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Item Open Access Fungitoxity of selected bio-pesticides on the storage rot diseases and biochemical composition of yam varieties (Dioscorea spp) in Owerri(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-07) Mba, Paul ChikezieThe study was conducted at the laboratory of Crop Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Federal University of Technology Owerri between 2017 to 2019.This project evaluated the fungitoxicity of some bio-pesticides on the control of storage rot diseases of yam varieties (D. rotundata and D. alata) especially caused by Aspergillus spp, Fusarium spp, Rhizopus stolonifer, Yeast and B. theobromae. The fungitoxic activity of ethanol extracts of seven plant leaves (used as bio-pesticides); Chromolaena odorata, Carica papaya, Vernonia amygdalina, Ocimum gratissimum, Azadirachta indica, Psidium guajava and Cymbopogon citratus were tested in Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium to determine their percentage inhibitions against the organisms isolated from the tubers. The layout for experiment was a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with seven (7) treatments and three (3) replications. Data was collected on some chemical constituents on both yam varieties of (D. rotundata and D. alata) and seven (7) leaf extracts used for the experiment. Result revealed that D. rotundata recorded higher chemical constituents than D. alata. The results of the study showed that Azadirachta indica extracted with ethanol as bio-pesticides for the experiment was the most fungitoxic as it possessed the best level (%) of inhibition on all the organisms isolated from yam varieties of D. rotundata and D. alata this could be because it contains phytochemicals such as Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Tannins, Phenols in reasonable percentage more than other plant extracts used in this work. It substantially suppressed the growth of A. niger. Furthermore, Azadirachta indica was most fungitoxic on rot diseases of A. niger (9.8%), Yeast (11.13%) and Rhizopus stolonifer (11.53%) isolated from D. alata and D. rotundata while Carica papaya (12.0%) was found to be most effective in the control of rot diseases of Fusarium oxysporium during the investigation. The application of Azadirachta indica was able to limit the growth of all the microorganisms identified during pathogenicity test. On point of attack the varieties of D. alata and D. rotundata showed that the most susceptible point of attack on the tubers was the basal part. The losses due to pathogenic attack was significantly reduced mostly by Azadirachta indica followed by Vernonia amygdalina then Carica papaya when Ocimum gratissimum was the lowest and are therefore recommended in that sequence.Item Open Access Prospectivity study of mineral and geothermal energy resources in parts of SouthEastern Nigerian Sedimentary Basin(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-09) Okiyi, Ijeoma MillicentThere has been an open search for clean/renewable energy and mineral resources for economic growth using airborne geophysical surveys. High resolution airborne magnetic and radiometric data, five scenes of Landsat 8 remote sensing, SP and VES Schlumberger data of parts of Southeastern Nigerian sedimentary basin were analysed and interpreted with a view to delineate regimented mineral colonies and anomalous zones of geothermal gradient. Reduction to Equator and Vertical Derivative filters were applied to the airborne magnetic data to centre anomaly peaks over causative bodies, define shapes and edges of magnetic sources and map magnetic lineaments. Fast Line-in-sight Atmospheric Analysis for Spectral Hypercube (FLAASH) and subsequent post FLAASH band maths were applied to the remote sensing data to generate the surface reflectance data from which ratio composite and lineament maps were generated. Results showed dominant NE-SW and E-W lineament trends from Landsat and Magnetic data with subordinate NW-SE trend. 50% overlapping data windows selected for spectral analysis were used to delineate anomalous geothermal gradients. The vertical, horizontal and NTilt derivative maps were used to reveal boundaries of mafic intrusives and inclusions which are most likely controlled by the trends of deep-seated magnetic lineaments. The derivative maps were also used to enhance edges of shallow structures. Alteration zones, lithologic/geologic boundaries were revealed by radioelement ratio, ternary and total count maps and Landsat ratio map composites 4/2, 6/5 and 6/7 and PCA plots. The Source Parameter Imaging, 3D Euler Deconvolution and Magnetic Vector Inversion modelling depth estimate filters established depths to, and geometry of, subsurface magnetic structures. Results revealed shallow to deep-seated structures in the depth range of 80 m asl to >7 km bsl which must have aided development of veins and hosted lodes of intrusives and ore bodies. Shallow Curie Point Depth (< 10km), geothermal gradient > 42°C/km and heat flow > 88mW/m2 from spectral analysis procedure have been earmarked for good geothermal reservoirs. VES geoelectric sections and 2D imaging results beneath two zones of anomalous geothermal gradient between 35 to 45 (°C/km), proposed approximate models of geothermal resources as Hot Dry Rock (HDR) for Alok and geo-pressured model for Amagunze. Cylindrical/lenticular sills, inclined dykes, sparse nodules and spheres were identified from probed windows of the RTE-TMI map as surface to deep-seated models. Ground-truthing these findings, field image and double dipole results indicated mineralization of the study area as true, hence, making it a viable mineral and geothermal prospect environment.Item Open Access Geoenvironmental assessment of impacts of quarrying and quality of aggregates from various sources in parts of SouthEastern Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-07) Agubom, John-KennedyThe increasing demand for sand and crushed aggregates in parts of Southeastern Nigeria has necessitated the assessment of the impacts of aggregate quarrying such as air quality, dust (suspended particulate matter) and noise which constitute serious environmental problems, including health hazards of various types of cancers, silicosis and sometimes premature death amongst quarry workers and residents of immediate community in Lokpaukwu, Amasiri, Ishiagu, Uturu and Afikpo quarry sites, Southeastern Nigeria. Nine (9) sampling points were selected for the study and they include: primary crusher, generator house, secondary crusher, blasting pit, admin block, staff quarters, entrance gate, workshop and weighing bridge.Quarrying of sand in Njaba, Nwaorie and Otamiri rivers respectively has distorted their channel morphology both in depth and width thereby threatening the neighbouring bridges and river banks. However, the physico-mechanical properties of road stone aggregates from some intrusive rock quarries were determined and the results used to evaluate the quality of the aggregates as raodstone. Four aggregate samples were collected from the following intrusive rock quarries: Lokpaukwu (Ezeaku Formation, Diorite); Uturu (Ezeaku Formation, Andesite); Ishiagu (Asu River Group; Diorite); and Afikpo (Ezeaku Formation, Dolerite). The physico-mechanical tests performed on the samples include: Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV); Aggregate Impact Value (AIV); Los Angeles Abrasion Value (LAAV); Water Absorption (WA); and Specific Gravity (SG). Results of the tests (ACV, AIV, LAAV, WA and SG) for aggregate samples from the quarries (Lokpaukwu (Diorite), Uturu (Andesite, Ishiagu (Diorite) and Afikpo (Dolerite)), respectively, are: 15.60%, 13.70%, 26.30%, 0.54% and 2.75; 19.20%, 19.01%, 19.50%, 0.01% and 2.67; 15.50%, 17.40%, 23.50%, 1.2% and 2.75; and 13.80%, 14.40%, 33.70%, 0.50% and 2.81.According to Nigerian Federal Ministry of Works Standards, the values from all the quarries are within the acceptable limits for roadstone aggregates (<30%, < 30%, <40%, <3% and >2.6), respectively. They are therefore recommended to be used as aggregates in road construction. On the other hand sandstones from Elugwu/ Umuchienta (Ameka Formation) are better than Okigwe( Nsukka Formation ) sandstones as a result of tests performed on the following parameters(ACV, AIV, LAAV, WA, BD and CCT) for aggregate quality as good for concrete material are: 35.70%, 32.60%, 46.48%, 0.90%, 1.42mg/m3 , 18.90N/mm3 and 34.50%, 36.40%, 60.70%, 0.60%, 1.63mg/m3 , 16.65N/mm3 respectively.Item Open Access Analysis of scope and economic efficiency in poultry-fish enterprises in Imo State, Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-02) Opara, Thaddeus C.This study analysed the scope and economic efficiency of poultry-fish enterprises in Imo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: examine the Socio economic and enterprise characteristics of fish and poultry farmers, estimate cost function from profit function to determine scope efficiency of poultry-fish enterprises, determine how scope and economic efficiency related to the use of specific inputs or the production of specific output, evaluate the determinants of scope efficiency and economic efficiency in poultryfish enterprises in the study area. A multi –stage sampling technique was used to select 210 respondents comprising of 60 fish farmers 60 poultry farmers and 90 joint poultryfish farmers. Structured questionnaire were used to elicit information from respondents while descriptive statistics, inferential statistics. Quadratic regression model, Tobit regression model and analysis of variance were used for data analysis. Findings from the study showed that most of the farmers in the three categories were males, 57.1% for fish, 62.3% for poultry and 66.7% for joint enterprises respectively. Most of the Respondents were between 41 and 60 years age bracket, 65.1% for fish 80.3% for poultry and 58.3 for joint enterprises. The distribution of respondents by marital status showed that most of the farmers were married 80.9% for fish, 75.4% for poultry and 81.9% for joint enterprises. Majority of the respondents had household sizes of 4 to 5 persons, 65.1% for fish, 55.7% for poultry and 63.9% for joint enterprises. 69.8% of fish farmers and 67.2% of poultry farmers had 6 to 10 years farming experience while majority of joint farmers (56.9% had 1-3 years of farming experience. Most sole farmers were small scale farmers 39.7% for fish and 42.6% for poultry while most joint farmers were large scale farmer (75%). The three categories of farmers had poor access to credit with only 19.4 % of joint farmer able to access above N300, 000 credits. In this research, cost functions were recovered from unrestricted profit functions and were used to calculate scope efficiency. The main scope efficiency was 0.025 indicating that the joint production of fish and poultry enterprises reduces total cost by 2.5%. The mean economic efficiencies were 0.72 for fish, 0.68 for poultry and 0.77 for joint enterprises. This indicated that farms could reduce cost by producing at the lowest possible cost. The correlation of scope and economic efficiency with output quantities was positive and significant at 1% level suggesting that the joint production of fish and poultry on the same farm resulted in cost advantage. Also the correlation of scope and economic efficiency with expense ratio were all significant at 1% level which revealed that larger farms tends to have more scope and economic efficiency scores. Again scope and economic efficiency are significantly determined by level of education, farming experience, pond size, and flock size as well as credit amount. It is recommended that educational packages and appropriate training could be necessary to teach farmers those farming practices that encourages cost complementarities and financial institutions should be encouraged to improve on the volumes and terms of loans extended to farmers.Item Open Access Gravity survey of parts of SouthWestern Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-12) Adejuwon, Benjamin BukolaGround gravity survey was carried out in the southwestern part of Nigeria within the areas underlain mainly by the Basement Complex rocks. The study area is precisely bounded by Latitudes 70 00’N – 8000’N and Longitudes 40 30’E – 6 00’E. The work is aimed at producing a comprehensive interpreted structural and geological models and maps from the gravity data as an aid to mineral investigation, structural and crustal studies. One thousand and ninety-three (1,093) gravity data points were established in an area of 18,150km2 giving a density of 1/16.6km2 . This is a positive improvement on the existing 1/9,075km2 gravity density in the area. Seventy-five (75) evenly distributed gravity base stations were established in the study area. These were tied to IGSN 71 through the PGNN Base station at Oshogbo and Akure base stations. This gives a gravity station density of 1/242km2 as against the existing density of 1/9,075km2 . The database was also saved in GIS platform for proper management and archiving. One hundred and forty-eight (148) rock samples were collected and their densities determined using a standard density determination procedure. The density values ranged from 2.526 to 2.871g/cm3 . The amphibolites have the highest mean density of 2.765g/cm3 , followed by the charnockites with 2.755g/cm3 . The processed data were presented as 2D maps with both contour and colour shaded maps. The maps include absolute gravity value map, Free-air anomaly map, Bouguer anomaly map, Regional anomaly map, residual anomaly map and rock density anomaly map of the area. The Bouguer anomaly field values range from about -19.087 to 16.914mGal, the free-air anomaly values range from 16.026 to 68.274mGal/m while the residual Bouguer Anomaly values range from about -10.577 to 19.805mGal. There is mostly a general NE/SW and few N/S trends in all the anomaly fields. Four gravity profiles across the study area were chosen for modelling and interpretation. Six major bouguer anomalies with unique characteristic features were identified. These maybe related to the contrasting lithological and structural features. These include the Ifewara-Ilesha-Ilaorogun High, AkureIkere-Igbaraoke High, Ikare-Ogbagi-Ajowa High, Ute-Uzebba High, IjeshaIsu-Ikole-Ponyan Low and Ondo-Bagbe Low. The elongated NE/SW trending bouguer anomaly at the western part of the study area termed the Ifewara-Ilesha-Ilaorogun High coincide with the geologically established shear zone associated with Ifewara-Zungeru fault system in orientation and location. Hence, the gravity data have confirmed the existence of the mega fault system which is related to gold mineralization within the Ilesha Schist belt. In the same vein, the relatively high oval shaped bouguer anomaly “Ikare–Ogbagi-Ajowa high” at the NE part of the study area can be a new frontier for mineral exploration. Such anomaly needs further exploration using other geophysical and geochemical techniques to determine its mineral potential.Item Open Access Development of a blockchain-based anti-counterfeiting system with enhanced consensus algorithm(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-03) Wosu, Jeremiah TashieThis thesis presents the development of a blockchain-based anti-counterfeiting system with enhanced consensus algorithm. Market surveys reveal that counterfeit trading activities are increasing rapidly, and the rise of counterfeit products has adverse effect on economic growth as well as public health and safety. Existing anti-counterfeiting solutions do not employ blockchain technology with enhanced consensus algorithm in combination with product inherent features, copy-sensitive Quick Response (QR) codes and location information technologies. Thus, fully functional and affordable product anti-counterfeiting solutions with traceability, immutability and transparency functionalities are widely and urgently demanded. In this research, object-oriented software analysis and design technique in combination with Rapid Application Development (RAD) methodology were adopted for the modelling of a prototype system used in demonstrating the work. Ganache, a private Ethereum blockchain network was setup to serve as the backend platform. Open-source software such as Truffe suite and Solidity compiler were utilized in setting up the Ganache network as well as in compiling and deploying smart contracts written in Solidity language. This work designed and applied an enhanced consensus algorithm named Proof of Product Contribution (PoPC) that is fully decentralized, and balances between efficiency and security. It also developed special QR code generator and scanner using Kotlin. The developed system is unique as it combines blockchain technology, product texture (which is an inherent feature), copy-sensitive QR Code, location information i.e. GPS coordinates as well as Track and Trace technologies in proffering reliable solution to counterfeit trading. Test results prove that PoPC is very fast with average execution time of 5 seconds as against 56 seconds for Proof of Stake (PoS) algorithm, 62 seconds for Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance (PBFT) algorithm, 75 seconds for Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) algorithm, and 600 seconds for Proof of Work (PoW) algorithm.Item Open Access Management systems for sustainble productivity of plantain ratoon crops intercropping systems in the tropical ultisol of Imo State, Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-07) Iwuanyanwu, Uzoma PrinceTwo field experiments were conducted at Umuagwo, Imo State in 2013 and 2014 cropping seasons to investigate management systems for sustainable productivity of plantain ratoon crops intercropping systems in the tropical ultisol of Imo State, Nigeria. Experiment one was the evaluation of the effect of four organic manure sources on the growth and yield of plantain ratoon crops under different cassava densities and to evaluate weed suppressibility at varying population of plantain ratoon crops / cassava mixture. Experiment two was the evaluation of the residual effects of the organic manure sources and ash on the plantain ratoon/ cassava mixture. The organic manure sources were zero, poultry manure at 10 tons/ha, pig dung at 10 tons/ha and cow dung at 10 tons/ha. The ash was a blanket application each applied at 5 tons/ha as organic amendment. The cassava densities were 100.0 x 50.0 cm (20,000 plants/ha), 100 x 100.0 cm (10,0000 plants/ha) at 100.0 x 200.0 cm (5,000 plants/ha). Experiment one and two were all 3 x 4 factorial experiments arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 12 treatments replicated three times. Plant height (cm), number of functional leaves, stem girth (cm), leaf area (cm2), days to 50 % flowering (months), number of hands/bunch, number of suckers/plant, bunch weight (tons/ha), cassava plant height (cm), number of branches, plant canopy cover(m2), stem yield (bundles/100 stems), weed dry weight (kg/ha), cassava tuber weight (tons/ha) were the evaluated parameters. The result from experiment one showed that organic manure sources had significant effect on the growth and yield of plantain ratoon crops /cassava mixture. Poultry manure at 10 tons/ha performed significantly better in both growth and yield parameters and suppressed weeds when compared with pig dung at 10 tons/ha and cow dung at 10 tons/ha. Experiment two showed that poultry manure at 10 tons/ha + ash at 5 tons/ha performed significantly better in both growth and yield parameters and when compared with pig dung at 10 tons/ha + ash at 5 tons/ha and cow dung at 10 tons/ha + ash at 5 tons/ha. Cassava densities produced significant (P>0.05) increase in both growth and yield parameters assessed in the order of 100.0 x 100.0 cm (10,000 plants/ha) > 100.0 x 50.0 cm (20,000 plants/ha) > 100.0 x 200.0 cm (5,000 plants/ha). Poultry manure at 10 tons/ha, + ash at 5 tons/ha + 100.0 x 100.0 cm (10,000 plants/ha) cassava densities were more associated with bunch weight and tuber weight of cassava with 9.47 tons/ha for plantain and 10.52 tons/ha and 18.92 tons/ha and 19.98 tons/ha for cassava root yield both in 2013 and 2014 cropping seasons and in other yield components and may serve as a yardstick for selection of organic manure source, ash and densities. The physical and chemical analysis of the soil in both cropping seasons had that the nutrients persisted in the soil indicating that poultry manure, ash with 10,000 plants/ha cassava density had the best result in 2014 cropping seasons. For maximum production of plantain ratoon crops / cassava mixture, poultry manure at10 tons/ha + ash at 5 tons/ha with cassava density 100.0 x 100.0 cm (10,000 plants/ha) should be adopted.Item Open Access Effect of allium cepa bulb and annona muricata pulp juices on testosterone and oestradiol-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia in albino rats(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-01) Ihejieto, Hope AmarachiBenign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an age-related condition accompanied by lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Management with conventional therapy is the only available solution, with its attendant side effects. This study investigated the effect of Annona muricata (soursop) pulp and Allium cepa (onion) bulb juices on testosterone and oestradiol-induced BPH in albino rats. The two plant samples were assessed for in vitro antioxidant properties, and acute toxicity studies. A total of 54 albino rats were used in the in vivo study, randomly distributed into 9 groups (A to I) of 6 rats each. Groups B to I were induced with 10 mg/kg b.w of 1:1 testosterone and oestradiol every two days. They were treated as follows: Groups A (normal control), B (disease control), C (standard control), D (10 ml/kg b.w soursop), E (10 ml/kg b.w onion), F (10 ml/kg b.w 1:1 soursop and onion), G (20 ml/kg b.w soursop), H (20 ml/kg b.w onion), and I (20 ml/kg b.w 1:1 soursop and onion), for 28 days. The animals were weighed weekly, and were sacrificed at the end of the treatment. Blood samples and prostates were collected for relevant assays. The results showed that soursop pulp and onion bulb juices possessed antioxidant properties, and LD50 above 5,000 mg/kg b.w. The test samples also ameliorated BPH development in varying degrees. This was evident in their ability to maintain body weight, reduce prostate weight, improve in vivo antioxidant status, hormonal and PSA levels, and elicited anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic responses. Considering the values obtained from the test groups, it can be adduced that soursop juice had better potency, especially, at low dose. The results of histological evaluation of the prostates corroborates this finding. Soursop juice was then packaged. Preliminary sensory evaluation and microbial analysis showed that the soursop juice was acceptable and safe for consumption. Soursop therefore is a beneficial fruit and its consumption should be encouraged, especially by older men.Item Open Access Health effects of ionizing radiation on diagnostic professional radiation workers in some selected health institutions in Southern, Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Omita, EfeThis study was designed to evaluate the effects of regular low-level ionizing radiation on the hematological parameter of occupational radiation workers. This experimental study was carried out in southern Nigeria among 202 samples, which include 101 occupationally exposed workers and 101 non-occupational exposed workers (control).The exposed subjects were selected from Radiology Departments and Radio diagnostic centers with large number of referral cases who were chronically exposed to low doses of ionizing radiation. Selected controls workers in the same hospitals and center without being exposed to any kind of radiation doses. All exposed and control subjects match gender, age and occupational records (±3 years). They were categorized based on the duration of exposure as group 1 (<10 years) and group 2 (≥10 years). A Physical Dosimetry was carried out by measuring their occupational exposure to ionizing radiation is routinely monitored by personal exposure measurement devices (Thermoluminiscent dosimeter).This monitoring was carried out for at least two years and a Biological Dosimetry was also carried out using Full Blood Count to ascertain the biological effect of low ionizing radiation. Data such as gender, age, full blood count parameters as well as the radiation doses received by the radiation workers were collected using data capture sheet. All results were compared to the standard values. Out of 101 radiation workers, the majority 70.3% (n=71) were medical radiographers and the least 1.98% (n=2) were medical physicists. There is a statistically significant mean difference between the standard dose and radiation doses received by radiation workers with the mean cumulative dose of 1.67mSv which is below the recommended dose of 20mSv by the ICRP (t= -234.6, p= 0.00). There were statistically significant mean difference between blood parameters of radiation workers (BPRW) and standard full blood count limits(SFBCL) are WBC (BPRW = 5.19 and SFBCL mid-point = 7.00- 10 x 109), RBC (BPRW = 4.08 and SFBCL = 4.50-5.50 x 1012), Platelets (BPRW = 228.22 and SFBCL = 200 x 109) and MCV (BPRW = 80.51 and 80-100), with values of WBC ( t= 12.16, p = 0.00), RBC ( t= 4.09, p =0.00), Platelets ( t= 3.57, p = 0.001) and MCV (t= -8.76, p = 0.00). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) results revealed that there were statistically significant different in the radiation effects on the blood parameters such as WBC (F= 2.326, p = 0.025), RBC (F = 3.969, p= 0.000), Platelets (F=6.060, p = 0.000), MCH (F=4.898, p = 0.000), HCT (F=4.060, p = 0.000) and MCHC (F=5.377, p =0.000). There were no statistically significant different in the effect of radiations on Hb (F=1.690, p=0.111) and MCV (F=1.502, p = 0.167). The average annual effective radiation dose was below the limits advised by the International Commission on Padiological Protection, there was also some evidence that low ionizing radiation exposures affect some hematological parameters of radiation workers. Despite this, there is no established threshold for initiation of biologic alterations brought on by exposure to low doses of radiation.Item Open Access Analysis of the effects of maritime clusters on hindtherland operations in Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2024-03) Nwosu, Emmanuel NnadozieThe study was carried out to analyze the effects of the performance of selected port-based maritime clusters business components on hinterland operations in Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were among other things, to determine the determinant maritime cluster business component that contributes significantly to maritime sector Development in Nigeria; to model the effects of maritime cluster development on the shipping export and import capacities in hinterland locations in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria and the federal Capital Territory, Abuja; and the determine the significant factors influencing the decision of maritime and allied firms, to locate operational basis in port-based maritime clusters in Nigeria. The study used a mixed research design method in which both survey methods involving the use of primary data sourced through the use of questionnaire as survey instrument, and quantitative research methods which involved the use of time series quantitative data on the shipping export and import capacities of each of the hinterland zones in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria were sourced from the Nigeria ports Authority Statistical reports, covering a time period of 19 years, were used. The statistical methods of principal component factor analysis (PCFA) and the log-linear multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the data obtained. The findings of the study indicate that the offshore oil and gas maritime-cluster business component has Eigen values greater than 1 (5.904>1) and constitute the determinant maritime-cluster business component that significantly contribute to the development of the maritime sector in Nigeria over the years. The findings of the study also indicate that there is significant relationship between maritime-cluster development and the shipping export and import capacities of hinterland regions in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The result however indicate that, the North-East and Federal Capital territory hinterland regions each recorded zero shipping export operations over the period covered in the study. The findings of the study further reveal that the significant factors that contributes to the decision of firms to locate investments in maritime clusters in Nigeria include: Guaranteed security of investment, Favourable Government policy, The ease of administration and coordination of the business divisions of a firm from the cluster location, Reduced labour cost and access to professionals and Access to transport cum optimization of logistics and production cost, with each having Eigen values of 2.992, 2.244, 1p.241, 1.145, and 1.039. the policy implications of the findings were also discussed. It was recommended that, Government policies such as policies creating free trade zones in maritime regions and tax exemptions for new firms should be used to attract more maritime firms to locate in port-based maritime clusters in Nigeria. The significant relationship between maritime sector development, export and import capabilities of hinterlands in Nigeria, suggest that the hinterlands can guarantee the achievement of higher output in the maritime sector if necessary investment is made by Government to improve the shipping export and import trade potentials of the hinterlands.Item Open Access Remediation of crude oil polluted soil with cow dung and Pennisetum purpureum zinc oxide nanoparticles(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2025-02) Enemugwem, Rachel ItongnteThis study investigated the remediation of crude oil polluted soil with cow dung and Pennisetum purpureum zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles. Zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using an aqueous leaf extract of Pennisetum purpureum and cow dung. The ZnO nanoparticles were characterized by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The phytochemical properties of Pennisetum purpureum, cow dung and ZnO nanoparticles were assessed using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). One kilogram soil was polluted invitro with 100 mL Bonny light crude oil. This study was carried out for 42 days. The concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), heavy metals, Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene and Xylene (BTEX), total organic carbon (TOC), total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH), nitrogen, phosphorous, pH, total heterotrophic bacteria (THB) and total hydrocarbon utilizing bacteria (THUB) count were determined in unpolluted, polluted and remediated soil using standard analytical methods. The major bioactive compounds in Pennisetum purpureum were linoleic acid (18.89%), cis-13-octadecenoic acid (15.74%), 1,2-benzisothiazole (6.69%), 11-octadecenoic acid (5.53%), oleic acid (5.01%), the major bioactive compounds in cow dung were trans-13-octadecenoic acid (12.03%), 8, 11 – octadecadienoic acid (8.29%), 9octadecanoic acid (8.11%), cycloeisane (7.43%). UV–vis spectra showed absorption peaks at 367nm (3.38 eV) for cow dung ZnO nanoparticles and 370nm (3.35 eV) for Pennisetum purpureum ZnO nanoparticles. FTIR analyses identified functional groups (C-O, O-H, CH, C≡C, C=C, N-O) and chemical bond formations in Pennisetum purpureum and cow dung ZnO nanoparticles. XRD results revealed ZnO nanoparticle’s crystalline structure, phase composition and average particle size of 23.37nm (Pennisetum purpureum ZnO nanoparticles) and 18.17nm (cow dung ZnO nanoparticles). The TEM images showed that the biosynthesised ZnO nanoparticles were spherical in shape with an average mean particle size of 3.47nm for cow dung ZnO and 15.21nm for Pennisetum purpureum ZnO nanoparticles at 100nm magnification. The remediation of crude oil polluted soil with cow dung and Pennisetum purpureum ZnO nanoparticles was dose dependent (20g and 40g). The pH of the polluted soil was acidic and alkaline in treated soil. There was a significant reduction (p<0.05) in the concentrations of heavy metal (As, Cr, Hg, Zn, Ni), nitrogen, zinc, phosphorous, PAH, BTEX, TOC, TPH on the crude oil polluted soil treated with cow dung and Pennisetum purpureum ZnO nanoparticles because of the photocatalytic activity of the ZnO nanoparticles on the pollutants. Total heterotrophic bacterial and total hydrocarbon utilizing bacteria count increased progressively during the 42 days study period. The higher concentrations (40g) of the nanoparticles were more efficient for soil remediation than lower concentrations (20g). The results from this study showed that cow dung and Pennisetum purpureum ZnO nanoparticles are photocatalysts and has the potential to degrade pollutants and reduce the clean - up time.Item Open Access Characterization, free radical scavenging and antimicrobial properties of Hibiscus sabdariffa silver Nanoparticle(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2025-01) Okorondu, Monica Mmachukwu O.Characterization, free radical scavenging and evaluation of antimicrobial properties of Hibiscus sabdariffa silver nanoparticle were carried out. Nanoparticles were synthesized using biological method and the synthesized nanoparticles were characterized for further confirmation using methods such as UV-Visible Spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Phytochemical screening of the crude and nano extracts of Hibiscus sabdariffa were also carried out using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectroscopy (Gc/Ms) in order to ascertain the biocomponents in the two extracts. Antimicrobial properties of the crude and nano extracts were analyzed using Spectrophotometric assay while the in-vitro free radical scavenging properties of the crude and nano extracts were equally analyzed. The result of the UV-Visible spectroscopy of the nano extract showed maximum light absorption at a wavelength of 420 nm. The EDX revealed 79.52% Ag (silver) and 20.48% O (oxygen). The microscopic studies gave agglomerated spherical silver nanoparticle with average size of 65.9 nm. The XRD result showed that the silver nanoparticle exhibited a polycrystalline face centered cubic (FCC) structure with an average crystallite size of 65.9 nm. The GC/MS result of the crude extract showed a total of fifteen (15) bio-compounds with 4-amino-1,2 naphtoquinone (33.82%) being the highest and hexadecenoic acid, methyl ester (0.36%) being the least in abundance. The GC/MS result of the nano extract showed a total of fifteen (15) organic compounds with Cis-vaccenic acid (46.37%) being the highest and Carbomethoxy vinyl methylamine and 6-octadecanoic acid (0.93%) being the least. The result of the total antioxidant capacity showed a higher antioxidant capacity of the nano extract compared to the crude extract. The crude extract recorded an IC50 of 0.42 mg/ml for DPPH, 0.38 mg/ml for Nitric oxide, 0.33 mg/ml for hydroxyl radical and 0.67 mg/ml for superoxide radical. The nano extract recorded an IC50 of 6.6 mg/ml for 2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 0.72 mg/ml for nitric oxide radical, 0.28 mg/ml for hydroxyl radical and 0.66 mg/ml for superoxide radical. The antimicrobial properties of the crude and nano extracts showed that the nano extract exhibited improved antimicrobial potency against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Salmonella typhi compared to the crude extract. The nano extract exhibited enhanced total antioxidant capacity and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity but lower DPPH and nitric oxide radical scavenging activity with improved antimicrobial efficacy against E.coli and Salmonella typhi compared to the crude extract. Both nano and crude extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa could serve as potential antioxidant and antimicrobial agents.Item Open Access Morpho-Physiological responses and performance of chicken fed activated charcoal-aged palm sap (acaps) supplemented diets(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-11) Ohanaka, Albert Uzochukwu ChinenyeThe aim of this study is to utilize a feed additive supplement developed from a combination of activated charcoal and aged palm sap (ACAPS) for the improvement of the performance of laying hens and broilers. Pig dung, palm kernel shell (PKS), and bamboo chips blended respectively in a 4:3:3 ratio was carbonized to produce activated charcoal (AC) as a potential poultry feed additive. Thereafter, the AC was blended with raffia palm sap that was aged for 3 days in a ratio of 7:3 to produce an activated charcoal-aged palm sap (ACAPS) product as a second potential poultry feed additive. The efficacies of the AC, and ACAPS as feed grade additives were tested on laying hens, and broiler chicken. In the layer experiment, one hundred and fifty (150) Isa brown laying hens aged fifty (50) weeks were randomly assigned to five (5) groups (L1-L5) of 3 replicates with 10 birds each in a completely randomized design (CRD) experiment that lasted for 12 weeks. Five experimental diets containing either 0.00, 0.50, and 1.00% AC or ACAPS were formulated with zero AC as the control. Similar dietary supplementation of AC, and ACAPS (0.00, 0.50, and 1.00%) were used to produce the broiler starter, and finisher diets. Again, 150 Abor acre day - old broiler chicken was randomly assigned to five groups (B1 – B5) of 3 replicates with 10 birds each in a completely randomized design (CRD) experiment that lasted for 8 weeks. Data collected from the layer experiment included laying performance, egg quality, haematological, serum biochemical, and reproductive organ characteristics, while for the broilers, data on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, and economics of production were also collected. Results from the physico-chemical evaluation indicate that AC was mildly alkaline (8.49), high in carbon content (75.35%) and low in ash content (13.13%). The inclusion of the AC in the layer and broiler diets made the diets more water absorbent, increased carbohydrate, and metabolizable energy values, but decreased the BD, crude protein (CP), and other proximate values of the diets. The mineral ratios of the diets such as Ca/P, Na/K, and the dietary electrolyte balance (dEB) increased with increasing AC inclusion in the layer diets. The 1.00% AC and ACAPS supplementation resulted in 8.28, and 12.84% increase in hen-day production over the control value, and reduced loss in weight of the laying hen. All haematological, serum protein, and electrolyte values were significantly (p<0.05) decreased with increased inclusion of AC, and ACAPS supplementation, while the ovarian, and large yellow follicles (LYF) weights were increased. Litter odour and fly infestations were reduced in the pens housing the charcoal treated birds. The performance results of the broiler study showed that the birds fed the 0.5% AC (B2) recorded significantly higher (p<0.05) final weight, and weight gain, followed by the control, and B4 (0.5% ACAPS) groups after 7 days of feeding. After 28 days of feeding, the birds fed the B4 (0.50% ACAPS) diet recorded significantly higher final body weight, and weight gains (p<0.05) than the birds fed the B3, and B5 (1% AC and ACAPS) diets. Similar growth pattern was observed on the 42, and 49 days of age. However, on the 56th day, the B2 (0.50% AC) had averaged similar (P>0.05) performance with the B4 and both had superior performance indices than the rest of the group. No significant differences were observed in the carcass characteristics of the birds. The blood parameters improved progressively with charcoal addition in the broiler diets. The optimal supplementation levels or AC and ACAPS in layer diets were at 1.00% levels because of improved egg laying, growth performance, and eco-friendly poultry production environment. The optimal levels of AC and ACAPS supplementation in broiler diets stood at 0.50% levels beyond which it comes less tolerable and impacts on broiler performance. Therefore, the supplementation of ACAPS at 0.50 and 1.00% in broiler and layer diets respectively is recommended as feed grade additives for optimal performance in poultry production.Item Open Access Molecular characterization of mycotoxin producing moulds from grains and legumes and their susceptibility to plant extracts(Federal University of Technology, Owerri., 2021-11) Ohabughiro, Ndidi BlessingMolecular characterization of mycotoxin producing moulds from grains and legumes and their susceptibility to plant extracts was studied. Grains and legumes were stored for a period of two and four months. They were analysed for the presence of moulds and mycotoxin producing moulds. They were also analysed for the production of different mycotoxins. Sabouraud dextrose agar, Sabouraud dextrose broth, potato dextrose agar and malt extract agar were used in this study. The methods of isolation used were direct physical examination and direct plate count method. Moulds were identified based on their colony morphology, cultural characteristics and molecular characterization. Mycotoxin analysis was done using Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Antifungal susceptibility test was done using the Clinical Laboratory and Standards Institute approved methods for testing of moulds using disk diffusion method. The following four oxoid antifungal agents were used: Amphotericin B, fluconazole, ketoconazole and voriconazole. The following medicinal plants: Ocimum gratissimum (scent leaves), Vemonia amygdalina (bitter leaves), Gongronema latifolium (utazi leaves) and Piper guineense (uziza leaves) were assessed for their phytochemical properties and antifungal susceptibility profile against various moulds. The organic solvents used for antifungal susceptibility profile were methanol and hot water. One way analysis of variance, Duncan tests and descriptive statistics were used for statistical analysis. The moulds isolated and identified culturally were Aspergillus sp. Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus ochraceus, Penicillium chrysogenum, Fusarium sp, Rhizopus stolonifer, Rhizopus nigricans and Mucor sp. while those identified molecularly were Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus tamarii, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus brunneoviolaceus, and Penicillium chrysogenum. The genus Aspergillus was the most prevalent mould. Groundnut had the highest number of isolates followed by maize, beans, rice while wheat had the least number of isolates. The numbers of colony forming units were more in Potato dextrose agar, Sabouraud dextrose agar and least on malt extract agar. Potato dextrose agar recovered the highest number of isolates from both unstored and stored samples followed by sabouraud dextrose agar then malt extract agar. The following mycotoxins were detected Aflatoxin B1, Aflatoxin B2, Aflatoxin G1, Aflatoxin G2, Ochratoxin A, Citrinin, Dihydrocitrinone, Fumonisin B1, Fumonisin B2, Fumonisin B3, Fumonisin B4, Zearalenone, Deoxynivalenol and Nivalenol. Aflatoxin was the most frequent mycotoxin detected. Rice (1286.3 ± 29.689 µg/kg) had the highest rate of recovery of mycotoxins followed by wheat (1166.8 ± 0.901 µg/kg) and groundnuts (1142.9 ± 10.488 µg/kg) while maize (1111.6 ± 9.810 µg/kg) had the least concentration of mycotoxins. Ketoconazole (39 ±1.000 mm) had the highest minimum inhibitory concentration among different anti-fungal agents, followed by voriconazole (36 ± 2.000 mm), Amphotericin B (30 ±2.000 mm) and then Fluconazole (21 ± 12.124 mm). Susceptibility profile using only tetrazolium gave no zone of inhibition. Antifungal agents alone gave a better zone of inhibition than the combination of antifungal agents with tetrazolium. The medicinal plants such as scent leaves, bitter leaves, uziza leaves and utazi leaves analysed contained the following phytochemicals tannin, alkaloid, steroid, saponin and flavonoid. Percentage growth inhibition of moulds by methanol and hot water xiiiextract of scent leaf gave the highest inhibition followed by bitter leaf, utazi and uziza gave the least growth inhibition. Methanol extract gave a better inhibition than hot water extract at 100 mg/ml and 50 mg/ml. One-way analysis of variance and Duncan tests showed that there was a significant difference (P < 0.05) between the isolates found in stored and unstored grains and legume. There was also a significant difference (P < 0.05) between the antifungal agents and media used. Potato dextrose agar should be used frequently since it gave the highest rate of mould recovery. Ketoconazole remains the best drug of choice among other antifungal agents against moulds. Medicinal plants like scent leaves, bitter leaves, utazi leaves and uziza leaves gave varying levels of growth inhibition against various isolates and should be used both at home and clinical settings. The grains and legumes studied were contaminated with various species of moulds and contained many mycotoxins of public health importance.Item Open Access Molecular characterization of mycotoxin producing moulds from grains and legumes and their susceptibility to plant extracts(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-11) Ohabughiro, Ndidi BlessingMolecular characterization of mycotoxin producing moulds from grains and legumes and their susceptibility to plant extracts was studied. Grains and legumes were stored for a period of two and four months. They were analysed for the presence of moulds and mycotoxin producing moulds. They were also analysed for the production of different mycotoxins. Sabouraud dextrose agar, Sabouraud dextrose broth, potato dextrose agar and malt extract agar were used in this study. The methods of isolation used were direct physical examination and direct plate count method. Moulds were identified based on their colony morphology, cultural characteristics and molecular characterization. Mycotoxin analysis was done using Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Antifungal susceptibility test was done using the Clinical Laboratory and Standards Institute approved methods for testing of moulds using disk diffusion method. The following four oxoid antifungal agents were used: Amphotericin B, fluconazole, ketoconazole and voriconazole. The following medicinal plants: Ocimum gratissimum (scent leaves), Vemonia amygdalina (bitter leaves), Gongronema latifolium (utazi leaves) and Piper guineense (uziza leaves) were assessed for their phytochemical properties and antifungal susceptibility profile against various moulds. The organic solvents used for antifungal susceptibility profile were methanol and hot water. One way analysis of variance, Duncan tests and descriptive statistics were used for statistical analysis. The moulds isolated and identified culturally were Aspergillus sp. Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus ochraceus, Penicillium chrysogenum, Fusarium sp, Rhizopus stolonifer, Rhizopus nigricans and Mucor sp. while those identified molecularly were Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus tamarii, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus brunneoviolaceus, and Penicillium chrysogenum. The genus Aspergillus was the most prevalent mould. Groundnut had the highest number of isolates followed by maize, beans, rice while wheat had the least number of isolates. The numbers of colony forming units were more in Potato dextrose agar, Sabouraud dextrose agar and least on malt extract agar. Potato dextrose agar recovered the highest number of isolates from both unstored and stored samples followed by sabouraud dextrose agar then malt extract agar. The following mycotoxins were detected Aflatoxin B1, Aflatoxin B2, Aflatoxin G1, Aflatoxin G2, Ochratoxin A, Citrinin, Dihydrocitrinone, Fumonisin B1, Fumonisin B2, Fumonisin B3, Fumonisin B4, Zearalenone, Deoxynivalenol and Nivalenol. Aflatoxin was the most frequent mycotoxin detected. Rice (1286.3 ± 29.689 µg/kg) had the highest rate of recovery of mycotoxins followed by wheat (1166.8 ± 0.901 µg/kg) and groundnuts (1142.9 ± 10.488 µg/kg) while maize (1111.6 ± 9.810 µg/kg) had the least concentration of mycotoxins. Ketoconazole (39 ±1.000 mm) had the highest minimum inhibitory concentration among different anti-fungal agents, followed by voriconazole (36 ± 2.000 mm), Amphotericin B (30 ±2.000 mm) and then Fluconazole (21 ± 12.124 mm). Susceptibility profile using only tetrazolium gave no zone of inhibition. Antifungal agents alone gave a better zone of inhibition than the combination of antifungal agents with tetrazolium. The medicinal plants such as scent leaves, bitter leaves, uziza leaves and utazi leaves analysed contained the following phytochemicals tannin, alkaloid, steroid, saponin and flavonoid. Percentage growth inhibition of moulds by methanol and hot water xiii extract of scent leaf gave the highest inhibition followed by bitter leaf, utazi and uziza gave the least growth inhibition. Methanol extract gave a better inhibition than hot water extract at 100 mg/ml and 50 mg/ml. One-way analysis of variance and Duncan tests showed that there was a significant difference (P < 0.05) between the isolates found in stored and unstored grains and legume. There was also a significant difference (P < 0.05) between the antifungal agents and media used. Potato dextrose agar should be used frequently since it gave the highest rate of mould recovery. Ketoconazole remains the best drug of choice among other antifungal agents against moulds. Medicinal plants like scent leaves, bitter leaves, utazi leaves and uziza leaves gave varying levels of growth inhibition against various isolates and should be used both at home and clinical settings. The grains and legumes studied were contaminated with various species of moulds and contained many mycotoxins of public health importance.Item Open Access Assessment of Jatropha curcas L. as alternative nematicide in controlling root-knot nematode disease of Okra for improved yield(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-01) Ogwudire, Ezechukwu VincentThe assessment of Jatropha curcas L. as alternative nematicide in controlling root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) disease on Okra for improved yield was conducted in ultisols of Owerri, Nigeria. These were in 2016 and 2017 cropping seasons at the teaching and research farms of Federal University of Technology Owerri. Jatropha curcas L. cultivars; Cv ‘Illorin’, Cv ‘Kwara’ and Cv ‘Ihiagwa’ were first screened in a potted experiment for susceptibility to Meloidogyne incognita naturally endemic in the area using scoring index. Results on root-knot assessment showed no root-knot infection in either of the cultivars tested. Phytochemical investigations carried out for a Plant Based Nematicide revealed the presence of Alkaloids, Saponins, Flavonoids and Tannins in the Seeds, Roots and Leaves respectively. Laboratory test for nematicidal properties against hatchability and mortality of M. incognita was conducted using a 3x4x4 factorial experiment fitted in Completely Randomized Design with three replications. Alkaloids, Saponins, Flavonoids and Tannins applied at 0, 5 and 10 mls per thirty Juveniles (J2) for mortality and twenty egg masses for hatchability were suspended in 10 mls of distilled water respectively. Petri dishes were kept at ambient temperature after 12, 24, 48, and 72 h incubation. Results show that at 10 mls, Seed Alkaloids recorded highest mortality (99.73 %) after 72 h treatment exposure while at 5 mls, Root Alkaloids recorded highest mortality (94.73 %) after 72 h treatment exposure. Most egg hatchability reduction (0.00 i.e 100%) was achieved with Seed Saponin after 12 h treatment exposure time at 10 mls, while at 5 mls (0.08) egg hatchability reduction was achieved with Seed Saponins after 12 h treatment exposure time. Individual Plant based nematicides were further evaluated for their effects on root-gall nematode susceptible Okra variety “NHAe47-4”. Four independent 3x6 factorial experiments arranged in Completely Randomized Design with five replications were conducted in the screen house. Each nematicidal extract was applied at 0,1,2,3,4, and 5 mls, and Jatropha parts with three levelsseed, root and leaves. Results showed that all plant based nematicides applied at 5 mls/pot significantly (p<0.05) reduced root-galls and increased the growth, yield, mucilaginous property, and nutritional composition of okra. This was particularly with Leaf Tannins application which increased pod weight by 67 % and 61 % over control at 4.88 g and 5.11 g in 2016 and 2017 respectively. This was followed by Root and Seed Alkaloids which increased pod weight to 4.02 g & 4.26 g indicating 71 % and 67 % increase over control in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Seed and leaf Saponins increased pod weight to 3.62 g & 3.84 g indicating 58 % & 51 % increase over control in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Seed and Leaf Flavonoids increased pod weight to 3.56 g & 3.80 g indicating 75 % & 71 % increase over control in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Correlation analysis showed that root-knot nematode correlated negatively with growth and yield parameters of Okra. Nematicidal extracts of Jatropha curcas and plant parts at the respective rates/levels-controlled root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) infection on okra, enhanced the pod weights, Mucilaginous property and nutritional composition of okra and are therefore recommended for use in Okra production.Item Open Access Development of intelligent master controller for hybridized power pool system applications(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-11) Kufre, Esenowo JackThe development of an intelligent master controller model for hybridized power pool system applications has become necessary in the contemporary society where much resources are allocated in a decentralized scenario which does not encourage high productivity. Many metropolitan cities are endowed with several scattered energy resources within its locality and when aggregated in a power pool, its energy resources aggregation for continuous energy supply in order to curtail energy wastage may likely be posed with the challenges associated with uncoordinated system. In view of this therefore, an Intelligent Master Controller (IMC) is proposed to oversee and regulate the unified energy potentials in some metropolitan cities in order to ensure efficiency, reliability, and optimal utilization. In the conceptual framework deployed in this study, Afikpo Metropolis was used as a case study to demonstrate a typical power pool architecture with the intelligent master controller. The network voltage level for the five experimented communities were used with respect to the available energy sources. Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) was adopted for the renewable energy synchronization and hybridization through virtual demonstration; the integration of their hybridized renewable energy sources with other available sources like the public power supply and the generating system were made possible through intelligent master controller. The intelligent master controller operation sequence was simulated with proteus software. The hardware was implemented with electronics components, whereas the remote monitoring and control was achieved with Hypertext Mark Language (HTML), Cascaded Style Sheet (CSS), JavaScript and Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP) design. The HTML, CSS and JavaScript provide an app for human and machine interactivity and MongoDB gives the data documentation platform, whereas the ThingSpeak gave the real time analytical scheme for the system. The result from the software simulation conformed with that of the hardware implementation which reveals that energy from metropolitans’ cities could be centrally monitored and controlled using intelligent master control model. This model was demonstrated remotely through the web/Android App, and the energy generated and consumed by the pooled communities were documented in the cloud. The system performance was validated within 6hours of operation, and the system reliability prediction was carried out to ascertain the model functionalities. The developed intelligent master controller model was stable, observable and controllable from the MATLAB simulation result.Item Open Access Management of building collapse risks in Nigeria: A post mortem investigation(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-12) Obodoh, Dominic AnosikeThe study focused on the management of building collapse risks (BCR) in Nigeria: A post mortem investigation. Management of building collapse risks has been saddled with a lot of challenges which had led to continuous rise in the risks associated with building collapse. The main objective of this research is to investigate the management of building collapse risks in Nigeria with a view to developing a framework for effective management and reduction of losses associated with building collapse in Nigeria. To achieve the main objective of the study, five specific objectives were pursued and four hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. A survey research design was adopted for data collection. The population of study was made up of key professionals in the building industry, Staff of emergency management agencies, as well as the neighbourhood of the collapsed building in the study areas and the total population is 24,229. A sample size of 1997 was determined using Taro Yamane formula for finite population, while the samples were selected using stratified random sampling technique. A total of 1860 correctly filled and returned copies of the questionnaire, representing 93% of the distributed copies of the questionnaire was used for data analysis. Data were presented using tables, bar charts and pie charts, while analysis was done using percentages, mean and relative important index (RII). The hypotheses were tested using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and principal component analysis (PCA) via SPSS, version 23 and Minitab 18. The following findings were made from the analysis: (i) The existing system of managing building collapse risks in Nigeria is poor, ineffective and cannot adequately be used to address the risks associated with building collapse. (ii) The building collapse risks that mostly impact on the building development and Nigerian economy are economic/financial risks and human related risks. (iii) The prominent challenges faced by emergency management agencies are: lack of adequate funding, coordination and collaboration, poor urban planning, etc. (iv). The study developed and validated a framework for effective management of risks associated with building collapse in Nigeria, which is the major contribution to knowledge. The study therefore recommends adequate funding and monitoring of emergency management agencies, coordination and collaboration network among all stakeholders involved in disaster management, among others.Item Open Access Modelling marine accidents economic loss and the compensation in Nigeria(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2021-12) Nwokedi, Theophilus C.The aim of the study was to develop models of empirical relationships and elasticity coefficients that will serve as strategic tools for ensuring that, marine underwriters reserve adequate funds to maintain financial solvency for ensuring timely, adequate and sustainable compensation of marine accidents economic loss, for all kinds of insured marine risks, in Nigeria. The study used triangulation design method and obtained time series data on annual marine damage accidents economic costs, compensation funds reserved for insured marine risks, death and injury marine accidents, values of seaborne trade exposed to perils of the sea and per capita output, from the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Reports, and Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) offshore oil and gas incidents Reports. Questionnaire was used as survey instrument to obtain primary data on externalities costs to third party operators affected by marine oil spill accidents impacts on the marine ecosystem. The multiple regression method was used to model the relationships between the dependent and independent variables while the Log-Log constant elasticity model was used to establish the respective coefficients of elasticity. The Gross Output Model (GOM) was used to quantify the output losses occasioned by death cum injury marine accidents, for compensation purposes, while the Willingness to Accept (WTA) method of the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) was used to evaluate the externalities costs and output losses to third party operators affected by marine accidents ecosystem damages, for purposes of providing adequate levels of compensation funds for indemnification of insured marine risks. It was found that, there exists significant relationships between shipping accidents economic loss and value of seaborne trade. The elasticity of shipping accidents economic loss to growth in value of seaborne trade over the period covered in the study shows that it was inelastic (E<1). The coefficient of elasticity of offshore O&G damage accidents economic loss to growth in maritime trade is 2.376. The mean economic costs of death and injury marine accidents to be compensated by underwriters per annum over the period is 4797662.92USD and 279181.17USD respectively with respective average rates of change of 1399708.27USD and -29587.88USD. The result also shows that, the Mean Willingness to Accept Amount (MWTA) which indicates the externalities cost of marine accidents damages to each third party operator affected by oil spill accidents and which underwriters are to provide adequate compensation is: N1,629,610 per annum per capita. The study developed the following models of relationship as contribution to knowledge: SHALt = 2430145.277 + 0.34IMPSTRADEt + 0.051EXPSTRADEt + e; and OFFALt = 123404.891 + 0.321IMPSTRADEt + 0.121EXPSTRADEt + e. InMAPREt = 11.021 + 0.364InSHALt + e; and InOGREt = 16.879 + 0.037InOFFALt + e. COMPENpercapital≥N1629610[1+ r] n ; and MPENaggegate≥N1629610[Xn][1 + r n. Also: ∆MAPREdeath≥1399708.265USD. It was recommended that compensation funds reserved by underwriters for indemnification of insured unexpired marine risks must increase proportionately in line with growth in value of seaborne trade exposed to sea perils and maritime accidents economic loss, indicated by the elasticity and rate of change coefficients.Item Open Access Development of an institutional-based community power pooling model for seamless renewable energy integration(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2023-10) Opara, O. R.In recent times, educational institutions were provided with sources of power, that were able to cater for their needs, cognizance of the low demand for knowledge economy was not high. As a result, the available energy was able to suffice for the limited schools, departments, and units within the university system that was available as at that time. As technology continues to improve, the quest for knowledge increases thereby giving needs for expansion in the educational institutions, which cut across creating of more administrative sections, departments and courses. This expansion came with the need for more energy consumption, which calls for a more robust technology with enabling energy integration. The universities were not taking into consideration using energy resources within their operating environments for optimal utilization. And even when there is any consideration to the use of renewable energy resources, standalone energy systems were readily attracted without consideration to network, and integration model, with a fear of un-seamless nature of renewable energy resources. To mitigate the aforementioned shortcoming, this project proposes an institutional-based community power pooling model with seamless renewable energy integration. This involves the formulation and development of an institutionalized local distribution network forming a mini – grid. Then appropriate dc and ac Load Flow (LF) model were applied to determine an optimal balance between locally available distributed energy resources (DERs) and co – located load centers with the referenced institution – in this case, FUTO. The model simulations reveal,that the system is capable of synchronizing the renewable energy resources within the university in a single network bus, alongside with public power supply and diesel generators. This could guarantee efficient and optimal utilization of the energy potentials within the university community, with excess energy of 8,603,334 KWh/yr. available for sales to the neighbouring energy users from the formulated model. This model could be utilized in other universities across the nation with the view of tailoring its architecture to suit each institutions special peculiarities in terms of energy resources and load demand.