access to entrepreneurial resources (AER), entrepreneurial mentorship (AEM), and entrepreneurial innovation (EI) among polytechnic students. The correlation coefficient between EI and AER was 0.586, indicating a moderate positive correlation, while the correlation coefficient between entrepreneurial innovation (EI) and access to entrepreneurship mentorship (AEM) was 0.721, indicating a strong positive correlation. These suggests that the higher the rate of students’ access to entrepreneurship resources and mentorship, the higher the level of their entrepreneurial innovation.It was concluded based on the findings that aaccess to entrepreneurial resources and mentorship are critical components of entrepreneurship education and that these components have a positive and significant correlation with entrepreneurial innovation among polytechnic mass communication students.It was therefore recommendedamong others that polytechnic management should ensure that entrepreneurship education programmes provide students with adequate resources and mentorship opportunities to enhance their entrepreneurial innovation.
Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Education, Entrepreneurship Resources, Entrepreneurship Mentorship, Entrepreneurial Innovation
THE IMPACT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE DIVERSITY ON THE DISCLOSURE QUALITY OF NIGERIAN LISTED COMPANIES
AMINU BABA ALIYU
College of Business, Law, and Social Sciences, the University of Derby, United Kingdom
Abstract
Disclosure quality is of great concern to various users of annual reports that should give an indication of the intrinsic value of the company. The quality of annual reports and reporting affect the decision of diverse users of annual reports. However, managers and CEOs constantly battle with agency conflict of interest, inadequate disclosure, and earning manipulations of the financial statement. This attracts the interest of various researchers and analysts on how to align the requirement of high-quality reporting useful to stakeholders and management’s negative attitude toward managing their companies, which dim decision quality of annual reports. Consequently, this research will investigate the impact of the audit committee on the disclosure quality of listed companies in an emerging market (Nigeria). The population of this study comprises all the listed non-financial companies on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) from 2018 to 2022. According to the record from the NSE data, there are total of 167 non-financial companies listed on its trading for the period under consideration. Similarly, the sample size of this study is 118 non-financial listed companies on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. This sample size is determined using Krejcie and Morgan’s (1970) table of sample size determination. This study will employ Multiple Regression Analysis (MRA) to measure the impact of audit committees’ characteristics on disclosure quality among listed non-financial companies in Nigeria. The regression analysis will infer the causal relationship between the variables under study. Finally, this research will provide recommendations on mitigating opportunistic management behaviours and enhancing audit committee diversity effectiveness on disclosure quality.
Keywords: Disclosure, Quality, Diversity, Corporate Governance, Audit committee
PROMOTING HARMONY AND PEACEFUL RELATIONSHIP IN NIGERIA GOVERNMENT THROUGH THE ARMS OF GOVERNMENT: AN APPRAISAL
IGWE WILFRED; NDAEYOH GIFT EMMANUEL; AND KELECHI GERALDINE AKUDO
Department of Social Science and Humanities, School of General Studies, Federal College of Education (Technical) Asaba
Abstract
Government, is an agency through which the will of the state is formulated, expressed and realized through the instrumentality of life of the arms of government. By arms of government, we mean the structured division the power government into different segments. They include the legislative, the executive and the judiciary. These arms of government are the foundation for any government to operate maximally. The paper review of each of the arms as established in the constitution with a view to avoiding frictions while achieving peace and harmony in Sub-Sahara Africa in particularly, Nigeria.
THE NEED FOR INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY IN THE GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING UNIT OF FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, ZARIA
KWAIRANGA SANUSI MAFINDI
Abstract
The immense role played by Information and Communication Technology to humanity and National Development cannot be overemphasized. The Researcher is motivated to write this paper as a result of a recent workshop conducted on Digital Teaching/Learning using Google Workspace (Google Classroom and Google Meet) in Federal College of Education, Zaria. This paper therefore, emphasizes the need for development and use of ICTs in the Guidance and counselling Unit of the college. It aimed at proffering solutions on how best to deploy and use ICT in Guidance and Counselling service delivery in the Unit. ICTs exemplified by the internet and interactive multimedia are obviously an important focus for the future and need to be effectively integrated into Guidance services – especially in a Teacher Training Institution. At the end, the paper advances some useful recommendations such as adequate funding, adequate power supply, provision of state-of-the-art ICT facilities, effective and efficient access to internet, etc that, if taken into consideration, desired and qualitative Guidance and Counselling services will be achieved, thereby making the Unit better.
FACTORS INHIBITING UTILIZATION OF USER EDUCATION IN THE USE OF LIBRARIES AND INFORMATION RESOURCES IN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN BORNO STATE, NIGERIA.
*AISHATU HALILU UMAR; & **MAL. IBRAHIM ABBA SHANI,
*College Librarian, Umar Ibn Ibrahim College of Education, Science &Technology, Bama, Borno State. **School of Social Science (Department of Social Studies), Umar Ibn Ibrahim College of Education, Science & Technology, Bama, Borno State.
ABSTRACT
This is a descriptive research conducted to find out the factors inhibiting users’ utilization of user education in the use of libraries and information resources in tertiary institutions in Borno State, Nigeria. The samples for the study were drawn from five tertiary institutions in the state. From the results obtained 20.9% of the respondents indicated lack of regular power supply has been one of the factors, 23.3% indicated poor language understanding, 14.3% indicated lack of guide, 14.7% indicated it is due to poor understanding of the classification scheme used and 26.9% indicated that resources are kept in close access. The results further revealed that 39.8% of the respondents indicated that one of the problems encountered was resources are not adequate, 23.6% said library opening hours is not convenient, 14.1% indicated resources are missing and 15.7% of the respondents indicated resources are not displayed. From this result it can be concluded that the major problem encountered are poor language understanding, poor display of new resources and inadequate resources.
Keywords: Inhibiting, Users, Utilization, User education, Libraries, Tertiary institutions.
EFFECT OF WEATHER ELEMENTS ON HUMAN HEALTH IN MARARABA, KARU LGA, NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA
ILIYASU M. ANZAKU1, M.K DAHIRU2 & Y.A UBANGARI3
1Department of Science, School of Continuing Education, Bayero University, Kano, Kano State, Nigeria. 2Department of Geography, Faculty of Social Science Federal University of Lafia. 3Department of Urban and Regional Planning Isa Mustapha Agwai, Polytechnic, Lafia, Nasarawa State
Abstract
This Research work assessed Effect of Weather Elements on Human Health in Mararaba, Karu LGA, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Data for the research work were sourced from both primary and secondary source. The data was analysed using GENSTAT and Excel. Based on the findings, weather induced diseases were identified to be malaria, Chicken pox, and Influenza. The trend of their occurrence was observed, each disease having similar pattern of occurrence with little or no variation, which is not significant. Pearson moment correlation statistics was used to examine the relationship between the diseases and the weather elements, it showed that rainfall and temperature have indirect effects on malaria while Influenza had significant relationship with rainfall, temperature and relative humidity this could be related to the nature of the disease. Furthermore, T-TEST statistics was used to determine whether any relationship existed among diseases in the various hospitals of study area. It was observed that there was significant relationship among all the hospitals in Mararaba on the occurrence of all the diseases. Health planners should put into consideration the effect of weather on health as they plan for the future. Provisions should be made to prevent the severity of the impact of any disease ahead of time so that its effect can be minimal and manageable. Awareness should also be made for the general populace as the planner’s monitors and gets any helpful information.
Keywords: Weather, Human, Elements, Health, diseases, Variation
ASSESSING THE USE OF ICT FACILITIES IN TEACHING AND LEARNING BUSINESS EDUCATION BY LECTURERS AND STUDENTS OF ADAMAWA STATE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, HONG, ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA.
LINUS MATHIAS*, GILIKI JERISON** AND HABU JINGI UMAR***.
**Department of Computer Science, College of Education, Hong, Adamawa State, Nigeria. ***Department of Computer Science, College of Education, Hong, Adamawa State, Nigeria.
Abstract
The study assessed lecturers and students level of knowledge on the use of ICT facilities and the extent to which they are utilizing these facilities. A descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. The internal consistency of the instrument was determined using Cronbach Alfa and reliability coefficient of 0.89 was obtained. Data was analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The population of the study was two hundred and fifteen (215)respondents. While sample size of one hundred and forty six (146) respondents, which consist of 14 lecturers, 132 students both NCE II and NCE III were selected using simple random sampling technique. The results show that lecturers have the knowledge of using ICT facilities in teaching BED. However, they rarely use them in teaching(Since they use them few times in a month). It was also found that lecturers’ years of teaching experiences and academic qualifications were significant factors influencing the extent of utilization of ICT facilities in teaching. Furthermore, it was found that students’ level of knowledge acquired on the use of ICT facilities in learning Office Technology and Management was low. It was recommended among others that there should be regular sensitization programmes on the importance of using ICT facilities in teaching as it promotes students’ learning and enhance their academic achievement.
Keywords: Lecturers, Students, extent of knowledge and use, ICT, Teaching, Learning, and BED.
ACCEPTABILITY OF BREAKFAST CEREALS PRODUCED FROM CASSAVA-AFRICAN YAM BEAN FLOUR BLEND
ICHIMA M.E, IDOWU O.B, NDALIMAN M.B AND ADENIRAN A.
Department of Hospitality Management, the Federal Polytechnic Bida. Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, the Federal Polytechnic Bida. Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Kaduna Polytechnic, Kaduna State
Abstract
This study is to assess the acceptability of cassava-african yam bean flour blend to produce breakfast cereals, different samples of breakfast cereals is to produce from blend of Maize-African yam bean. Four smaples will be selected randomly, and determine their proximate compositions and sensory attributes.
Keywords: Acceptability, Breakfast, Cereals, Produced, Cassava-African Yam.
FABRICATION AND TESTING OF A SOLAR DRYER
1SUNDAY AYIGUN, 2USMAN ABDUL-LATEEF AND 3TANTASSO SABO
1 & 3 Department of Physical Science Technology, Federal Polytechnic Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria. 2Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Federal Polytechnic Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria
Abstract
A solar dryer was fabricated and tested using locally available materials such as; ¾ Plywood, aluminum foil, Nails, Glacier (Collector) and a thermometer. Thermometer which was installed inside the solar dryer with the objective: to fabricate a low cost solar dryer for home and laboratory used, and fabricate a solar dryer for drying and preservation of perishable food items. This research was carried out in Mubi, Adamawa State North Eastern Nigeria. Mubi lie within latitude 10o 015ꞌN and 10o 025ꞌN and longitude 13o 015ꞌE and 13o 025ꞌE. The solar dryer was tested in Mubi Adamawa State for seven days. The highest temperature obtained was 880C and the lowest temperature was 430C, then the ambient temperature was 270C. The solar dryer was used to dry sliced tomatoes within the period of seven days. The solar dryer fabricated was functional and effective. For further research, effort should be geared towards the production of solar dryer with different solar energy collector arrangement to compare their performance.