Theses and Dissertations

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Open Access
A Review of economic potentials of the river port of Onitsha
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-02) Okonkwo, Chukwuka
Inland waterways are one sector of transportation that has been grossly underutilized the world over, despite being one of the earliest form of transportation and facilitator of trade between people. This study aims to review the economic potentials of the Onitsha inland river port. The study adopted a mixed method research design as data were sourced from the secondary source (NIWA, NPA statistical bulletins & journals) and primary source using a well-structured likert modelled questionnaires administered to about 50 respondents. The data gathered were subjected to analysis using tools such as Analytical hierarchy process (AHP), Time series modeller and Trend analysis with the aid of AHP calculator and IBM Statistics Package for Social Scientists (SPSS V21) computer software. The findings depicts that the volume of import cargos from seaports destined for the southeast states which forms the hinterland for the river port shows a significant positive trend estimated by the linear regression line Y = 14075X – 18057. The time series modeller used to analyze the cargo trend series shows an acceptable value of R-squared and stationary R-squared of 72.3% and a mean average percentage error of 50.066%, indicating that the present are approximately 50% short of predicted volume by trend. The AHP results indicate that inland waterways (0.5276), road (trucking) (0.2527) and air (0.2197) in that order are the preferred mode of freight movement for logistics operators in the south east if presented with alternatives. The following factors in descending order forms the basis of their choice of freight means; safety (0.6026), timeliness (0.1822), costs (0.1174), efficiency (0.0691) and carrying capacity (0.0286). In conclusion, the southeast bound import cargoes from the seaports can well serve the Onitsha river port and are even short of their projected volume for the time period under study. It was recommended that the government should ensure continuous dredging of inland waterways and river banks to ensure all round navigability of the waterways. Government or future concessionaires of Onitsha river port should ensure installation of handling and storage facilities for bulk agricultural products like grain storage silos, pumps and tanks for vegetable oil, etc. to ensure the river port is capable of handling shipments of bulk agricultural products.
Open Access
Accumulation of heavy metals in fish, water, and sediment samples from Oguta lake.
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-08) Shittu, Usman Akorede
This work was carried out to ascertain the accumulation of heavy metals in fish, water, and sediment samples from Oguta Lake. Triplicate batches of the samples were taken from three sampling points along the river coast, and the physicochemical parameters were analyzed in the laboratory using gravimetric, titrimetric, and spectrophotometric methods. The concentrations of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, As, Ni, Mn, Cu, and Hg) in water, sediment, and fish, insect, snail, and algal species from the lake were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Carcinogenic risk models were used to estimate the potential risks through the ingestion of fish, insects, snails, and algal in Oguta Lake. Pearson correlation multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVA) were used to analyze the inter-relationship among heavy metals in water and sediments. Seasonal variation and the correlation matrix (ANOVA) of heavy metals were analyzed. The results obtained showed that the mean concentrations of physicochemical parameters ranged as follows: Temperature (26.04-29.35); pH (7.17-7.77); Free CO2 (9.78-10.34); BOD (10.14-10.42); TDS (22.23-28.04); EC (0.30-0.49); DO (5.69-5.86); Total Hardness (18.49-21.00); Turbidity (15.0317.76); Alkalinity (15.64-16.66); Sulfate (2.19-2.55); Ammonium (0.26-0.40). Comparison with WHO guidelines indicated that most parameters assayed were within permissible limits. The mean concentrations of heavy metals in water were: Pb (0.19±0.05); Cd (0.41±0.07); As (0.01±0.001); Ni (0.59 ±0.1); Mn (0.02±0.006); and Cu (2.24 ± 0.31). while the mean concentrations of heavy metals in sediment were: Pb (0.26±0.04); Cd (1.04±0.15); As (1.02±0.16); Ni (1.22± 0.24); Mn (1.98±1.68); and Cu (1.87 ± 0.58). Positive correlations were observed for the following pairs of metals in water and sediments: Pbw and Nis (r = 0.356), Cdw and Nis (r =0.237), Cuw and Mns (r = 0.325), Cdw and Pbs (r = 0.969*), and Asw and Ass (r = 0.967) at p< 0.05. Bioaccumulations of heavy metals were in the following order: fish > algal > snail > insect. The estimated daily intake of heavy metals from consuming fish, algae, and snails indicated that none of the heavy metals currently pose a health risk to consumers of these organisms in the study area, based on the dose. The results obtained from this study showed that heavy metal pollution is not yet a significant problem in Oguta Lake as of the time of this investigation.
Open Access
An efficient predictive model for choosing mobile cellular service provider in Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-07) Ohuabunwa, Augustine Ebere
Free competition and new network technology have increased competition and widened the range of network service available throughout the world. However, for cellular network service providers, loyalty is a rare trait among customers when it comes to choosing a particular mobile cellular system provider. Despite the huge financial commitment by companies into their respective communication technologies, users ultimately make decisions based on their perceived quality of service (QoS). This thesis attempts to identify the factors affecting the Quality of Service of cellular mobile network providers in Nigeria and put their effect in quantifiable terms using four leading telecommunication firms viz. MTN-Nigeria, Globacom, Etisalat and Airtel. With a clear choice of information sources, regressional analysis and SPSS was utilized. It was discovered that six factors affect the quality of service of cellular mobile network: Network coverage/ Availability of service(X5), Call quality(X3), Price of service (X4) , Customer care(X2), Diversity of bundle option of service (X1) and Promotion/Offering of Incentive(X6). A predictive model was derived as : Y = 3.731+0.565X5 + 0.440X3 + 0.221X2+ 0.189X4 + 0.165X1 + 0.097X6.The significance of the factors X4, X1 , X2 and X6 depend on X5 and X3, hence Y = 3.731(1+0.1514 X5+0.1179 X3).
Open Access
An improved direction finding system antenna using method of moment approach
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2019-12) Anaebo, Ogonna Frances
This study focuses on the Performance Improvement of a Direction Finding System Antenna Using Method of Moment (MoM) Approach. The work was developed to provide an approximate current distribution for a direction finding system antenna by employing the use of Method of Moment on an array of Yagi-uda antenna. The parameters of the experimental antenna were derived and analyzed using Magnetic Vector Potential (MVP) operator. The accurate current flowing through the radiating elements of the direction finding system was analyzed using combination of Method of Moment technique and Magnetic Vector Potential (MVP) operator. The antenna parameters were simulated using MatLab R2010a software tools. From the results obtained, the Average Poynting vector of the designed yagi antenna is 3.73 watt per square metre, and Radiation Intensity value of about 9.400 columns per kilogram. The simulation results also indicated an appreciable increase in directivity of 9.03dBi and enhanced directive gain compared to that of the equivalent log-periodic antenna of 6.5dBi, signifying 2.53dBi enhancement.
Open Access
Analysis of factors militating against successful building construction project delivery in South-East Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-11) Ejiogu, Ejike F.
The study examined the factors militating against successful building construction project delivery in the Southeast, Nigeria with the objective of identifying and analyzing the militating factors for decision purposes. Six (6) militating factors were identified. Based on this, five-point Likert’s scale, questionnaire was designed and distributed to 226 respondents for assessment. The multiple regression analysis result show that the average performance achieved in building onstruction delivery is 27.017 which is statistically low. The model developed show that all the factors with the exception of government policies and level of skilled workmanship exhibited negative influence on building project delivery in the Southeast States. The hypotheses test show that non-adherence to standard building codes is most critical to building project delivery. In view of these findings, the study recommends strict adherence to professional building codes, the creation of enabling environment through policies and programmes that will encourage the proper planning and implementation of building construction projects, Government development policies should be strengthened in order to control inflation and avoid constant increase in the cost of materials for building construction projects. Also, skilled workers should be engaged and, the cost and process of obtaining government approval should be made more affordable and simple so as to encourage improved success in the building project delivery and enhancement of socioeconomic wellbeing of the citizens.
Open Access
Analysis of gender equality opportunities and resource use in cereal value chain: Evidence from youth engagement in rice value chain in Sourth-East, Nigeria.
(Federal University of Technology,Owerri, 2023-09) Tim-Ashama, A. C.
The study analyzed gender equity opportunities and resource use in cereal value chain: evidence from youth engagement in rice value chains in Nigeria. it identify the actors and gender roles along rice value chain; examine by gender, the socioeconomic characteristics of actors along the rice value chain; determine the level of gender equity gap in opportunities along the rice value chain; determine the technical efficiency and sources of inefficiency among male and female actors along the rice value chain; determine the value added and the share of the value added by gender along the rice value chain; estimate the factors affecting value added by gender along rice value chain and, identify the constraints to youth engagement in the rice value chain, by gender. A multistage sampling technique was adopted for this study. The sample size consists of 476 youth rice value chain actors randomly selected from 48 villages across three states in South-East Nigeria. The data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed using Modified Gender Equity Index (MGEI), stochastic meta-frontier, value addition and multiple regression models. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentages, charts and mean were also used to realize some additional results. Results from MGEI show that the level of gender equity opportunities for youth rice producers, processors and marketers were-0.21,-0.21 and-0.04, respectively, indicating inequity against the female youth. The mean technical efficiency for male and female producers are 0.64 and 0.59, processors 0.70 and 0.69 and marketers 0.52 and 0.61. The determinant factors of technical inefficiency among male and female youth in the study area were level of education, membership of cooperative society, years of experience and access to credit. The overall value-added per tonne by the male youth actors was ₦52,281 and the female youth actor was ₦52,229. The share of the value-added by male youth producers, processors and marketers were 51.65%, 49.41% and 47.78% while the female youth were 48.38%, 50.59% and 52.22%, respectively. Some factors affecting value added by actors in rice value chain were level of education, years of experience, capital invested, information and distance to actor’s node. The major constraints to youth engagement in rice value chain include lack of capital to start up, lack of access to credit, drought, lack of access to better technology, high cost of hiring/operating machines, lack of technical knowhow/skills, and stressful nature of rice value chain. In addition, the female processors added marital challenges and responsibilities as a major challenge while recommends that Policies and interventions that ensure equal access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making power for both male and female youth actors should be implemented through targeted training programmes, awareness campaigns and capacity-building initiatives that promote gender equality. In addition, access to affordable credit and financial services for youth involved in rice value chain should be strengthened through establishment of financial institutions and mechanisms specially targeting youth in agricultural sectors.
Open Access
Analysis of scope and economic efficiency in poultry-fish enterprises in Imo State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-02) Opara, Thaddeus C.
This study analysed the scope and economic efficiency of poultry-fish enterprises in Imo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: examine the Socio economic and enterprise characteristics of fish and poultry farmers, estimate cost function from profit function to determine scope efficiency of poultry-fish enterprises, determine how scope and economic efficiency related to the use of specific inputs or the production of specific output, evaluate the determinants of scope efficiency and economic efficiency in poultryfish enterprises in the study area. A multi –stage sampling technique was used to select 210 respondents comprising of 60 fish farmers 60 poultry farmers and 90 joint poultryfish farmers. Structured questionnaire were used to elicit information from respondents while descriptive statistics, inferential statistics. Quadratic regression model, Tobit regression model and analysis of variance were used for data analysis. Findings from the study showed that most of the farmers in the three categories were males, 57.1% for fish, 62.3% for poultry and 66.7% for joint enterprises respectively. Most of the Respondents were between 41 and 60 years age bracket, 65.1% for fish 80.3% for poultry and 58.3 for joint enterprises. The distribution of respondents by marital status showed that most of the farmers were married 80.9% for fish, 75.4% for poultry and 81.9% for joint enterprises. Majority of the respondents had household sizes of 4 to 5 persons, 65.1% for fish, 55.7% for poultry and 63.9% for joint enterprises. 69.8% of fish farmers and 67.2% of poultry farmers had 6 to 10 years farming experience while majority of joint farmers (56.9% had 1-3 years of farming experience. Most sole farmers were small scale farmers 39.7% for fish and 42.6% for poultry while most joint farmers were large scale farmer (75%). The three categories of farmers had poor access to credit with only 19.4 % of joint farmer able to access above N300, 000 credits. In this research, cost functions were recovered from unrestricted profit functions and were used to calculate scope efficiency. The main scope efficiency was 0.025 indicating that the joint production of fish and poultry enterprises reduces total cost by 2.5%. The mean economic efficiencies were 0.72 for fish, 0.68 for poultry and 0.77 for joint enterprises. This indicated that farms could reduce cost by producing at the lowest possible cost. The correlation of scope and economic efficiency with output quantities was positive and significant at 1% level suggesting that the joint production of fish and poultry on the same farm resulted in cost advantage. Also the correlation of scope and economic efficiency with expense ratio were all significant at 1% level which revealed that larger farms tends to have more scope and economic efficiency scores. Again scope and economic efficiency are significantly determined by level of education, farming experience, pond size, and flock size as well as credit amount. It is recommended that educational packages and appropriate training could be necessary to teach farmers those farming practices that encourages cost complementarities and financial institutions should be encouraged to improve on the volumes and terms of loans extended to farmers.
Open Access
Analysis of the contributing factors to construction schedule overrun in selected public sector projects in Imo State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Opara, Godswill Ngozi
This work seeks to analyze the Contributing Factors to Construction Schedule Overrun in Selected Public Sector Projects in Imo State. The objectives are to: determine and analyze the factors responsible for project schedule overrun in construction projects in Imo State; examine possible individual and collective significant effects of the factors on successful project delivery; examine the impact of schedule overrun on construction projects and; identify the causes of schedule overrun in construction projects and proffer workable solution to them. Questionnaire was developed using the 5-point Likert scale for the collection of primary data. Multiple regression analysis was adopted for the analysis of the collected data. The result obtained shows that government policies and project funding/finance, are significant factors that contribute to construction projects schedule overrun while project technology, force majeure and corruption are not significant. Funding/finance has the highest ranking, project technology ranks the least. Based on the above findings, it can be concluded that proper planning should be encouraged; government policies and programmes should be made in such a way that favours timely execution of projects. Adequate financial provisions should be made available to contractors by the government. The use of local raw materials should be encouraged in the execution of contracts. The selection of contractors and other major stakeholders should be based on competence and realistic tender quotations. All efforts should be made to reduce or eliminate the occurrence of design modifications during the project execution.
Open Access
Analysis of the effects of maritime clusters on hindtherland operations in Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-03) Nwosu, Emmanuel Nnadozie
The study was carried out to analyze the effects of the performance of selected port-based maritime clusters business components on hinterland operations in Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were among other things, to determine the determinant maritime cluster business component that contributes significantly to maritime sector Development in Nigeria; to model the effects of maritime cluster development on the shipping export and import capacities in hinterland locations in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria and the federal Capital Territory, Abuja; and the determine the significant factors influencing the decision of maritime and allied firms, to locate operational basis in port-based maritime clusters in Nigeria. The study used a mixed research design method in which both survey methods involving the use of primary data sourced through the use of questionnaire as survey instrument, and quantitative research methods which involved the use of time series quantitative data on the shipping export and import capacities of each of the hinterland zones in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria were sourced from the Nigeria ports Authority Statistical reports, covering a time period of 19 years, were used. The statistical methods of principal component factor analysis (PCFA) and the log-linear multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the data obtained. The findings of the study indicate that the offshore oil and gas maritime-cluster business component has Eigen values greater than 1 (5.904>1) and constitute the determinant maritime-cluster business component that significantly contribute to the development of the maritime sector in Nigeria over the years. The findings of the study also indicate that there is significant relationship between maritime-cluster development and the shipping export and import capacities of hinterland regions in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The result however indicate that, the North-East and Federal Capital territory hinterland regions each recorded zero shipping export operations over the period covered in the study. The findings of the study further reveal that the significant factors that contributes to the decision of firms to locate investments in maritime clusters in Nigeria include: Guaranteed security of investment, Favourable Government policy, The ease of administration and coordination of the business divisions of a firm from the cluster location, Reduced labour cost and access to professionals and Access to transport cum optimization of logistics and production cost, with each having Eigen values of 2.992, 2.244, 1p.241, 1.145, and 1.039. the policy implications of the findings were also discussed. It was recommended that, Government policies such as policies creating free trade zones in maritime regions and tax exemptions for new firms should be used to attract more maritime firms to locate in port-based maritime clusters in Nigeria. The significant relationship between maritime sector development, export and import capabilities of hinterlands in Nigeria, suggest that the hinterlands can guarantee the achievement of higher output in the maritime sector if necessary investment is made by Government to improve the shipping export and import trade potentials of the hinterlands.
Open Access
Analysis of the influence of economic growth on trend of sea piracy and armed robbery attacks in Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-07) Ogwo, Nwokeka Eme
The study analyzed the influence of economic growth on trend of sea piracy and armed robbery attacks against ships in the Nigeria territorial waters. The objective of the study was to assess the influence of the growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), revenue generated by the maritime transport sub-sector, and youth unemployment rate on trend of pirate attacks against ships trading in Nigeria waters. The expost facto research design was employed in which the historical data on GDP, revenue generated by the maritime transport sub-sector, youth unemployment rate and pirate attacks against ships were obtained from secondary sources. Log linear multiple regression analysis and trend analysis methods were employed to analyze the data obtained. It was found that the model showing the relationship depicting the influence of GDP growth, growth in revenue generated by the maritime transport sub-sector and unemployment rate on pirate attacks against ships in the waters of Nigeria is: InPIRATE attacks = 2.760 - 1.160InGDP - 0.05InMAREV + 0.258InUNRATE. The implication is that a unit annual increase in GDP (economic growth) causes the pirate attacks against ships to decrease by 3.81units while a unit increase in revenue generated by the maritime transport sub-sector induces a 0.007 unit decrease sea pirate attacks against ships in Nigeria. A unit increase in youth unemployment rate increases pirate attacks against ships in the Nigeria waters by 0.158units. The trend of pirate attacks against ships in Nigeria waters over the period relative to the trends of GDP, revenue generated by the maritime transport sector and youth unemployment is: PIRATE attacks = 23.386 - 0.105Xt + Ɛ. It was recommended that economic growth should be translated into opportunities for economic empowerment of youth in other to bring about a significant decrease in pirate attacks against ships in Nigeria.
Open Access
Antioxidant and antihyperlipidaemic potentials of ethanolic leaf extract of Diodia sarmentosa on wistar rats
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-10) Korie, Stephen Chinedumije
This study investigated the antioxidant and antihyperlipidaemic potentials of ethanolic leaf extract of Diodia sarmentosa on high fat diet-induced male wistar rats. The antioxidant potentials of the extract was ascertained by scavenging for hydroxyl and nitric oxide radicals. Thirty (30) male wistar rats (150g-200g) were divided into five (5) groups; Negative control (NC) group which was not induced nor treated, Positive control (PC) was induced but not treated, Low dose extract (LDE) was treated with 250mg/kg of the extract, High dose extract (HDE) was treated with 500mg/kg of the extract and Standard antihyperlipidaemic drug (SAD) group treated with 5mg/kg of Simvastatin. Hyperlipidaemia was induced by feeding the rats with high fat diet in form of Ghee and Coconut oil in the ratio of 3:1 for a period of six (6) weeks, and administration of the treatments started in the 4th week till the 6th week. Parameters like Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), Malondialdehyde (MDA), Glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Glutathione S-transferase (GST) and Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were assessed in the serum and heart tissue. In the serum, Lipid profiles like Total cholesterol (TC), High density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), Low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), Very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL), Triglycerides (TG) and Atherogenic coefficient and indices were also assessed. Liver enzymes and other biomarkers like Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Total Bilirubin (TB), Total Protein (TP), Albumin and Globulin were also assessed. Results obtained showed that extract inhibited nitric oxide and hydroxyl radicals in a concentration dependent manner, showing an inhibitory concentration at 50% (IC50) of 907.17µg/ml ± 45.36 and 2173.44 µg/ml ± 100.11 respectively. Both doses of the extract increased SOD, GPx and CAT activities in the serum and heart tissue, but increase in CAT activity in the heart by the low dose was not significant compared to the PC. GST activities was decreased in both heart tissue and serum, but only the decrease in the heart tissue by the high dose was significant, and MDA levels was significantly decreased by both dose in the heart tissue and serum. LDH activity in the heart tissue was not significantly different in the LDE and HDE groups, while in the serum, LDH activity was significantly different in the LDE and HDE groups when compared to the PC group. The concentration ranges of the lipid profiles of the various study groups are; TC (80.53–177.25 mg/dl), TG (45.64–159.74 mg/dl), HDL (35.18–57.80 mg/dl), LDL (18.09–36.77 mg/dl) and VLDL (9.12–31.59 mg/dl). TC, TG, LDL, VLDL and Atherogenic indices and coefficient were significantly decreased (p<0.05) in the LDE and HDE groups, while HDL was significantly increased when compared to the PC group. Percentage Protection of the extract were 61.76% and 79.17% for the low and high dose respectively. ALT (22.35–32.88 U/L) and AST (34.31–45.91 U/L) activities, Total Bilirubin (0.27–0.34 mg/dl) and serum Globulin (30.39–37.60 g/l) levels were not significantly different (p>0.05) in the LDE and HDE groups when compared to the PC group, while Total protein (54.05–67.78 g/l) levels were significantly different (p<0.05) in the LDE and HDE groups when compared to the PC groups. ALP (207.69–351.21 U/L) activity and Albumin (23.66–33.50 g/l) levels in the LDE group was not significantly different (p>0.05), while in the HDE groups they were significantly different (p<0.05) when compared to the PC group. The efficacy of the extract in balancing lipid profiles, enzymes levels and oxidative stress indices showed little or no difference to the Simvastatin used a the standard antihyperlipidaemic drug, which accounts for its antioxidant and antihyperlipidaemic potentials.
Open Access
Application of geographical information system (GIS) in selected soil mapping for crop production in selected local Government areas of Abia State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-06) Essoribe, Nestor Ugochukwu
This study used Geographic Information System (GIS) as a mapping tool to evaluate the suitability of selected soils of different parent materials for crop production (Tomato, Cabbage, Cucumber and Watermelon) in Southeastern Nigeria. A free survey technique was used in situating soil profile pits. Five (5) Profile pits were dug on each of three (3) dissimilar lithologies, giving a total of fifteen (15) profile Pits. Pits were dug, described and sampled according to FAO (2006). Undisturbed soil samples were collected using core samplers for bulk density and moisture content determination. While soil colour and other morphological properties were determined in-situ. Routine analyses were carried out using standard methods. Ordinary kriging was used to interpolate the values at unsampled location, generating spatial distribution maps for each soil property using geographic information software ArcGIS 10.2. Land suitability evaluation was carried out using FAO(2006) land suitability evaluation method. Soils of Amuro were Sandy Clay , Isiobuzor were Loamy Sand and Umunneochi (Isuochi) were Sandy Loam. The percentage sand content was significantly higher in Umunneochi (856.50g/kg, P<0.01) followed by Isiobuzor(845.30g/kg, P<0.05). Clay content was significantly higher in Amuro (284.50g/kg, P<0.01) and lowest in Isiobuzor (55.910g/kg, P<0.05).While Bulk density was significantly higher in Amuro (1.444gcm, P<0.01) and low in Isiobuzor (1.33gcm, P<0.05). The soils of the areas were acidic irrespective of the parent materials and were ranked thus Isiobuzor>Umunneochi>Amuro. Organic carbon of all the selected soils was generally low and followed thus Umunneochi>Amuro>Isiobuzor. Percentage base saturation was ranked Isiobuzor > Amuro> Umunneochi. Percentage base saturation showed a significant positive correlation with sand (r=0.774, P<0.01) The soil of Umunneochi was highly suitable (S1) for cucumber and watermelon production. The soil of Isiobuzor was moderately suitable(S2) for cucumber and water melon production. the soil of Amuro was not suitable for cucumber and water melon production as a result of the soil texture (NI). All the soils of the study areas were marginally suitable (S3) for Cabbage and tomato production. The soils of Umunneochi and Isiobuzor were classified as Typic Hapludalf(Soil Taxonomy) while the soil of Amuro was classified as Typic Endoaquoll. The kriging map showed that sand was highest at Umunneochi and decreasd down to Amuro and Isiobuzor. Clay content increased from Umunneochi down to Amuro and decreased to Isiobuzor. The moisture content, Bulk density increased from Umunneochi down to Amuro and thereafter decreased to Isiobuzor. Total porosity decreased from Umunneochi down to Amuro thereafter increased at Isiobuzor. Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K), Sodium (Na), Effective cation exchange capacity (ECEC) and base saturation (Bs) increased from Umunneochi down to Amuro and lowest at Isiobuzor. Aluminium (Al), Bulk density (BD), Total nitrogen were highest at Umunneochi and dereased down to Amuro to Isiobuzor.
Open Access
Asseeement of anticorrosion and antifouling performance of epoxy-chitosan coating using computational simulation technique
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-07) Ikechukwu. Uzochukwu Nelson
Assessment of anticorrosion and antifouling performance of epoxy-chitosan coating in simulated marine water has been conducted using quantum chemical computations and molecular dynamic simulation technique. The objective was to gain insights into the molecular/atomistic level of the coating/metal interface to be able to design high performance anticorrosion and antifouling epoxy nanocomposite coatings for marine application. The coating formulation was based on diglydicyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) epoxy cured with 1,3 benzenediamine (BDA). Chitosan biopolymer nanoclusters were used as filler. Two different silane additives; tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and (3-Aminopropyl) trimethoxy silane (APTES) were used as hydrophobic modifiers. Mild steel and 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution were used as substrate and corrodent, respectively. LDOPA which is a major component of adhesive protein secreted by mussel was used as a foulant. Chitosan nanocluster was modified with each of the two different silane modifiers (TEOS, APTES), and then incorporated into the epoxy coating formulation. Computational results showed that the obtained quantum chemical parameters (EHOMO, ELUMO, energy gap, global softness, electronegativity, etc) are related to high corrosion protective capability. The adsorption energies (Eads) of the silane-modified chitosan/epoxy coatings were observed to be higher than the unsalinized chitosan/epoxy and plain epoxy coatings. It was also observed that the adsorption energy increased with the addition of silane modified chitosan nanocluster in the order: APTES>TEOS>chitosan. MD simulation was again used to probe antifouling potential of DGEBA-BDA/ chitosan and silane modified chitosan nanocluster by studying the interaction between the composite coating and L-DOPA which is a major component of adhesive protein secreted by mussel. Results showed that the adsorption energy reduced in the presence of silane modified chitosan nanocluster in the order: APTES
Open Access
Assesment of safety in Nigeria construction industries
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-07) Mmegha, Remigius Tochukwu
The study investigated the occupational health and safety of the Nigeria casual worker in the building construction sites for the purpose of establishing the critical issues affecting the overall welfare and safety of casual workers on building construction sites. The population of the study is 235 construction workers/staff in five selected construction sites in Anambra State. A sample of 174 was selected from a cluster junior and senior staff using the random sampling technique. A 48-item, 5-point Likert-type instrument was used to elicit responses that formed the data for the study. The descriptive statistics(frequencies, percentages) were used in answering the research questions and to describe the characteristics of the respondents, while the hypotheses were tested with Chisquare. The results showed that accidents occur in construction sites and the most common sources are trench collapse, faulty assemble of scaffolding and falls; the most common health/safety problems are dislocation of joints, eye problem, chest/heart problem, vibration of white finger, and deafening; among the factors responsible for health/safety problems of constructions workers are complacency, indulgence in unsafe acts, use of improper tools, unguarded open holes, non-use of personal protective equipment and safety gadgets, bad layout and organization, bad construction and design, faulty machines or tools/work techniques, taking things from machine while on motion, insensitivity and responsiveness. The findings further indicate that measures for mitigating health hazards in construction include training, competence, supervision and clear instructions, access to washing and toilet facilities, access to the right tools, equipment, plant and protective clothing, employees’ health surveillance, abstinence from alcohol/drugs and use of mechanism to report all work-related illness to the appropriate authorities. Finally, the results showed that observance of health and safety procedures significantly controls the rate and nature of accidents on construction sites. The study thus concludes that construction is a risky industry. Though, so many hazards are present at construction sites, observance of health and safety procedures significantly control the rate and nature of accidents on construction sites. Among the recommendations to control hazards in construction site is that the regulatory body should be set up to monitor the safety of construction workers and to sanction companies whose staff are adjudged highly prone to accidents at construction sites.
Open Access
Assessment of Jatropha curcas L. as alternative nematicide in controlling root-knot nematode disease of Okra for improved yield
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-01) Ogwudire, Ezechukwu Vincent
The assessment of Jatropha curcas L. as alternative nematicide in controlling root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) disease on Okra for improved yield was conducted in ultisols of Owerri, Nigeria. These were in 2016 and 2017 cropping seasons at the teaching and research farms of Federal University of Technology Owerri. Jatropha curcas L. cultivars; Cv ‘Illorin’, Cv ‘Kwara’ and Cv ‘Ihiagwa’ were first screened in a potted experiment for susceptibility to Meloidogyne incognita naturally endemic in the area using scoring index. Results on root-knot assessment showed no root-knot infection in either of the cultivars tested. Phytochemical investigations carried out for a Plant Based Nematicide revealed the presence of Alkaloids, Saponins, Flavonoids and Tannins in the Seeds, Roots and Leaves respectively. Laboratory test for nematicidal properties against hatchability and mortality of M. incognita was conducted using a 3x4x4 factorial experiment fitted in Completely Randomized Design with three replications. Alkaloids, Saponins, Flavonoids and Tannins applied at 0, 5 and 10 mls per thirty Juveniles (J2) for mortality and twenty egg masses for hatchability were suspended in 10 mls of distilled water respectively. Petri dishes were kept at ambient temperature after 12, 24, 48, and 72 h incubation. Results show that at 10 mls, Seed Alkaloids recorded highest mortality (99.73 %) after 72 h treatment exposure while at 5 mls, Root Alkaloids recorded highest mortality (94.73 %) after 72 h treatment exposure. Most egg hatchability reduction (0.00 i.e 100%) was achieved with Seed Saponin after 12 h treatment exposure time at 10 mls, while at 5 mls (0.08) egg hatchability reduction was achieved with Seed Saponins after 12 h treatment exposure time. Individual Plant based nematicides were further evaluated for their effects on root-gall nematode susceptible Okra variety “NHAe47-4”. Four independent 3x6 factorial experiments arranged in Completely Randomized Design with five replications were conducted in the screen house. Each nematicidal extract was applied at 0,1,2,3,4, and 5 mls, and Jatropha parts with three levelsseed, root and leaves. Results showed that all plant based nematicides applied at 5 mls/pot significantly (p<0.05) reduced root-galls and increased the growth, yield, mucilaginous property, and nutritional composition of okra. This was particularly with Leaf Tannins application which increased pod weight by 67 % and 61 % over control at 4.88 g and 5.11 g in 2016 and 2017 respectively. This was followed by Root and Seed Alkaloids which increased pod weight to 4.02 g & 4.26 g indicating 71 % and 67 % increase over control in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Seed and leaf Saponins increased pod weight to 3.62 g & 3.84 g indicating 58 % & 51 % increase over control in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Seed and Leaf Flavonoids increased pod weight to 3.56 g & 3.80 g indicating 75 % & 71 % increase over control in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Correlation analysis showed that root-knot nematode correlated negatively with growth and yield parameters of Okra. Nematicidal extracts of Jatropha curcas and plant parts at the respective rates/levels-controlled root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) infection on okra, enhanced the pod weights, Mucilaginous property and nutritional composition of okra and are therefore recommended for use in Okra production.
Open Access
Assessment of selected highway maintenace project performance in Imo State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-02) Osuji, Uchechukwu Godwin
This study examined the circumstances and drivers that influence assessment of selected highway maintenance project performance with prior analysis on the causes of highways deterioration. Roads are the most important assets in any country, so keeping them in good condition is obviously critical for economic development. Afield survey research design was used on samples of three major highways and seventy-eight target respondents all in Imo State Nigeria. The instrument of questionnaire modeled in Likert five-point scale was used for data collection and measurement. A total of 18 causative factors of highways deteriorationand6success determinants for the maintenance were identified. The opinions and perceptions of experts who are conversant with highway maintenance projects performance were obtained based on the identified factors. The methods of data analysis were the relative Severity Index (RSI) for causes of deterioration sand multiple regression and correlation analysis for evaluation of determinants and drivers to assessment of selected highway maintenance project performance. The results and findings from RSI indicate that lack of drainage system and underground water, poor quality of; design, construction and maintenance materials are the severest factors for highway impairment. The results of the regression analysis indicate high correlation coefficient of 88.50%. The determinants and drivers to assessment of selected highway maintenance project performance in significant ranking order are: funding level and policy, degree of physical resources, capacity of construction technology etc. Based on the conclusion, sufficient annual budgetary provision should be captured for highway maintenance projects performance considering its economic importance. FERMA should explore more decisive technical capabilities for efficient utilization of resources for timely completion, improved condition of roads, solidity and reliability of highway maintenance project performance in Imo State.
Open Access
Assessment of streamflow relationship models of selected rivers in southern Nigeria.
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Uzoukwu, Regina Akudo
This study focused on Assessment of Streamflow Relationship Models of Selected Rivers in Southern Nigeria. The rivers include; Cross River, River Niger, Owena River, Owan River, Ikpoba River, Ossiomo River and Imo River. Statistical methods of least squares (regression analysis) were used to develop streamflow mathematical models (Power model, Polynomial model and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) model for regression) of the selected rivers. Models performance in calibration and verification were evaluated by means of coefficients of determination, coefficients of correlation, NashSutcliffe model efficiency, mean absolute relative error, percentage bias, root mean square error or standard error of estimate andmean of residuesor mean absolute error. Verification results exhibited a similar pattern in model performance to the calibration results, indicating that the models have good curve fitting. Comparisons of the streamflow models were carried out using One-way ANOVA F-Test, Variance Ratio Test or Snedecor’s F-distribution (F-Test). Further comparisons using graphs and a final comparison using Student’s t-Test were done. The models developed will serve useful purposes in the design of dams, estimation of the sizes of reservoirs, public water supply, flood control and hydropower generation, pisciculture, recreation, irrigation, wild life protection, water sports and tourism thus ushering in an era of socio-economic and industrial development for the Southern Nigeria. This research will play an important role in ensuring that water resources management processes in the Southern Nigeria are scientifically based and efficiently used so as to satisfy the needs of both natural systems and humanity, as being demonstrated in the applications of the calibrated models
Open Access
Assessment of surface water quality of Onuiyieke River in Imo State , Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2019-12) Eze, Chinwe Catherine
The surface water quality of Onuiyieke River was assessed for a period of six months (September, 2017 - February, 2018) at seven sampling locations (SLs) to ascertain its quality status. Measurements were made on samples collected with 500ml sample bottles according to standard methods. Samples for heavy metals were collected in 250ml bottle and fixed with concentrated HN03. Descriptive analysis, variation plots, ANOVA, Duncan Multiple Range tests, Principal Components Analysis (PCA), Pearson Correlation (r) and Water Quality Index (WQI) were used to analyze data. Mean values of the parameters obtained were: Total Suspended Solids (TSS) 198.19 ±80.93mg/L; Electrical Conductivity (EC) 331.81 ±59.78µ; Turbidity 18.84 ± 2.22 NTU; Nitrate ions 14.77 ±0.92mg/L; Dissolved Oxygen (DO) 6.58 ±O.22mg/L and Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) 1.77±0.10mg/L. Mean values of the Trace Metals obtained were: Iron (Fe) 1.93 ±0.23mg/L; Magnesium (Mg) 0.22±0.02mg/L and Calcium (Ca) 15.15±1.87mg/L while the mean value of Faecal Coliform was 1.91±O.10MPN/100. pH, EC, TSS, BOD5, turbidity, N03-, Ammonia, Fe and faecal coliforms exceeded the NESREA and WHO maximum permissible limits. There were significant spatial differences in levels of TDS, EC, NO3, NH3, DO and Faecal coliforms (Sig F=0.000 to 0.039) and significant temporal differences in levels of PO43- (Sig F= 0.078 to 1000) between the control and other locations.at p<0.05. Four Principal Components (PCs) formed the extraction solution with a cumulative percentage variability of about 77.67 %. PCs 1, 2, 3, and 4 were most highly correlated with Mg2+ (0.925), NH4 (0.903), TSS (0.930) and temperature (0.840) respectively. The Water Quality Index revealed that the rating for the water quality across the sampling locations was between excellent and unsuitable with SL 3 having the least water quality. Appropriate monitoring procedures for the sustainable development of the river should also be put in place.
Open Access
Assessment of x-ray radiation on x-ray workers and associated potential health problems in Owerri
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2013-06) Onyekaokwu, Okeke Cyriacus
A study on assessment of X-ray radiation among X-ray workers and associated potential health problems in Owerri was carried out with the thermolumolunescent dosimeter between 12th April to 30th December 2011. A total of 50 workers were used for the study. Comprising 24 male X-ray workers and 26 female X-ray workers. The mean X-ray dose below permissible doses is 9.4.7 the T-test is -4.29; the P-value is 0.000. The mean exposure factor is <100 is 88.52 and the standard deviation is 15.88, the standard error mean is 2.25, T-test is -5.11, P-value is 10.000 There is high doses above >20msv upto six test which involve 3 male x-ray workers and 3 female x-ray workers. The result of the study show high rate of hair loss, cancer, cataract, erthyma and sterility, each provide evidence of excess exposure of X-rays. Therefore it is recommended that workers should wear protective device e.g lead aprons, gonads cover during exposure to X-ray and also limit their exposure time
Open Access
Bank regulation and gross domestic credit in Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-09) Ewelike, Queendeanne Nneka
This study empirically assessed the effect of bank regulation on the gross domestic credit in Nigeria, using time series data from 1990 to 2018. Adopting the co integration procedures and the multiple regression, the results revealed prominent among others, that a significant relationship exists between variables of bank regulation and the level of gross domestic credit in Nigeria, taken together. Again, cash reserve ratio, liquidity ratio, and loan-to-deposit ratio had significantly affected the way Nigerian banks offer credit to various sectors of the economy. On the basis of the findingd, the study therefore, concluded among others that the selected bank regulatory instruments are adequate to predict the level of gross domestic credit thus, meaning that they actually exert significant influence on lending activities in the economy. On this premise, the study recommended among others that financial regulators should continue with the policy reforms that consolidate the emerging confidence in the banking sector, and avoid policy somersaults. Similarly, well-articulated banking regulatory policies were recommended to ensure that banks performance is enhanced.