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Item Open Access Causes of construction delays and effects on construction projects delivery: A study of selected projects(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-12) Asiegbu, Chukwudi EnyinnayaThe major objective of this research work was to examine the causes of construction, projects delay and its effects on project delivery and that was to be accomplished by working at the following specific objectives: identifying the causes of delays in construction project delivery, ascertaining their effects on project delivery time project budgeted cost. To carry out the research work, a questionnaire was structured with the Likert-5-point scale and distributed to twenty-four respondents that were randomly picked. The respondents included Engrs, Architects, Surveyors, Builders, Projects Mangers, Clients, Contractors and others. The data collected was analyseby the help of the frequency Tables and percentage, while the hypothesis formulated for the study were analysed with the Multiple Regression Analysis in the SPSS software, version 23. The results and findings from the analysis showed that the major causes of delays,especially in Government owned projects are problems arising from funding, planning of the projects and their control. The study therefore concluded that clients, whether they are private or public ones, should endeavour to make funds available for project execution, so that project delivery would not be delayed.Item Open Access Hydrogeophysical and vulnerability index studies of parts of Umuahia, South-Eastern Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-09) Ibeneche, Wisdom IykeGroundwater potential, Contamination and vulnerability in urbanizing area are major concern and need attention. The present study involved the innovative methodology of integrating Electrical resistivity (Geophysical assessment) method using a Dar-Zarrouk parameterLongitudinal unit conductance S which is directly related to the aquifer protective capacity in vulnerability assessment and the use of DRSATIC model in characterization of the groundwater quality and vulnerability of the study area. The results of the interpreted electrical resistivity data helped to delineate the aquiferous horizons within the study area. The aquifer protective capacity (APC) rating obtained from second order parameter of the VES revealed the rating less than 0.1Mhos across the study area; indicating aquiferous zone with poor protective capacity to contamination migration. The DRASTIC model of vulnerability assessment of the study area provided further insight by helping to delineate areas with Low, moderate and high vulnerability. The result obtained, revealed that about 63% of the study area are moderately vulnerable to pollution contamination, 35% of the area are within the range of high vulnerability and only 2% falls within the range of low vulnerability. Moderate to high vulnerability tendency revealed in DRASTIC model index constituting about 98% of the study area is agreement with the result obtained from the longitudinal conductance values with the rating denoting poor aquifer overburden protective capacity across the study area.Item Open Access Relating plant morphological traits to uprooting resistance in erosion control: A case study in Nguzu-Edda, Ebonyi State(Federal University of Technology,Owerri., 2016-01) Nwite, Stanley AlohThe strength with which a plant resists uprooting in form of erosion is influenced by a number of morphological traits such as root form, the proportion of fine lateral roots, the stem basal diameter and the root biomass. However, it is unknown exactly what characteristics best promote plant stability. Few works have been done in this regard. This study relates plant morphological traits with resistance to uprooting by erosion. The case study selected for this research is the eroded land of Nguzu Edda in Ebonyi State, South Eastern-Nigeria where soils are subjected to harsh water erosion resulting in concentrated flows uprooting small plants. Several lateral uprooting tests were carried out to determine the uprooting forces for twelve plant species. In addition, measurements of above ground / underground traits of juvenile plants growing in the case study area were also carried out. Statistical analytical methods such as Analysis of Variance, Discriminant Analysis, Multiple range tests, multiple regressions were employed in the investigation. From results of analysis, plant maximum uprooting force ,FMAX, was found to have a linear positive relationship with stem basal diameter, D, for all the species. The twelve (12) species studied were classified into two resistance groups based on their resistance to uprooting. The resistance group consisting of plant species such as Oxytenthera abyssinica(bamboo), Vernonia amygdalina (bitter leaf), Milicia excelsa(African Teak) associated with high values of root slenderness ratio (21.43, 71.5,72.0), relative root volume {0.62,0.5,0.22}cm3 /cm, relative root dry weight {0.36,0.28,0.11} g/cm, percentage tap root dry weight{0.15,0.50,0.88}, root density{0.58,0.56,0.50}g/cm3 ;low values of specific root length {3.38, 3.59 ,3.04}cm/g and low values of percentage fine root{45.5,36.0,42.0}% were most suitable as they yielded high resistance to uprooting. The relationship between plant resistance to uprooting and morphological traits were found to be non linear in nature for both resistance groups irrespective of growth form. Hence, it is recommended that those plant species with high resistance to uprooting are suitable for use in erosion mitigation, flood control and land reclamation. Also hybrids and clones of plants with desirable traits of high values of root slenderness ratio, relative root dry weight, percentage tap root dry weight, root density and low values of specific root length and percentage fine roots are suitable for breeding as vegetation to mitigate erosion, control flood and reclaim land. The findings of this research will be beneficial to those using vegetation to mitigate erosion and control flood.Item Open Access Determination of critical design parameters of rectangular plates under uniformly distributed lateral load(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-06) Ilesanmi, AdewaleThis study investigated the critical design parameters of classical rectangular plates under uniformly distributed lateral load. The study used Kirchhoff’s hypotheses on total strain energy, work energy principle, kinematics, stress deflection relationship, and constitutive relationship to derive the third-order total potential energy functional for an isotropic rectangular thin plate with small deflection. External work was substituted into the third-order total potential energy functional, and the general equation of a classical rectangular plate under pure bending was obtained. The plate general equation was minimized with respect to deflection to obtain the equilibrium of forces governing equation of thin rectangular plates. The resistant forces were solved with Split-deflection approach and the solution gave the general polynomial deflection equation. Satisfying the boundary conditions of the plate with respect to the general polynomial deflection equation gave the peculiar deflection equation. The general polynomial deflection equation was simplified and substituted into the plate governing equation to obtain the amplitude of the deflection function. A close integral was performed on the shape function for various boundary conditions with respect to the general stiffness equation, which gave the peculiar stiffness and non-dimensional deflection coefficients of a plate with varying aspect ratios ranging from (0.1 ≤ α ≤ 2.0) with 0.1 intervals. The plate boundary conditions considered in this work are SSSS, CCCC, CSCS, CCSS, CSSS and CCCS (where S stands for simply supported edge and C stands for clamped edge). Limit state conditions, such as ultimate limit state of stress and serviceability limit state of deflection were satisfied and the critical design parameters for thickness (tc) and lateral imposed load (qic) were obtained. Numerical examples were performed with the critical design equations, and results were presented for critical design thickness suitable to withstand a given set of loads and critical design-imposed loads a given thickness can withstand for several boundary conditions such as SSSS, CCCC, CSCS, CCSS, CSSS, and CCCS. The aspect ratios considered for these examples are 1, 1.5, and 2. The percentage difference results from the center deflection for various boundary conditions with varying aspect ratios of the present study were around equivalent with respect to those obtained from Ibearugbulem et al. (2014), and the results are within the acceptable limit in engineering. With the presented critical design parameters (qicD,tcD, qicE, tcE), it was concluded that this can be used in the determination of a suitable plate thickness from a specified lateral load and also the critical lateral imposed load a specified plate thickness can withstand under specified conditions of operation.Item Open Access Effects of planting dates and cultivar on pest infestation, yield and damage of sesame ( Sesamum indicum L.) in Owerri. Rain-Forest Zone of Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-05) Umelo, Chidinma QueenThe field study was carried out in the Post Graduate Teaching and Research Farm, Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State in 2018 to determine the level of pest infestation, yield and damage parameters of Sesame cultivars under different planting seasons in Owerri humid environment. The field design was a 3 x 6 factorial experiment laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with 3 replications. Each replication consists of six plots of size 2.4 x 2.4 m2 . Treatments comprised of: Factor A -Three planting dates (14th of April- early planting;14th of June- mid planting and14th of August- late planting) and Factor B- Six sesame cultivars (MAJIGIDA, NCRIBEN 01M, NCRIBEN 02M, NCRIBEN 04E, NCRIBEN 05E, NCRIBEN E-8). Treatments were allocated in an area of land measuring 23.9m x 13.2m (315.48m2 ). Planting was carried out at a spacing of 30cm within rows and 60cmbetween rows at a rate of three (3) seeds per stand which was laterthinned to one(1). Morphological parameters (days to emergence, germination percentage, days to flower bud initiation and opening, days to capsule initiation and capsule formation, days to maturity and plant height at maturity) were recorded. Counts of insect visually seen on the plants were also recorded. Data on sesame yield and damage include- capsule, seed, and thrash yields kg/ha, per plot, and per plant. The results show that Majigida cultivar had the highest growth performance at days to emergence (5.22), percentage emergence (66.3%) and days to maturity (108 days) with appreciable plant height (164.9), significant seed yield/ plant (6.44g) and thrash yield (274kg/ha; 147.8g/plot) and low damage percentage(2.9%) irrespective of pest population at vegetative and flowering stages. Sesame planted on 14th of April had better growth performance from emergence to maturity with high capsule yield (465kg/ha), seed yield (182.5kg/ha) and thrash yield (296kg/ha) and low percentage damage (2.6%) irrespective of pest population at vegetative and flowering phases. Therefore, for increased yield of Sesame that may ensure food security, availability and sesame productivity, planting of Maijigida cultivar during second week of April planting should be adopted in Owerri, Rain forest Zone, Nigeria.Item Open Access Stakeholders perception of conflict management styles of building projects in Lagos State of Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-11) Udeozor, Ugochukwu C.Building projects universally depends on the contributions of several actors involvedinconstruction projects, whereby stakeholders’ play major role in project execution. Manybuilding projects fail to meet the aim and goal of stakeholders involve inconstructionprojects as required with the use of building codes, whose roles and interest maycollidein the course of the project execution ,which may lead to conflicts if isnot wellmanaged. The study seeks stakeholder views on conflict management styles toresolveconflicts with the adherence to building codes as a base for building projectstoreduceconflict among stakeholders. The study aims to contribute stakeholder’s viewstoconflict management in building construction projects to building codes. Theresearchused a qualitative design in combination with cross-sectional survey onconstructionprojects of public and private sectors projects using descriptive methodtoevaluatetheinfluence of stakeholders in project. A formed questionnaire was distributedandreceived, which was analyzed through the use of Statistical Package for Social Scientist(SPSS) as a statistical software tools for analyzing, using Spearman’s correlationmethod. With the use of informed flow of decision at stakeholder’s involvementofproject collaborating with proper managerial skills set to resolve conflict inaccordanceto existing building code. In my findings, I was able to deduct that collaborativeandaccommodating approaches to conflict helps to manage conflict in adherencetobuildingcode. The study recommends prompt and iterative approach in identifying, analyzingand communicating with stakeholders at each level of the project andadheringtoexisting building codes stated, both internal and external individuals as keyindicatorstothe project.Item Open Access Chemical characterization and antioxidant properties of ethanol-water leaf extract of Justicia secunda and Jatropha tanjorensis(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Keke, Collins ObinnaThis study evaluated the chemical compositions, antioxidant and toxicological properties of ethanol-water leaf extracts of Justicia secunda and Jatropha tanjorensis. Proximate compositions were assessed using standard methods, while minerals, amino acids and phytochemical compositions were evaluated with the aid of atomic absorption spectrophotometer, amino acid analyzer and gas chromatography-mass spectrometer respectively. Antioxidant vitamins, total phenol, flavonoid contents, and free radical scavenging properties were also determined, while toxicological evaluation was via brine shrimp lethality assay. Both plants exhibited significant nutrient contents based on proximate and mineral analyses. Histidine and phenylalanine were the most abundant essential amino acids, while glycine and proline were the most prevalent non-essential amino acids in J. secunda and J. tanjorensis respectively. Notable amounts of phytochemicals were observed, with Jatropha tanjorensis having higher levels of sapogenin, anthocyanin, and anti-nutrient factors. GC-MS analysis revealed 62 and 52 bioactive compounds in J. secunda and J. tanjorensis respectively. J. secunda had higher levels of antioxidant vitamins C, E, and A, while J. tanjorensis demonstrated higher total phenolic and flavonoid contents. J. tanjorensis also displayed higher DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities, while J.secunda showed better FRAP. The brine shrimp lethality test indicated that the ethanol-water leaf extract of J. secunda exhibited higher toxicity (LC50; 7.59 x 102 ± 0.03µg/ml) compared to J. tanjorensis (LC50; 9.89 x 103 ± 0.03 µg/ml). The study has confirmed the forkloric claim of high nutritive and medicinal value of J. secunda and J. tanjorensis leaves. It showed that the plants contain significant amounts of bioactive compounds and antioxidants with free radical scavenging potentials but calls for caution in their use especially with J. secunda that had significant toxic effect on brine shrimp.Item Open Access Benchmarking performances of airline management models among domestic airlines in Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-07) Arauko, Jeremiah DavidThis study considers Benchmarking of Airline Management Models amongst Domestic Airlines in Nigeria. To guide the study, four research questions and four hypotheses were formulated. The population consisted of Station Managers of the airlines, and Airline personnel, Airport workers, regulatory representatives which consisted of NCAA, NAMA, FAAN from across four Airports in the South-South, Nigeria. A sample size of 180 respondents randomly selected from the four (4) airports in the study area. Airport management model questionnaire were developed. The instrument was validated and tested for reliability using the Split-half method. The instrument yielded a reliability coefficient 0f 0.85. Descriptive Statistics (Pearson Product Moment Correlation [PPMC] and nonlinear Regression Statistics) were used to test the hypothesis. Four (4) dependable variables which comprises of customer satisfaction, operational profitability, operational efficiency, and operational safety of the sampled Airlines were analyzed regarding each airlines management models. The result show that all four variables analyzed were above .05 level of significant, at the degrees of freedom of the respective numbers of observations therefore the null hypotheses for the objectives were not retained. The findings show that the overall performances of Domestic Airlines in Nigeria are largely dependent on management models’ compositions: significant improvement on customer Satisfaction, airline profitability, operational efficiencies, and operational safety will certainly make Airlines operations very profitable in Nigeria. It was therefore recommended among other things, efforts should be made upgrade their operational performances through Benchmarking for a more improved customer satisfaction, productivity, efficiency, and safety of the airlines.Item Open Access Assessment of ground and surface water quality in some sub-urban area of Owerri, Imo state(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Okwuchukwu, Kelechukwu JoyThis study was carried out to evaluate the water quality of the two major sources of water, for drinking and domestic use, in Owerri-north; a suburban area of Owerri metropolis. The two main water sources, the boreholes and Uramiriukwa river representing ground and surface water respectively, were sampled in this study. The water samples from the river were collected from three spatial points, upstream, middle and downstream, while three boreholes, point 1, point 2 and point 3, were sampled, at different spatial points of approximately 14 km apart, while FUTO borehole served as the control point. The pollution levels of the water sources were determined using their physiochemical and biological parameter including, temperature, turbidity, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solid (TDS), while the chemical parameters include pH, chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), dissolved oxygen (DO), (HCO3), total hardness (TH), Chloride (Cl), Nitrate (NO3), Phosphate (POS4), sulphate Acidity, Alkalinity, Total iron (Fe2+), and biological parameters of e. coli, klebsiella, total coliform count and total bacterial count for which mean and standard mean error (SEM) were determined using the IBM SPSS software. The T-test was used to determine the difference in the physiochemical and biological properties of the Uramiriukwa river and the borehole water samples. Water quality index (WQI) of the Uramiriukwa river and borehole water samples were also determined using the weighted arithmetic method. Results from this study shows that the physical properties of the river were poor considering the high turbidity, TSS, TDS, colour, and turbid appearance, while the borehole was heavily polluted with coliforms, and bacteria, including e.coli and klebsiella. Spatial variations have no significant difference (p>0.05) for the river water samples at upstream, middle stream and downstream, while there was significant difference in the three borehole water samples used in this study. Also, there was significant difference (p≤0.05) between the means physiochemical and biological parameters of the river and borehole water samples. Calculation for WQI showed that the borehole water was good for drinking, while the Uramiriukwa water samples were unfit for drinking with WQI score of 38.92 and 169.46 respectively. it was concluded that the river was polluted with solid and chemical wastes as a result of anthropogenic activities, including dredging, industrial activities, laundry, and indiscriminate municipal waste disposal, as observed during field study. The presence of high level of coliform in the borehole and river water samples is an indication of fecal contamination, which is an indication of possible health risk. Standard water treatment especially filtration and disinfection, are required for the surface and ground water in the study area, in order to improve their quality for drinking and domestic use. There is need to monitor and regulate human activities around the water sources, since they are major factor for the water qualities.Item Open Access Evaluation of distribution channels of Dangote cement in South Eastern region of Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-08) Osupiudan, Joseph OlukunleOver the years, consumer goods manufacturing firms in Nigeria are facing challenges of how to design, select and manage distribution channels that will ensure maximum savings in distribution costs, enhance product availability and effective co-ordination of channel activities. Dangote Cement Company as a case study is encountering problems of how to provide fast deliveries to customers, reduce total distribution costs and maximize customer satisfaction. Hence, this study therefore focused on the task of carrying out a thorough strategic investigation that would come up with practical and cognate solutions to the above problems by: (1) examining the influence of hybrid channel conflicts on channel performance (2) determining the relationship between the control exerted by a firm and satisfaction with existing channel: (3) determining the relationship between the length of a distribution channel and the channel‘s performance. Survey research method was adopted to sample the opinion of distributors and retailers of Dangote cement company through convenience sampling. Questionnaires and oral interviews were the main instruments used in collecting primary data for the study. While information obtained from textbooks, journals and materials from the internet provided the guideline for designing the questionnaire. Data were analyzed through the use of tables, simple percentages, means and standard deviation, Computer Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software version 26 was used for analyzing the data at 5% level of significance The study revealed that hybrid channel conflicts influence channel performance and significant relationship exist between the control exerted by a firm and satisfaction with its existing channel. It was also found that there is a relationship between the length of a distribution channel and the control exerted by the firm. However, it was found that there is no relationship existing between the length of a distribution channel and the channels performance. The study recommended that consumer goods manufacturing firms in Nigeria should adopt more innovations in their channel approaches. Broader acceptance of electronic data interchange to monitor sales and inventory levels throughout the total channel is reducing inventories and speeding response to changing customer requirements. It is also recommended that manufacturers should make efforts to integrate their channel system as this will enhance more effective co-ordination of their channel functions and reduce conflicts in the channels.Item Open Access Implementation of selected key performance indicators for enhanced rice production in a remote geo-location using wireless sensor network(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-02) Oyigbo, Uchechukwu MosesThis study was conducted to implement selected key performance indicators (KPIs) for enhanced rice production by addressing five major challenges that face rice farmers especially in Nigeria which include non-availability of water/rain for year-round cultivation, disproportionate application of fertilizer, weed control/prevention, pest/disease control, and rodents and birds invasion. In order to achieve this, a Zigbee-based Enhanced Wireless Sensor Network (eWSN) was used to model various network scenarios to demonstrate data sensing of different environmental variables in a given farm land. This was achieved by varying network devices at different scenarios using OPNET simulator and understudying the network performances. Each new set of network devices are integrated to a Zigbee Coordinator (ZC) which assigns an address to its members and forms a personal area network (PAN), thus representing data sensing of a particular environmental variable. In all, three different scenarios were designed and simulated. Each of the temperature and humidity, motion and soil nutrient sensors generated about 29bps of traffic. At the Coordinators, steady stream of traffic was received. The temperature and humidity Coordinators, received a traffic of 64bps each, while the soil nutrient Coordinator received data traffic of 96bps. The result of the design showed effective communication between different network components and further gave insight into how WSN could be used to monitor a number of different environmental variables on a farm field simultaneously, yet co-operatively. By implementing the KPIs, the result equally showed an estimated yield increase from 2.2 to 8.7 metric ton per hectare of a rice farm.Item Open Access Improved IOT-based weather monitoring system for effective farming(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-11) Ogbonna, Francisca ChinwenduAgriculture serves as the backbone of numerous global economies, and its success heavily relies on weather conditions. The conventional weather monitoring systems often involves lack of realtime updates, manual data collection, limited coverage and elevated cost to maintain the infrastructure which hinders their adoption in agricultural settings. These limitations highlight the need for an affordable, automated and efficient weather monitoring solution which leverages IoT technology to assist farmers in mitigating the risks posed by unpredictable and inconsistent weather conditions consequently optimizing resource usage and improving crop yields. This study developed an enhanced Internet of Things (IoT) based weather monitoring system that elevates the efficiency of agricultural operations. The Ignite IoT methodology was adopted in this research. Key components of the system which allowed for real-time weather data collection includes the Digital Temperature and Humidity Sensor (DHT11), Barometric Pressure Sensor (BMP280), Rain Sensor and Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) for light intensity detection. These sensors were integrated with the NodeMCU microcontroller, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) module, a 9 voltage power supply and a Universal Serial Bus interface (USB) for solar alternative. Realtime weather data transmission to a central server via IoT technology allowing farmers to access crucial weather information through a user-friend mobile application powered by the Blynk IoT platform. The system demonstrated enhanced visualization via a flexible and comprehensible display interface. Extended operational time and more stable power supply through alternative power were also achieved. Compared to conventional methods, the IoT-based weather monitoring system eliminated manual data collection and utilized affordable IoT devices which in turn reduced the overall cost of implementation. By leveraging this IoT-based weather monitoring system, farmers can optimize resource usage, increase crop yields, and mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions thus providing a cost-effective, reliable and efficient solution for modern agriculture.Item Open Access Study of the use of seed powders of three indigenous plants as bio-coagulants in wastewater and groundwater treatment(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-08) Osinomumu, Ikechukwu ObiadimmaThis study was designed to assess the coagulating efficacy of three indigenous plants (Moringa oleifera, Afzelia africana, and Muccuna flagellipse) seed powders as bio-coagulants in wastewater and groundwater treatment. Fresh, healthy, and mature seeds of Moringa oleifera, Afzelia africana, and Muccuna flagellipse were bought from the relief market in Owerri and processed into fine powders. Qualitative phytochemical screening of aqueous extracts of the seed powders was carried out, while physicochemical and bacterial analysis of the waste samples collected from Somachi slaughter (slaughterhouse wastewater) and Eziobodo (groundwater), Owerri Municipal was assessed before and after treatment. Three (3) different fresh stock solutions (SS) (15 g/300 ml, 30g/300ml, and 45g/300ml) of the seed powders were freshly prepared. Each 100ml of the water sample was measured into a clean 250ml beaker, and 10ml/20ml fresh stock solution were added and labeled accurately. The mixtures were stirred and allowed to stand for 24 hours for effective contact before filtering. Physicochemical parameters such as color, odor, and appearance were checked using ten (10) different observers, while pH, turbidity, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), biological oxygen demand (BOD), dissolved oxygen (DO), and chloride (Cl-) were assessed according to standard technique. The result revealed the presence of phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, steroids, saponins, and anthraquinones in M. oleifera, A. africana, and M. flagellipse, except for steroids in M. flagellipes and A. africana. The physicochemical properties of the water samples before treatment show that the slaughterhouse wastewater sample was brown in color, highly turbid, poor in appearance, and almost odorless, while the groundwater sample was completely colorless, odorless, and clear with excellent appearance. After treatment with 10mL and 20mL fresh SS, there was an observed decrease in the level of turbidity, pH, temperature, and BOD and an increase in DO and Cl- levels across different treatments and concentrations. M. oleifera showed the best performance with the lowest mean turbidity, followed by A. africana and M. flgellipes. Furthermore, groundwater treatment indicated changes in color, odor, appearance, and pH, which compare favorably with the control, while temperature, EC, TDS, DO, BOD, and Cl- were statistically the same before and after treatment. The turbidity increases across the different treatments. The bacterial screening results revealed the presence of coliforms (Escherichia coli, Streptococcus spp, Enterobacter spp.) and pathogenic bacteria (Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Campylobacter jejuni). Treatment with M. oleifera resulted in the lowest bacterial count, followed by A. africana and Muccuna flagellipes. The bacteria count for groundwater before and after treatment was significantly the same, except for a slight increase in E. coli and C. jejuni with M. flagellipes, though still within the WHO allowable bacterial count for domestic water (100-500/ml) of colony-forming units. Therefore, the use of M. oleifera as a bio-coagulant should be adopted in wastewater treatment, as it not only improves the water quality but also reduces the pathogenic bacteria load.Item Open Access Performance evaluation of selected indices of soil erodibility for Imo State soils(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-03) Nwachukwu, Ifeanyi PaschalThis work centered on evaluating the performance of some selected indices (Clay, Modified clay ratio, Water stable aggregate, Dispersion and Erosion ratios) for determiningErodibility for Imo State soils. Soil samples were collected from 12 locations in triplicate using the completely randomized design for the selected site in Imo State. Soil physical and chemical properties determined were the particle size distribution, organic matter content, dry and bulk density, permeability, porosity and void ratio, moisture content, soil pH and specific gravity. The data obtained through field and laboratory experiments were used in measuring the indices. Soil losses were obtained from the field (insitu) using a portable rainfall simulator of 163.27mm/hr rainfall intensity. The “rainfall” was simulated under three (3) soil conditions; dry, wet and saturated. Statistical analysis using the ANOVA showed that the rainfall simulated under the conditions mentioned above were statistically significant (P<0.05). This suggests that any “rainfall” conditions chosen, can reliably produce soil losses for the study of soil erosion behavoir. The regression model equation between the soil losses and the indices of Erodibility developed showed coefficient of correlation values for Modified clay ratio – 0.7579, Clay ratio – 0.7036, Erosion ratio – 0.7279 and Dispersion ratio – 0.7056.From comparative analysis of the selected indices, it was concluded that the Modified clay ratio, Clay ratio, Dispersion ratio and Erosion ratio had performance rating between 70% and 75% probability. These four indices performed satisfactorily thereby becoming better tools in the study of erosion. Water stable aggregate is only applicable to soils having particle size above 2mm which provides for proper evaluation of the index. Overall benefit of using this indices in assessment of soil erodibility shows the unique relationship between the primary soil textural class (sand, silt, and clay) and its percentage composition which defines the true state of any soil (easily eroded or non easily eroded).Item Open Access Food security status and awareness of Sustainable Development Goal-2 among households in Abuja Municipal Area Council(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-07) Njoku, Sylvaline ChisomWith the recent covid-19 pandemic, hunger and malnutrition have increased worldwide, with sub– Saharan Africa being the most affected. This study was carried out to determine the food security status and awareness of sustainable Development Goal - 2 among households in Abuja Municipal Area Council, an urban area in the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. Using a descriptive crosssectional study design, four hundred and twenty-one (421) households were randomly selected from the various wards in Abuja Municipal Area Council, Abuja. Structured questionnaire and Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) as well as the Food Consumption Score (FCS) were the tools used in gathering the information needed for the study. Respondents from the sampled households were domestic heads of households, multistage sampling technique was used and data collected were subjected to descriptive statistics and Chisquare using SPSS statistics version 23. From the results gotten, food security status among households in Abuja Municipal Area Council is poor (37%) as most of the households were food insecure (63%). Also, there was poor awareness of SDG-2 as seen among respondents (57%), only 43% of the respondents have heard about SDG-2. There was also significant association of sociodemographic characteristics of respondents and food security in the study area (P≤0.05). Food security was highest in respondents who were satisfied with their monthly income 17 (85%), followed by those who had a family size of two 33 (65%) and least among those who had no occupation 1(3%). Moreso, the most food insecure were those who had no occupation 33 (97%). However, food security was also higher among the able bodied 138(43%) male respondents 89(47%) who were Islam 93(41%) and were within the age bracket of 32 – 41 years 67(46%) and were also married 101(49%). Food security was also higher among most of them who achieved tertiary as their highest level of education 38(51%) and are public/civil servant 47(52%). The food consumption score of the participants was shown to be 21 (poor), 33 (borderline) and 36 (acceptable) for the < 3 days, 3-4 days and 5days and above respectively. As household coping strategies against food insecurity, majority of the participants occasionally eat once a day 294(70%), followed by allowing children to eat first 220(52%), with the least being reducing the number of meals eaten in one day 149(35%). However, most of them never sold their assets 183 (43%) nor engaged in illegal income activities (theft, smuggling, prostitution) as a coping strategy 325(77%). The study emphasized that stakeholders should promote nutrition training and socio-economic status, especially for domestic heads of households, in order to improve household nutrition-related knowledge, thereby enhancing the food security of the households. It also recommends that family planning methods should be used more by couples so as to maintain small family sizes, hence promoting more food secure households.Item Open Access Investigation of the effects of science and technology on environmental impact assessment(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-11) Ibe, Raymond ObinnaThis research work deals on the effects of Science and Technology on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Principally EIA is a predictive tool. Different professionals are involved in EIA and each and everyone has his own view about what should be done or not to ensure that the original aim of EIA as a predictive and decision making tool is achieved. The issue of Science and Technology input in EIA, its effectiveness stimulated this research. The conventional response in this area has been to place emphasis on strengthening existing EIA practice and procedure. It is revealed that the effectiveness of EIA is influenced mainly by six (6) key factors namely, Method and quality of data collection, Research time, legislative backing, information management, laboratory/research results and project funding. Factors like Capacity Building, Education for Participants, Guidance and Procedure for the Conduct of EIA, Continuous Research Training for Project Managers and Technical Staff and Follow up Mechanism have also been implicated for the improved quality and precision of an EIA . Non-probability convention was applied to select the respondents. The researcher self – administered copies of questionnaire to 115 respondents.A Five – Point Likert summated type scale was used to collect primary data and Regression analysis to analyze the data. The researcher also used Analysis of variance table (ANOVA) to establish differences between groups. Finally Spearman Rank Correlation coefficient was applied to test the hypothesis. The results show that there is a significant relationship between Science and Technology and the effectiveness of EIA. Based on the findings The researcher emphasized that substantial improvements can be made with the contribution of science and technology to environmental Impact assessment. It is recognized that analysis within impact assessments will always be limited by the knowledge base either already established or obtainable in the appropriate period. In conclusion of the study, the researcher recommended the upgrading of EIA practice through effort at conceptualization, more effective study, planning and a common realistic expectation through a focused applied Science and Technology Research Programme.Item Open Access Soil classification and concentration of selected heavy metals in some soils of the Niger Delta region, Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-06) Sule, Benjamin AgbeneSome physicochemical characteristics and heavy metal levels in selected spilled and unspilled soils of the Niger Delta region, Nigeria were analysed. A total of three locations were sampled and two profile pits (spilled and unspilled) were dug at each location making a total of six (6) profile pits. Samples were collected from genetic horizons starting from the lowest horizon in each pedon. Conventional analytical methods were employed for the determination of these physico-chemical properties and heavy metals. Data gotten from the laboratory analysis were subjected to simple correlation, coefficient of variability and t-test. Results showed that the consistence of the soils was very friable(Egbem-spilled and unspilled, Oguta unspilled), friable(Oguta spilled and Ugwunagbo spilled) and loose in the epipedons and friable in all subsurface horizon, while the soil structure ranged from very weak fine granular to medium subangular blocky in spilled pedons whereas unspilled pedons were predominantly very fine single grained. There were generally fine and medium roots in the studied soils. The soils were basically Sandy Loam (SL) and Sandy Clay Loam (SCL). The value of sand ranged from 740 - 810 g/Kg. Sand and Silt fractions decreased down the pedons. Low clay characterized the epipedons. The soils were well drained and all soils were deep (> 180cm). Bulk density increased with depth for all pedons and ranged from 1.17 – 1.56 gcm-3 . Spilled pedons had higher bulk densities (1.37 gcm-3 , 1.37 gcm-3 and 1.40 gcm-3 ) than the unspilled pedons (1.33 gcm-3 , 1.30 gcm-3 and 1.33 gcm-3 ).Slight variations (CV < 15%) were recorded for bulk density in all pedons. Moisture content was lower in spilled sites, it showed slight variations (CV<15%) at Ugwunagbo unspilled site and Oguta spilled site, moderate variation in Oguta unspilled and high variation in Egbema (spilled and unspilled) and Ugwunagbo spilled. The pH values in all sites ranged from 4.8 – 6.3 indicating that the studied soils were acidic. The spilled pedons in Egbema and Ugwunagbo were more acidic than their unspilled pedons. But the reverse was observed in Oguta sites where the spilled site had a higher pH than the unspilled pedon. Generally, pH in KCl was less than in water. The pH showed slight variability (CV<15%). There was a significant difference between spilled and unspilled pedons. Generally, total nitrogen was highly variable (49 – 92 %), it was higher in spilled pedons of Egbema and Oguta but the reverse was the case in Ugwunagbo. It decrease down the pedons. Available Phosphorus values ranged from low (<5mg/kg) to high (>15mg/Kg). It was highly variable (CV>35%) in most pedons. Available Phosphorus was higher in unspilled than spilled soils. Organic Carbon generally decreased with depth. Values of Calcium and Magnesium were higher in unspilled than in spilled soils. Sodium values were generally low and varied for different pedons. Exchangeable Potassium had higher values in unspilled than spilled soils. Ca:Mg ratio was below 3 in (Egbema-spilled and unspilled, Oguta unspilled and Ugwunagbo spilled and unspilled) indicating unfertile soils. Higher values were recorded for ECEC in unspilled soils than in spilled soils. Values of Base saturation were higher in unspilled than spilled soils and showed a significant difference between spilled and unspilled pedons. Aluminum saturation values were low in the studied soils. Heavy metal values decreased down the pedon and were generally higher in spilled than unspilled soils, but they were within the permissible limit for use. Generally, the magnitude of heavy metals followed Ni > Pb > Cd > Cr for spilled soils and Ni>Pb>Cr>Cd for unspilled soils. Though the detected levels of heavy metals in the studied soil were within the permissible limits, caution should be taken to avoid accumulation and toxicity. The soils of Ugwunagbo and Egbema were classified as Typic paleudult - Dystric Nitisol (FAO/WRB). While those of Oguta were classified as Typic tropudult - Orthic Acrisol (FAO/WRB).Item Open Access Evaluation of the Nekede dumpsite on surrounding groundwater quality in Owerri West, Imo State, Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri., 2023-12) Izibeya, DiemewuluThis study evaluated the impact of municipal solid waste on groundwater quality around the Nekede dumpsite, Owerri West, Imo State, Nigeria. The Nekede waste dump is about two (2) hecters in area and has existed for many years and can pose pollution hazard to surface and groundwater resources through leachate infiltration. Several families abstract water for domestic usage from boreholes in this areas with resultant exposure to several water-borne challenges. 50kg of waste were classified into different categories and their percent composition determined. Water samples were also collected from four (4) different boreholes within 50m radius of the waste dump and analysed using standard procedures. Results obtained revealed that the waste in the dumpsite were majorly composed of metals (36.66% by mass). The pH of the borehole water sampled were slightly acidic, indicating possible waste interaction with the underlying aquifers. The Electrical Conductivity (EC) values ranged between 24-490µScm-1. BH1, the borehole nearest to the waste dump recorded the highest conductivity value of 490 µscm-1 which is above the WHO regulatory standard for a portable water. Lead (Pb), Iron (Fe), Nickel (Ni), and Chromium (Cr) concentrations were all found to be above the WHO regulatory limits. These results suggest a possible pollutant input from the waste dump, implying that the selected boreholes were impacted by the waste dump. The VES data of Nekede dumpsite showed a thickness value of 35m to 183m and the aquifer resistivity values ranged from 1000Ωm to 5850Ωm, the aquifer map also revealed an unconfined/ semi unconfined aquifer formation with sandy soil from top to bottom and layers of clay of 3.3m to 5.9m thickness. This formation is highly vulnerable to groundwater pollution due to high rate of leachate infiltration. This research have shown that Nekede dumpsite is a threat to the surrounding groundwater due to possible seepage of leachate from the dumpsite. This work has shown that regulation of drilling of boreholes in the study area and its environs has become inevitable to protect the public from water borne diseases.Item Open Access Organoleptic and microbial analysis of chrysichthys nigrodigitatus from Imo River, Nigeria smoked using different sources of heat(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-09) Jude, Chiemla Jude JrThis study is aimed to assess the microbiological and sensory quality of smoke–dried fish processed, using four different sources of heat (Charcoal, Firewood, Sawdust and Oven). A total of 300 fresh fish samples were randomly collected from Imo River for the study. The fish were divided into four batches of 75 fish per batch and processed using four different methods: Smokedried with charcoal (T1), Smoke-dried with firewood (T2), Smoke-dried with sawdust (T3) and Smoke-dried with oven (T4). Organoleptic assessment using a 5-point hedonic scale was also employed using a sensory evaluation while Microbial quality was determined from total coliform count and types of bacterial isolates. Data from Organoleptic assessment were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics such as percentages, pie charts and bar charts while microbiological data were statistically evaluated using the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results of organoleptic studies which evaluated the perception of four sensory criteria showed that for appearance/colour quality score was 9.0 (Charcoal), 7.2 (Firewood), 7.8 (Sawdust) and 9.5 (Oven). For Aroma, score was 7.8 (Charcoal), 7.6 (Firewood), 7.8 (Sawdust) and 9.4 (Oven). For Texture as sensory quality, score was 7.8 (Charcoal), 7.6 (Firewood), 7.8 (Sawdust) and 9.3 (Oven). Similarly, for Taste, the score was 9.0 (Charcoal), 7.4 (Firewood), 9.0 (Sawdust) and 9.7 (Oven). The result revealed that the organoleptic quality of fish dried using the oven as heat source gave the best sensory quality of excellence in terms of appearance/colour (9.5), aroma (9.4), texture (9.3) and taste (9.7). Results of Microbial analysis based on plate count method (cfu/g) and total viable bacterial count (TVBC) of pathogen food bacteria isolates, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp were as follows: For total coliform (cfu/g), Charcoal was (2.6×102), Firewood (2.9×102), Sawdust (2.6×102), Oven (2.2×102). E. coli was 1.5×102 (Charcoal), 1.8×102 (Firewood), 1.6×102 (Sawdust) and 1.2×102 (Oven). For Klebsiella spp, total viable bacterial count (cfu/g) was 1.1×102 (Charcoal), 1.1×102 (Firewood), 1.0×102 (Sawdust) and 1.0×102 (Oven). The results of microbial analysis showed that fish processed using the oven gave the lowest microbial load 1.0×102. It is thus recommended that where available and economical, oven processing/drying method should be adopted by fish producers. The use of oven in fish processing/drying will also mitigate the effect of deforestation which is the common source of charcoal, firewood and sawdust.Item Open Access Mathematical model and analysis of chlamydia and gonorrhea co-infection(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-05) Chukukere, Eziaku ChinomsoA model for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and gonorrhea co-dynamics is studied and analysed to assess the impact of targeted treatment for each of the diseases on their co-infections population. The model exhibits the dynamical feature of backward bifurcation when associated reproduction number is less than unity. The global asymptotic stability of the disease-free equilibrium was also analyzed. The numerical simulations show that the strategy which implements female chlamydia trachomatis treatment and male gonorrhea treatment is the most effective in combating co-infections Chlamydia trachomatis and gonorrhea