THEME: THE SUB-SAHARA AFRICAN AWAKENING FOR 21ST CENTURY CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES: MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH
DATE: 31st October, 2022
VENUE: ABUBAKAR TAFAWA BALEWAA UNIVERSITY, ATBU, BAUCHI.
ORGANIZERS: HARVARD RESEARCH AND PUBLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL
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CONFERENCE ABSTRACTS:
ESTIMATION OF WIND LOAD AND WIND POWER DENSITY FOR SOME SELECTED CITIES IN NIGERIA BASED ON TWO PARAMETRIC MODELS
P.J Manga
Department of physics,
University of Maiduguri,
Borno State, Nigeria
D.S Buteh,
Department of Chemistry,
Adamu Tafawa Balewa College of Education Kangere, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
R.O Amusat,
Department of physics,
University of Maiduguri,
Borno State, Nigeria
Muhammad Abubakar,
Department of Science Laboratory Technology,
Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic, Bauchi
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
Wind is freely available in all seasons and locations without seasonal variations, unlike the hydropower plant that can provide steady electricity during raining season, if not, load shedding. In this study, we used two models based on the Weibull probability distribution function (PDF) and log-normal probability distribution functions (PDF) to predict the wind characteristics of two selected stations (Abuja, Plateau, Bauchi, Maiduguri, Katsina, Sokoto, Enugu, Owerri, Cross River, Benin City, Abeokuta, and Lagos) across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria. We also estimate wind load, wind power density, shape parameters, and scale parameters for each geopolitical zones in Nigeria. Twenty years (2000 – 2020) of average wind speed data were used and obtained at NIMET Headquarters Abuja. The wind speed data were fitted with the Weibull probability distribution function (pdf) and log-normal probability distribution function (pdf) governed by statistical analysis to predict which model is found to be the best fit for a particular location. The result of root means square error (RMSE) and coefficient of the goodness of fit (R2) show that both models are positively and strongly correlated with a value ranging from 0.6813 – 0.9827 and 0.6542 – 0.9919. The computed wind load for North – East, North – West, North – Central, South – South, South – West, and South – East were given as 1.149(kN/m2), 2.196(kN/m2), 1.098(kN/m2), 0.026(kN/m2), 0.879(kN/m2) and 0.529(kN/m2) respectively. Similarly the computed wind power density for North – East, North – West, North – Central, South – South, South – West, and South – East as 17.201 (W/m2), 17.453 (W/m2), 8.744 (W/m2), 3.396 (W/m2), 7.643 (W/m2) and 5.759 (W/m2) respectively. The results of this study can be used for surface wind electrification.
Keywords: wind speed; wind load; wind power density; log-normal probability distribution function and Weibull probability distribution function.
ASSESSMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT ON SAFETY PERFORMANCE OF SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES IN ABUJA
*Abdullahi, H.1,
Department of Quantity Surveying,
School of Environmental Technology,
Federal University of Technology, Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria
Mohammed, Y2
Department of Quantity Surveying,
School of Environmental Technology,
Federal University of Technology, Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria
ABSTRACT
All over the world, construction is regarded as one of the most hazardous industries due to its unique nature. As a result, construction workers face different kinds of safety and health hazards while working every day. As a result, this study aims to assess the impact of health and safety management on the safety performance of small and medium-sized construction companies in Abuja. The study adopted a quantitative research approach, which included the use of a questionnaire. The population of the study includes professionals working with registered small and medium construction companies in Abuja. Based on the chain referral method, 25 small and medium-sized construction companies in Abuja were identified, and 130 respondents were sampled from the identified companies. A snowball sampling technique was used to select the small and medium construction companies. Purposive sampling was used in selecting the respondents from the identified firms. The questionnaire was then served to the professionals in the population purposively, and a total of 104 questionnaires representing an 80% response rate were retrieved. The data collected was analysed using a mean item score and a t-test. ) health and safety practises were identified during the research. The two most successful health and safety practises utilised by small and medium-sized construction enterprises in Abuja, ranked first and second, are safety rules and procedures and safety communication. From “management commitment” and “safety communication and feedback,” which are rated highest, to “safety training,” which is ranked lowest, these correlations between safety management practises and safety performance vary. A threshold of 3.50 was established to get the most significant association based on the mean score. Six (6) safety management practises had scores of over 3.50 and were thus deemed important. The second-ranked factor, unemployment, came before this. It was discovered that the study’s criteria had a significant impact on how well small and medium-sized construction firms performed in terms of safety. This study concludes that there is a substantial correlation between the safety performance of small and medium-sized construction enterprises in Abuja and recommends that the companies should make sure that their staff receive continuous education on proper equipment selection and usage.
Keywords: Health and Safety, Management, Safety Performance, Small and Medium-Sized Construction Companies
BIOCHEMICAL ASSESSMENT OF LIVER AND KIDNEY PARAMETERS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PETROLEUM EXPOSED AND PETROLEUM UN-EXPOSED ADULTS IN BAUCHI METROPOLIS
Abdulrashid Mohammed,
Department of Medical Biochemistry,
Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences,
College of Medical Sciences,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Daniel Hassan Mhya,
Department of Medical Biochemistry,
Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences,
College of Medical Sciences,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Amina Mohammed,
Department of Community Medicine,
Faculty of Clinical Sciences,
College of Medical Sciences,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Salamatu Yau Ibrahim,
Department of Medical Biochemistry,
Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences,
College of Medical Sciences,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Muktari Bala,
Department of Biochemistry,
Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences,
Bayero University, Kano,
ABSTRACT
Hydrocarbons which are the main chemical components of petroleum are constantly inhaled by petroleum hawkers which may result in derangement of kidney and liver functions. This study aimed to compare the liver and kidney parameters in petroleum exposed compared to un-exposed individuals. This was a comparative cross-sectional study carried out among all consenting adults in Bauchi metropolis. Blood samples were collected from the subjects and analyzed using spectrophotometric technique while other data was collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS software. Analysis employed descriptive and inferential statistics. Level of significance was set at 5%. The result showed a statistically significant increase (p<0.001) in liver parameters like alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin and direct bilirubin. Also, total protein showed a statistically significant increase (p=0.002) in exposed group as compared to unexposed group, while albumin showed no statistical significant difference (p=0.572). There was a statistically significant increase in kidney parameters such as urea, sodium and chloride with a P-value <0.001 in all parameters and (p<0.010) for creatinine. In addition, there was no statistically significant difference in while bicarbonate and potassium levels in both comparison groups with p-values (0.207) and (0.807) respectively. The results of this study showed that petroleum hawkers are at risk of diseases of liver and kidney due to constant exposure and inhalation of these hydrocarbons.
Keywords: Hydrocarbons, Kidney parameters, Liver parameters, Petroleum hawkers
EFFECTIVENESS OF MEDICAL WASTE MANAEMENT IN SELECTED HEALTH-CARE FACILITIES IN MINNA AND BIDA, NIGER STATE NIGERIA
SHABA, Imam Abubakar
Department of Geography
Federal University of Technology, Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria.
Prof. Ahmed Sadauki Abubakar
Department of Geography
Federal University of Technology, Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria.
Abstract
This study aimed at assessing the effectiveness of medical waste management (MWM) in the selected Healthcare facilities (HCFs). The study involved the survey of a descriptive cross-sectional study that assessed seven (7) HCFs in Minna and Bida in Niger State, Nigeria. Five (5) public (A, B, C, E and G) and two (2) private (D and F) HCFs. Data were collected using three instruments: questionnaire, in-depth interviews and field survey. The study revealed that highest percentage (26.5%) of professional cadres were nurses/midwife. Hence, the majority (76.4%) of the study participants involving medical personnel and handlersreported dealing with hazardous medical wastes. This evidenced that medical staff and handlers are mostly considered prone to the potential harmful occupational hazard with high level of risk and burden of transmission of infectious waste that was yield to represent the highest proportion (16.1%) of hazardous medical waste. The present study also established that all the HCFs have the same process of managing their medical waste and deficiencies were found in the adaptation of holistic approaches and current MWM techniques. Most (65.8%) of the existing practices of all operating system prevailed Poor compliance to a set standard. Moreover, the study revealed that the existing practice of general MWM strategies in accordance with the T&C (2005) guidelines at studied sites are mostly classified as operational performance level 0 and 2 which implies that the present management practice for medical waste is ineffective and should not be relied upon to protect human health and environmental integrity.
Keywords: Medical Waste, Medical Waste Management, and Healthcare Facilities
SOLUTIONS TO ENERGY CHALLENGES IN AGRO ALLIED INDUSTRIES
Abubakar Aliyu Aliyu
National Metallurgical Development Center, (NMDC)
Zaria Road Jos Nigeria.
(Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development)
ABSTRACT
This report examines the challenges of energy use and efficiency in Agro-allied industries and proffer a possible solutions in sustainable energy options across the sector. focusing on and in unlocking greater energy efficiency within the sector. Energy demand across the sector is projected to grow steadily, both in agriculture and agro-allied industries. Increasing dependence on energy usage (mainly fossil fuels) throughout the entire Agricultural value chain raises concerns about the impact of high or variable energy prices on production costs, competitiveness, the final price of the product for the consumer ,greenhouse gas emissions, as well as concerns about energy security.
FIRE SAFETY: AN INDISPENSIBLE DESIGN CONSIDERATION IN SKYSCRAPPERS BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
Agbodike Chineson Chigozie (ANIA)
Department of Architecture
Federal Polytechnic, PMB 1012
Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State.
ABSTRACT:
Buildings need to be designed to offer an acceptable level of fire safety and minimise the risks from heat and smoke. the primary objective is to reduce to within acceptable limits the potential for death or injury to the occupants of a building and others who may become involved such as the fire and rescue service, as well as to protect contents and ensure that as much as possible of a building, that it can continue to function after a fire and that it can be repaired. However, the design and layout of a building, in conjunction with the materials used and style of construction, play a key role in preventing the spread of flames and smoke and in allowing the safe evacuation of people from the premises in the event of a fire. over the years, the high rise buildings, being a unique type of building have garnered significant attention with respect to fire safety, throughout the world. The multiple floors present in the high rise buildings makes great number of persons to travel long vertical distances by the stair, elevators, during an evacuation. In the course of this, the Federal, State, bodies responsible for ensuring that codes are abided with, in the erection of skyscrapers, the owners of such buildings, and even residents within and around adjoining buildings to the skyscrapers are all affected by high rise building’s safety. It is to this effect that the author had chosen to highlight the indispensable nature of fire safety as a design consideration in the construction of skyscrapers. The brief introduction talks about the design and construction of the skyscraper, highlight of top design and build considerations in skyscrapers construction of which fire safety is inclusive, definition of keywords as fire, safety, causes of fire outbreak in buildings, general approach to fire safety, fire safety strategies, etc. From the aforementioned above, it has become imperative to ensure adequate fire safety in our skyscrapers building design construction hence this report.
Keywords:Fire,Safety,Indispensable, Design, Skyscrapers, Building Construction.
EVALUATION OF DAY LIGHTING LEVEL IN THE DESIGN OF LIBRARY AT IBRAHIM BADAMASI BABANGIDA UNIVERSITY LAPIA, NIGER STATE, NIGERIA
R O Aliyu,
Department of Architecture,
School of Environmental Technology,
Federal University of Technology Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria
C Y Makun,
Department of Architecture,
School of Environmental Technology,
Federal University of Technology Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria
Abstract
The various effects of daylighting in coordination with the visual comfort of users and their general health in building environments generally cannot be overemphasized, In recent times there are growing concerns about building academic libraries with sustainability in view to enable and help aid visual comfort and the overall health of its occupants in the various academic libraries in higher tertiary institutions. Thus academic libraries serves as an important part in the overall essence of higher institution learning because its connects students and researchers to higher knowledge and information, which made libraries one of the most used buildings in the covid and post covid -19 era. The post covid-19 era led men to in-depth research which may help in reducing the risk of transmission or even help prevent the spread of the virus, but also improve air quality and lower energy requirements through the use of sustainable building materials. The various use of daylighting as a controlled architectural tool on users preference, perceptions, satisfaction and behavior in university libraries was examined in this study, Passive strategies were employed through consideration of the sun orientation, Climate citing, window placement and also focusing on healthy building environment with sustainable design in terms of indoor and daylighting strategies The methodology employed in this paper includes both qualitative and descriptive research methods. Then, the various outcomes were obtained based on these standards and methods used. This research filled the gap in the literature on healthy built environments with sustainable design strategy regarding building performance. This paper intends to combine sustainable strategies especially daylighting based on thermal quality and indoor environment quality to achieve a healthy built environment for its users.
Keywords: Sustainability, Built environment, Day lighting, indoor quality.
ENHANCING THE POTENTIALS FOR YOUTH AGRIPRENEURSHIP AND INCLUSIVE AGRI – FOOD SYSTEMS IN SUB SAHARAN AFRICA: A CASE OF N2AFRICA BORNO PROJECT
- Quadri
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
N.Kamai
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
- Silwal
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
F.Kanampiu
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
Abstract
Currently around the globe, particularly in sub Saharan Africa, there is an increasing call for youth engagement in agriculture/agribusiness. The argument of proponents is hinged on the inherent demographic advantage but increasing joblessness, food insecurity and youth restiveness. This paper interrogates this position through the prism of the youth focused activities of N2Africa project in Borno State, Nigeria between 2014 and 2019. We propose an operational framework and model for youth engagement in agripreneurship with a remarkable influence on agri-food systems, and spill-over effect on rural economy, community resilience and cohesion. We discovered an emerging window for international research institutes to directly link research to development. Thus, through massive mind-set re-orientation and capacity building in science-driven agricultural production technologies, entrepreneurship development, internships, starter package, facilitation of access to credit, and mentorship in a unique model; the response of, and the impact on the targets have been impressive. The prevalence of insurgency and high level security concerns in the project area notwithstanding, there is a significant progress in breaking the myth around the drudgery and perpetual poverty associated with agriculture among the younger generation. About three hundred directly trained and empowered youth were employed in agricultural value chain enterprises, with an average cost-benefit ratio (CBR) of 1:1.3, and are most importantly creating job opportunities for other young men and women in Borno State.
Keywords: Agricultural value chain, Unemployment, Youth Agripreneurship.
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF MECHANIZED SIEVE MACHINE FOR DRY GARRI PROCESSING IN NIGERIA
Atumah, E.V
Department of Mechanical Engineering,
Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara,
Delta State, Nigeria.
AKeni, O.C
Department of Mechanical Engineering,
Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara,
Delta State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
This paper focused on the Design and Fabrication of Mechanized Sieve for dry Garri Processing with aims of checking and applying appropriate technology used for Garri processing activities in Nigeria. The design of this system was achieved by synthesizing the manual (traditional) process of sieving, using a combination of mechanisms to replace the manual actions. The machine may be applied to sieving other granular items by using appropriate meshes which this design facilitates. Furthermore, this research paper work was based on an improvement in designing and fabrication of a functional mechanized sieve machine with locally available material that is low cost, higher through put, better efficient, easy to operate, easy to maintain and affordable to both small and medium scale garri sieving processing. Work was also done to ascertain the physical characterization of harvesting/sorting of cassava tubers, peeling of the tubers, grafting, fermentation, pressing, sieving/shifting, dehydrating/shifting, sieving-after dehydration, packing and finally storing of the sieve processing Garri in a cool place. The fabrication of the sieve machine considered proper bearing selection based on bearing calculation in solid-works was done and this in turn was seen to have improved the bearing that holds the sieving mechanism along with cost savings in maintenance by following simple lubrication and corrosion control procedures. The results obtained during the sieving machine indicated that the Garri sieving machine efficiency and the clean sieve Garri recovery were 97.81% and 95.04% respectively, the feed rate of the sieve machine ranges between 341.4Kg/h and 350.02Kg/h, the output capacity ranges between 219.57Kgh and 269.89Kg/h while the operating capacity is 70.54g/s, therefore the sieving machine is recommended for small and medium scale processing industries.
Keywords: Design and Fabrication, Cassava tuber, sieve, Performance evaluation, output capacity.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS OF MAJOR VALUE CHAIN ACTORS AND ANALYSIS OF POST-HARVEST LOSS ON SELECTED VEGETABLES PRODUCTION IN ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Robert, K.
Government Day Secondary School Demsawo,
Jimeta-Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria.
Sani, R. M.
Department of Agricultural Economics,
Faculty of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
This studied the socio-economic characteristics of major value chain actors and analysis of post-harvest loss on vegetable production in Adamawa State, Nigeria. A Multi-Stage sampling procedure was used to select 210 farmers. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics. About 96.7% of the farmers were male and 90.5% were married. Similarly, 53.3% of the farmers had quranic education, 66.7% were engaged into farming and 81.4% had personal savings as the main sources of their capital. Furthermore, the mean ages of the farmers were 40.2 years, the mean household sizes of the farmers were 7 person and the mean years of experience of farming were 12 years. The result also shows that, the mean quantity and amount of loss per week of tomato farmers operations (harvesting, transportation, sorting, grading, packaging and storage) were between 130.33kg-405.22kg and between ₦2899.42-₦8983.72, for pepper farmers, were between 92.91kg-670.19 kg and between ₦3,096.69-₦22,337.40 and for okra farmers, were between 27.93kg-142.85kg and between ₦282.37-₦1,444.2 respectively. Furthermore, the result shows that, delay between buying and selling of the vegetable crops with the mean value of 4.9 was the major causes of vegetable crops loss perceived by the farmers. The studied concluded that, post-harvest loss during storage operations for the pepper farmers has the highest mean loss per week of 670.19 kg and mean amount loss of ₦22,337.4 and therefore recommended that, storage facilities be provided by the government/stakeholders and careful handling during/after harvesting of the vegetable crops be adhered by the farmers..
Keywords: Post-harvest lost, Value Chain Actors, Vegetable Crops
AN AWAKENING CALL TO OPPORTUNITIES OF OUTSOURCING CLEANING SERVICES AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO IN-HOUSE CLEANING IN AN ORGANIZATION.
Igoche Frederick Omachoko,
Department of Estate Management and Valuation,
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Jerry Joseph Mamman,
Department of Urban and Regional Planning,
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Mabadeje Joshua A.
Architectural Department,
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Abstracts
The study examines the benefit and impact of outsourcing cleaning service in solving cleaning problems in Bank of Agriculture Plaza, Bauchi, Bauchi State Nigeria. Primary data using questionnaires were collected from 36 members of staff of the Bank selected using purposive sampling. Data generated were analyzed using descriptive statistic. The result shows that there is significant difference in cleaning service quality before and after outsourcing. This by implication means that the quality of cleaning service improved after it was outsourced. With the satisfaction achieved through outsourcing cleaning services, the study recommends that the Bank should sustain the outsourced cleaning services for more improved administrative efficiency and resource appropriation.
Keywords: Outsourcing, Cleaning Service, In-House, Bank of Agriculture, Bauchi.
INDEPENDENT NATIONAL ELECTORAL COMMISSION AS A REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR CONDUCTING ELECTIONS IN NIGERIA: AN OVERVIEW
Sulaiman Shehu Esq.
Public Administration Department,
School of Business Studies,
The Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (hereinafter referred to as INEC)[1] is established by the Constitution[2] and the Electoral Act[3] as an independent body that uses its staff, the Police, (and other security agencies) and Courts in enforcing and meeting its statutory standards. It perfectly fits into both the public interest theory of regulation and the public enforcement theory.[4] INEC has three major functions:[5] this essay, however, is narrowed to only one of its functions which is conducting free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria.[6] The essay explores briefly the history of elections in Nigeria; The relevance of the public interest theory of regulation to the chosen regulatory framework; the origin of its power; the necessity of regulating elections; the principle of command and control (as it applies to INEC); its standards and public enforcement theory; the Cost-Benefit Analysis; the Regulatory Impact Assessment; and finally, some flaws are observed and solutions proffered.
Keywords: Nigeria, INEC, Regulation, Elections, Enforcement, Constitution, Court, Public, Theory
FUNDING ACTIVITIES OF MICROFINANCE BANKS: TOOLS FOR FINANCIAL INCLUSION AND SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES’ PERFORMANCE IN POST- COVID-19 ERA
Ayo-Oyebiyi, G. T1,
Department of Banking and Finance,
Osun State Polytechnic, Iree,
Osun State, Nigeria.
Oyedele, Oloruntoba2,
Department of Accounting and Finance,
Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo,
Oyo State, Nigeria.
Egunjobi, G.O3,
Department of Business Administration and Management Studies,
The Polytechnic, Ibadan,
Oyo State, Nigeria
Babalola, O.A,
Department of Banking and Finance,
Osun State Polytechnic, Iree,
Osun State, Nigeria.
Abstract
This study examined the impact of microfinance bank activities on small and medium enterprises performance and financial inclusion after COVID1- 19 surge in Oyo State, Nigeria. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 5 microfinance banks from each senatorial district, totaling 15 microfinance banks as a sample size for the study. Registered Small and Medium Enterprises in Oyo State were senatorially stratified after which fifty (50) small and medium enterprises were randomly selected across the three senatorial districts of Oyo State. The questionnaire was employed to collect data and scales measuring emergency loans, fixed assets loans, working capital loans, local purchase order financing, SMEs performance, and financial inclusion. The study confirmed that MFBs offered financial support (emergency loans, fixed asset loans, working capital loans and local purchase order financing) to boost financial inclusion and SMEs performance in Nigeria after COVID-19. Evidence shows that SMEs performance is significantly influenced by emergency loans, while financial inclusion is not significantly influenced by emergency loans. The study established that fixed asset loans have significant effect on financial inclusion but have insignificant effect on SMEs performance. Also revealed that working capital loans have direct link with SMEs performance, and financial inclusion but have no significant effect on SMEs performance, and financial inclusion. It was also revealed that local purchase order financing has no significant effect on SMEs performance, and financial inclusion. Consequently, the study recommended that the financial and regulatory supports should be given to microfinance banks by the Central Bank of Nigeria to enable the sector to support small business and less privilege in the economy.
Keywords: Emergency loans, Fixed assets loans, Working capital loans, LPO financing, financial inclusion.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF SYRUPS PRODUCED FROM DATE FRUIT AND INVERT SUGAR
Jibril, Maryam.
Department of Food Science and Technology,
Federal Polytechnic, P.M.B. 0231, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Abstract
This study the comparative analysis of syrups produced from Date Fruit and invert sugar. The raw materials obtained from market, reduced to exact nectar by wet milled and sieved in a muslin cloth. Results showed that Date syrup contain more mineral content than Inverted sugar syrup at a value of 85.62, 130.00 and 75.43 as compared to 20.45, 25.88 and 13.40 of Calcium, Potassium, and Magnesium respectively. Considering the high mineral content of Date palm syrup to Inverted sugar syrup, the consumption and utilization of Date syrup will provide more benefit to the human body thereby reducing risk of diseases and sickness such as diabetes that are associated with the consumption of Sugar.
EFFICACY OF DIATOMACEOUS EARTH (PROTECT-IT) ON MANAGEMENT OF COWPEA BEETLE (CALLOSOBRUCHUS MACULATUS (COLEOPTERA: CHRYSOMELIDAE)) INFESTING STORED BAMBARA GROUNDNUT (VIGNA SUBTERRANEA)
Bukar, A.,
Department of Agricultural Technology,
Mohamet Lawan College of Agriculture,
- M. B. 1427, Maiduguri,
Borno State, Nigeria.
Dawud, A. M.,
Department of Agricultural Technology,
Mohamet Lawan College of Agriculture,
- M. B. 1427, Maiduguri,
Borno State, Nigeria.
Kura, Z. A.
Department of Agricultural Technology,
Mohamet Lawan College of Agriculture,
- M. B. 1427, Maiduguri,
Borno State, Nigeria.
Garra, F. A.
Department of Animal Health and Production,
Mohamet Lawan College of Agriculture,
- M. B. 1427, Maiduguri,
Borno State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Laboratory studies was conducted at Entomology Laboratory of University of Maiduguri under ambient laboratory conditions to assess the efficacy of diatomaceous earth (DE) against C. maculatus infesting bambara groundnut. The bioassays were conducted on treated seeds of Bambara groundnut variety Farin ngangala. C. maculatus adults was bioassayed on 50g seed samples using CRD replicated three (3) times at the following dose rates; DE (250, 500, 750, 1000, 1500 mg/kg of seeds) The effects of treatments on seed germination was conducted on freshly treated seeds and at 90 days after treatment (DAT). The results showed that DE applied at 1000mg/kg and 1500mg/kg completely suppressed ovipostion, adult emergence, damage and weight loss. DE only affected germination at the highest dose rate of 1500mg. It was concluded that DE could be used to manage C. maculatus populations in stored bambara groundnut.
Keyword: Diatomaceous earth; Cowpea; Oviposition; Mortality; Germination.
THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF SACHET WATER PRODUCTION IN BAUCHI METROPOLIS
Dr Victor Istefanus
Department of Environmental Management Technology,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Sani Jaafar Aliyu
Department of Urban and Regional Planning,
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria
Habila Simon
Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Malam Nura Ahmed,
Ministry of Science and Technology,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Mustapha Sale Ahmed,
Servicom Department,
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi.
Bauchi State, Nigeria,
Abstract
Sachet water waste disposal is a vast problem that needs to be tackled because of the implications it has on biophysical environment such as soil, vegetation air and water (Toyobo, Oyeleke and Amao, 2013) is. Notwithstanding the benefits accruing from sachet water production and consumption, the indiscriminate disposal of the waste in various undesired sites such as along the streets, gutters, motor parks, schools, markets, homes, and venues of social functions etc. poses a lot of threat on the environment especially on the soils on which farming is done. The sachets are made of non-biodegradable synthetic polyethylene (polythene) which does not decompose in the soil even after many years. The polythene even when subjected to burning produces major known and harmful greenhouse gases (GHGs) like carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide (Akunyili, 2003). Almost every nook and cranny in Nigeria is littered with sachet water nylon, known to be pure water, the large volume of which in ordinary parlance, constitutes pollution and termed negative externality or economic bad in economics (Babatunde and Biala, 2010). This is as a result of millions of used sachets being thrown on daily basis onto the streets of virtually every city, town, and village in Nigeria. About 70 percent of Nigerian adults drink at least a sachet of pure water per day resulting in about 50 to 60 million used water-sachets disposed daily across the country (Edoga, et al. 2008)).
EXAMINATION OF RENTAL DEFAULT BY COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OCCUPIERS IN MINNA, NIGER STATE, NIGERIA.
Zainab Adetoro Folorunso
Department of Estate Management,
Federal University of Technology Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria.
Rukaiyat Adeola Ogunbajo.
Department of Estate Management,
Federal University of Technology Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria.
Umar Abdullahi Lame.
Department of Estate Management,
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
The effect of rental defaults by commercial property occupiers cannot be over-emphasised, as the rate of default is increasing at an alarming rate. Rental default arises when occupiers of commercial properties fail to carry out their obligation of fulfilling the financial requirements as when due. This phenomenon has led to several issues on the part of the property managers and property owners, including delays in mortgage payments, poor maintenance, and a host of other problems. This study investigates the prevalence of rent defaults among owners of commercial property in Minna, Niger state, to stop this unsightly occurrence of rental default and related attendance concerns in commercial buildings. This is done to give property owners in the study region more authority over their decisions. The study used a survey methodology in which 311 residents of 38 purpose-built retail complexes (PBSC) received questionnaires via simple random distribution. The received data was examined using percentage and frequency distribution. The results depicts that 52% of the respondent pay their rents as at when do and 48% defaults in the in payment, this shows that the rent default amongst tenants of PBSC in study area is fair.
Keywords: Rent Default, Commercial Property, Property Owners/Managers, Tenants
SILICA AEROGEL NANOPARTICLES AS HEAT SHIELD AND FLAME RETARDANTS
Omatola, K.M,
Department of Physics,
Kogi State University, Anyigba,
Kogi State, Nigeria
Onojah A .D,
Department of Physics,
Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi,
Benue State, Nigeria
Amah A.N,
Department of Physics,
Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi,
Benue State, Nigeria
Ahiemen I,
Department of Physics,
Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi,
Benue State, Nigeria
ABSTRACT
Silica aerogel nanoparticles have been synthesized from rice husk and beach sand via sol – gel technique as a green route. Flames from fire or heat waves have destroyed both lives and properties worldwide. Heat shield and flame-retardants (FRs) are synthetic materials used to prevent or slow the spread of heat and flame from fire. Hence, this group of materials is required in homes, school, transport systems, offices and industrial sites as safety substances. Flame-retardants can be use directly or as additives unto combustible items to slow ignition and prevent fire. Common categories of flame-retardants include chlorinated flame-retardants (CFRs), brominated flame-retardants (BFRs), phosphorus flame-retardants (PFRs), nitrogen flame-retardants (NFRs), Inorganic, and mineral compounds flame-retardants. In this work, we successfully characterized the silica nanoparticles grown in terms of the thermal energy transport through them with the use of a hotdisk thermal constants analyzer. The particle size and shapes’ distribution were verified using a transmission electron microscope. The aerogels’ ignition capabilities were tested by directly spraying them unto a flame as well embedding them in a combustive material before setting the material on flame. The results confirmed the low thermal transport via the aerogels and their non-combustive nature making their usage as heat shields and flame-retardants.
KEYWORDS: Silica aerogel, nanoparticle material, heat shield, flame retardant, thermal conductivity.
E-RETAILING AND ITS IMPACT ON ACHIEVEMENT OF CUSTOMER SATISFACTION OF CONSUMER PRODUCTS
Koce, Henry Diko
Department of Marketing,
Federal Polytechnic, Bida,
Niger State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Electronic retailing has facilitated the emergence of new marketing strategy and business philosophy in recent years. The study adopted descriptive survey method and it is aimed to examine the impact of E-retailing on customer satisfaction. The study population is 305 consumers who were selected simple random sampling method. Taro Yamane formula was used to arrive at the sample size of 173 respondents. Structured questionnaires were administered to the sample whereas only 150 were filled and returned. Chu-square (X2) was used for hypotheses with Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Findings showed that buying commodities on online gives contentment due to its convenience and time saving but many also asserted that concerns is always about security of their accounts. It is therefore concluded that E-retailing is a veritable platform firms can use to reach prospects without incurring more cost but its adoption is not widespread due to apprehension of insecurity. The study therefore recommends that issue of cybersecurity should be taken seriously and hands must be on deck by security operatives to for safety of the internet if e-retailing business is to thrive in Nigeria.
Keywords: E-retailing, Impact, Achievement, Customer Satisfaction, Consumer; Products.
ANALYZING THE USE AND LISTERSHIP PATTERN OF TRAFFIC UPDATES FROM OGBC AND ROCKCITY FM AMONG VEHICLE OWNERS IN ABEOKUTA METROPOLIS
Abati Mobolaji Oluwaseun, Ph.D.
Department of Mass Communication
Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro,
Ogun State, Nigeria
Kareem Ganiy Ajibola
University of Lagos, Akoka,
Lagos State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
Many people think that listening to traffic reports on the radio is the most effective way to get people to drive safely and to protect the environment from needless traffic bottlenecks, which frequently cause noise pollution. Thus, this study examined how drivers in the Abeokuta metropolitan used and listened to traffic alerts on OGBC and Rockcity FM. The study’s goal was to determine the extent to which Abeokuta drivers were aware of the traffic updates programmes on OGBC and Rockcity FM. As part of theoretical research, uses and gratifications and social responsibilities were examined. The study used a survey method and created a questionnaire to collect data from chosen respondents within Abeokuta (North and South). The 23,543 licenced commercial and private drivers (Private and Commercial) in the state capital made up the study’s population, of which 210 were chosen using stratified sampling and purposive sampling procedures. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, a frequency table, and a straightforward percentage. According to the study, the majority of people was very familiar with and frequently listened to the traffic report programme on OGBC and Rockcity FM. Findings showed that Rockcity FM and OGBC drivers listened to traffic updates while travelling. The findings also indicated that drivers used the data from OGBC and Rockcity FM because they thought it was accurate. In order to alleviate traffic congestion, the study advised that radio stations should offer alternate routes whenever there is congestion on major roadways.
Keywords: Analysis, Use & Listenership pattern, Traffic Update, Radio Station,
UNDERSTANDING THE LANGUAGE OF LINE IN ARCHITECTURE: KEY TO A PERFECT ARCHITECTURAL GRAPHICAL DESIGN PRESENTATION
Agbodike Chinedu Chigozie (Ania)
Department of Architecture
Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda,
P.M.B 1012, Kaura Namoda,
Zamfara State Nigeria.
Abstract:
Line encompasses virtually everything both living and non-living things on the surface of this earth. To draw a human shape, we need line, to draw a tree, we need line, to draw a vehicle, it is line, to draw a building, it is also line. Understanding the language of line in Architecture, is something that is key to perfect graphical design presentation for a student of architecture, a graduate of architecture, a mentor in architecture and even for professionals in related courses such as Civil engineering, Mechanical engineering, Structural engineering etc. The author has to this respect been able to briefly define what line is in the introduction, also has talked about the different types of lines, line weights, how the architect uses line weights, clues to the use of lines weights, the meaning of language and more importantly the meaning of a “Perfect” Graphical Design Presentation. Any layman, would be able to understand this piece, and it will also serve more as an eye opener for others in related fields.
Key Words: Language, Line, Architecture, Graphical, Design, Presentation.
AN APPRAISAL ON THE ROLE OF THE GOVERNMENT IN POVERTY ALLEVIATION AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN TARABA STATE
Gowon David
Department of Statistics,
Federal Polytechnic, Bali,
ABSTRACT
The study examined statistical analysis of performance of National Poverty Eradication Programme in Nigeria in which Taraba state was adopted as a case study. The specific objectives of the study are to examine the; effect of National Poverty Eradication Programme on the Gross Domestic Product of Taraba state; impact of National Poverty Eradication Programme on the Internally Generated Revenue of Taraba state and the effect of National Poverty Eradication Programme on the Poverty Index of Taraba state. The population of the study is Taraba state. Secondary data was used such that GDP, Poverty index, and internally generated revenue were obtained from National Bureau of Statistics. The study used descriptive and inferential statistics to analyse the data for the study. The inferential statistics adopted is ordinary least squares regression. Based on the analysis of the data, it was found and concluded that; the effect NAPEP has on the Gross Domestic Product is strong, positive and significant. The study found that NAPEP accounts for a very large proportion of the changes that occurs in GDP. It was found that NAPEP has a strong positive effect on Internally Generated Revenue of Taraba state. Lastly, it was discovered that NAPEP influences poverty index of Taraba state positively. Based on the findings of the study, the author recommended that; poverty index rate of Taraba state is very high and a divine intervention is highly needed hence, poverty alleviation schemes should be constantly established so as to reduce hunger and pain in the state; more funds should be invested in poverty eradication programmes; Taraba state government should endeavour to always increase NAPEP expenditure such that it will eventually increase the IGR of Taraba state.
REVIEW OF NATIONAL INSECURITY AND THE NIGERIA ECONOMY
Dibia, Godwin Chukwuedo
Department of Arts & Humanities
Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku
Delta State.
Egbule, Venatus
Department of Arts & Humanities
Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku
Delta State.
Abstract
National insecurity and the Nigeria economy was reviewed in order to bring to bare the high level effect these “security threats” can cause on the development of the Nigerian Economy. The review pointed to the fact that insecurity will not only jeopardize the growth of the economy but every aspect of Nigeria’s socio political development. Many factors were posited to be the main causes of these threats ranging from corruption, political thurgery to lack of concern of the Government towards the Nigerian Citizenry. The researcher therefore suggested some recommendations to alleviate if not totally eradicate the presence of these threats; these include care for the citizenry by way of employment, education etc, accepting the contribution of every reasonable sect in planning security strategies to eradicate these threats.
ON THE SECURITY ANALYSIS OF AUTHENTICATION PROTOCOLS.
Luka Joshua1,
Department of Mathematics & Statistics,
The Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Aliyu Danladi Hina1,
Department of Mathematics & Statistics,
The Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Usman Hassan1.
Department of Mathematics & Statistics,
The Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Abstract:
A logic for the analysis of authentication protocols was first proposed by Burrows, Abadi, and Needham (BAN). BAN logic is one of the formal protocol verification techniques that help us to prove whether a cryptographic protocol works correctly. It is a logic of belief, with special constructs for expressing some of the central concepts used in authentication. The logic has revealed many subtIeties and errors in published protocols that are hitherto considered secure. We considered a three-factor mutual authentication protocol based on multi-server environments who’s underlyi ng security is build on cryptography. We analyze the protocol’s security using informal security analysis, the BAN logic.
Keywords: Authentication protocols, BAN logic, cryptography, security analysis.
AN ANALYSIS OF THE ROLE OF COMMERCIAL DISPUTE ARBITRATION IN NIGERIA’S ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Sulaiman Shehu Esq.
Public Administration Department,
School of Business Studies,
The Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State Nigeria.
Abstract
The term Arbitration has been used frequently in both legal and non-legal parlance. It is a method of settling a dispute(s) outside the conventional court process known generally as litigation. Arbitration has been increasingly significant in both commercial and non-commercial transactions especially now that cross-border commercial transaction is increasingly becoming the new norm. It is cheaper, faster, more confidential, efficient, and flexible, and gives the parties the liberty to choose who their arbitrator is. Most importantly, it carries the same weight as a judgement delivered by the court of competent jurisdiction. This essay is aimed at briefly discussing, among other things, the wider view against the old narrow view in which arbitration was viewed, especially, in developing countries like Nigeria. The essay also evaluates the indisputable reality that not everything is “arbitrable” i.e not every dispute can be referred to arbitration for settlement. The ‘exclusive jurisdiction’ and the ‘public policy’ concerning arbitral awards are also analysed. Some observations are made and recommendations are proffered. The scope of the essay is Nigeria, and to some extent, the Croatian and English laws and other relevant international jurisdictions would be considered, where necessary.
Keywords: Nigeria, UNICITRAL, Commercial, Arbitration, Award, Enforcement, Dispute
ENTREPRENEURIAL ORIENTATION AND SMEs’ PERFORMANCE IN OYO STATE, NIGERIA: MEDIATING EFFECT OF INNOVATION
Ladokun, I. O,
Department of Marketing,
The Polytechnic, Ibadan,
Oyo State, Nigeria
Olaoye, Bosede. O2,
Department of Business Administration and Management,
Osun State Polytechnic, Iree,
Osun State, Nigeria
Aremu, A. B,
Department of Business Administration and Management Studies,
The Polytechnic, Ibadan,
Oyo State, Nigeria
Ajiboye, Folashade. A,
Department of Marketing,
Osun State Polytechnic, Iree,
Osun State, Nigeria.
Abstract
The study investigates the mediating effect of innovation on the relationship between risk-taking, pro-activeness, competitive aggressiveness, and SMEs’ performance. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 250 SMEs who have been in business for more than 3 years and are registered with the Oyo Ministry of Commerce and Industry. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the participants. The socio-demographic information of participants was analyzed using descriptive statistics while the hypotheses generated lent support to the use of Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The study establishes that risk-taking has a significant influence on SMEs` performance. The relationship was positive meaning that the more the SMEs take risks, the higher the SMEs’ performance. The study further reveals that competitive aggressiveness is positively and significantly correlated with SMEs’ performance. Evidence shows that pro-activeness has no significant effect on SMEs’ performance. The study also confirms that innovation partially mediates between risk-taking and SMEs’ performance and partially mediates between competitive aggressiveness and SMEs’ performance. The evidence further reveals that innovation does not mediate between pro-activeness and SMEs’ performance. It was concluded that entrepreneurial orientation has a significant effect on SMEs; performance, while innovation is a powerful platform for SMEs to gain global relevance in a globally competitive environment. As a result, the study recommends that Nigerian SMEs should take proactive measures for the growth of the sector. Also, small business operators/managers should enhance their entrepreneurial spirit and use the results to improve organizational learning processes, creative output, business performance, decision-making, and in rapidly changing work environments.
Keywords: Risk-taking, Aggressiveness, Pro-activeness, Innovation, SMEs performance.
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF JAM MADE FROM DORUWA-TAMARIND BLEND AND CONVENTIONAL JAM
Jibril, Maryam.
Department of Food Science and Technology,
Federal Polytechnic, P.M.B. 0231, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Abstract
The study examined the relationship between Jam Made from Doruwa-Tamarind Blend and Conventional Jam. The materials for the study obtained from Market and for the purpose of the study Moisture, TSS and PH contents were determined for each product using standard method. The results of this study show some of the analyzed physicochemical characteristics of commercial Jams can compare well with blend of Doruwa-Tamarind Jam in terms of giving a well acceptable Jam with good keeping quality.
FACTORS INFLUENCING POST-HARVEST LOSS IN MARKETING OF SELECTED VEGETABLE CROPS AMONG MAJOR VALUE CHAIN ACTORS IN ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Robert, K.
Government Day Secondary School Demsawo, Jimeta-Yola,
Adamawa State, Nigeria.
Sani, R. M.
Department of Agricultural Economics,
Faculty of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
This studied the factors influencing post-harvest loss in marketing of selected vegetable crops among major value chain actors in Adamawa State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select the total of 316 marketers comprising 89 wholesalers, 128 retailers and 99 processors. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and analysed using inferential and descriptive statistics. The result of the regression analysis shows that, for tomato wholesalers, age, household size and duration were significant (P<0.01) with R-2 of 82%, for pepper wholesalers, the result shows that, household size, duration and distance were significant (P<0.01) with R-2 of 61%, and for okra wholesalers, the result shows that, household size, duration and distance were significant (P<0.01) with R-2 of 57%. Also, for the tomato retailers the result shows that, age, household size and duration were significant (P<0.01) with R-2 of 77.75%, for pepper retailers the result shows that, years of marketing experience, duration and distance were significant (P<0.05) with R-2 of 53.32% and for okra retailers the result shows that, household size, duration and distance were significant (P<0.01) and age was significant (P<0.05) with R-2 of 66.05%. Similarly, for tomato processors, the result shows that age, years of marketing experience, duration and distance were significant (P<0.01) with R-2-of 80.56%, for pepper processors the result shows that duration and distance were significant (P<0.01) and years of marketing experience was significant (P<0.05) with R-2 of 72.66% and for okra processors, the result shows that, years of marketing experience, duration and distance were significant (P<0.01) with R-2 of 74.77%. The mode of transportation designed to convey vegetable produce only were the major strategy statement adopted by the wholesaler with mean score of 4.7, while access to capital by financial institutions were the major strategy statement adopted by retailers and processors with mean scores of 4.4 and 4.3 respectively. It is therefore concluded that, age, household size, years of marketing experience, duration and distance significantly influences the quantity of tomato, pepper and okra. The studied recommended that, training on post-harvest loss management practices be given to the value chain actors (marketers) by the extension agents..
Keywords: Factors, Value Chain Marketers, Vegetable Crops
PROVOCATION AS ADEFENCE TO MURDER
Barrister Nzewi Chino Nnenne
Department Of Bussiness Administration
Federal Polytechnic, Oko,
Anambra State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
For centuries provocation has been regarded and accepted in the common: law as a defence to a charge of murder. The common law is the law distilled from the decisions of courts and judges and formulated and reformulated from time to time as cases and circumstances call for its authoritative statement in the area of law under review. It is the common law which governs this area of the law in Victoria. It is to be constantly borne in mind that provocation is a defence of a special kind in that if successful it does not lead to an acquittal on the charge but to a reduction from a conviction of murder to one of man-slaughter. It is a defence which springs from an appreciation and understanding of the frailty of human nature and which, even in times not so long past could mean the difference between a mandatory sentence of being hanged by the neck until death and a sentence tailored to suit the moral gravity of a particular homicide.
Keywords: Provocation, Defence, Homicide, Murder, Suit, Law
POSSIBLE WAYS OF CURBING THE PROBLEM OF EROSION IN NIGERIA: AN APPRAISAL
Keke Kyrian .I
Social Studies Department
Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education (A.I.C.F.C.E) Owerri
Ven Jonathan.C
Imo State Polytechnic, Omuma
Oru-East, Imo State, Nigeria
Nwaru Christiana Chinwe (Phd)
School Of General Studies
Imo State Polytechnic, Omuma,
Imo State, Nigeria
Abstract
Erosion is a natural phenomenon and in each year is determinant on the level of down pour or rain fall so to speak. One thing is certain and that is the fact that rain must fall, secondly that erosion is a sure must that it must come up, what seem so worrisome is the fact that certain people fail to have thought over where they are building their habitats and secondly the menace of erosion in such areas. The rate of rain fall in one year usually differs from what it might look like in other years, no doubt. At certain times weather forecasters in Nigeria like other countries furnish the people with information before the beginning of each rainy season, at one time or the other, such information is taken for granted and we find ourselves in the doldrum of erosion menace. In Nigeria, at present very many people are already victims of erosion devastation, yet its not over for tge year as scores of lives and property have been lost to erosion. The question every right thinking Nigerian will be asking is, since we know that erosion is an outcome of excessive downpour, what could be done to avoid its devastating effects. The above posed question form the gamut of this study. Various data collection techniques as oral interviews, journals, textbooks, periodicals, questionnaire and the internet were used. The basic need theory was adopted as theoretical framework. Thereafter, conclusion was drawn.
Keywords: Possible, Ways, Curbing, Problem, Erosion, Nigeria.
PERFORMANCE OF SOME SELECTED GRASS MULCHES ON ONION (ALLIUM CEPA L.) UNDER SPRINKLER IRRIGATION SYSTEM IN GWALLAMEJI, BAUCHI STATE
Sani, M.,
1Department of Agricultural and Bio-Environmental Engineering Technology,
School of Engineering Technology,
The Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Sadiq, Y.,
Department of Agricultural and Bio-Environmental Engineering Technology,
School of Engineering Technology,
The Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Samuel, E. B.,
Department of Agricultural and Bio-Environmental Engineering Technology,
School of Agricultural Technology,
Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Zaria,
Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Raji, S. G.
Maintenance and services Department,
Bayero University Kano,
Kano state, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
There is a continual drive to conserve soil and water and improve irrigation efficiency in agriculture, especially in the Sahel and Sudan Savanna like Bauchi State, where water resources are limited and regulated. The adoption of soil and water conservation techniques has the potential to play a key role in increasing agricultural productivity, enhancing food security as well as Stimulating sustainable economic growth. Among the various methods used for soil and moisture conservation, mulching has been reported to be easiest and cheaper to the local farmer. Sprinkler Irrigation system may cause soil erosion where the application rate is high and where the soils are friable. This study aims at identifying the best mulching material and mulching thickness for the onion farmers in the state by evaluating the various types and thickness of some selected grass mulching materials under onion irrigated field using sprinkler irrigation system in Gwallameji, Bauchi State, Nigeria. The soil texture class for the study area is mainly sandy loam at the depth of 0-45cm, and partly clay loam at the depth beyond 45cm. Thus, it was concluded that the soil is homogenous within the rooting depth of the selected crop in this study. The maximum soil bulk density was 1.50 g/cm3 and minimum of 1.37g/cm3 which was well within the recommended range for onion production. From the results, Typha grass performed better in terms of soil moisture retention than the other two mulches (Gamba and Jema grasses). The highest WUE (65.5kg/ha/mm) at 5cm depth was recorded from plots treated with Typha grass, and the lowest (54.6kg/ha/mm) was recorded under Gamba grass. At 10cm depth, the highest value of WUE (86.7kg/ha/mm) was recorded from plots treated with Typha grass, and the lowest (61.9kg/ha/mm) was recorded under Gamba grass. Similarly, at 15cm depth, the highest WUE (76.3kg/ha/mm) was recorded from plots treated with Typha grass, and the lowest was recorded under Gamba grass (59.0kg/ha/mm). The control however recorded the lowest WUE (47.3kg/ha/mm).
Keywords: Mulching, Sprinkler Irrigation, Typha, Gamba, Jema Grass, Bauchi.
LEGITIMACY AND VOTE BUYING SYNDROME IN NIGERIA: IMPERATIVES FOR PROMPT LEGAL SANCTIONS
Joseph I. Aremo PhD (Ife), BL
Department of Public and International Law,
Faculty of Law,
Elizade University, Ilara- Mokin,
Ondo State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Credible elections are characterized by inclusiveness, transparency, accountability and competitiveness while the hallmark of participatory government through these processes is anchored on the principle of voluntariness. The voters reserve the right to exercise their franchise without fear or favour; material or financial inducements. Nigerian experience at an election since independence has been quite challenging. In a democratic setting, free, fair and credible elections are the only acceptable and appropriate means through which citizens of a country can choose their representatives; but recently held elections in Nigeria have been reportedly characterized by money inducement popularly called “vote-buying” in ordered to sway the mind of the electorate to vote a particular candidate or party. It has become imperative to examine the various means of vote buying; appraise the effect of such unchecked occurrences in our democracy, and interrogate the roles of the major actors during the conduct of elections. This is done through desk research. Findings showed that vote buying is a brand of corruption and undue influence which tends to question the supposed legitimacy the government claims to have acquired. In addition, the electoral umpire, the political parties and sometimes the security agents are contributorily culpable. Therefore this paper argues that there is no better time than now to have a changed value system that promotes the voluntary exercise of franchise by the electorate devoid of any pecuniary inducement. Besides, the provisions of the Electoral Act are quite commendable in handling electoral matters in Nigeria, but an urgent need to back it up with political will is required.
Keywords: vote buying, legitimacy, syndrome, imperatives and legal sanctions
FAMINE AND STARVATION IN DRYLANDS AFRICA: THE PARADOX OF PERSISTENCE AND THE VIOLATION OF UNIVERSAL RIGHT?
Quadri, S.,
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Kano
Kano State, Nigeria
Silwal, P.,
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Kano
Kano State, Nigeria
Abdulsalam, N,
Bayero University Kano,
Kano State, Nigeria.
Abstract
This article examines the vexed issue of an endemic food crisis in sub-Saharan Africa. Notwithstanding the acclaimed global institutional capacity against hunger; undernutrition, starvation and famine persist. This amplifies the growing dilemma of famine causality, particularly in dryland environments thereby provoking a plethora of questions upon which this paper is focussed. Is famine demand or supply driven? Is famine a matter of recurring complex political emergencies (CPE) or man-made? Is famine a failure of humanitarian response or simply an act of God? Why does famine persist in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)? To accomplish this task, the paper uses a cross-section of twenty sub-Saharan African countries within a set of panel data models to explore the link between food security and World Governance Indicators. The study employs Panel Vector Autoregression following Love and Abrigo (2016) and Panel Generalized Method of Moments of Arrelano and Bond (1991) and Blundell and Bond (1998). Diagnostic checks show the robustness of the choice of the models in explaining the dynamic causal effect of good governance and food security within the sampled countries. This paper argues that the vulnerability of SSA to hunger and starvation is more politically/conflict driven, among other causalities, validating the concept of an irony of persistence and violation of universal human rights. Vicious ethnic and religious rivalry, inordinate socio-economic dominance, deadly power struggles are clear culprits. Sustainable democracy, rule of law, strong institutions, and a universal criminalisation of starvation, are recommended as panacea. The ritual of humanitarian calls and/or food aid for Africa should have an expiry date.
Keywords: Conflicts, Drylands, Famine, Hunger, Starvation, Universal rights
ASSESSMENT OF STRATEGIES FOR MAXIMIZING PROFITABILTY IN SMALL AND MEDIUM CONSTRUCTION FIRMS IN ABUJA
Aliyu, Mohammed,
Department of Quantity Surveying,
School of Environmental Technology,
Federal University of Technology, Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria.
Ola-awo, A. W.,
Department of Quantity Surveying,
School of Environmental Technology,
Federal University of Technology, Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
This study investigated profit maximisation strategies by small and medium-sized construction firms in Abuja with a view to improving the construction organization’s profit margins. The data for the study was gathered using a questionnaire. The questionnaire copies were administered to two hundred and twenty (224) questionnaire respondents, and one hundred and fifty-five (155) were retrieved, representing a response rate of 69%. A purposive sampling technique was adopted for the study. The analysis of the data was carried out with the use of percentage, mean item score, and T-test. The study identified sixteen (16) factors affecting the profit maximisation of construction firms, which are the supply costs, the degree of competition faced by a firm, time, and the strength of demand. The findings revealed that the majority of the hypothesised measures of profitability are perceived as statistically significant (p < 0.05 by the respondents using the one-sample t-test value of 3.5). The average barrier score ranges between 3.20 and 4.36. These measures of profitability ranged from “investment” (mean = 4.36; SD = 0.66; t (155) = 16.16; p = 0.00 < 0.05), which is the highest ranked, to “liquidity” (mean = 3.20; SD = 0.63; t (155) =-5.78; p = 0.00), which is the least ranked). The findings also revealed that time, supply cost, unexpected problems, project overhead, weather, and rate of return are the most important challenges faced by contractors that affect the realisation of profit maximisation. The study also revealed that of the seven strategies to maximise construction firms’ profit margin, the minimization of waste is the most effective strategy. It was, however, concluded that minimising waste, setting profitable goals and improving productivity skills were the most effective strategies for maximising profitabilty in small and medium-sized construction firms in Abuja. The major recommendation from the study is that the government at all levels should put in place favourable policies that will allow small and medium-sized construction firms to thrive in the study area and in Nigeria at large.
Keywords: Strategies, Maximizing, Profitabilty, Small and Medium Construction Firms
ASSESSMENT OF PROPERTY RATING ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT IN MINNA BETWEEN 2009 – 2019
Musa Ibrahim
Department of Estate Management and Valuation,
Federal University of Technology, Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria
Prof. Muhammad Bashir Nuhu
Department of Estate Management and Valuation,
Federal University of Technology, Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria
ABSTRACT
Property tax revenue constitutes less than 4% of all tax revenues in developing countries, and averages 0.42% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of developing countries respectively. Although property tax has great potentials yet it is faced with the problem of ineffectiveness and unreliability induced by weak administration and technical limitation which seriously limit its ability to generate adequate revenue. This study assessed the administration and management of property rating in Minna with a view to proffering a sustainable property rating administration. Cluster sampling technique was adopted for selection of three (3) neighbourhoods from unplanned and planned areas each. The housing units was sampled using simple random sampling technique. A sample size of 399 was used. Weighted Average () and Relative importance Index (RII) were used to examine property rating trend, management and challenges in Minna. Findings revealed that property rating is not a popular activity in Minna because a large number of respondents are grossly unaware of the process. Result shows that only about 28% of the respondents have paid for property rating before, out of the 52% who are aware of it. However, majority (57.2%) of the respondents have not been issued demand notice before. The trend in property rates of Minna from 2010 to 2019 shows a constant increase from 2010 to 2017. The following recommendations are proffered to achieve the set objectives of the study; the rating authority need to create awareness to the general public of the need to pay for property rating. There should be transparency in declaring revenues and the use of the revenue to the public. This will help residents develop faith in the process and increase their willingness to contribute. Rating authority should be up and doing about their activity in issuing demand notices to residents and develop an updated data base for effectiveness and efficiency in discharging their duties.
Keywords: property, Tax Revenue, Rating Administrations, trends
OPTIMIZATION OF MICRO HORIZONTAL AXIS WIND TURBINE BLADE USING COMPUTATIONAL FLUID DYNAMIC ANALYSIS
- J. Manga,
Department of Physics,
University of Maiduguri,
Borno State, Nigeria
- A. Bello,
Department of Mechanical Engineering,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
F.W. Burari,
Department of Physics,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria
- Tijjani,
Department of Physics,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria
ABTRACT
In this study we optimized the performance of micro horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT) blade using computational fluid dynamics on the basis of Blade element momentum theory (BEM). A micro horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT) blade of 1.0m long was design using aerodynamics design parameters such as chord length, lift force, drag force, tip speed ratio, solidity, coefficient of performance, angle of attack, wind relative angle, Reynolds number, efficiency, axial and induction factor were all calculated. The 2D preprocessor Gambit interface was used to generate optimized mesh and boundary conditions for an efficient extraction of kinetic energy of the wind by the optimized blade. The meshed was exported to fluent were it was processed and analyzed based on the boundary conditions as identify on Gambit interface. The simulated blade was design based on average wind speed of 5.3mls measured at 10m height above the ground, which is found to be suitable for some locations in North East, North Central and North West. The results showed that the maximum extractable power was 125.44watts at a relative wind speed (velocity) of 5.3m/s with a Reynolds number of 3.0 at an optimal lift to drag ratio. It’s was also recorded that the increased in wind speed also increase the measured extractable power. The design blade satisfied Newton’s third law and Bernoulli’s effect at an efficiency of 32.1%. Which has the ability to extract and generate energy from the wind; it is a clean source energy that is freely available throughout year with almost zero emission of greenhouse gases and without seasonal variation. The use of this source of energy will reduce frequent blackout and dependence on importation of fossil fuel which is a huge burden to Nigeria economic.
Keywords: Computational fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, airfoil, horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT) blade, blade element momentum theory (BEM).
DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF AN OPTIMIZED ANAEROBIC DIGESTION SYSTEM Yakub Baba Ahmad
Department of Mechanical Engineering,
Federal Polytechnic Mubi,
PMB 35, Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria
Sanusi Usman Mohammed
Department of Agric. & Bio- Environmental Engineering,
Kaduna Polytechnic, Kaduna
Kaduna State, Nigeria
Abstract This paper presents the design and testing of an optimized anaerobic digestion system by focusing on the thermal, mechanical and chemical aspects of the anaerobic digestion process parameters such as temperature, organic loading rates, air tightness and mixing. Eleven pilot batch biogas digesters were fabricated based on an already existing design and using locally available construction materials. Cow dung and poultry droppings were used as feed materials. The digesters were tested and ran for twelve months. Pressure buildup in the digesters started 24 hours after the initial loading, while combustible gas production was noticed after 72 hours. Tests results showed that the highest biogas yields were produced by poultry ratios 5, 6 and 7. A 7.1°C monthly average increase in temperature was observed during the period of study. The gas produced was found to be burning cleanly with a blue flame and no smoke. The optimum cow dung’ poultry droppings ratio for better anaerobic digestion performance was obtained and found to fall between 1.4 and 1.6 g VS/L under near thermophilic conditions. Complete digestion of the feed was accomplished within 14 days of hydraulic retention time improved biogas generation would greatly influence sustainable development, waste management and economic development in affected communities. Keywords: anaerobic, digestion, biogas yield, process optimization, temperature, mixing, organic loading rate
SUSTAINABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT THROUGH MECHANIZED AND INDUSTRIALISED BUILDING SYSTEM: The Nigerian Approach.
Anyanwu I.U.,
Department of Urban and Regional Planning and
Abia State Polytechnic, Aba.
Abia State, Nigeria.
Emery Joseph Otah,
Building Technology,
Abia State Polytechnic, Aba.
Abia State, Nigeria.
Oforndu F.I.,
Building Technology,
Abia State Polytechnic, Aba.
Abia State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
To achieve sustainable housing development in Nigeria, natural building material resources must be used sustainably. Industrialised Building System (IBS) is a method where prefabricated components are used for construction in sustainable manner. This study investigated the prospects, challenges, and strategies for improving IBS usage for
sustainable housing development in Abuja, Nigeria. The method adopted was purposive sampling technique where questionnaire were distributed to 100 built environment professionals, who handle housing projects. Data obtained from the 80 questionnaire returned were analysed. The findings revealed that conventional method of construction is still prevalent. The challenges to IBS adoption for sustainable housing development are; insufficient IBS manufacturer, unfamiliarity due to resistance to change, enormous capital cost and lack of government intervention. The study concluded that Government support and increase awareness on the prospects of IBS would improve the usage of IBS in sustainable housing development.
Keywords: Industrialised Building System, Housing, Sustainable Development, Construction Method, Building Materials
THE CONCEPT OF “FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION” IN THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE IN NIGERIA, AN OVERVIEW
Agbodike Chinedu Chigozie (ANIA)
Department of Architecture,
Federal Polytechnic PMB 1012, Kaura Namoda,
Zamfara State, Nigeria
Abstract:
Over so many years ago, more specifically in the late 19th and early 20th Century Architecture, “Form follows Function” has been a principle of design which states that the shape of a building or object should primarily relate to its intended function or purpose. Architects have all these years, come to realize that the phrase was first coined by an American Architect Louis Sullivan who helped to develop the first steel sky scrapers in late 19th century Chicago. This period was a transformative one for Architectures, as the new technologies and construction methods that developed during the industrial age meant that old and established styles could be adapted or replaced. This paper unveils that the principle suggested that rather than buildings being designed in accordance with past precedents or stylistic trends, the purpose of the building would determine its form. it also reviewed and made references on what a form is, what a function is, how form is seen to be following function in any architectural building design and the practice of Architecture in Nigeria among others.
Keywords: Concept, Form, Function, Practice, Architecture, Nigeria.
PROFESSIONALS’ PERCEPTION ON THE COST BENEFITS OF GREEN BUILDING PRACTICE AND ITS ADOPTION FOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN KOGI STATE.
Zubair Ahmed,
Department of Quantity Surveying,
School of Environmental Studies.
The Federal Polytechnic, Idah.
Daniel Gbenga I.,
Department of Building Technology,
School of Environmental Studies,
The federal polytechnic, Idah.
ABSTRACT
Building account for a sizeable amount of total energy consumption and total greenhouse gas emissions around the world. Green building has consequently emerged as innovative building concept to lessen the environmental impact of these buildings. The aim of the study is to assess professionals’ perception on the cost benefits of green building practice and its adoption for construction projects in kogi state. The objectives of the study are as follows: to identify the most preferred cost benefits of green building practice and to assess professionals’ perception on the cost benefits of green building practice and its adoption for construction projects in the study area. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information from various respondents who were construction professionals. The survey was conducted in kogi state using random sampling techniques were used to select one hundred and thirty (130) respondents out of which (95) of them were suitable for analysis, which represent a potential responses rate of seventy three percent (73%) of the total. The data were analyzed using simple percentile and mean item score. The research shows that respondents have a low level awareness of green building in general. The finding revealed that green features that would be mostly adopted by professionals include: careful orientation and low energy, lighting design, the uses of renewable energy e.g maximum use of natural day lightening and the uses of energy efficient and eco – friendly equipment. In conclusion the study advocated for increased sensitization of benefits of green building among built environment practitioners in such a way to deepen the adoption of green building practice in the study area. The study recommend that professional bodies should train and educate their members on the importance of green building so as to incorporate the lofty practice in their daily practice.
Keywords: construction, environment, cost benefits, green building, professionals’ perception.
A STUDY OF THE VARIATION IN MINIMUM TEMPERATURE AND PRECIPITATION AND ITS IMPLICATIONS IN SOME PARTS OF NORTH CENTRAL NIGERIA.
Mohammed T. N,
Science Laboratory Technology Department,
Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Nigeria.
Sanni M.,
Science Laboratory Technology Department,
Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Nigeria.
2Bello I. A.
Department of Physics,
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria,
Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Mafe A. S.,
Science Laboratory Technology Department,
Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Nigeria.
Olaniyi K.O.
Science Laboratory Technology Department,
Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Nigeria.
Abstract
Variability in weather and climate inherently leads to the occurrence of extreme weather or climate events. These events, more unusual and more severe than normal or average weather, include for example heat waves (high-temperature events), cold waves (low-temperature events). The study aim to characterize the weather parameters in the study area, determine the variability and trend of the elements of weather using descriptive and inferential statistics. Among all the stations analyzed, the results show that Minna has highest mean maximum temperature of 33.4830C followed by Lokoja with 33.3830C. Ilorin has lowest maximum temperature with 32.950oC as compared to normal temperature of 30- 360C. From the observed values of rainfall, Lokoja has highest rainfall (mm) of 195.025 follow by Ilorin with 182.917. Minna has lowest rainfall (mm) with 97.517 as compared to normal rainfall of 120 – 200mm. The various minimum and maximum should be monitored to avoid going beyond the extreme which could detrimental to human health, livestock production and crop yield.
Keywords: Climate, Weather, Trend, Variability, Extreme, Precipitation.
DYNAMICS OF LAND USE AND LAND COVER AND IT IMPACT ON URBAN FLOODING IN PARTS OF BWARI AREA COUNCIL, FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, NIGERIA
Madu, A. O.
Department of Geography,
Federal University of Technology Minna,
Niger State. Nigeria
Prof. Ahmed Sadauki Abubakar
Department of Geography,
Federal University of Technology Minna,
Niger State. Nigeria
ABSTRACT
Rapid urbanization in cities and urban centres has recently contributed to notable land use/land cover (LULC) changes, affecting both the climate and environment resulting to flooding. Therefore, this paper seeks to analyze changes in LULC and its Impact on Urban Flooding in Parts of Bwari Area Council, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria. To achieve this, Multi-temporal Landsat data was employed to monitor the study area’s LULC pattern lover the last 30years. The data used were Landsat TM, ETM+and OLI images (path and row 189/54 respectively) with a 30m spatial resolutions; for the periods 1990,2010 and 2020; and sourced from earth explore website of NASA. Idrisi and ArcGIS software were used for analysis, the maximum likelihood classification (MLC) algorithm was used for the urban Land cover classification. Also 144 questionnaires were distributed and analysed. The results of the analysis showed that the built up area was more prominent in the urbanized areas with that built-up areas have been on increase from (13.37%) in 1990 to (30.90%) in 2020 which has resulted in encroachment into the flood plain. 29.16% of the respondents says unplanned settlements is responsible for flooding. Owing to the constraints posed by availability and quality of data; to study the dynamics of city land cover; satellite based sensors with very high spatial resolution were recommended to enable highly detailed land use/cover, and ecological characterization of the urban environment of the city. Also, building close to the river banks and other vulnerable areas to floods should be discouragedto mitigate the adverse influence of LULC changes by ensuring sustainable land-use practices across the study areas
Keywords: Land Use and Land Cover, Flooding, Remote Sensing, Geographic Information System, Landsat image, MLC, OLI, TM, ETM+.
THE CAUSES, EFFECTS AND PROSPECTS OF INFLATION IN NIGERIA: A PARADIGM SHIFT
Keke Kyrian.I
Department of Social Studies
Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, Owerri
Ven Egesi Jinathan .C
Imo State Polytecnic, Omuma, Oru East,
Imo State
Uchechi Dike
Public Administration Department
Imo State Polytechnic, Omuma, Oru- East,
Imo State
Abstract
In recent times in Nigeria, the cost of goods and services have sky rocked and begging for attention. The naira seem so devaluated that any right thinking person will be forced to conclude that it is the currency with the least exchange rate in the country. But this was not so before. The naira was well appreciated and exchanged favourably with other country’s currencies. But surprisingly, the currency came crashing like a wrongly parked cards. This leaves much to be desired as the inflationary rate has continued to be on the increase every now and then that no one can actually predict what may happen economically in the country in the nearest future. Evidence on ground show astronomical increase in the cost of both goods and services, leave much to be desired. The All Progressives Congress, the party in power at the Federal level and in control of power at various state level have left a bitter taste on people’s mouth with all its lofty dreams and promises made during her campaign which left the previous administration parking. The state of affairs in the country does not give the people below the poverty line any dot of hope and the ruling party seem to be lost of ideas of what needs to be done to right the wrong. In their sheer carelessness they started with blame game of putting forward how the displaced People’s Democratic Party(PDP) crumbled the economy of the country. The above state formed the gamut of the study as we made concerted efforts to finding out what must be done. Several data collection techniques as interviews, use of questionnaire, textbooks, journals and the internet were used to garner data for analysis. The Endogenous Growth theory was used as theoretical framework, there after, conclusion was drawn.
Keywords: Causes, Effects, Prospects, Inflation, Nigeria.
AN ASSESSMENT OF THE MOST-FAVOURED NATION TREATMENT OBLIGATION AS CENTRAL TO MULTILATERAL TRADING UNDER THE WTO REGIME: THE AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE
Sulaiman Shehu Esq.
Public Administration Department,
School of Business Studies,
The Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Abstract
The World Trade Organisation (WTO) came into being on the January 1st, 1995[1]. It is the only global International organisation (with more than 164 members) making rules on trade between countries.[2] Its Secretariat is in Geneva, Switzerland. Central to WTO are Agreements that are signed by the Members and ratified by their various parliaments. WTO aims and objectives are establishing a uniform institutional framework for smooth conduct of trade relationships between member states. It aims to ensure that trade between member states is being carried out efficiently, conveniently and without inhibition.[3] In a nutshell, trade liberalisation is the ‘core goal’ of the WTO and this includes but is not limited to removal of trade barriers such as unfair trade tariffs, promoting fair treatment for international investors, promoting a non-discriminatory policy among Members, preferential treatment for the developing nations and implementing the Most-Favoured Nations Treatment (known as MFN) among member states.[4] Article 11(2) of the WTO Agreement distinguished between Multilateral and Plurilateral agreements: while in the former is a binding agreement on every member of the WTO which must be consented to with the WTO Agreement at one or as a whole, in the latter, a country can decide to either ratify a particular agreement(s) or not, in other words, it is not binding.
Keywords: WTO, Africa, GATT, GATS, Most, MFN, Multilateralism
QUALITY EVALUATION OF BISCUIT PRODUCED FROM WHEAT FLOUR AND MALTED BROWN FINGER MILLET USING DATE PALM AS SWEETENER
Jibril, Maryam
Department of Food Science and Technology,
Federal Polytechnic, P.M.B. 0231, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Abstract
This study is to assess the quality evaluation of biscuit produced from wheat flour and malted brown finger millet using date palm as sweetener. To achieve the purpose of the study, the raw materials used (wheat flour, finger millet, margarine, powdered milk, eggs, baking powder and salt) been obtained, the result shows that the samples BFMW1, BFMWF2 and BFMWF3 has an increase in crude protein content which ranged from (8.14%, 9.91%, and 9.03%) respectively. This study has indicated that the use of such composite flours with high nutrient value is a good method to improve the nutritional excellence of baked goods like biscuits.
MAPPING AND ASSESSMENT OF HYDROCARBON PIPELINE USING GIS (A CASE STUDY OF BAUCHI METROPOLIS)
Abubakar Abdullahi Yakubu,
Surveying and Geoinformatics Department
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Ahmad Abdulhameed,
Surveying and Geoinformatics Department
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Shuaibu Umar,
Surveying and Geoinformatics Department
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Mubarak Ibrahim Jahun,
Surveying and Geoinformatics Department
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
This paper is aimed at producing a map showing the built up areas in Bauchi metropolis that encroaches the hydrocarbon pipeline. The study was conducted due to insufficient information about the building line regulation of hydrocarbon pipeline within the study area. Spatial data was obtained using total station (Sokkia 600) and it was processed using ArcGIS 10.3 version. The features that violated the right of way setback along petroleum pipeline were ascertained using a proximity analysis. The finding reveals that 35% of the building along the pipeline violated the right of way while 65% maintained the right of way regulation. A composite map of the area showing the level of encroachment was produced.
Keywords: ROW, pipeline, ArcGIS, map, hydrocarbon, proximity.
PRICING STRATEGY AND EFFECTIVE MARKETING OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCE IN NIGERIA: REFERENCE TO MAIZUBE FARM, MINNA
Koce, Henry Diko
Department of Marketing,
Federal Polytechnic, Bida,
Niger State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Pricing is a widely utilized tool employed by business organizations and profit-oriented firms to drive home their profit maximization objective. The present study examined three major pricing strategy variables (penetration, bundle and loss leader)) as they affect effective marketing of agricultural produce in Nigeria. The study used descriptive survey design; population of the study comprised 22 selected Maizube Farm produce distributors in Bida modern market; as a result, the sample size determined is 22 since the figure is relatively manageable. A well- structured self-administered questionnaire was used as the main tool for data collection and was administered to the 22 respondents. Reliability of the research instrument was calculated and the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.868. Data were analysed using multiple regression analysis. From the hypotheses tested, the result indicated that there is a significant relationship between penetration pricing and effective marketing of agricultural produce. Findings also indicated that there is positive and significant relationship between bundle pricing and effective marketing of agricultural produce. The study concluded that all the relationships between pricing strategy and effective marketing of agricultural produce were significant resulting in the rejection of all the three null hypotheses postulated, H01 to H03 and accepted all the alternate hypotheses. Furthermore, this study recommended that farmers and their distributors should further exploit the potentials offered by these strategies to boost their sales and profitability through attraction of more customers. Finally, the study suggested that future studies should focus on other sectors of the economy apart from the agricultural sector.
Keywords: Pricing; Strategy; Effective; Marketing; Agricultural Produce; Nigeria
THE ROLE OF PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL IN HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: A CASE STUDY OF BENIN ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION COMPANY (BEDC) BENIN CITY
Dibia, Godwin Chukwuedo
Department of Arts & Humanities
Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku
Delta State, Nigeria.
Egbule, Venatus
Department of Arts & Humanities
Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku
Delta State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
The study interrogates the role of performance appraisal in human management in Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC).The objectives of the study were to ascertain the needs, identify various methods, and explore how performance appraisal has helped in human resources management using the reinforcement theory of motivation to explain the phenomenon under study. Descriptive survey design was adopted for the study while Yemen’s simple random technique was used to obtain the sample size of 96 from a population of 193 workers. Findings from the study indicate that workers of BEDC Benin City do not give maximum service without supervision, that evaluation helps employees to give their best. Furthermore, some workers at BEDC are not properly supervised in spite of the importance of performance appraisal with stems from supervision. Based on the findings, the study recommended that supervision should always be carried out to get the best of workers and improve productivity. Also performance appraisal should be periodically evaluated in addition to regular training of staff.
Keywords: Performance Appraisal, Management, Human Resources, Organization, Efficiency, Effectiveness, Technique, Employees and Goal.
ANDROID BASE IMPROVED AUTOMATION APP (ABIAA)
- O. Adetona,
1Department of Electrical & Electronics Engineering,
University of Lagos, Lagos,
Lagos State, Nigeria.
U.K Udeze,
1Department of Electrical & Electronics Engineering,
University of Lagos, Lagos,
Lagos State, Nigeria.
P.A Gbadega
Department of Electrical, Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering,
College of Engineering,
Bells University of Technology, Ota,
Ogun State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACTS
Home automation systems are required for energy savings, safety, protection and convenience use of appliances in any developing economy. This system invented to keep home appliances safe against current fluctuations on the load, reduce energy wastage and protections of life and properties of the owner or user. In this current work, we proposed suitable technique known as Android Base Improved Automation App (ABiAA) for design and application of GSM-based home-automations system using Android Application that consumed very low power. This system comprises of wireless home-network that contains GSM modem along with magnet followed by relay that act as “load protective device”. The system can response faster when power is restored and GSM module would alert home owner via SMS with recorded voice that Electricity is restored for the owner to POWER (ON) the loads. This Home/Office automation system use in alerting house/offices owner wherever he is; at any given time so that he can power ON the required loads that are necessary supposed to be ON as required. The default mode is such that ones the Electricity is interrupted, the loads are switched OFF thereby providing energy savings to the owner and safeguarded the connected appliances as well as safety of life and properties that would have resulted from fire outbreak. In this arrangement, a magnet and relay positioned at point of entry produce signal via telecom network and relay message that gives information concerning update at home or pre-defined and detailed messages that are stored in micro-controller. Suspected set of activities are moved to local-user via SMS. This design reduces the energy wastage and inefficiencies. The different results obtained shows that the project worked based on specification of the design. But every system has its pros and cons. Our proposed system is easy to implement and understand.
REVIEW OF LITERATURE FOR BIOCLIMATIC DESIGN PRINCIPLES AND THEIR INTEGRATION IN HOSPITAL BUILDING DESIGN IN ABUJA, NIGERIA
Umar, Mohammad Bello1,
Department of Architecture,
School of Environmental Technology,
Federal University of Technology, Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria
Dr Akande, Oluwafemi Kehinde
Department of Architecture,
School of Environmental Technology,
Federal University of Technology, Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria
ABSTRACT
The design of hospital buildings is one that encompasses a wide range of details and considerations which includes physiology, anthropology and psychology. The need for a good living environment that not only suits the people within but also both blends well with the environment and explores the relationship between the occupants and the environment is very important. Research suggests that living environments can be influenced by the biology and the climate that surrounds them. This paper intends to use literature review to investigate the integration of bioclimatic design principles in the hospital buildings in Abuja, Nigeria. This paper focuses on the hospitals in Abuja, Nigeria. The use and requirements of bioclimatic principles would be compared with those found the in designs of hospitals through the aid of literature which include e-books, journals, conference papers, and reports. The results from this paper will guide in directing the bioclimatic research and design of hospital buildings for enhanced treatment and patients recovery. It was seen that the integration of bioclimatic design principles into hospitals will not go on without some challenges; hence, it is recommended that more research is done in this wise.
Keywords: Bioclimatic, Design, Environment, Hospital, Occupants
STRUCTURAL BEHAVIOUR OF INTERLOCKING RUBBERISED FIBRE MORTAR BLOCKS COLUMN
Tariq Bala Maiauduga,
Department of Civil Engineering Technology,
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria
Mukaddas Ahmad Musa,
Department of Civil Engineering Technology,
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria
Salihu Yahaya Yakubu.,
Department of Civil Engineering Technology,
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria
Tochukwu A. I
Department of Civil Engineering Technology,
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria
Abstract
In the last two decades, a number of studies were carried out to investigate the behavior of modified rubber in concrete as partial replacement for coarse aggregate. Most of them show that concrete product compared with conventional concrete is of light weight and there is reduction in strength, while the durability, toughness, impact resistance, strain capacity and sound insulation properties were enhanced. This research focuses on the structural Behaviour of interlocking blocks column by replacement of fine aggregate with crumb rubber and addition of oil palm fruit fibre (OPFF) in the mix called rubberise fibre mortar (RFM). The material used were Cement, fine aggregate, oil palm fruit fibre, treated crumb rubber and water. The OPFF was added by 1.0% while the crumb rubber were replaced by volume of F.A. at 10% and 30%. The specimen were cured by water sprinkling for 28days.Therefore, the blocks were assembled as columns for developing a new system that can replace the conventional concrete construction column to block construction. These specimens were tested in the laboratory in order to investigate their behaviour and failure mode/pattern under axial load. The study focuses on minimizing the effect of disposal of waste tire rubber into the environment. Favourable outcome in this regard will contribute to the reduction of waste material dumping problem by utilizing it as raw materials in construction industry and to reduce the over dependence of construction industry on natural materials. The conclusion drawn indicates that the interlocking block fail due to relative low lateral strain capacity and The columns deflect more at the middle. Its recommended that bonding properties should be checked between crumb rubber with concrete.
Keywords: Columns, interlocking blocks, Treated Crumb Rubber,Oil Palm Fruit Fibre, fine aggregate,cement, crack pattern, load-deflection
METHOD DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION FOR THE SIMULTANEOUS DETERMINATION AND QUANTITATION OF ARTEMETHER AND LUMEFANTRINE IN ANTIMALARIAL STANDARD POWDERS FORMULATION USING HIGH PERFORMANCE LIQUIDCHROMATOGRAPHY WITH UV DETECTION
Mahmoud, A.B1,
Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry,
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria,
Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Magaji G1.,
Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry,
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria,
Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Yakasai I.A1,
Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry,
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria,
Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Musa U.A1,
Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry,
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria,
Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Yakasai A.A2
Department of Chemistry,
Bayero University, Kano,
Kano State Nigeria.
Abstract
A simple, rapid, precise and accurate reversed phase high performance liquid chromatographic method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of Artemether in combination with Lumefantrine. This method uses a Chemisil ODS C18(250mm~4.6mm~5μ particle Size) analytical column adjusted with orthophosphoric acid in ratio(60:40 v/v).The instrumental settings are a flow rate of 1.5 ml/min and PDA detector wavelength at 214 nm. The retention times for Artemether and Lumefantrine are 2.10 min and 7.70min, respectively. The method is validated and shown to be linear. The linearity range for Artemether and Lumefantrine are 20-120 & 120-720 μg/ml respectively. The Percentage recovery for Artemether and Lumefantrine are ranged between 96.62–101.16 and 99.78–101.21 respectively. The correlation coefficients of Artemether and Lumefantrine are 0.9633, and 0.9636, respectively. The relative standard deviation for six replicates is always less than 2%. The Statistical analysis proves that the method is suitable for analysis of Artemether and Lumefantrine as a bulk drug and in pharmaceutical formulation without any interference from the excipients.
Key words – Artemether, Lumefantrine, Standard powders, Validation and RP-HPLC.
EFFECT OF GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES ON ENTERPRENUERSHIP DEVELOPMENT IN GOMBE METROPOLIS.
Nasiru Abdullahi,
Department of Business Administration,
Gombe State University,
Gombe State, Nigeria
Umar Muhammad
Department of Statistics,
Gombe State Polytechnic,
Gombe State, Nigeria.
Abubakar Sadiq Salisu
Department of General Studies (Economics Unit),
Gombe State Polytechnic,
Gombe State, Nigeria.
Mubarak Mohammed Tela
Department of Statistics,
Gombe State Polytechnic,
Gombe State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the effect of government initiatives on the development of entrepreneurship in Gombe metropolis, Gombe state, Nigeria. The population of the study consist of 900 businesses that are registered with the ministry of commerce, trade and industry Gombe state. The sample of this research is determined by using Morgan table. And samples of 269 registered businesses are used. Data were analyzed with the aid of Multiple Regression (OrdinaryLeastSquareEstimation) and Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient. Results showed that anchor borrowers’ scheme and Nirsal micro finance loan have positive and significant influence on businesses development. Additionally, anchor borrowers’ scheme and Nirsal microfinance loan jointly contribute about 42.9% to the development of businesses. The study therefore, recommended that government should have a policy in place through its developmental programmes to encourage businesses to grow.
Keywords: Anchor borrowers’ scheme, Nirsal microfinance loan, Entrepreneurship development.
EVALUATION OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN STRATEGIES IN CANCER CENTER, ABUJA, NIGERIA.
Angela Ele-ojo Omaga,
Department of Architecture,
School of Environmental Technology,
Federal University of Technology, Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria.
Lateef A. Lawal
Department of Architecture,
School of Environmental Technology,
Federal University of Technology, Minna,
Niger State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Evidence-based studies have shown the benefits of including nature and its elements in the built environment suggesting that they could have a positive effect on healing and health. The innate emotional attachment of human to nature and the living things in nature is known as “biophilia”. Biophilic design is an approach that integrates nature into the buildings in which people live to foster human-nature relationship. Increasingly, several studies focused on biophilic design parameters offer potential applications in the discipline of architecture. This paper aims to evaluate how biophilic design strategies could serve as a restorative tool for spaces in the Cancer hospital buildings. A case study approach, supplemented with a survey questionnaire and observation schedule were utilised for the research. Through the six basic biophilic parameters as defined by Kellert (2008),results suggest that successful application of biophilic design principles could enhance transform Cancer hospital buildings into healing spaces.
Keywords: biophilia, biophilic design, healing environment, nature, wellbeing,
SURVIVAL ANALYSIS ON NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS
Abdulkadir Khadija
Department of Mathematics & Statistics,
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Nenlat Rapheal Rinyen
Department of Mathematics & Statistics,
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,
Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Malnutrition in children is an important public health issue especially for developing countries like Nigeria. Weight-for-height (wasting), height-for-age (stunting) and weight-for-age (underweight) are three important parameters for assessing nutritional status in children. Malnutrition is estimated to contribute directly or indirectly to more than 33% of all child deaths globally. The aim of the study is to identify the prevalence of malnutrition in under five children, To develop a model that predict the prevalence of malnutrition in children of under five years, and To test the suitability of the model. A well-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from mothers and their children at Miri primary health care Centre at Bauchi. The software packaged that has been used to process data is SPSS version 21. the test of independence between the dependent variable (nutrition) and independent variable (age, sex, occupation of the father, occupation of mother, education status of the father, education status of the mother, age of the mother, types of breast feeding, immunization status, size of the households and birth order) was performed to verify whether they are statistically significant or not at 5% level of significance to the nutrition status of under-five children. A modified cox proportional hazard model containing all the predictor variable was fitted it was found that 52(28.4%) are stunted, 65(35.5%) are wasted and 66(36.1%) are underweight The study shows that various socio-demographic and health service covariates are significant determinants of malnutrition. Accordingly, the finding of the study show that age, sex, source of drinking water, mothers age, education status of the parent, occupation of the parent, age of the mother, immunization status, breast feeding practice, family size and birth order of the child have statistically significant effect on the outcome of the nutritional status of children under-five years of age. Finally, it has been recommended that access to education for both parent should be given due emphasis, and Children from mothers age range from 15-25 years are at the higher risk of malnutrition. Thus, educating women about the adverse effect of early marriage is of paramount importance.
Keyword: Malnutrition, Wasting, Stunting, Underweight and Children.