College of Environmental Resources Management

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    HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METALS AND MICROBIAL CONTAMINATION LEVELS IN SELECTED PROCESSED VEGETABLES IN ILORIN, KWARA STATE/ NIGERIA.
    (2023-09-30) ODOFIN EDWARD OLUWAFERANMI
    ABSTRACT Processed vegetables are staple foods within Nigeria, serving as an all-year-round source of vitamins and fibre to consumers. Processing methods like sun drying can expose them to heavy metal and microbial contamination. This study assessed the health risk of heavy metals (HM) and microbial contamination in selected major processed vegetables through sun-drying consumed within Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Vegetable samples such as; Adansonia digitata (Luru), Cayennes frutescens (Shombo), and Abelmoschus esculentus (Orunla) were collected from three popular markets (Oja Oba, Ipata and Oja Tuntun) in Ilorin. Ground and sieved vegetable samples were digested with perchloric and nitric acid and analysed for HMs (Pb, Cd, Cr, Fe, Zn, and Cu) using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. Microbial assessment was carried out for Total Bacteria Count (TBC) and Total Fungi count (TFC) using standard procedures. Identification was based on biochemical analysis for bacteria and largely on morphological characteristics for fungi. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The health risk associated with consumption of the processed vegetable with respect to their heavy metal contents was assessed using the estimated daily intake, total hazard quotient, and hazard index (HI). The analysis of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, Zn) in vegetables (Orunla, Luru, Ata gigun) from different markets (Oba, Tuntun, Ipata) revealed significant variations in the results. Abelmoschus esculentus had the highest levels of Pb (Tuntun: 12.26±1.71 mg/kg), Cd (Tuntun: 1.42±0.25 mg/kg), Cr (Tuntun: 1.42±0.25 mg/kg), and Zn (Tuntun: 71.31±4.37 mg/kg). Adansonia digitata exhibited the highest concentrations of Pb (Ipata: 18.20±18.72 mg/kg), Cd (Tuntun: 2.24±0.15 mg/kg), Cr (Ipata: 0.86±0.45 mg/kg), and Zn (Ipata: 62.39±3.25 mg/kg). C. frutescens showed the highest levels of Pb (Tuntun: 15.97±2.06 mg/kg), Cd (Tuntun: 2.72±0.16 mg/kg), Cr (Ipata: 1.47±0.26 mg/kg), and Zn (Ipata: 68.12±6.18 mg/kg) at a significance level of P<0.05.The order of abundance of HMs in vegetables was consistent at these markets and are as follows: Fe > Zn > Cu > Pb > Cr > Cd. The concentrations of HMs (Pb and Cd) exceeded the maximum permissible limits (0.3 and 0.2 mg/kg, respectively) of FAO/WHO. The microbial analysis revealed the presence of coliforms, Bacillus species, and Aspergillus flavus. The TBC for the three vegetable samples from Oba market ranged from 1.5 × 106 to 4.0 × 106 Cfu/g and the TFC ranged between 0.1× 106 Cfu/g to 0.4 × 106 Cfu/g. In conclusion, the presence of coliforms and pathogenic fungi in the samples raises concerns about food safety and thus emphasizes the critical need for improved practices in processing vegetables especially through sun-drying. The HI values were greater than the permissible level of 1.0 indicating the potential non-carcinogenic adverse health effects for consumers. The Target Hazard Quotient values for Cd and Pb were greater than 1.0 in all the vegetable samples indicating potential health risk associated with the consumption of these vegetables. This study revealed potential health risks associated with eating sun-dried vegetables in the study area.
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    PRODUCTION OF BIOGAS FROM CO-DIGESTION OF ANIMAL DUNGS, WATER HYACINTH AND PALM OIL MILL EFFLUENT, AND POTENTIALS OF THE SLURRY AS SOIL AMENDMENT
    (2023-12-05) BAKARE, ADEWALEWASIU
    ABSTRACT A substantial amount of agricultural waste is generated and disposed through dumping and burning in Nigeria. This study assessed effects of co-digestion of animal dungs, water hyacinth and Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) on biogas production; and potential of the slurry as soil amendment. The Agricultural waste: Poultry Manure (PM), Pig Dung (PD), Cow Dung (CD) and Water Hyacinth (WH) were co-digested in triplicates each in ratios: 75:25, 50:50 and 25:72 for PM:PD, CD:PM, PD:CD, WH:CD, WH:PD, WH:PM using POME as diluent. The control: PD, CD WH and PM each were 100 %. The digestion was done under a 30-day retention period in 25L plastic digesters (Batch Experiment) The first three substrates with higher biogas production PD:CD (25:75), CD:WH (50:50) and PD:PM (25:75) were used to determine the effect of loading rate of 2.62 L on biogas production in the Continuous Experiment. Effect of scrubbers: iron sponge, silica gel, NaOH, and saw dust to remove H2S, moisture and CO2 respectively on the quality of biogas produced was assessed. The purified biogas was later compressed using car air conditioner compressor into 3 kg LPG cylinder. Flammability test was carried out by using 500 mls of borehole water. The slurry of the highest biogas production and NPK (15:15:15) fertiliser were used to grow Amaranthus hybbridus for four weeks. Plant height, stem girth and number of leaves were collected weekly. Data collected were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics. Biogas produced was highest (7.166 L) in PD:CD (25:75) followed by 2.000 L in PDPM (25:75) and the lowest in CD:WH (25:75) with 1.666 L. After purification, the methane content ranged from 41 to 50 %, while the CO2 content range from 10 to 15% respectively. During compression, the temperature and pressure increased from 33.4 to 34.6 ℃ and 0 to 6.34 bar for temperature and pressure respectively. As the temperature and pressure increased, the amount of biogas compressed increased from 0 to 102 g. The LPG was 9 seconds faster than biogas at heating the water to boiling point with flame temperatures of 325℃ and 213℃ for LPG and biogas respectively. The soil+slurry had plant height of 61.8 cm, followed by 42.72 cm in soil+NPK while the least height of 41.33 cm was observed in soil only. The stem girth was 11.78, 8.03 and 7.98 mm in soil+slurry, soil+NPK and soil only respectively. The number of leaves was 25 23 and 18 in soil+slurry, soil+NPK and soil only respectively. In conclusion, all the co-digested agriculture waste with palm oil effluent, are rich in biogas. The co-digested of PD:CD (25:75) produced the highest biogas and the slurry improved the growth of Amaranthus hybridus
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    PRODUCTION AND SURVIVAL OF HYBRIDS OF CLARIAS GARIEPINUS AND HETEROBRANCHUS SPECIES UNDER HATCHERY CONDITION
    (2024-01-20) OLATUNDUN, ISMAIL ABIODUN
    ABSTRACT Hybridization is a genetic improvement technique in the aquaculture industry, which has been recognized as a tool to enhance production intensities and efficiency, for food security and employment generation. This study evaluated the production and survival of hybrids of Clarias gariepinus and Heterobranchus species under hatchery conditions. Twenty gravid broodstocks of C. gariepinus (CG), H. bidorsalis (HB) and H. longifilis (HL) with average weight (531.67±7.55 g) were cultured for three months before selecting twelve for hybridization. The crosses of CG (1100.00±57.74 g), HL (1200.00±57.74 g) and HB (1150.00±28.87 g) were carried out using ovaprim at 0.5 ml per kg body weight of female fish. The hybrids of HL♂ x HB♀ (T1), HB♂ x, HL♀ (T2), HB♂ x CG♀ (T3), CG♂ x, HB♀ (T4), HL♂ x CG♀ (T5) and CG♂ x HL♀ (T6) formed the triplicated treatments which were cultured for ninety days. The data obtained such as growth parameters, fertilisation and hatching rates among others were subjected to one-way analysis of variance using Statistical Products and Service Solutions (SPSS), while treatment means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The growth response of the broodstocks showed no significant difference (p>0.05) in all the parameters. H. longifilis had the highest measurable values of final weight (1200.00±57.74 g), weight gain (680.00±46.19 g), specific growth rate (0.93±0.03 %/day) and relative growth rate (130.50±5.99 %), while the least values of final weight (1100.00±57.74 g), weight gain (555.00±65.26 g), specific growth rate (0.78±0.08 %/day) and relative growth rate (102.40±13.55 %) were recorded in CG. Results indicate significant differences (p<0.05) in the values of weight of stripped eggs, number of eggs per gram and fecundity of the fish among the treatments. The highest values for weight of stripped eggs (183.33±8.82 g), highest number of eggs per gram (741) and fecundity (133.31±3.06) were recorded in T3. The highest significant values for number of eggs fertilized (11577), fertilization rate (83.67 %) and hatching rate (66.67 %) were recorded in T3, T2 and T1, respectively. The lowest values of fertilization rate (70 %) and hatching rate (53.33 %) were observed in T5 and T6, respectively. The highest percentage survival (87.67 %) was recorded in T2 while T6 recorded the lowest percentage survival value (44 %). The trend of percentage mortality was T6>T4>T3>T5>T1>T2. The growth response showed no significant difference (p>0.05) in the values of initial weight, specific growth rate, daily growth rate, mean growth rate and relative growth rate among the treatments but had significant differences (p<0.05) in the values of final weights and weight gain among the treatments. Fish in T3 had the highest final weight (5.44 g) and weight gain (5.28 g) while fish in T6 had the least values of final weight (4.12 g) and weight gain (4.00 g). Water temperature, nitrate, turbidity, conductivity and total solids showed no significant difference at p>0.05. This study revealed that, the production and survival of C. gariepinus and Heterobranchus species under hatchery conditions was viable and could be sustainable based on the breeding performance and survival rates recorded.
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    VEGETATION iDYNAMICS iAND iCARBON iSTOCK iESTIMATE IN iFOREST iSURROUNDING iSELECTED iAIRPORTS SOUTH iWEST iREGION, iNIGERIA.
    (2024-04-25) OGUNLUSI iOLUFEMI iADEOLA
    ABSTRACT Shortage iof iecological iassessment iin itropical irain iforest ihas ibeen iidentified ias imajor ichallenges ifor ithe iforestry iindustries iand igovernment ifor isustainable iforest imanagement iin iterms iof iconservation, iadvocacy, icarbon isequestration iand ipolicy irecommendation. iThe istudy iwas icarried iout ito iassess itree ispecies idiversity, isoil iproperties, icarbon istock iestimation iand iland iuse iand iland icover ichanges iof ifour iairport isurrounding iforests iin iNigeria. iFour iairports isurrounding iforests iused ifor ithis istudy iwere: iBenin, iAkure, iIbadan iand iLagos irespectively. iAlternate iline itransect imethod iwere iused iin ilaying iand iselecting i50 im iX i50 im ifor idetailed ienumeration. iEach itransect iwas i1000 im iin ilength. iSample iplots iwere ilaid iat ievery i100 im ialong itransect. iEight i(8) iplots iwere iselected iper istudy isites iwhile i32 isample iplots iin itotal iwere iused ifor ithis istudy. iIn ieach isample iplot, iall iliving itrees iwith iDiameter iat iBreast iHeight i(DBH) igreater ithan ior iequal ito i10 icm iwere imeasured iand iidentified iby itheir ibotanical iand ithe ifamily inames. iFor ifloristic iassessment, i5 im iX i5 im iquadrants iwere ilaid iapproximately iat ithe icentre iof ieach iplot. iAll ivegetation/seedling iwith iDBH iless ithan i10cm iwere iidentified iand irecorded. iSoil isamples iwere irandomly icollected ifrom ifive ipoints iwithin ieach iplots. i(Each ifrom ithe ifour icorners iof ithe iplots iand iat ithe icentre iof ithe iplots). iSoil isamples iwere itaken ifrom itwo isoil idepths iof i0-30 icm iand i30-60 icm. iSoil isamples ifrom ithe isame idepths iand ifrom ithe isame iplot iwere ithoroughly imixed ito iform ia icomposite isoil isample ifor ilaboratory ianalysis. i iStatus iof ilanduse iland icover ichanges iat itwenty iyears iintervals ifrom i1983–2023 iwere iexamined. iLandsat iimages iand iGoogle iEarth iimage iwere iused ifor ithe ianalysis iof ithe istudied isites. iData iwere ianalysed iwith iSPSS iversion i(13) iand iPAST iversion i(30) iand ithe iresults iwere ipresented iusing itables, ifigures iand imaps. iResults irevealed ithat ithe ifour iairports isurrounding iforest iecosystems icontributed idifferently ito itree ispecies idiversity. iA itotal inumber iof i34 ifamilies iin iAkure, iIbadan, iBenin iand iLagos iwere iencountered. iThe inumbers iof itree ispecies iencountered iwere iin idecreasing iorder: iIbadan i(59); iBenin i(51), iLagos i(46) iand iAkure i(41). iThe ihighest iSimpson idiversity iindex i(0.965) iwas iobtained iin iIbadan iwhile ithe ilowest ivalue i(0.927) iwas iobtained iat iAkure iforest. iValues iobtained ifor ispecies ievenness iresults iwere i0.691 ifor iLagos iwhile iAkure ihas ithe ileast ivalue iof i0.55. iMalvaceae iwas ithe idominant ifamily iin ithe ifour iforest iecosystems, iwith iLagos iand iIbadan ihaving ihighest isimilarity iindex. iThe itree ispecies iencountered iwith ihighest iIVI iwas iCeltis izenkeri i(11.98%) iwhile ithe ileast iwas iBateria ifistulosa i(0.81%). iResult iof icarbon istock isequestration ipotential iof ithe ifour iassessed isurrounding iforests iindicated ithat iBenin iforest ihad ithe ihighest imean icarbon istock iof i i(0.135) ifollowed iby iAkure i(0.127), ifollowed iby iLagos i(0.119), iand iIbadan iforest ihaving ithe ilowest ivalue iof i0.107 icarbon istock idensity. iSoil idepth ihas isignificant ieffect ion iphysical iproperties iacross ithe istudy ilocations, iPhysical iproperties iand iits iinteraction iwith isoil isignificantly iinfluence ithe iresponse ivariables. iThe iresults ishowed ithat ithe imeans iof ichemical iand iphysical iproperties iacross ithe ifour iairports iforests ivaried iaccordingly. Furthermore, iland iuse iand iland icover ichanges ishowed ithat iforest icover iloss iin ithe istudy iarea ifor iyear i2003 iwas ievident idue ito ianthropogenic iactivities ibefore istrict ilaw iof iprotection ifor ithe iairports ibetween i2003 iand i2023 iwas imade. iThe iresults iof ithis istudy iconcluded ithat ithe ifour iairports isurrounding iforest iassessed iwere ihaven ifor ibiological idiversity iparticularly iIbadan iand iBenin iforest, itherefore iconservation iof itree ispecies iin ithe isurrounding iforests iof iairports iis irecommended.
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    ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT OF PASTORALISM IN TWO SELECTED LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF KOGI STATE, NIGERIA.
    (2024-06-20) EGBEJA, TSOBAZA IDRIS
    ABSTRACT Conflicts arising from utilization of natural resources among crop farmers and pastoralists have escalated in recent times in Nigeria. This study assessed environmental and social impacts of pastoralism in two selected Local Government Areas of Kogi State, Nigeria. A two-stage sampling technique was employed to draw the sample for the survey. The first stage involved a purposive selection of four villages (Agbenema, Ajichekpa, Iyano and Opada) representing two Local Government Areas where pastoralists and farmers conflicts are prevalent. The second stage involved a snow-ball selection of 30 farmers and 10 pastoralists from each village. In total, 144 respondents were interviewed using structured questionnaire. Relative importance index (RII) was used to measure the magnitude of causes of the conflict, socio-psychological consequences of conflicts on rural livelihoods and the mitigation strategies associated with the management of the farmer-herder conflict. Plants were classified into various palatability classes by daily monitoring individual animal’s grazing preferences of different plant species, parts and condition for two successive years. The standard methods recommended by the American Public Health Association were adopted for determination of physical and chemical parameters of water. These parameters were pH, temperature, electrical conductivity (EC), total hardness (TH), total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solids (TSS), dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), including heavy metals like; iron (Fe), nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb). Data were analyzed using descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (ANOVA) statistics using Statistical Analysis System version 9.0 portable. Means were separated with Duncan Multiple Range Test. Results revealed that causes of conflicts between farmers and pastoralists were crop destruction by cattle (RII =3.7), little respect for traditional rulers (RII =3.5) and contamination of stream by cattle (RII =3.4). Consequences of farmer-herder conflicts were sleepless nights (RII =3.14), feelings of fear and anxiety (RII =3.07), reductions in farm income (RII =2.9), reduction in crop yields (RII =2.6), incidence of death (RII =2.6) and farm destruction (RII =2.60). The effective strategies for conflict resolutions were dialogue between parties involved (RII =2.77), prayed for peace (RII =2.57) and intervention by traditional rulers (RII =2.53). Analysis of the palatability of plant species to grazing animals was shaped by a range of factors including the type of animal, seasonal fluctuations, habitat characteristics, and prevailing weather conditions. Physical and chemical analyses of water sampled from the study locations indicated values within the world health organization acceptable limits. There were significant (p < 0.05) spatial and seasonal variations in the physical and chemical parameters of the water. Heavy metals concentrations were mostly below detection limit, except for Pb with higher values during the wet season. Correlation coefficient showed significant (p < 0.05) positive correlation between temperature and pH (r = 0.877), temperature and TSS (r = 0.748), EC and TSS (r = 0.850), and DO and BOD (r = 0.768) in both dry and wet seasons. This study showed that the conflicts between crop farmers and pastoralists negatively impacted various aspects of rural livelihoods, vegetations and river water in Kogi State.
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    ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT OF PASTORALISM IN TWO SELECTED LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF KOGI STATE, NIGERIA.
    (2024-06-25) EGBEJA, TSOBAZA IDRIS
    ABSTRACT Conflicts arising from utilization of natural resources among crop farmers and pastoralists have escalated in recent times in Nigeria. This study assessed environmental and social impacts of pastoralism in two selected Local Government Areas of Kogi State, Nigeria. A two-stage sampling technique was employed to draw the sample for the survey. The first stage involved a purposive selection of four villages (Agbenema, Ajichekpa, Iyano and Opada) representing two Local Government Areas where pastoralists and farmers conflicts are prevalent. The second stage involved a snow-ball selection of 30 farmers and 10 pastoralists from each village. In total, 144 respondents were interviewed using structured questionnaire. Relative importance index (RII) was used to measure the magnitude of causes of the conflict, socio-psychological consequences of conflicts on rural livelihoods and the mitigation strategies associated with the management of the farmer-herder conflict. Plants were classified into various palatability classes by daily monitoring individual animal’s grazing preferences of different plant species, parts and condition for two successive years. The standard methods recommended by the American Public Health Association were adopted for determination of physical and chemical parameters of water. These parameters were pH, temperature, electrical conductivity (EC), total hardness (TH), total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solids (TSS), dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), including heavy metals like; iron (Fe), nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb). Data were analyzed using descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (ANOVA) statistics using Statistical Analysis System version 9.0 portable. Means were separated with Duncan Multiple Range Test. Results revealed that causes of conflicts between farmers and pastoralists were crop destruction by cattle (RII =3.7), little respect for traditional rulers (RII =3.5) and contamination of stream by cattle (RII =3.4). Consequences of farmer-herder conflicts were sleepless nights (RII =3.14), feelings of fear and anxiety (RII =3.07), reductions in farm income (RII =2.9), reduction in crop yields (RII =2.6), incidence of death (RII =2.6) and farm destruction (RII =2.60). The effective strategies for conflict resolutions were dialogue between parties involved (RII =2.77), prayed for peace (RII =2.57) and intervention by traditional rulers (RII =2.53). Analysis of the palatability of plant species to grazing animals was shaped by a range of factors including the type of animal, seasonal fluctuations, habitat characteristics, and prevailing weather conditions. Physical and chemical analyses of water sampled from the study locations indicated values within the world health organization acceptable limits. There were significant (p < 0.05) spatial and seasonal variations in the physical and chemical parameters of the water. Heavy metals concentrations were mostly below detection limit, except for Pb with higher values during the wet season. Correlation coefficient showed significant (p < 0.05) positive correlation between temperature and pH (r = 0.877), temperature and TSS (r = 0.748), EC and TSS (r = 0.850), and DO and BOD (r = 0.768) in both dry and wet seasons. This study showed that the conflicts between crop farmers and pastoralists negatively impacted various aspects of rural livelihoods, vegetations and river water in Kogi State.
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    EFFECTS OF PLANTING MEDIA, SEED PRIMING AND PHYTOHORMONES ON GERMINATION AND SEEDLINGS’ GROWTH OFAnogeissus leiocarpus (DC.) Guill. and Perr. (AFRICAN BIRCH)
    (2024-07-20) OLUNUGA, ADELAJA MUYIWA
    ABSTRACT Anogeissus leiocarpus (African birch) is a multipurpose agroforestry tree species found in most savanna and woody grassland areas. The germination requirements and silvicultural information necessary for successful seedling establishment of the species are not widely explored. This study was conducted to assess effects of planting media, seed priming and phytohormones on seed germination and growth of A. leiocarpus. Seeds of different weights (10, 20 and 50 g) were soaked in hot water at 20, 40 and 60°C for 5, 10 and 15 minutes respectively and percentage germinated were calculated.The effect of phytohormones on the germination of A. leiocarpus seeds was carried out using Gibberellic Acid (GA3), Indole Acetic Acid (IAA) and Indole Butyric Acid (IBA) applied at 10, 20 and 30 ppm with a separate control and arranged in 3x3 factorial experiment with four replicates. The planting media wereRiver sand-50% + Top soil-50% (R50T50), River sand-75% + Top soil-25% (R75T25), River sand-100% + Top soil-0% (R100T0), River sand-0% + Top soil-100% (R0T100) and River sand-25% + Top soil-75% (R25T75) which were laid out in a completely randomized design. The study had five replicates and were observed for a duration of eight weeks. The datacollected on percentage germination and growth parameters including plant height (PH), collar diameter (CD), number of leaves (NL) and leaf area (LA)were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics using Statistical Analysis System (SAS vs 13.0). The means were separated using the Least Significant Difference at p≤0.05. Results obtained revealed that a combination of soil potting media significantly increased all measured parameters. A. leiocarpus seeds (10 g) soaked in 20°C of hot water for 15 minutes had the highest germination percentage (46.60%) at eight Weeks After Sowing (WAS) which was significantly different (p≤0.05) from other treatments while 50 g of seeds soaked in 60°C of hot water for 10 minutes recorded the least germination percentage (1.00%) at eight WAS. Seeds of A. leiocarpus soaked in GA3 at 10 ppm recorded the highest germination percentage (36.60%) while seeds soaked in IBA at 30 ppm recorded the least germination percentage (7.80%) at eight WAS. Seedlings grown in R75T25 treatment recorded the highest PHof 23.42±1.27 cm, CD: 0.38±0.08 mm, NL: 21.20±2.28 andLA: 26.25±2.30 cm2at eight WAS while seedlings grown in R50T50 treatment had the lowest PH (19.82±1.25 cm), CD (0.26±0.05 mm), NL (19.20±2.28) and LA (19.11±0.05 cm2). The study concluded that the use of GA3 at 10 ppm, 10 g of seeds soaked in 20°C of hot water for 15 minutes and R75T25 planting mediaaided the germination and growth of A. leiocarpus.Further investigations should be carried out to determine other priming methods for improved germination of A. leiocarpus seeds.
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    EVALUATION OF SELCTED PHYSICAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF WOOD PLASTIC COMPOSITE PRODUCED FROM THERMOPLSTIC WASTE AND WOOD SAWDUST
    (2024-07-25) ELAIGWU, Victor Onuminya
    ABSTRACT There are increasing environmental concerns on the need for sustainable materials for construction. Wood Plastic Composite (WPC), produced by the mixture of plastic wastes and lignocelluloses wastes offers a promising alternative to traditional wood products. This study evaluated selected physical and mechanical properties of WPC manufactured using recycled thermoplastic wastes of Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP), with wood sawdust of Albizia zigia, Cleistopholis patens and Alstonia boonei in the following ratios of 30:70, 40:60 and 50:50 to achieve optimization for their applications. Separately prepared mixtures were compounded at 160oc in a twin-screw extruder. The resultant molten mixture, after extruding the die, was collected into a 22cmx4cmx4cm metal mould and compressed at 4.5 metric tons for one minute to form a composite block. The experiment was conducted in triplicates. Samples were sawn to dimensions recommended by the American Society for Testing and Materials. Physical and mechanical properties of (Density (D), Thickness Swelling (TS), Water Absorption (WA), Modulus of Elasticity (MOE), Modulus of Rupture (MOR), Impact Bending Strength (IBS) and Compressive Strength (CS)) were evaluated. The controls were wood samples of the species devoid of plastic. The results of selected physical properties showed that the density of A. zigia with PP at 30/70 had the highest mean value of 1.06±0.010 g/cm3, WA of A. boonei with PE at 50/50 had the least mean value of 0.67±0.010 % and TS of A.zigia with PP at 50/50 had the least mean value of 0.09±0.000 %. Analysis of variance on physical properties of wood species showed that there was a significant difference (p<0.05) in density and TS, while A. boonie showed significant difference in WA. Hard wood species increased density and reduced WA and TS in WPC production. The results of mechanical properties showed that MOE of A. zigia with PE at 50/50 had the highest mean value of 9684.21±1063.76 MPa, MOR of A. zigia with PE at 30/70 had the highest mean value of 63.33±3.41 MPa, CS of A. zigia with PE at 50/50 had the highest mean value of 45.44±1.79 MPa and IBS of A. zigia with PE at 30/70 had the highest mean value of 16.51±1.10 J/cm. Analysis of variance performed on mechanical properties of WPC showed significant difference (p<0.05) in MOE, MOR and CS except IBS. Sawdust of wood species with higher mechanical properties combined with PE polymer enhanced better mechanical performance of produced WPCs. Promoting WPC production according to requirement will enhance its application in the field of structural construction. Keywords: wood plastic composite,thermoplastic, sawdust, recycling
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    EFFECTS OF CHARCOAL PRODUCTION ON GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS AND LAND USE LAND COVER CHANGE IN IMEKO-AFON, OGUN STATE
    (2024-08-20) OGUNBANWO, FOLORUNSO TAOFEEK
    ABSTRACT The study investigated the impact of charcoal production on greenhouse gas emission and land-use land-cover change in Imeko-Afon Local Government Area of Ogun State. The study was necessitated by the lack of information on the influence of charcoal production on GHG emissions and vegetation cover degradation in the study area. A gas analyser and portable air quality meter was used to collect data on CO2, CH4, and particulate matter (PM1.0, PM2.5, and PM10) emissions from five sites; Araromi, Igbo-Ayin, Mowodani, Sagbala and Segile (the control site). A structured questionnaire was administered to seventy charcoal producers and sellersusing a purposive sampling method to assess their level of awareness of the consequences of charcoal production and the volume of charcoal produced. The land-use land-cover changes from 2003 to 2023 were also assessed using the IDRISI Terset; a GIS software by which predictions was made till 2043. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive(frequency, percentages, means) and inferential (correlation, ANOVA and chi-square) statistics.The study revealed that the mean carbon dioxide emissions (ppm) from the site were significantly higher at Mowodani (5589.62), Araromi (4776.58), Sagbala (4684.27) and Igbo-Ayin (2927.83) compared to those obtained from Segile (444.82). Also, the mean methane emissions (ppm) from the site were significantly higher at Mowodani (638.74), Sagbala (538.55), Araromi (497.16) and Igbo-Ayin (418.17) compared to those obtained from Segile(10.44). The result of particulate matter emissions across the study locations showed a mean emission for PM1.0, PM2.5 and PM10to be 54.79µ/m3, 107.66µ/m3 and 103.86µ/m3, respectively, in comparison to the mean obtained from the control sites which are 24.72µ/m3, 29.40µ/m3 and 49.53µ/m3, respectively, affirming that the mean emissions were indeed significantly different and positive. Respondents during socio demographic assessment reported an improvement in their standard of living (85.7%) and income (87.1%). Furthermore, 54.3% of the respondents wanted charcoal production to be discouraged and 60% were willing to try other economic activities. There is a positive relationship between the CO2 emission and charcoal production (p< 0.05 r=0.539) andbetween the CH4 emission and charcoal production (p< 0.05 r=0.419) across the study locations. The land-use land-cover change revealed that the built-up/bare surface increased by 6,148ha while the disturbed forest increased by 20,930ha. The woodland savannah and riparian vegetation increased by 290,715ha and 38,076ha respectively. However, the cultivated farmland decreased by 355,869ha. The remote sensing projection in 2043 revealed 0.81% reduction in the built-up/bare surface and an increase of 38.50% in disturbed forest while the woodland savannah and riparian vegetation would increase by 3.13% and 20.19% respectively whereas cultivated farmland is expected to reduce by 10.94%. The study concluded that there is a significant increase in GHG and particulate matter emissions (approximately 3.4001908 x 1014 tons CO2e) resulting from charcoal production in the study area with corresponding land cover change over the past two decades and a projected decrease in cultivated farmland in 2043. The study therefore recommends the creation of awareness and alternative energy sources to reduce carbon footprint for the charcoal producers through the REDD+ programme.
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    ASSESSMENT OF BIODIVERSITY DISTRIBUTION AND CONSERVATION CAPACITY OF THE FUNAAB ZOOPARK USING REMOTE SENSING.
    (2024-08-20) SUNDAY JAMES ABIOLA
    ABSTRACT Conservation is essential to protect and sustainably manage biodiversity for economic, social, cultural, and environmental purposes. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Land Surface Temperature (LST) are significant in studying habitat effects on free-range animals. This study examined the biodiversity distribution and conservation capacity of Zoo Park at Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta using remote sensing. Four existing transects (A, B, C and D) of the zoological park were selected for the direct technique count method. Each transect was traversed for the period of five months and observations were carried out twice a day. Sample plots of 50 m by 50 m were demarcated randomly in eight different locations. The Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) of each tree was measured in centimeter. Landsat 7 and 8 data satellite images of the study area for 2012 and 2022 were downloaded to assess the changes in the vegetation cover and temperature of the study area. Descriptive (mean and standard deviation) statistics were used to analyze the population encountered across months and transects. Simpson’s diversity index was used to measure animal species diversity while plant species diversity index was calculated using Shannon-Wiener’s diversity index. The results revealed that eight species of natural inhabitants identified were Chlorocebuspygerythrus, Philantombamaxwellii, Herpestesbrachyurus, Tragelaphusscriptus, Pseudohaienigraus, Xeruserythropus, Veranusniloticus and Opheodrysvernalis. Transects A and D recorded the highest number of animals. Transect B had the highest diversity index (0.8348), while transect C had the lowest (0.3517). A total number of 199 trees per hectare from 21 species and 12 families were recorded. Moraceae (5) accounted for the highest frequency of family while Antiaristoxicaria (23) accounted for the species with highest number of individual trees. Miliciaexcelsa (304.00 cm) accounted for the highest mean DBH while the tree diversity index was 2.78. The NDVI analysis of the Zoo Park showed five different land classes (barren land, built-up areas, shrubs/grasslands, sparse vegetation and dense vegetation). A notable change in the land cover categories was observed between 2012 and 2022. The change analysis showed that barren land, built-up areas, dense vegetation and shrubs/grasslands declined by 0.59%, 1.6%, 4.93%, and 17.52% respectively while sparse vegetation increased by 24.64% within the space of ten years. The ambient temperature of the study area ranged from 25.92 to 31.06⁰C in 2012 and 20.19 to 33.13⁰C in 2022. The minimum temperature experienced in 2022 was lower than that of 2012 which could be attributed to the exposed areas in 2012 that had been filled with vegetation. Also, the maximum temperature in 2022 was higher than that recorded for 2012 and this could be attributed to the reduction of dense vegetation. The study showed that resources availability of FUNAAB Zoo Park and its ambient temperature made it a suitable site for the free-range animals to thrive.
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    EFFECTS OF CHARCOAL PRODUCTION ON GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS AND LAND USE LAND COVER CHANGE IN IMEKO-AFON, OGUN STATE
    (2024-08-25) OGUNBANWO, FOLORUNSO TAOFEEK
    ABSTRACT The study investigated the impact of charcoal production on greenhouse gas emission and land-use land-cover change in Imeko-Afon Local Government Area of Ogun State. The study was necessitated by the lack of information on the influence of charcoal production on GHG emissions and vegetation cover degradation in the study area. A gas analyser and portable air quality meter was used to collect data on CO2, CH4, and particulate matter (PM1.0, PM2.5, and PM10) emissions from five sites; Araromi, Igbo-Ayin, Mowodani, Sagbala and Segile (the control site). A structured questionnaire was administered to seventy charcoal producers and sellers using a purposive sampling method to assess their level of awareness of the consequences of charcoal production and the volume of charcoal produced. The land-use land-cover changes from 2003 to 2023 were also assessed using the IDRISI Terset; a GIS software by which predictions was made till 2043. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive (frequency, percentages, means) and inferential (correlation, ANOVA and chi-square) statistics. The study revealed that the mean carbon dioxide emissions (ppm) from the site were significantly higher at Mowodani (5589.62), Araromi (4776.58), Sagbala (4684.27) and Igbo-Ayin (2927.83) compared to those obtained from Segile (444.82). Also, the mean methane emissions (ppm) from the site were significantly higher at Mowodani (638.74), Sagbala (538.55), Araromi (497.16) and Igbo-Ayin (418.17) compared to those obtained from Segile (10.44). The result of particulate matter emissions across the study locations showed a mean emission for PM1.0, PM2.5 and PM10 to be 54.79µ/m3, 107.66µ/m3 and 103.86µ/m3, respectively, in comparison to the mean obtained from the control sites which are 24.72µ/m3, 29.40µ/m3 and 49.53µ/m3, respectively, affirming that the mean emissions were indeed significantly different and positive. Respondents during socio demographic assessment reported an improvement in their standard of living (85.7%) and income (87.1%). Furthermore, 54.3% of the respondents wanted charcoal production to be discouraged and 60% were willing to try other economic activities. There is a positive relationship between the CO2 emission and charcoal production (p< 0.05 r=0.539) and between the CH4 emission and charcoal production (p< 0.05 r=0.419) across the study locations. The land-use land-cover change revealed that the built-up/bare surface increased by 6,148ha while the disturbed forest increased by 20,930ha. The woodland savannah and riparian vegetation increased by 290,715ha and 38,076ha respectively. However, the cultivated farmland decreased by 355,869ha. The remote sensing projection in 2043 revealed 0.81% reduction in the built-up/bare surface and an increase of 38.50% in disturbed forest while the woodland savannah and riparian vegetation would increase by 3.13% and 20.19% respectively whereas cultivated farmland is expected to reduce by 10.94%. The study concluded that there is a significant increase in GHG and particulate matter emissions (approximately 3.4001908 x 1014 tons CO2e) resulting from charcoal production in the study area with corresponding land cover change over the past two decades and a projected decrease in cultivated farmland in 2043. The study therefore recommends the creation of awareness and alternative energy sources to reduce carbon footprint for the charcoal producers through the REDD+ programme.
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    STATUS AND CONTRIBUTION OF HOMEGARDEN TO HOUSEHOLD FOOD SECURITY IN OSUN STATE, NIGERIA
    (2024-09-20) OLADEJO, ANUOLUWAPO DEBORAH
    ABSTRACT Homegarden is the modern compound farm contributing to household food security, healthy life and conservation of local food crops. The study was conducted to determine the status of homegarden and its contribution to household food security in Osun State, Nigeria. Multi-Stage sampling technique with four-stage design was used to obtain a sample size of 150 respondents. Structured questionnaire was administered to elicit information from the respondents. Ten farms were selected from the three agro-ecological zones for ecology of homegardens. Frequency counts, percentages, means, standard deviation and Pearson Product Moment Correlation were used to analyse the data. Likert scale and correlation of attributes were used to determine the perception of respondents to homegarden and contribution of homegarden to household food security. Simpson’s Diversity and Similarity Indices were analysed using PAST software version 3. Results showed that 52.0 % of the respondents were female; 80.6 % were within the age range of 31-60 years with the mean age of 43 years. Also, 63.3 % were christians, 84.0 % were married, 42.0 % had a family size of 5-7 persons with the mean family size of 6 persons and majority (80.0 %) had formal education. About 85.7 % of the respondents indicated farming as the secondary occupation while 46.0 % reported trade as the primary occupation. The size of the homegardens in the study area ranged from 331 m2to 8037 m2 and distances between garden plants and houses were between 2 m and 50 m in the three agro-ecological zones. Household income from primary occupation showed that 46.4 % of the respondents earned between ₦20,001 and ₦40,000; Income from homegarden showed that 53.9% earned less than ₦20,000; while monetary value of produce consumed by the family showed that 44.7 % consumed up to ₦10,000 produce monthly. A total of 133 species made up of 39 plant species (food crops, vegetables and spices), 28 fruit trees, 36 timber species, 18 medicinal plants and 12 animal species were encountered in the study area. The most diverse zone was Ife/Ijesha with the lowest dominance value of 0.06 and the highest diversity value of 0.94; Osogbo and Ife/Ijesha had the highest similarity indices of 73.0 %. Female were involved in 12 operations out of the 17 operations carried out in homegarden management. Major constraint of homegardens was damage due to insect pests, diseases, animals, and theft (55.3 %), inadequate access to water (49.3 %) and limited access to agricultural inputs such as seeds, planting material, tools, and capital (41.3 %). Most (69.3 %) strongly agreed that homegardening helped in addressing food insecurity. The combined benefits derived from the homegardens in the three agro-ecological zones, showed that Source of food is the most promising to be the dominant use. Conclusively, homegardens play a crucial role in the livelihoods of the communities and households.
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    HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT OF METALS IN DIFFERENTLYPROCESSED-AFRICAN MUD CATFISH (Clarias gariepinus Burchell, 1822) IN ABEOKUTA MARKETS, OGUN STATE, SOUTHWESTERN NIGERIA
    (2024-10-10) THOMAS, Opeyemi John
    ABSTRACT Fish is one of the major sources of animal protein for humans but with the tendency to bio-accumulate toxicants from the aquatic environment. This study assessed the health risk of metals in differently processed catfish (Clarias gariepinus) from four markets, (Adatan, Kuto, Olomore and Osiele) in Abeokuta metropolis, Ogun State, southwestern Nigeria. A total of 60 adult samples (20 samples from each market) of oven-baked, locally-smoked and non-locally-smokedcatfish were collected and analysed for Copper, Iron, Manganese, Zinc, Cadmium, Chromium, Nickel, and Lead (Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cd, Cr, Ni and Pb) using the atomic absorption spectrophotometric method. Data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Health risk assessment was evaluated for Hazard Quotient (HQ), Hazard Index (HI) and Cancer Risk (CR).Results indicated Fe as the highest metal (8.10±6.80 - 70.7±30.8 mg/kg) in the fish samples. Concentrations of Cr (0.25±0.25 - 28.4±14.5 mg/kg) in the samples were found to be higher than the permissible limit of 0.2 mg/kg set by the joint Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Health Organization (FAO/WHO) in most of the analysed samples. Pb was only detected in few samples where it ranged from 0.20±0.20 - 0.80±0.70 mg/kg and were largely higher than the WHO/FAO permissible limit. The concentration pattern of non-toxic metals in the fish samples followed the decreasing order of Fe > Zn > Mn > Cu, while the toxic metals followed the decreasing order of Cr > Pb. Cadmium and nickel concentrations were below the detection limit of the analytical instrument (0.05 mg/kg). The occurrence of metals in different fish-processing types followed the sequence: Locally-smoked> non-locally-smoked>oven-baked. The distribution of metals across the markets had the pattern of Osiele>Olomore>Kuto>Adatan. The Principal Component Analysis revealed two likely contamination sources of metals in the fish samples as Pond/River and Vehicular emission. The health risk assessment revealed the HQ values greater than 1.0 for Cr in the oven-baked and non-locally-smoked (3.273±5.108 and 6.171±8.148, respectively) indicating non-carcinogenic adverse health effects on consumers while smoked-hawked types indicated HQ values<1.0 (0.470±0.447) meaning that they were safe for consumption. Other metals, had HQ<1.0 that were within their respective safe limits. The HI values were above 1.0 in the fish samples, indicating cumulative potential adverse health effects. The CR assessment of the metals in the fish samples also indicated value greater than the permissible limit of 1.0×10−4, for Cr(3.45×10-4±3.28×10-4 – 2.41×10-3±3.76×10-3) indicating possible risk of cancer to the consumers. Contribution of Cr to carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic adverse health effects were high ranging from 43% - 98% in the samples. This study established Cr as a metal of serious health concern in the processed-fish samples in the study areas, with the highest concentration in locally-smoked samples.
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    TERMICIDAL EFFECTS OF Azadirachta indica (A. JUSS) ON Danielia oliveriand Ficus exasperataWOOD SPECIES
    (2024-10-25) THOMPSON Olaoluwa Ezekiel
    ABSTRACT Wood as a renewable bio-resource is susceptible todegradation by biological agents such as termites which can be controlled by plant extracts. This study assessed the termicidal effects of bark and leaf extracts of Azadirachta indica on Danielia oliveriand Ficus exasperatawood species. Green board of D. oliveriand F. exasperatawere processed into 40 samples each, with a dimensionof 45 mm × 35 mm × 35 mm and oven dried to moisture content of 12% ±3. Azadirachta indica leaf and bark extracts were prepared by mass/volume ratioto derive 0.1, 0.075, 0.05 and 0.025 % concentrations. The wood samples were soaked in theextracts for 24 hours and incubated in the termitarium for 16 weeks. Parameters assessed in this study were density (D), preservative absorption (PA), preservative retention (PR),visual assessment (VA) and weight loss (WL). Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance, while means were separated with Duncan Multiple Range Test at p≤0.05. There was a significant difference in the D, PA, PR and WL of D.oliveriand F. exasperatawood samples. The concentrations of bark and leaf extracts of Azadirachta indica had significant difference in the PR and WL of D. oliveriand F. exasperatawood samples. Treated D. oliveriwood had the highest D of 1.09±0.12 g/cm3, while F. exasperata had the lowest D with a mean value of 0.75±0.06 g/cm3. D. oliverihad the highest PA (89.71±11.02) of leaf extracts at 0.075% concentrations and lowest (31.63±19.69) in F. exasperatawood at 0.075% concentrations. D. oliveriwood had the highest PR of leaf extracts at 0.1% concentration, while F. exasperataat 0.025% leaf extracts had the lowest values with 88.24±15.73 and 12.92±4.57 respectively. Visually, D. oliveriwood were badly damaged, while F. exasperatawood were fairly damaged at the end of the experiment. The WL increased as the extracts concentration decreased. The highest WL of the treated wood was 70.92±7.75 in D. oliveritreated with 0.025% bark extracts, whileF. exasperatatreated with leaf extracts at 0.1% gave the lowest WL (12.97±2.85). Plant extracts used in this study had significant impacts on the termite control at 0.1 % and 0.075 % concentrations. This study concluded that, leaf and bark extractsofAzadirachta indica at 0.1 and 0.075 % concentrations were able to control termites attack on wood. The use of plant extracts in elongating the life span of wood and ensuring protection of the environment from chemicals is recommended.
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    ASSESSMENT OF WATER, SANITATION AND HYGIENE IN SELECTED PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES, SOUTH WEST, NIGERIA.
    (2024-11-20) OGUNKOYA, ITUNUOLUWA TOYOSI
    ABSTRACT Adequate access to safe water, sanitation facilities, and proper hygiene (WASH) practices is fundamental to human health, dignity, and well-being. Despite the concerted global efforts to achieve "access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all" by 2030, WASH practice challenges still persist across various household, health care centres, and schools. The accessibility and WASH practices within university campuses have not received sufficient research attention. This study investigated the accessibility to WASH facility and practices in student halls of residences in selected public Universities in six (6) Southwest Nigeria namely, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB), University of Ibadan (UI). University of Lagos (UNILAG), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), and Ekiti State University (EKSU). Stratified sampling method was employed to collect five water samples in triplicates from each University's halls of residence. The samples were analyzed for physicochemical and microbiological parameters. (pH, electrical conductivity(EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), chloride, hardness, nitrate, and Escherichia coli). Additionally, a multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 1200 students (600 females, 600 males) for a semi-structured questionnaire and observational checklist. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to determine associations between WASH variables and gender. The study reveals that 81.25% of drinking water sources met the criteria for basic service, as defined by the WASH service ladder. Sanitation facilities demonstrated marked heterogeneity, with safely managed sanitation ranging from 0% to 100% among institutions. Notably, hygiene facilities uniformly fell into the limited-service category across all surveyed universities. The results of the Water Quality Index (WQI assessment of the six Universities in Southwest Nigeria showed varying levels of water quality, with UI, OAU and FUTA having excellent WQI of 23.30, 49.90 and 49.00 respectively, FUNAAB and EKSU having good WQI of 55.70 and 57.50 respectively, and UNILAG having poor WQI of 131.90. Furthermore, the study found that 63% of students relied on packaged water as their primary drinking water source, while 34% depended on communal tap water. Although all students had access to flush toilets, the toilet- sharing ratios varied significantly, with 53% sharing facilities at a ratio greater than 10 students per toilet. All students had access to hand washing facilities, 60% lacked access to either water or soap for hand washing, and only 28% had access to both. The chi-square test results showed no significant (P > 0.05) associations between WASH variables and gender. Conclusively, the reliance on packaged water and high toilet-sharing ratios, coupled with the inadequacy of access to essential hand washing facilities highlights serious risks to personal hygiene, health and well-being of students. This study underscores the necessity for enhanced investments in WASH facilities and practices in Universities in Southwest Nigeria.
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    ENVIRONMENTAL AND TOXICOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF PARAQUAT USED IN FARMING ACTIVITIES ON SOIL, CROP, AND WATER IN SELECTED COMMUNITIES OF ONDO STATE, NIGERIA
    (2024-12-21) ADETUNJI, OLUWABAMIKE WALIAT
    ABSTRACT Paraquat (PQ) is a toxic quaternary ammonium herbicide commonly used in Nigeria but has been banned and restricted in many countries because of its high toxicity. This study assessed the environmental and toxicological effects of paraquat residues in soil, water, and crops from (Awo, Bolo, Epe, and Roti) farms across four Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Ondo State, Nigeria. Descriptive survey using copies of structured questionnaires were administered to 240 farmers to elicit information on the management and risk awareness of herbicide usage in the study areas. Soil samples (top and sub soil), water samples and two crop samples (during harvesting) were collected from each farm from May 2023 to March 2024. The physical and chemical parameters of soil and water samples were determined using standard procedures while PQ residues were extracted through standard methods and quantified using High Performance Liquid Chromatograph (HPLC). The resultant PQ residues in crops and water were administered to 24 Wistar rats that were divided into four groups (control, 0.01 mg/kg PQ, 3.09 mg/kg PQ and 8.14 mg/kg PQ) and toxicological effects were assessed using biochemical assays and histological examination. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics while means were separated with the Duncan Multiple Range Test at p ≤ 0.05 using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 20.0). The results revealed that 76.3% of the farmers had no training on herbicide usage, 76.7% used knapsack sprayer, 62.5% used gloves or mask, and 25.8% dressed in normal clothes without any protective equipment during herbicide application. Soil pH ranged from 5.98±0.14 to 7.73±0.10 and pH in water samples ranged from 5.40±1.04 to 7.47±0.83. Low concentrations of exchangeable cations were recorded in the soil samples for all farms with values ranging from 0.12±0.01 to 0.39±0.01 (K+), 1.09±0.05 to 1.29±0.13 (Ca2+), 0.30±0.01 to 0.38±0.01 (Na+), and 0.27±0.02 to 1.04±0.02 cmol/kg (Mg2+). PQ residues were detected in the soils of Awo and Roti farms throughout the year at concentration ranging from 0.001±0.000 to 0.547±0.009 and 0.006±0.000 to 2.174±0.115 respectively but only in July at Bolo farm at 0.039±0.006 mg/kg. In Epe farm, PQ was not detected in subsoil from September to March but residues detected ranged from 0.001±0.000 to 0.157±0.006 mg/kg. Higher levels of PQ were found in surface water less than 200 m away from the farms with concentration ranging from 0.001±0.000 to 0.068±0.001mg/L while PQ residues were found in all crop samples at concentration ranging from 0.006±0.00 to 8.09±0.04 mg/kg. The biochemical assays done on the serum, liver, and kidney tissues of Wistar rats, especially at the highest concentration detected in crops and water, revealed tissue damage, electrolyte imbalance, signs of tissue inflammation, and low antioxidant activities. The histological examination showed multiple protein casts on the tubular lumen of the kidney and inflammatory cell infiltration in the hepatic parenchyma of the liver. In conclusion, soil, water, and crop samples from the studied farms contained paraquat residues, which could lead to deleterious health issues in humans and animals when consumed.
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    ECONOMIC ANALYSIS AND MEDICINAL USES OF DATE PALM FRUIT (Phoenix dactylifera. L) IN FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY ABUJA NIGERIA
    (2025-01-25) ABDULLAHI, TUNDE ABDULMALIK
    ABSTRACT Despite the date palm’s historical significance and nutritional value, its market values and potential remain underexploredin Nigeria due to varying circumstances that necessitate this study. Therefore, this study investigated date palm fruit's economic potential and medicinal importance(Phoenix dactylifera L.) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nigeria. A mixedmethod approach was employed, integrating quantitative and qualitative data from 117 marketers. This study gathered information on socio economic, nutritional and medicinal uses on date pam fruit from 31 wholesalers, 36 retailers, and 40 hawkers across Abuja six area councils using questionnaire. Socio-economic profiles, sales volumes, pricing trends, and market challenges were analysed using Cost and Return Analysis and regression models. The proximate analysis method was used to determine the nutrient content. The demographic profile indicated that 80.6% of marketers were male, with 78% having formal education, 42% completed secondary education, and 26% attended tertiary institutions. The average household size was six persons, with 63.3% of respondents indicating their primary occupation as date palm trading. The mineral content analysis showed that date palm fruits are highly nutritious, providing 277 Kcal/100g, 6.7g fiber, and essential minerals as potassium (696 mg/100g), magnesium (54 mg/100g), and calcium (64 mg/100g) highlighting their importance for public health and nutrition. Economically, date palm marketing demonstrated varying profitability. Wholesalers in Kwali reported the highest Return Per Capital Invested (RPCI) at 31.51%, with a profit margin of 23.96%, followed by retailers with an RPCI of 18.72%. In contrast, hawkers in Abaji recorded the lowest RPCI at 2.89% and a minimal profit margin of 2.78%. Peak sales occurred during Ramadan period, with demand increasing by over 50%, while lean periods reduced revenue, contributing to post-harvest losses exceeding 20% of total supply. Key challenges were limited access to capital (100% of marketers), pest infestations (85%), and inadequate storage facilities (63.75%), which exacerbated spoilage rates and financial losses. Poor road infrastructure increased transportation costs by up to 15%, further constraining profitability. Regression analysis showed a significant relationship (p < 0.05) between seasonal trends, market type, and sales volumes, underscoring the need for interventions tailored to market dynamics. This study showed that, the date palm fruit trade is male dominated, with traders relying on practical experience and traditional knowledge due to low levels of formal education. Seasonality significantly influences market dynamics, with peak sales during Ramadan and the dry season, while profitability is shaped by scale, demand fluctuations, capital constraints, and storage challenges. Nutritionally, date palm fruits are rich in carbohydrates and essential minerals but should be complemented with other foods due to their low protein content and lack of Vitamin C. Furthermore, this study establishes the medicinal value of dates, particularly in managing health conditions related to mineral deficiencies. This study further concludes that, Despite the small-scale nature of most trading operations, particularly among hawkers, the industry remains profitable, especially during peak sales periods.
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    GROWTH RESPONSE, NUTRIENT UTILIZATION, AND HEALTH PARAMETERS OF Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) FED VARIOUS LEVELS OF SOAKED AND FERMENTED Enterolobiumcyclocarpum LEAF
    (2025-05-20) ABUBAKAR IBRAHIM TOYIN
    ABSTRACT High cost of conventional dietary protein ingredients sources such as soybean meal, in aquafeed production necessitates the exploration of cost-effective and locally available alternatives with limited relevance in human diet. This study investigated the performance, nutrient utilization and health of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings fed diets with graded (0, 10, 20, and 30%) levels of soaked and fermented Enterolobiumcyclocarpum leaf meal. Seven isonitrogenous (40% crude protein) and isoenergetic (314kcal) diets were formulated,the control diet without either meal and designated as TS1–TS3 (10%, 20%, 30% SEcLM) and TF1–TF3 (10%, 20%, 30% FEcLM). The feeds were fed to triplicate groups of fish at 3% body weight daily for eight weeks. Growth, feed conversion ratio (FCR), specific growth rate (SGR), protein efficiency ratio and apparent protein digestibility (APD) parameters were monitored weekly. Blood samples were collected from each group for haematology and blood chemistry analyses, while the liver and mid gut were observed for histopathological studies. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that fish fed TF2 (20% FEcLM) and TF3 (30% FEcLM) achieved superior growth compared to the control. Final body weight for TF3 (13.85 g) and TF2 (13.12 g) significantly exceeded that of the control group (12.42 g). Specific Growth Rate (SGR) was highest in TF3 (2.09%/day), compared to 1.91%/day in the control. Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) also improved in TF3 (1.54), over the group fed the control (1.70). Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) peaked in the group of fish fedTF3 (2.67), also surpassing the control diet (2.40). These results suggest that fermentation enhanced the nutritional quality of E. cyclocarpum leaves, likely by reducing anti-nutritional factors, improving nutrient value and nutrient availability. Haematological parameters remained within normal physiological ranges, indicating no adverse health effects. Packed Cell Volume (PCV) was highest in TF3 (31.3%) and TF2 (30.6%), compared to the control (27.6%). Haemoglobin concentration also followed this trend, with TF3 and TF2 recording 7.8 g/dl and 7.6 g/dl, respectively, versus 6.9 g/dl in the control group. Red Blood Cell (RBC) counts were 2.64 ×10¹²/L and 2.51 ×10¹²/L in TF3 and TF2, respectively, which were higher than the control (2.21 ×10¹²/L). White Blood Cell (WBC) levels remained stable across treatments, suggesting no immunological stress. Histological examination revealed no significant lesions in the liver and intestinal tissues of fish fed diets up to 20% FEcLM, though mild hepatocellular atrophy and enterocyte degeneration were observed at 30% inclusion in the soaked groups. Gut histomorphometry supported better nutrient absorption in the fermented groups, as evidenced by higher villi height and crypt depth. In conclusion, E. cyclocarpum leaf meal, particularly when fermented, can replace soybean meal in C. gariepinus diets at levels up to 30% without compromising growth or health.
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    ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ASSESSMENT OF THE PROPOSED LANDFILL SITE ALONG SIUN/AJURA ROAD, OGERE REMO, IN IKENNE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OFOGUN STATE, NIGERIA
    (2025-08-23) LAWAL, OLAMIDE AFEEZ
    ABSTRACT Landfills remain a major facility for waste disposal in developing nations due to its cost-effectiveness, yet they pose significant environmental and public health risks. This study assessed the environmental impacts of the proposed landfill site by Ogun State Government at Ogere-Remo community. Seventeen (17) sampling sites including controls were selected for air quality assessment using MultiRae gas meter for Carbon monoxide (CO), Carbon-dioxide (CO2), Nitrogen (IV) oxide (NO2) Sulphur (IV) oxide (SO2), Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). A Portable Automatic Weather System was used to collect meteorological data. Soil samples, surface water, and groundwater were also collected and analysed for physico-chemical parameters such as OC, OM, pH, EC, TDS, NO3, SO42-, and heavy metals such as Cd, Pb, Zn, Cr, and Cu in both water and soil were analysed using an Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy AAS machine. In addition, two hundred and sixty (260) copies of the structured questionnaire were used for the analysis. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The air quality index (AQI) was calculated to classify the hazard rating of the air pollutants. Mean concentrations (µg/m3) of air quality parameters ranged between 67.33 – 162.33 (CO), 879.0.12 – 2293.83 (CO2), 0.00 – 2.76 (SO2), 231.17 – 1586.33 (VOCs), 42.17 – 1128.83 (CH4), 0.23 – 1.30 (H2S), 0.18 – 0.31 (NO2), 20.83 – 134.33µg/m3 (PM2.5), and 45.17 – 275.04µg/m3 (PM10) across the sampling sites. The mean concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 exceeded the permissible limit except in one location (SP17). The concentrations of CO, CO2, VOC, CH4, SO2, H2S, and NO2 exceeded the allowable limits in all sampling sites. Concentrations of air pollutants varied significantly (p<0.05) across locations. The AQI of atmospheric PM2.5 and PM10 varied from “moderate” to “unhealthy” for the sensitive group. Air Quality Index (AQI) rated CO in the air samples of the study area as “hazardous”. Mean concentrations of heavy metals in soil ranged from 2.151 – 5.322 (Pb); 1.152 – 3.839 (Cu); 2.464 – 8.470 (Zn), 7.151 – 11.147 (Cr), and 1.533 – 305.3 (Cd). The mean concentration in the topsoil and subsoil was significantly (p<0.05) higher than that of the control site. Mean concentrations of heavy metals in soil were within the WHO limits, except for Cd (1.533 to 305.3 mg/kg). Most of the physico-chemical parameters in soil were within the recommended limits except EC values at 2500-5100 µs/cm at PTD31 and PTD41 points. Mean concentrations of heavy metals in leachates and water exceeded the WHO limits in about 90% of the sampling sites. Most of the physico-chemical parameters for both groundwater and surface water were within the recommended limits, except for leachates, which were above the optimal range. The mean values of bacteria ranged from 21.3 to 163.17 cfu/100 ml, while the high value of coliform bacteria exceeded the WHO and NSDWQ water quality standards (1 cfu/100 ml). 90% of the respondents indicated water and air pollution as the significant environmental hazard from the proposed landfill site. The study revealed that people living closer to the proposed landfill site experience health conditions such as asthma, diarrhea, recurring flu, malaria, cough, cholera, and skin irritation than those living farther away. In Conclusion, a sanitary landfill is the best option for the proposed landfill site.
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    ASSESSMENT OF WATER SANITATION AND HYGIENE (WASH) SERVICES AND HOUSEHOLD VULNERABILITY TO WATER INSECURITY IN SELECTED TOWNS WITHIN UPPER OGUN RIVER BASIN
    (2025-09-22) AKANJI, OLUSOLA ENOCH
    ABSTRACT Water insecurity is one of the most pressing challenges facing Sub-Saharan Africa, where there is inadequate access to safe drinking water and sanitation facilities. This study assessed Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services, household vulnerability and coping strategies to water insecurity in selected towns in Upper Ogun River Basin (UORB), Nigeria. Iseyin, Saki East, and Saki West Local Government Areas (LGA) were purposively selected within the UORB. Multistage sampling method was used to identify one prominent town from each LGA – Iseyin (Iseyin), Saki (Saki West), and Sepeteri (Saki East). Each selected town was systematically separated into clusters, from which communities and households were randomly selected to ensure geographic representation for data collection. Primary and secondary data were collected during this study. Two hundred and fifty (250) copies of well structured questionnaire were administered in addition to Water Quality Assessment data. Water samples were analysed for physico-chemical parameter which included pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, lead, copper, iron, chloride, hardness, alkalinity, total solids and microbiological parameters (total coliform count, and Escherichia coli). Secondary data comprised 30-year remotely sensed rainfall data (1993-2023) sourced from Climate Engine portal, and Health records from Oyo State Ministry of Health. Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) was employed to assess the meteorological drought patterns, while Joint Monitoring Programme's WASH Service Ladder provided standard criteria for WASH service classification. A novel household vulnerability assessment framework was developed using Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Social Vulnerability Index approach. The results indicated issues with water availability and deterioration in water quality across all the three locations. SPI analysis showed an increasing trend toward dryness, with severe to extreme drought conditions from 2013-2023, and particularly intensified from 2021-2023 when SPI values reached exceptional dryness levels below -2.0. WASH services varied significantly across locations, with Sepeteri showing the most critical conditions where 64% of households practised open defecation and 82% lacked adequate basic hand washing facilities. Water quality analysis showed widespread contamination, with iron concentrations (3.01- 4.98 mg/L) exceeding WHO standards at all sampling locations and microbial contamination with E. coli present in 7, 20 and 19 samples collected at Iseyin, Saki and Sepeteri respectively. Most samples can be traced to the effect of open defecation in the area particularly at Sepeteri. The results also showed pattern between drought conditions and malaria prevalence, with negative SPI values consistently aligning with malaria outbreaks across all locations, thereby suggesting that drought monitoring could serve as an early warning system for vector-borne disease surveillance. Household vulnerability assessment revealed that while Iseyin (72%) and Saki (80%) maintained relatively high proportions of low-vulnerability households, Sepeteri faced severe challenges with only 28% classified as low vulnerability and 48% experiencing between high to very high vulnerability to water insecurity. The study concluded that water insecurity has an impact on public health and household coping mechanisms across the Upper Ogun River Basin with major impact at Sepeteri.