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Open Access
Perception of climate change and adaptation strategies of livestock and crop farmers in Imo State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-11) Osuala, Ogechi Mercy
This study analyzed the perception of climate change and adaptation strategies of livestock and crop farmers in Imo State. The specific objectives of the study included to; identify the socioeconomic characteristics of livestock and crop farmers, identify the various forms of climate change conditions perceived by livestock and crop farmers, determine the perceived effects of climate change on livestock and crop farmers, identify the various adaptations and coping strategies adopted by livestock and crop farmers, and determine the factors that influence the adaptation measures to perceived climate change adopted by the livestock and crop farmers. Hypotheses tested were; there was no significant difference in the net returns of livestock and crop farmers in the study area; crop farmers socioeconomic characteristics did not significantly affect their uptake of adaptation to climate change; and livestock farmers’ socioeconomic characteristics did not significantly affect their uptake of adaptation measures to climate change. Data were collected with structured questionnaire from 72 and 120 proportionately livestock and crop farmers, respectively, from Imo State. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multinomial logit model. Mean farm size was 890 birds, 11 goats and 0.91 hectares for poultry, goat and crop farmers, respectively. Most (69.4%) of the livestock farmers and majority (89.2%) of the crop farmers reported that their perceived form of climate change was high temperature/heat. Most (74.2%) of the crop farmers perceived the effect of climate change as poor soil fertility, while most (73.6%) of the livestock farmers indicated reduced productivity as the perceived effect of climate change. Planting improved crop varieties and intensive management system were adopted by most of the crop and livestock farmers, respectively, as adaptation measures to climate change. Factors that influence the adaptation measures to climate change by livestock farmers were age, gender, level of education, farmers’ experience, and farm income, while the factors that influenced change by crop farmers were gender, access to credit, crop mixture, and level of education. Hypotheses one and two were rejected with respect to the significant socioeconomic variables and accepted as regards the non-significant socioeconomic variables of the crop and livestock farmers. Climate in Imo State is really changing and affecting crop and livestock farmers negatively in their production activities which they have tried to cushion through various adaptation strategies. There is therefore, need to encourage the farmers to adapt to climate change through enlightenment campaigns which may be organized by the government through the mass media, print media or the churches and other public functions.
Open Access
Investigation of geo-environmental hazards and reclamation of abandoned borrow pits, South-Eastern, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2016-02) Nwachukwu, Maureen Ijeoma
Geo-environmental hazards associated with active and abandoned borrow pits are on the increase following rising trend in road construction. This situation presents a major challenge to Citizens, Environmentalists and Governments. Several highway failures have been directly linked to the action of erosion initiated by active or abandoned borrow pits situated close to roads. This study investigated environmental hazards and reclamation requirements associated with abandoned borrow pits in parts of Owerri area, south-eastern, Nigeria. On-sites environmental assessment conducted by direct measurements and supported with photographs showed prevalence of landslides, gully erosion, structural failure, possibility of accidents and threat to ecosystem as well as biodiversity. There is significant threat to groundwater and general environmental safety. A detailed investigation of the Ihiagwa and Emekuku pits revealed poor pit safety factor and high probability of sliding indicative of danger zones, angle of slope 70° - 80°, depth of the pit is 10 m (33 ft) and 21.3 m (70 ft), and pit distance to the road is 15 m and 30 m for Ihiagwa and Emekuku respectively. Geotechnical results show average values of maximum dry density (MDD) and optimum moisture content (OMC) in the two locations is 1.89 mg/m3 and 14% respectively. The average Plasticity index (Ip) of the soil samples was 19.7% while average of shear strength was 97.65 KN/m2 . Results of grain size distribution for the two sites show the lateritic soil as sandy with percentage of Clay-silt as 23 and 54 for Emekuku and Ihiagwa respectively. This implies that the lateritic soil is plastic, and can be generally described as cohesive, and suitable as road fill material for which it is being used. Resistivity measurements at the two sites show sandy topsoil 0.43 m and 0.57 m, followed by sandy (lateritic) overburden 3.62 m and 19.17 m representing the borrow material, indicating water table at depth 40.43 m and fluctuates between 47.78 m and 64.81 m for Ihiagwa and Emekuku respectively. It is recommended that borrow pits be professionally sited and fenced, to reduce accidents while in-use. Nigerian mining laws on reclamation of borrow pits must be enforced. Reclamation shall be part of the borrow pit contract agreement. Communities must insist on reclamation of borrow pit after mining with the borrow pit operators. Proper reclamation of borrow pits is by earth-moving, filling the pit with soil and moving land area next to the pit using bulldozer. This is followed by compaction of the earth material, with in-situ and laboratory testing to achieve the original geotechnical ground condition as measured. An agreement to pit reclamation must be signed by the borrow pit operators with the appropriate government agency before a borrow pit site will be opened. Host community of the borrow pit will be empowered in the agreement to follow up the reclamation exercise soon after the mining operation. Warning signs are to be placed at strategic locations from 500 m to the very location of a borrow pits. This will help to control movement and reduce accidents particularly to farmers and cattle grazers. Reclaimed borrow pit site is turned green for farming or used as recreation parks. It will promote a self-sustaining environment which attracts wildlife; improves ecosystem services and environmental quality.
Open Access
Phenol utilization and toxicity of ternary mixtures of phenol, zinc and cadmium to fungal species isolated from hydrocarbon impacted soil
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2018-11) Nlemolisa, Oluchi Rose Collette
The present study was carried out to determine phenol utilization and toxicity of ternary mixtures of zinc, cadmium and phenol to fungal species isolated from hydrocarbon impacted soil. The yeasts isolated from the hydrocarbon impacted soil were identified as Saprochaete sp. and Cryptococcus sp. The biodegradation phenol potential of Saprochaete sp. and Cryptococcus sp. was studied using mineral salt broth supplemented with phenol with concentration ranging from 0-1000 mg/l. Investigation shows that the yeasts were able to utilize almost all the introduced quantity (1000 mg/l) of phenol as sole source of carbon and energy within a period of 3 to14 days. The toxicity was determined based on the inhibition of dehydrogenase activity of Saprochaete sp. and Cryptococcus sp. The toxicity of chemicals and their mixtures was evaluated in the concentration range of 0-16 mM for phenol, 0-5 mM for zinc and 0-0.4 mM for cadmium. The binary and ternary mixture ratios were evaluated. The toxicity thresholds (IC50) were estimated using 3-parameter logistic dose-response model. The IC50 shows that cadmium has the highest toxic effect on the yeasts with IC50 value of 0.075 mM for Saprochaete sp. and 0.09 mM for Cryptococcus sp. The binary and ternary toxicity of the mixtures on the enzyme activity of the yeasts was evaluated with toxic index (TI) model. Modulation of the toxic interactions by the components of the mixtures through synergistic, additive and antagonistic interactions on the heavy metals and phenol were possible against the dehydrogenase activity of the phenol-utilizing yeasts. However the toxic effects of phenol and heavy metals would depend on their relative amount present in the environment.
Open Access
Phytochemical, nutritional and antimicrobial studies of corchorus olitorius linn
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2017-08) Ikwuegbu, Ekene, Afam
The phytochemical analysis, proximate and mineral analysis, extraction of active principles and antimicrobial susceptibility tests were carried out on Corchorus olitorius Linn. The phytochemical analysis of the plant extracts (aqueous and ethanol) revealed the presence of alkaloids (53.50±0.05 mg), flavonoids (81.38±0.07 mg), tannins (71.00±0.02 mg), saponins (54.70±0.03 mg) and phenols (200.03±16.07 mg). The proximate analysis of whole plant showed that the plant contains moisture (29.69 ±0.01 mg), ash (4.20±0.03 mg), crude fat (7.14±0.01 mg), protein (28.20±0.27 mg), fiber (23.86 ±0.02 mg) and carbohydrate (74.30±0.70 mg). The mineral analysis also showed varied quantities of calcium (616.33±4.73 mg), magnesium (157.50±42.50 mg), iron (1.21±0.01 mg), sodium (306.00 ±6.00) and potassium (233.17±1.61 mg) in the different parts (root, stem, seed and leaves) respectively. Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhi, Microsporum canis, Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, and Penicillium chrysogenum were the organisms used as challenge organisms in the antimicrobial susceptibility tests. The results of the antimicrobial susceptibility tests showed that the extracts and active principle exhibited inhibitory and bactericidal but not fungicidal activities against the challenge organisms in various degrees. The zones of inhibition of the extracts and active principles on the test bacteria ranged from 4.50±0.1 mm – 10.00±0.07 mm while those of the test fungi were 10.00±0.1 mm. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of the extracts and active principles on the challenge organisms ranged from 100 mg/ml – 250 mg/l while the minimum bactericidal concentration of the extracts and active principles on the test bacteria was 250 mg/ml. This study has justified the traditional use of this plant for the treatment of many bacterial and fungal infections and also as an agent for wound healing whose causative agents are some of these organisms. It also lends credence to the need for further research on this plant so as to fully explore its pharmacological benefits
Open Access
Evaluation of indoor air pollutants in selected hostels of tertiary institutions in Owerri-Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2016-02) Nnadozie, Chukwuemeka Fortunatus
This study was aimed at evaluating the concentration levels of indoor air pollutants in some selected hostels located in four tertiary institutions in Imo state, Nigeria. It was conducted from February 2012 to July 2012. The pollutants such as: H2S, NO2, CH4, NH3, SO2, CO, Particulate matters and meteorological parameters; temperature, relative humidity, wind speed were measured. The gases were monitored using in-situ gas monitors while meteorological parameters were measured using multi-digital environmental meter. The observed concentration levels of indoor pollutants across the locations range as follows: H2S, 0.02 to 0.082ppm, NO2, 0.008 to 0.05ppm, CH4, 0.00 to 0.01ppm, NH3, 0.01 to 0.2ppm, SO2, 0.004 to 0.05ppm, CO, 0.6 to 9.25 ppm and particulate matters, 7.0 to 83Åg/m3 . The results revealed that the levels of pollutants were within the permissible limits of USEPA, WHO and FEPA. Multiple linear regression analysis of pollutants with meteorological parameters gave R- square (R2) values ranging between (0.490 to 0.618), implying that the studied meteorological parameters jointly influenced (49 to 62%) levels of the pollutants in the studied locations. The monthly means of the pollutants were analyzed using two way Analysis of variance (ANOVA), and some of the results showed probability levels at (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05). These generated indoor pollutants can build up to levels of public health concerns and have also been associated with a growing burden of diseases. It is therefore recommended that periodic monitoring of indoor pollutants; use of improved stoves and fuels, as well as improving ventilation systems could reliably protect the indoor environment and reduce human exposures
Open Access
Identification of neo-tectonic zones and their effect in the development of gullies within Orlu and environs, SouthEastern Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-11) Onwubuariri, Chukwuebuka Nnamdi
A detailed geoscientific study was carried out within Orlu and environs with the objective of evaluating the influence of tectonic and neo-tectonic features on gully development and propagation in the study area. Field geological mapping was carried out to characterize the gullies and to estimate the strikes and directional attributes of the gullies. Similarly, GIS interpreted Landsat-ETM imageries were used to map lineaments, evaluate their trends and to infer their possible tectonic significance in the study area. Azimuthal resistivity sounding was carried out at various locations within the study area to determine the direction of electrical anisotropy as well as the coefficient of anisotropy. They were rotated in four azimuths at angles of 00 , 450 , 900 and 1350 corresponding to the N-S, NE-SW, E-W and NW-SE directions. Similarly, vertical electrical sounding (VES) was also carried out using a maximum current electrode separation of 400m. Finally, a detailed geotechnical analysis of the soils within the locations of the gully sites was carried out to evaluate the properties of the soils within the study area. Results of the geotechnical analysis revealed that the soils in the study area are predominantly moderately sorted sand, poly-modal, symmetrical and leptokurtic. The Optimum Moisture Content ranges from 8.8% to 11%, while the Maximum Dry Density ranges from 1.91% to 1.99%.Atterberg test results revealed Liquid Limits ranging between 22.8% and 35%, Plasticity Limit of between 13.7% and 25%, and Plasticity Index varying between 6% and 10.6%.Results of Vertical Electrical Sounding(VES) carried out in the study area revealed that the resistivity of the first layer varies from 65.168 m to5,970 m with an average of 1,155.209 m with thickness values of 0.6106m to 4.8m respectively. Geological field mapping of the study area revealed that the gullies in the study area trend approximately in the NW-SE and NE-SW directions with the NE-SW direction being preponderant. Similarly, Rose diagrams generated from the strikes and lengths of lineaments interpreted from Landsat-ETM+ images revealed two structural trends of NW-SE and NE-SW with the NW-SE being dominant. Results of the azimuth frequency diagrams generated from the anisotropic resistivity soundings revealed uni-modal to poly- modal pattern with the dominant trend directions observed to be in the NW-SE and NE-SW directions. The correlation of the trends of the gullies with the lineament trends from landsat and the direction of electrical anisotropy suggests that gully origin and propagation in the study area may be structurally or tectonically controlled.
Open Access
Risk factor associated with diabetic foot ulcer among people living with diabetes attending government owned hospitals in Owerri, Imo State
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-07) Nwokeleme, Ogechi Chikaodi
Diabetic foot ulcer is the most common life threatening complication associated with diabetes, a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose. It results in medical and socioeconomic burden for the patients, families, society and also countries. In Imo State Nigeria, there is not much of literature on epidemiological studies on diabetic foot ulcer among persons living with diabetes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the risk factors associated with diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) among persons living with diabetes in government owned hospitals in Owerri, Imo State. A hospital based case control study design was adopted for this study. Simple random sampling technique was used to select the 400 study participants from people living with diabetes attending government owned hospitals who fulfilled the criteria, of which 200 were cases and 200 controls. Well-structured questionnaire alongside patient folder was used to collect information on demographic factors, foot care knowledge, diabetes management pattern and diabetes duration. All data were entered and analyzed using the International Business Machine (IBM) Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSs) version 22. Results clearly indicated that 260 (65%) were males. For the case group, the males were 140 (70%) while they were 120 (60%) females in the control group. more than half of the total subjects (205: 51.2%) were of age 51 – 70 years (case group: 70%, control group: 32.5%). The 31 – 50 years comprised of 17.5% of the case group and 59.5% in the control group. only 8 (2%) subjects in all were up to or below 30 years and they all fall within the control group (4%). There were approximately 54% of foot ulcer cases in males against 43% in females, consequently the risk for foot ulcer was found to be 36% significantly lower among females than in males (p= 0.036, X2= 4.40, OR= 0.64). Diabetes foot ulcer increased significantly with age (p< 0.0001, X2= 96.78), with 76% cases recorded for the above 70 compared to 68% and 23% respectively on the 51-70 years and 31- 50 years. Using the above 70s as the reference age group, the odds for foot ulcer were found to lower by 39% among the 51-70 years (p= 0.388 X2= 0.74, OR= 0.69) and 91% significantly lower among the 31- 50 years (p< 0.0001, X2= 35.1, OR= 0.09). The foot ulcer cases were estimated to be 69.9% among those that responded they have not heard of it in the past. The risk for the disease was close to 6 times higher among the group that did not hear of the foot care (p < 0.0001, X2= 69.03, OR= 5.88). Similarly, the odds were also significantly higher among those that do not perform regular foot examination (p < 0.0001, X2= 44.90, OR= 7.17), or only do so sometimes (p < 0.0001, X2= 17.50, OR= 3.37), compared to those that conduct regular examination of foot. Not following diabetes diet plan (p < 0.0001, X2= 52.17) as well as not taking diabetes medication (p < 0.0001, X2= 52.17) are significant risk factors of foot ulcer in this study (p< 0.0001. In conclusion, this study found that a significant number of risk factors exist among people living with diabetes attending government owned hospitals in Owerri, Imo state. Considering sociodemographic factors, the study result showed that level of education, occupation, male gender and age were significant risk factors. Furthermore, lack of foot care knowledge and practice, poor diabetes management pattern and long term diabetes duration all contribute to risk of developing DFU. The researcher recommended that surveillance of DFU should be carried out in the state, risk targeted public health interventions in communities, monitoring and evaluation of treatment uptake, education on foot care practices and further studies on suicidal ideation among people living with diabetes.
Open Access
Models for predicting the compressive strenght of compressed stabilized earth blocks
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2025-07) Iwu, Uchenna
This study presents models for predicting the compressive strength of compressed stabilized earth blocks (CSEBs). The blocks were produced using Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and suitable soil obtained by mixing laterite, river sand, and granite chippings in appropriate proportions. Varying OPC contents of 5%, 6% and 8% were used. A constant compressive pressure of 6MPa was used in molding all the blocks using universal compression machine. 27 mix ratios were used for the work, 18 for designing the models, and 9 for testing them. Three blocks were molded for each mix ratio, compressed, and cured by sprinkling of water twice daily and covering with nylon mat for 28 days, after which the blocks were crushed at saturated surface dry state. Using Ibearugbulem’s Regression Function, three mathematical models were formulated for predicting the compressive strengths of CSEBs when the mixture proportions are known. The average 28th day compressive strength values of the blocks for 5%, 6%, and 8% OPC content were 3.6N/mm2 , 5.5N/mm2 and 6.8N/mm2 respectively, well above the 2.5N/mm2 recommended by The Nigeria Industrial Standard (NIS 87: 2000) for load bearing walls. The compressive strength values predicted by model 2 at 5%, 6%, and 8% OPC content were 3.50N/mm2 , 5.53N/mm2 and 7.30N/mm2 respectively, while the corresponding laboratory values were 3.60N/mm2 , 5.50N/mm2 and 7.31N/mm2 respectively. Predicted and laboratory values for models 1 and 3 were similarly close. The predictions from the three models were tested with the statistical Fisher test and found to be adequate at 95% confidence level. Thus, the models are suitable for predicting the compressive strength of CSEBs compressed with a pressure of 6MPa
Open Access
Proliferation of petrol stations: Risk, identification and design of groundwater quality monitoring wells in Owerri West, Imo State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2017-11) Eme, Chidinma Christiana
Petrol stations located along three roads: Nekede-Ihiagwa – Aba Road (1), OwerriWest segment of Port-Harcourt Road (2) and Owerri-West segment of Onitsha Road (3) were specifically investigated and mapped using Global Positioning System (GPS). Results show that the number of petrol stations is more than necessary. The 8 km Road (1) has 26 petrol stations; the 14 km Road (2) has 24 petrol stations while the 6 km Road (3) has 20 petrol stations. Out of a total of 70 petrol stations, 46% were functional, 42% were non functional, 8% were abandoned and 4% were under construction at time of this investigation. Petrol stations that were not properly situated were 64% while 1% is encroached by new developing structures. The petrol stations have their age range between 2 to 22 years, number of underground storage tanks (USTs) from 3 to 12 and average depth of USTs as 3.6 m (12 ft.). All the stations have similar size USTs and same corrosion prevention treatment of only bitumen coating and wrapping with black polyethylene. No cathodic protection. Electrical resistivity inversion gave average depth to groundwater as 24.5 m (80 ft) and lithology consisting predominantly of sand and gravel beds which implies that leakage from USTs would easily migrate to the water table. Drainage analysis confirmed surface drainage towards SouthSW, corresponding to groundwater flow direction. USTs between ages of 15 to 22 years are at greater risk of corrosion and leakage, whereas approximately one million people in the area depend on groundwater for drinking and other domestic uses. Six monitoring well locations have been identified based on groundwater flow direction (South-SW), cluster of petrol stations, and age (≥ 15 years) of USTs.
Open Access
Use of indigenous medicinal plants for healthcare by small ruminant farmers in Imo State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-06) Onuoha, Eugenia Nneka
The study analyzed the use of indigenous medicinal plants for healthcare by small ruminant farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to describe the socio-economic characteristics of the small ruminant farmers, identify the indigenous medicinal plant species available to them, identify small ruminant ailments prevalent in the study area, ascertain methods of preparation of the medicinal plants used, determine the situations or conditions for use of the medicinal plants in small ruminants ’healthcare by male and female farmers, ascertain the perceived reasons for use of indigenous medicinal plants in small ruminants’ healthcare, and identify the constraints to the use of indigenous medicinal plants in small ruminants’ healthcare in the study area. The hypotheses tested were; there was no significant relationship between the socioeconomic characteristics of the farmers and their perceived reasons for use of indigenous medicinal plants for small ruminant healthcare, there was no significant difference in the perceived reasons for use of indigenous medicinal plants for small ruminant healthcare between the male and female farmers and there were no significant differences in the perceived reasons for use of indigenous medicinal plants among farmers for small ruminant healthcare in the three agricultural zones of Imo State. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select the sample for the study. A total of 240 small ruminant farmers were selected for the study. Data were obtained from primary sources and were analysed using mean score, standard deviation and percentage. The hypotheses were tested using ordinary least square multiple regression model, Z- test and ANOVA. The result of the study showed that the farmers had an average age of about 51 years, the majority (52.9%) of the farmers were male while 47.1% were female and majority (86.3%) were married. The mean household size was eight persons and the mean years of farming experience of the respondents was 15.7 years. The majority (57.5%) of the respondents took farming as their major occupation. The mean herd size owned by the farmers was 18 animals and the majority (68.0%) of the respondents belonged to church organizations while 57.5% were ADP contact farmers. A greater proportion (42.9%) of the respondents got credit from friends and relatives while the mean annual income of the farmers was N87, 325. Furthermore, the study identified 20 indigenous plant species utilized in small ruminant animal healthcare. Seventeen ailments were identified. The result also revealed that many methods were used to prepare and administer the indigenous plant species to the animals, with squeezing, boiling and crushing being the most preferred. The most frequent situation to administer medicinal plants was each time a disease condition is observed ( ̅ = 2.5) and the most perceived reason for the use of indigenous medicinal plant was readily available and cheap ( 𝑋= 3.1). It was also found that problem of dosage of the medicine (85.8%) was the major constraint to the use of medicinal plants in the study area. The multiple regression analysis run to predict the influence of socioeconomic characteristics on farmers’ perceived reasons for use of indigenous medicinal plants for small ruminant healthcare showed that R2 = 39.6 and Fvalue = 9.8, sex (t = 3. 2), age (t = 3.3), marital status ( 𝑡 =− 2. 1 ), educational level (t = 3. 6 ), herd size ( 𝑡 = 3. 9 ),membership of social organizations ( 𝑡 = 4. 7 ), sources of information (𝑡 = −2.8), annual income �� = −1.92, frequency of extension contact ( 𝑡 = 1. 8 ) and major occupation (t = 1. 8 ) were statistically significant at 1%, 5% and 10% significant levels. The z-test analysis showed that the male and female farmers did not differ in their perceived reasons for use of indigenous medicinal plants. Furthermore, the ANOVA result revealed a statistically significant difference (F(2,237) = 7.109, p = 0.001 in the perceived reasons for use of medicinal plants for small ruminant healthcare among the farmers in the three agricultural zones. It was recommended that government and other relevant stakeholders should promote the use of medicinal plants in livestock management. There should also be a synergy between farmers, researchers and extension personnel in the identification and use of medicinal plants in small ruminant healthcare.
Open Access
Occupational hazards associated with catering profession: A case study of Nnewi North Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technlogy, Owerri, 2026-01) Chukwumah, Onyinye Theresa
The catering industry is associated with high levels of work-related injuries and diseases due to exposure to various occupational hazards. This study assessed the occupational hazards associated with caterers in Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. A total of one hundred and thirty-nine (139) caterers were sampled for the study. Most of the respondents were female 84 (60.4%), while 46% were between the ages of 13–24 years. Sixty-two percent had worked for one to five years in either hotels (65.4%) or fast-food restaurants (34.5%). Half of the respondents (50%) had secondary education, while 43.2% had tertiary education. A multistage sampling technique was employed for the study. Nnewi North is stratified into four zones namely: Otolo, Nnewichi, Uruagwu and Umudim. Hotels and restaurants were further stratified into three categories: three/four-star hotels (mid-range service), one/two-star hotels (budget/limited service), and fast-food restaurants. Systematic random sampling was used to select establishments from each category, while simple random sampling was used to select two participants (chefs/bakers and stewards/waiters) from each establishment. The findings revealed that caterers in Nnewi North Local Government Area had a significant level of knowledge about occupational hazards and safety practices. Eighty-two percent of the respondents reported having the required personal protective equipment, including protective clothing (41.3%), hand gloves (27.1%), and footwear (23.4%). However, some caterers did not adhere to specific work procedures due to pressure to complete tasks(50.0%) and lack of interest in using protective measures (35.4%). Additionally, 73% reported that work pressure affects their safety culture, while 78% were not satisfied with the health and safety practices in their workplaces. The study also revealed a significant (p<0.05) positive attitude of caterers toward occupational hazard prevention and adherence to safety practices. Further research is recommended to determine the major causes of work-related injuries and diseases in the catering industry in Nnewi North Local Government Area to support the development of effective occupational health and safety management system.
Open Access
Utilization of healthcare facilities among selected communities in Rivers State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technlogy, Owerri, 2026-03) Onyetulem, Daniel U. S.
This study examined the utilization of healthcare facilities in selected rural communities of Rivers State, Nigeria, with emphasis on patterns of use, determinants of underutilization, and the influence of socioeconomic factors. A cross-sectional descriptive design was adopted. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to 400 respondents across 10 Local Government Areas, of which 366 valid responses (91.5%) were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results revealed that alternative medical centres were the most commonly utilized first point of care (35.2%), followed by patent medicine stores (27.9%), while only 12.3% and 7.6% of respondents patronized basic health centres and primary health care centres, respectively. A substantial proportion of respondents reported underutilization of modern health facilities to a very large (28%) and large extent (30%). Key reasons for non-utilization included unkempt facility environments (52.9%), lack of equipment and laboratory services (50.3%), poor staff–patient relationships (39.5%), and absenteeism of doctors (35.7%). Poverty emerged as the most significant barrier to utilization (98%), followed by high cost of modern healthcare services (90%). Nearly half of the respondents (49%) earned between ₦200,001 and ₦300,000 per annum, while 38% earned below ₦200,000, underscoring the role of low income in healthcare decisions. Statistical analysis demonstrated a strong positive relationship between underutilization of health facilities and poor health status (r = 0.98), as well as between low income and underutilization (r = .96). The study concludes that underutilization of modern healthcare facilities in rural Rivers State is driven largely by economic constraints and systemic deficiencies. Strengthening primary healthcare services through improved infrastructure, staffing, affordability, and service quality is essential to enhance utilization and health outcomes.
Open Access
Effects of farmer-herder conflicts on food security of cassava farmers in Imo State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2026-01) Obasi, Akanele Chori
This study examined the effect of farmer–herder conflicts on the food security of cassava farmers in Imo State, Nigeria, with the aim of understanding how conflicts influence cassava production, farmers’ net income, and their food and nutritional well-being. The study was necessitated by the growing tension between crop farmers and pastoralists, which has become a major threat to agricultural productivity and food availability in southeastern Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 90 cassava farmers from the two agricultural zones of Imo State. Primary data were collected using a well-structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression for net income analysis, and multinomial logistic regression for the determinants of coping strategies, while body mass index and individual dietary diversity score were used to analyze the food security status, the drivers of the status was determined using ordered probit model. The average net farm income (NFI) per harvest was ₦117,117.78, while the return on investment (ROI) stood at 75.86%, indicating that cassava farming remained profitable despite recurrent conflicts. Results on the causes of conflict identified both remote causes—such as population pressure, land tenure insecurity, and competition over natural resources—and immediate causes, including sexual harassment of female farmers (mean = 2.54), indiscriminate bush burning (mean = 2.48), and crop destruction by cattle (mean = 2.39). The conflicts led to displacement of households, loss of farm assets, and abandonment of farmland. The Multinomial Logistic Regression revealed that access to credit (p<0.01) and farming experience (p<0.05) significantly determined the choice of coping strategies. Crop diversification (mean = 2.63) and fencing (mean = 2.36) emerged as the most effective coping strategies, while reliance on prayer or assistance from local leaders ranked least effective. The body mass index and individual dietary diversity have a mean value of 13.9 (SD = 1.97) with the respondents being moderately food insecure. Furthermore, results from the Ordered Probit Regression showed that access to credit (coef = 1.714, p=0.016) had a positive and significant influence on food security, while farmers’ income (coef = -4.26e-06, p=0.052) had an unexpected negative effect, implying that income did not automatically translate into food security due to conflict-related losses and livelihood instability. Variables such as education, farm size, and land ownership had positive but statistically insignificant effects, while sex, age, and conflict frequency negatively affected food security. The study concludes that farmer–herder conflict substantially undermines cassava productivity, net income, and food security in Imo State. It recommends the establishment of community-based conflict management systems, improved credit access, farmer education on adaptive strategies, and enforcement of land-use policies to promote peaceful coexistence. The research contributes to knowledge by providing an integrated socioeconomic and econometric assessment of how conflict shapes the resilience and food security dynamics of cassava-based farming households in southeastern Nigeria.
Open Access
Assessment of domestic trade barriers in South-East Nigeria: The case for yam
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2025-11) Eze, Juliet Adaugo
The study investigated domestic trade barriers in South East Nigeria, focusing on yam trade. The specific objectives were to describe the socioeconomic characteristics of yam traders in the region, characterize the barriers to yam trade (tariff and non-tariff barriers), determine the effects of trade barriers on the volume of yam traded, estimate the profit of yam traders, and determine the effect of trade barriers on the profit of yam traders. Multistage, purposive and random sampling techniques were used to collect primary data from 120 respondents via structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, profit model, and Ordinary Least Squares Multiple regression. The descriptive statistics results showed the traders' mean ages in the region was 47 years and that 61% of them were male. Most of the traders were married (73%) and had attained up to secondary education. These traders maintained a mean household size of 5 persons and had been in the yam trading business for an average of 13 years. and the mean volume of yam traded across the south east was 1.8tons. The study categorized trade barriers into tariff barriers (TBs) and non-tariff tariff barriers (NTBs) alongside their associated costs. The result of the effect of trade barriers on the volume of yam traded in South East showed that quantity demanded (P< 0.1), municipal permit (P< 0.1), illegal charges (P<0.05), roadblock (P< 0.05) were significant to the volume of yam traded. The result of the extent of trade barriers affecting the volume of yam traded showed that in the south east, a total of 16747kg of yam traded and barriers such as roadblocks, produce charges, municipal permit, security charges, illegal charges and tollgates affected the volume of yam traded. There was a 12% return on investment of the yam traders in the region. This means that yam trading in the region is very profitable. The result of the effect of trade barriers on the profit of yam traders showed that tollgate (P< 0.1), produce charge (P< 0.05), roadblocks (P<0.1), and illegal charge (P<0.1) were significant to the profit of yam traders. The study recommends that the government invest in better transportation infrastructure, like road networks and rail systems, to enhance yam trading efficiency. Policymakers should also pursue reforms to address trade barriers especially those barriers that greatly affect the volume of yam traded and profits of the traders in the area.
Open Access
Effects of adoption intensity of digital marketing techniques on the efficiency of food commodity marketing in Imo State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2025-11) Anyanwu, Amarachi Theodora
The study examined the effects of adoption intensity of digital marketing techniques on the efficiency of food commodity marketing in Imo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to describe the socioeconomic characteristics of the respondents, describe the various digital food marketing techniques in food commodity marketing, determine the adoption intensity of digital marketing techniques in food commodity marketing, analyze the factors influencing adoption intensity, in digital food marketing techniques, determine the effect of adoption intensity, its features on the rate of return in capital investment on digital food marketing techniques, and determine the effect of adoption intensity, its features on the efficiency of digital food commodity marketing techniques in the study area. Primary data were collected from 150 respondents using a well-structured questionnaire and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, adoption index model, multinomial logistic regression model, and Ordinary Least Square multiple regression models. Descriptive statistics revealed that the average age of digital food marketers was 34 years. The majority were female (61.33%) and possessed tertiary education qualifications (68.67%). Most respondents were married (56%), had an average household size of four persons, and had six years of experience in digital marketing. Findings on digital marketing techniques indicated high adoption rates for Facebook (5.00±0.00), WhatsApp (5.00±0.00), Instagram (4.88±0.432), TikTok (4.11±1.190), X Handle (3.42±1.459), SMS (5.00±0.00), YouTube (3.03±1.211), and Affiliate Marketing (3.02±1.712). Adoption intensity scores further showed Facebook (5.00), WhatsApp (5.00), Instagram (5.31), TikTok (5.30), X Handle (4.88), SMS (5.00), YouTube (4.24), and Affiliate Marketing (4.73) as key platforms used. The usage distribution revealed universal use of Facebook, WhatsApp, and SMS (100% each), while Instagram (90.67%), Affiliate Marketing (61.33%), YouTube (59.33%), TikTok (56%), and X Handle (36%) followed. Classification based on adoption intensity identified Late Adopters (22%), Late Majority (63.33%), Early Majority (13.33%), and Innovators (1.34%). Multinomial logistic regression showed that factors such as age (P<0.01), educational attainment (P<0.05), and access to information (P<0.1) significantly influenced adoption categories, with a pseudo-R² value of 63.2%. Analysis of the impact on capital investment returns indicated that 73.8% of the variation was explained by the model's variables. Significant factors included adoption intensity (P<0.1), cost of platform use (P<0.01), educational level (P<0.01), and marketing experience (P<0.01). Similarly, the model assessing efficiency showed that 74.5% of the variation was accounted for by the explanatory variables. Cost of use (P<0.01), education (P<0.01), and marketing experience (P<0.01) were key influences on the efficiency of digital food marketing. In conclusion, the study recommends stakeholders should consider subsidizing online training costs to encourage wider participation in digital marketing. Greater public awareness initiatives are also necessary to boost digital food marketing adoption, while regulatory bodies should enact laws to safeguard users of digital platforms.
Open Access
Molecular identification and characterisation of schistosoma species in freshwater in Bodo community, Rivers State
(Federal University of Technlogy, Owerri, 2025-08) Sampson, Margret E.
Accurate identification and characterization of Schistosoma species in freshwater are crucial for understanding the transmission dynamics of schistosomiasis and guiding effective control measures. This study molecularly identified and characterized Schistosoma species in freshwater from four locations in the Bodo community, Rivers State, Nigeria. A total of 200 water samples were collected from Nuumu-Tekurun, Nuumu-Bari-aage, Bon-Sunday, and Nuumu-Kekpaban rivers. Structured questionnaires were also administered to 200 randomly selected residents to assess behavioural and environmental risk factors associated with infection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests in SPSS version 23.0. Findings revealed that (139) 69% of households relied on pipe-borne water, while (159) 80% of participants frequently engaged in swimming and other water-contact activities lasting more than 15 minutes. Urination or defecation in water bodies was reported by 82% of respondents, and the presence of snails 177 (89%) and 189 livestock (95%), particularly cattle (61%), was common near rivers. The overall prevalence of Schistosoma infection was 18.5% (p < 0.001), with S. japonicum 15 (40.5%) being the most prevalent, followed by S. mansoni 12 (32.4%) and S. haematobium 10 (27%). Significant predictors of infection (p ≤ 0.027) included use of rivers as a main water source, daily exposure to water bodies, prolonged contact, and proximity of livestock and snails. The study concludes that schistosomiasis persists as a public health concern in Bodo community. Strengthened health education, improved access to safe water, and regulation of livestock activities near freshwater sources are recommended to curb transmission and protect community health.
Open Access
Flammability properties of compatibilized dikanut shell powder filled natural rubber/poly (Vinyl Chloride) composites
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-12) Odidi, Okpo Donald
The major objective of the study is to evaluate the flame retardant properties of NR/PVC/DNS powder filled with KBr, Mg(Cl)2 and Mg(Oh)2as flame retardant bio-composites obtained by using MAPI (maleic anhydride-gpolyisosprene) and TETA (triethylene tetramine).Blends of natural rubber (NR) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) filled with dikanut shell powder (DNS) and carbon black (CB) were prepared by reactive compatibilization in a two-roll mill. A combination of maleic anhydride-g-polyisosprene (MAPI) and triethylene tetramine (TETA) was used as compatibilizers. Halogenated flame retardants (Mg(Cl)2 and KBr) and metal oxide flame retardant, Mg(OH)2 were used as flame retardants. Blend compositions of NR/PVC100/30 were filled with varying filler ratios of CB/DNS30/0, 30/5, 15/10, 10/15, 5/20, 0/25, 0/30 pphr. Blends were filled with flame retardants in the ratios of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 pphr. The effects of filler loading, compatibilizer loading, mesh size (particle size) and flame retardants on vulcanizate properties of filled blends such as ignition time, auto-combusting time and flame propagation rate were investigated. The results show that dikanut shell powder significantly improved the flammability properties of the blends. The flame propagation rate was greatly reduced by increasing both DNS and CB filler loading. It was observed that the composites became more resistant to ignition and propagation of flame with increasing filler content. The rate of burning of the composites also decreased with reducing filler particle size. The rate of flame propagation also showed a decrease with increasing flame retardant levels. Increases in the compatibilizer levels made the composites more resistant to burning and decomposition, thereby increasing the flame resistance. The NR/PVC/CB composite blends showed superior flame resistance characteristic than the NR/PVC/DNS composite blends. Flame retardancy of the composites showed improvements of about 200% and above in some cases. The NR/PVC/DNS can be used for high volume polymer products such as shoe soles, foot mats andcar exhaust hangers at low DNS filler loading of 10pphr.
Open Access
Assesment of occupational health hazards among solid waste scavengers in Owerri North Local Government Area, Imo State
(Federal University of Technlogy, Owerri, 2024-09) Okpara, Barbara Oluebube
This study determined the Assessment of Occupational Health Hazards among Solid Waste Scavengers in Owerri North Local Government Area, Imo State. Five specific objectives with corresponding research questions and five hypotheses guided the study. Cross-sectional descriptive study design was used for this study. A multi-staged sampling technique, simple random sampling technique and a purposive sampling technique were used to draw samples of 49 scavengers that responded. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection after being validated and its reliability tested. The data collected was analysed using frequencies, percentage, the hypotheses were tested using chi-square statistics at ≤0.05 level of significance. Results showed that (32.7) are within the age group of 38-47 years old. (89.8%), are male (36.7%) attain primary and secondary education (49.0%) are married, (49.0%) are less than 5 years into the scavenging business while (40.8%) earn less than N30,000 monthly from the scavenging business. On the exposure to physical health hazards, 55.1% have a high exposure while 44.9% have a low exposure to physical health hazards. On the exposure of chemical health hazards, 38.8% have a low exposure while 61.2% have a high exposure to chemical health hazards. On the exposure to biological health hazards 36.7% have a high exposure while 63.3% have a low exposure to biological hazard. On the exposure to ergonomic health hazards 71.4% have a high exposure while 28.6% have a low exposure to ergonomic health hazards. overall preventive practices taken by respondents against hazards resulting from Scavenging. 75.5% have poor preventive practices while 24.5% have good preventive practices. No significant association was established between exposure to physical health hazards during Scavenging activities and Respondents age, sex, educational attainment, marital status, years in business and monthly income (p-value = 0.296, 0.816, 0.794, 0.920, 0,373, 0.442 respectively). No significant association was established between exposure to chemical hazard during scavenging activities and respondents age, sex, educational attainment, marital status, years in business and monthly income (p-value = 0.317, 0.363, 0.743, 0.802, 0.113, 0.161 respectively). No significant association was established between exposure to biological hazard during scavenging activities and respondents age, sex, educational attainment, marital status, years in business and monthly income (p-value = 0.617, 0.873, 0.222, 0.918, 0.914, 0.977 respectively). No significant association was established between exposure to ergonomic health hazard during scavenging activities and respondents age, sex, educational attainment, marital status, years in business and monthly income (pvalue = 0.216, 0.136, 1.764, 0.166, 0.679, 0.503 respectively). No significant association was established between preventive practices taken by respondents against health hazards resulting from Scavenging and respondents age, sex, educational attainment, marital status, years in business and monthly income (p-value = 0.438, 0.805, 0.202, 0.623, 0.190, 0.357 respectively). Solid wastes scavengers are more exposed to physical, chemical and ergonomic health hazards than biological due to lack of PPE required for scavenging and ignorance of the health hazards, So the state government and regulating bodies should provide and ensure the usage of PPE and operational guidelines for solid waste scavenging.
Open Access
Association between waste disposal and the occurence of malaria and diarrhoea in Port Harcourt Local Government Area, Rivers State
(Federal University of Technlogy, Owerri, 2026-03) Nmeribe, Chioma Christy
This study examined the relationship between waste disposal and the incidences of malaria and diarrhoea in Port Harcourt Local Government Area in Rivers State. A cross-sectional descriptive design was embraced and 420 respondents were chosen in four communities (Port Harcourt Township, Diobu, Rumuokoro, and D-line/ Ada George). Data collection was done using structured questionnaires, field observations and entomological surveys and statistical analysis was done using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that majority of the respondents were females (54.8 %), aged 40-49 years (47 %), married (50.5 %), and tertiary educated (41.7 %). Open dumping (36.4) and burning (25.0) were the most popular methods of waste-disposal (only 20.7 used the services of government collection). The greatest mosquito (120 adults, larval density = 25/L) and fly abundance (180 adults, 160 per trap/24 h) was observed in Port Harcourt Township, which means that there is a great level of the vectors around dumpsites. The prevalence of the diseases was also high including malaria (44.3 %), diarrhoea (21.9 %), and both (17.6 %) with the incidence declining as the distance to dumpsites rose. The highest incidences of malaria (54.8) and diarrhoea (52.2) were reported in households that practiced open dumping meaning that improper waste disposal is strongly associated with incidence of diseases. Despite the fact that 89 percent out of the residents were knowledgeable about the principles of waste-management and 84.8 percent were knowledgeable about the environmental effects of waste management, only 34.3 percent displayed good waste-management practices, which suggests a knowledge-practice gap. The socioeconomic and environmental conditions, such as low income, poor sanitation, surface water use, high-density housing, and dumpsite proximity (less than 100 m) greatly affected the prevalence of the disease. The research concludes that malaria and diarrhoeal morbidity in Port Harcourt LGA is largely caused by the ineffective waste disposal systems and environmental sanitation.
Open Access
Assessment of farm labour chnaging patterns in cassava production in Imo State, Nigeria
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-11) Mbakaogu, Obumneke Emmanuel
This study was carried out in Imo State. The broad objective was to analyse farm labour changing patterns in food crop production in Imo state. The specific objectives were to; examine the socioeconomic characteristics of food crop farmers in the area, identify the sources of farm labour in food crop production, determine the level of farm labour use in the area, determine and compare the availability of farm labour in the dry and wet seasons, determine the factors affecting farm labour supply in the area, and examine the constraints militating against the demand and supply of farm labour in the area. The results showed that the mean age of food crop farmer was 47 years, 68.9% were married, and the mean household size was 8 persons. Majority (43.70%) attained secondary education level, mean farm size was 0.9 hectares; mean farming experience was 26 years and food crop production was majorly for cash and family use. It was then found that food crop farmers demand for hired farm labour was mostly for land preparation (58.8%), weeding (61.5%), agrochemical application (61.5%) and harvesting (60%); while family labour were employed mostly for planting (60%) and post-harvesting activities (66.7%). It showed also that food crop farmers demanded mostly female farm labour for land preparation (58.8%), weeding (58.8%), agrochemical application (84.6%), planting (70%) and post harvesting activities (77.8%); while male farm labour were used mostly for harvesting (60%). The use of female labour for land preparation could be linked to the declining female literacy that increases their availability to farm activities and high engagement of male counterparts in non-farm activities. The results on labour changing pattern showed that in the 1980s, female labourers were rarely used (with mean score of 2.10) for food crop production, while presently the female labour is mostly employed (with mean score of 3.21) with male labourers in food crop production. In land clearing and weeding operations, the results showed that farm operations were mostly carried out manually both in the 1980s (with mean score of 3.56) and presently (with mean score of 3.02). It also showed that agrochemicals such as herbicides were rarely used (with mean score of 1.14) in the 1980s, but were presently mostly used (with mean score of 3.47) in these farm operations in the area; while fertilizer application and harvesting were mostly done manually (with mean score of 3.69 and 3.39) in both periods. Farm labour were rarely allocated (with mean score of 1.81) to off-farm activities in the 1980s, but presently were mostly (with mean score of 3.30) allocated to off-farm activities, indicating that farming (on-farm activities) was the major source of livelihood in the 1980s, but due the high remunerations from off-farm activities and the search for white collar jobs and other non-farm income sources, farm labour presently move to off-farm activities. It was found that the nature of food crop production, in-migration, farm size and distance to the nearest city were positively related to the supply of farm labour; while off-farm activities was negatively related to supply of farm labour. The results showed that high cost of labour, civilization and nofarm engagement, seasonality of agricultural production, out-migration of farm labour, land tenure system and fragmentation and scarcity of farm labour were the major constraints militating against farm labour demand and supply. The study recommended strengthening and organizing ruralurban linkages by ensuring parity in on-farm wage structure comparable with off-farm wages to reduce farm labour migration to off-engagements and rural to urban migration.