Akwa Ibom State Research Articles

Influence of Host Diversity on Antibacterial Potency of Mistletoes Phragmenthera capitata (Spreng.) Balle (Loranthaceae) Ethanolic Shoot Extract on Microbes of Public Health Significance

The rising cost of conventional antibiotics and the evolution of resistant microbial strains promote the search for effective and cheap novel plant-based antibiotic substitutes. Based on the foregoing, a study was carried out to investigate the antibacterial activity of the ethanolic leaf extracts of giant African Mistletoe (Phragmenthera capitata) growing on five different host trees against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Fresh leaves of Mistletoe were collected from specific host trees in peri-urban locations within Eket Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The leaves were air-dried, pulverized, Macerated and Extracted using standard scientific protocol. Results indicated significant differences in antibacterial activity among mistletoe extracts from different host trees. The extract from C. sinensis exhibited the highest inhibition zones (4.33 mm for S. aureus and 11.33 mm for E. coli), while mistletoe from C. nitida had the least inhibition (2.67 mm and 3.33 mm, respectively). Phytochemical analysis revealed variations in secondary metabolite composition across host sources, with alkaloids present only in mistletoe from C. sinensis. These findings confirm that host diversity influences the antibacterial potency of P. capitata, supporting its ethnomedicinal use as a potential source of bioactive compounds for antimicrobial applications. However, this study recommends that future research efforts should be geared towards isolating the key bioactive compounds driving variations in antibacterial activity, exploring their mechanisms of action, and evaluating their potential for pharmaceutical applications.

Concentration and Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metal in Roadside Soil in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Aims: This study determines the heavy metal impacts on roadside soils and its potential health hazards in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Background: Roads affect natural environment to a large extent because automobile act as line sources of heavy metal pollutants. Emission from heavy traffic have been reported to contain Pb, Cd, Zn and Ni which are present in fuel as anti-knock agent. Heavy metals in the soil can also generate airborne particles and dust which may affect the quality of air. Inhalation of substantial quantities of heavy metal particle over period of time may add to human body burden of the metals and constitute health risk. Methodology: Roadside soil samples were collected from Mobile Matt (MM), Marina Junction (MJ), Uqua Junction (UJ) and Fongetok Junction (FJ) in Eket, a city in Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria and analysed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Risk assessment quantification was calculated including potential ecological risk index Eri, health risk assessment, non-carcinogenic risk assessment and carcinogenic risk assessment. The concentrations of heavy metal were applied to assess the adult and children’s health risks both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic. Hazard quotient (HQ) calculated to determine non-carcinogenic health risk for each individual heavy metal element. Results: The findings revealed that Eri is divided into three main categories, low, high and very high risk at the four sampling junctions in the study area. High and very high risk is due to high Potential Ecological Risk Index Eri of Cd 252.6 at MJ, 408 at UJ, 259.8 at FJ and 301.2 at MM. Risk index RI is also divided into considerable and high risk. High RI is due to high values of Eri caused by Cd and Pb at different sampling junctions. Heavy metals pose no harmful effect on both adult and children's health as HI 1. The LCR for ingestion, inhalation and dermal contact for adults and children resulted from Pb and Cd. For Cd, LCR is within the threshold value of 1 × 10-6 – 1 × 10-4 which is widely considered acceptable except at MJ adult is 1 × 10-7. For Pb, LCR is in the range of 1 × 10-4 which is considered to have significant health effects on adults and children. Conclusion: It is therefore expedient that measures to combat further contamination of soil by Cd and Pb be taken to keep the environment clean and safe for humans.

Prevalence of Malaria and Utilization of Insecticide Treated Bed Nets among Children under Five Years in Immanuel Hospital, Eket, Akwa Ibom State

Aim: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of malaria and utilization of insecticide treated bed nets among children under five years in Immanuel General Hospital, Eket, Akwa Ibom State Nigeria. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 200 children under five years attending Immanuel General Hospital. Malaria was diagnosed using microscopy. Data on malaria infection status and ITN usage were collected through pre-tested questionnaire from caregivers who brought the children and medical records. Data was analyzed using SPSS 20.0. Data obtained was analyzed to generate descriptive statistics and chi-square test results (p < 0.05) was considered significant. Results: The overall prevalence was 25.5%. No significant association (χ² = 7.85; p = .097) was found between age group and malaria infection status. Bed nets were owned by 75% of caregivers but only 45% used the bed nets. Among children who used ITNs, the prevalence was 17.78% (95% CI: 9.88%-25.68%), whereas it was 31.82% (95% CI: 23.12%-40.52%) among non-users. The difference in malaria prevalence between ITN users and non-users was statistically significant (χ² = 5.13, p = .024), indicating a strong association between the usage of ITN and reduced malaria infection. Conclusion: The study shows the importance of using bed net in reducing malaria occurrence among children. There is need for more strategic ways of bed net distribution to cover the gaps in distribution. Even though ITNs were owned by caregivers, the rate of utilization remains low, showing the need for intervention to promote the consistent and correct use of ITNs. This can be achieved by enhancing community education and addressing barriers to ITN usage. These steps are critical toward reducing the burden of malaria among children.

Integrating non-communicable diseases awareness campaign into periodic human immunodeficiency virus awareness campaign: lessons from events of World AIDS Day in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

Integrating non-communicable diseases awareness campaign into periodic human immunodeficiency virus awareness campaign: lessons from events of World AIDS Day in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

Local Government System and Rural-Urban Migration in Nigeria: Issues and Way Forward

This study examined the relationship between the local government system and rural-urban migration in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. In developed countries, the local government system played a crucial role in fostering rural development, reducing socio-economic disparities, and improving infrastructure and social services. However, in Nigeria, the situation was quite different, as many local government areas failed to meet expectations in delivering essential services. This shortfall contributed to persistent rural-urban migration, driven by push and pull factors, which continued to pose significant challenges to local governance and development efforts. To achieve the study’s objectives, a mixed-method research design was adopted, incorporating both primary and secondary data sources to ensure a comprehensive analysis.A total of 198 questionnaires were administered to local government officials, policymakers, and rural migrants, with 80 valid responses retrieved. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with policy analysts, local government officials, and rural migrants to complement the quantitative findings. Secondary data were obtained from historical records, national migration reports, and relevant policy documents. The Push-Pull Theory of Migration provided the theoretical framework, explaining migration decisions based on factors that either drove individuals away from rural areas or attracted them to urban centers. Multiple regression analysis was employed to analyze the primary data collected from the field. The findings revealed that weak local governance, inadequate infrastructure, and limited economic opportunities significantly contributed to rural-urban migration in Akwa Ibom State. Conversely, improved local governance, characterized by effective service delivery, infrastructure development, and economic opportunities, mitigated rural exodus and encouraged reverse migration. The study recommended targeted policy interventions by federal and state governments to strengthen local government capacities, promote balanced regional development, and create sustainable economic opportunities in rural areas. These measures are essential to curbed rural-urban migration and fostering inclusive development in Akwa Ibom State.

Risk Assessment on Waste Management Officials in Uyo Metropolis, Akwa Ibom State

The study was conducted on risk assessment of waste management officials/workers in Uyo Metropolis of Akwa Ibom State. It aimed at identifying the occupational hazards affecting waste management officials in the study area, assessing the health effect of the hazards on waste management officials in the study area, assessing the safety packages and medical conditions available for waste management officials in the study area as well as identifying constraints to effective solid waste management in the study area. Respondents were drawn from waste collection points and dumpsites in Uyo Metropolis. A total of one hundred and twenty (120) waste management officials were selected for the study using a stratified random sampling technique. They were given well-structured questionnaires and out of 120 questionnaires issued, 118 questionnaires were retrieved from waste management officials in usable forms. The questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results showed that occupational hazards affecting waste management officials in the study area include risk of musculoskeletal disorders due to lifting and carrying of heavy loads and pushing pushcart, contaminated materials, and working in contaminated environment, contact with hazardous substances in the course of working with mixed waste, mechanical hazards due to unintentional contact with sharp items and working near moving parts of machinery/vehicles and psychological burden in working with waste and disrespect by members of the society. Common health risks associated with waste management in the study area include cholera, diarrhea, nasal irritation, eye irritation, high temperatures in working environments causing dizziness, insect bites and musculoskeletal injuries. Mechanical Hazards include cuts on hand, finger, thumb, or foot from broken glass or sharp objects and eye injury. Severe health complaints among the waste management officials in the study area include chronic back pain, chronic neck pain, chronic shoulder pain, eye injury, excessive heat and skin diseases. These complaints are indications that waste management officials are at risk in the study area. Only protective gears for waste handlers, protective clothing and safety shoes were confirmed by the majority of the respondents as the only available safety equipment confirming that these officials are exposed to occupational risks and hazards. From the study, high ranking constraints identified by the respondents include insufficient funding, lack of sufficient awareness of officials on the danger of some waste items, policies and education while low ranking constraints include inadequate capacity of waste managers and regulators and poor attitude of waste management officials. It is therefore recommended that hazardous waste items should be eliminated at source through proper waste sorting and segregation as well as provision of safer safety equipment and packages.

Determination of Onset of the Farming Season of Maize in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State

The study was conducted to determine the Onset of Farming Season in Uyo Local Government Area. The study analyzed the annual rainfall trend in Uyo from 2004 - 2023, investigated the trend in temperature within the study period, determined the onset of rain in the study area as well as the cessation date of rain in the study area. Daily rainfall and monthly temperature data were collected from the University of Uyo weather station from 2004 – 2023 for the study. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that mean annual minimum rainfall was 3095.3 mm obtained in 2023 while annual maximum rainfall amount was 4594.82 mm obtained in 2022. The mean annual rainfall in the area within the study period was 3868.91 ± 428.96 mm. The variability of annual and mean rainfall within this study period was 11.09 %. The annual trend of rainfall showed an increasing trend at an annual rate of 41.53 with R2 of 32.81 % while the annual trend of temperature showed a decreasing trend at an annual rate of 0.045 and R2 of 19.19 %. The results also showed that rainfall commences in Uyo between 62 and 112 Julian days with a mean of 77.6 ± 12.9 Julian days. The coefficient of variability was 16.6 % which showed that yearly onset period differs moderately in Uyo. Similarly, rainfall ceases in the area between 264 and 355 Julian days with mean of 309.6 ± 34.2 Julian days for the individual years between 2004 and 2023. The coefficient of variability was 11.0 % which shows that yearly retreat periods in Uyo differ slightly. The minimum length of growing season in Uyo was between 173 and 293 Julian days with a mean of 234.5 ± 35.1 Julian days. This implies that the majority of the period had long rain which suggests that farmers can successfully grow a second short maize crop. It was recommended among others that the farming calendar for maize should be reviewed to identify new planting dates for farmers in every new season.

Impact of heavy metals in plant tissues (roots, stems and leaves) of Acrostichum aureum (L.) in the coastal regions of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

This study investigated the impact of heavy metals in the plant tissues in the coastal regions of Akwa Ibom State. This study was carried out at three mangrove locations within Iko Town, Okoroutip and Uta Ewa in Eastern Obolo, Ibeno and Ikot Abasi Local Government Areas respectively. Vegetation sampling and analysis of heavy metals in plant tissues was done using acid digestion for inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrophotometry. The study analyzed the seasonal characterization of heavy metals in A. aureum tissues (leaf, stem, root) across mangrove communities during dry and wet seasons. In the dry season, Okoroutip recorded the highest concentrations of Zn (leaf), Cu (stem), and V (root), with Ag, As, Cd, and Hg below detectable limits. Iko Town showed Zn as the dominant metal across tissues, while Hg, Ni, and Pb had minimal presence. Uta Ewa had Zn and V as the most prevalent metals in leaves and roots, respectively. In the wet season, heavy metals like Pb, V, and Cr showed higher concentrations, particularly in Uta Ewa, while Ag and Cd were minimally present or below detectable limits. Across all communities, Zn and V remained dominant in specific tissues, while Ni, Pb, and Hg consistently exhibited low levels. The findings highlight significant spatial and seasonal variations in metal concentrations and emphasize the need for monitoring and management of mangrove ecosystems. Acrostichum aureum adapts to polluted environments by accumulating heavy metals, demonstrating its phytoremediation potential. It is a recommended plant species for remediation, monitoring pollution, and enforcing measures to limit industrial effluents in mangroves.

Branding and Consumer Purchase Decision of Fast–Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Branding has become a very important strategic marketing tool for manufacturers to differentiate their products in the highly competitive markets. Despite the importance of branding to help consumers’ identify and differentiate manufacturers’ products from its competitors as well as foster long-term relationship and loyal customers, some brands cannot compete in the market because of poor branding image. This study is based on the theories of brand equity and self-congruity that explain the relationship between branding and consumer purchase decision. It adopts a positivist research approach, focusing on objective measuring the relationship between branding and consumer purchase decision. This study focused on three dimensions of branding-brand name, brand mark, and trade name as independent variables and consumer purchase decision as dependent variable. The survey research design was used to gather the primary data from the respondents. Data for the study were obtained through a questionnaire administered to 240 respondents selected using a convenience sampling technique. Hypotheses were tested using Pearson Moment Correlation at 0.05 level of significance with p<0.05 indicating statistical significance. Data analyses were enhanced using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version, 23). The findings of the study revealed that there is a positive and significant relationship between branding-brand name, trade name, and consumer purchase decision of fast-moving consumer goods in Akwa Ibom State. The findings also revealed that brand mark has no significant relationship with consumer purchase decision of fast-moving consumer goods in Akwa Ibom State. It was concluded that branding plays an important role in influencing consumer purchase decision of goods in Akwa Ibom State. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that manufacturers of goods should maintain the quality of their brands to continuously create positive purchase attitude in the mind of consumers.

Efficacy of Mindfulness Therapy in Mitigating Psychological Distress among Informal Caregivers of Children with Autism: An Analysis of Predictive Factors

The mental health of informal caregivers, especially those caring for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a growing concern, particularly in resource-limited settings. This multi-phase study investigated the roles of health literacy and perceived stigmatisation on psychological distress among informal caregivers of children with ASD in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Phase One involved instrument adaptation and validation through a pilot study. Phase Two utilized a cross-sectional design to collect survey data from 195 caregivers, identifying those experiencing psychological distress. Phase Three employed a pre-test, post-test control group experimental design to evaluate the effectiveness of Mindfulness Therapy in reducing psychological distress. Findings from Phase Two revealed that health literacy significantly and negatively predicted psychological distress (β = -0.04; p < 0.05), while perceived stigmatisation had a significant positive effect (β = 0.05; p < 0.05). The regression model explained 5% of the variance in psychological distress, with both variables collectively contributing to caregivers' distress levels (F (3, 191) = 4.53, p = 0.004). In Phase Three, results showed that Mindfulness Therapy significantly reduced psychological distress compared to the control group (t = 4.50, p < 0.05). Paired samples t-tests confirmed a significant reduction in distress levels among the Mindfulness Therapy group (t = 4.91, p < 0.05), with a mean difference of 13.50 between pre- and post-intervention scores. The study revealed the need for accessible mental health interventions for caregivers of children with ASD. It recommends training mental health professionals in evidence-based therapies like Mindfulness Therapy.

Assessment Of Morphometric Components Of The Grey Mullet (Mugil Cephalus) In Uta Ewa River Estuary, Southeastern Nigeria

The morphological diversity and growth patterns of fish populations provide crucial insights into their ecology, reproductive strategies, and responses to environmental changes. This study aimed to investigate the variability in morphometric traits of Grey Mullet (Mugil cephalus) from Utaewa Beach, Imo River, Akwa Ibom State. The study involved the monthly measurement of 17 morphometric traits on a total of 290 samples of M. cephalus for six months from May to October 2023. The study applied descriptive statistics, T-test for sex difference, correlation analysis for trait-length relationships, and principal component analysis. The findings revealed a wide range of variability across all measured morphometric traits. Notably, body weight (BW) varied from 7.9g to 273.2g, with a mean of 65.2g. Total length (TL) measurements ranged from 9.9cm to 31.1cm, indicating significant diversity within the population. Also, statistical analysis unveiled significant sexual dimorphism across most traits, with females generally larger than males (e.g., body weight in females: mean = 65.2g, males: significantly lower, p < 0.05). Strong correlations between fish length and morphometric traits such as the distance from the snout to the dorsal fins (DDF1 and DDF2; r > 0.9) were observed, indicating proportional growth patterns. Principal component analysis showed that the first component accounted for 74.13% of the variance, highlighting key morphometric traits contributing to overall variability. These findings underline the necessity for sex-specific management strategies in Grey Mullet fisheries to support sustainable exploitation and conservation, advocating for further research into the environmental and genetic determinants of morphometric diversity.

Prevalence of Malaria and Treatment-seeking Behaviour among Pregnant Women Attending Immanuel General Hospital, Eket, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

This study assessed the prevalence of malaria and treatment-seeking behaviour among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in Immanuel Hospital, Eket Akwa Ibom State. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Immanuel General Hospital, Eket, Akwa Ibom State. A total of 200 pregnant women were randomly selected. Malaria was diagnosed using microscopy and structured questionnaires were used to collect data on socio-demographics, knowledge of malaria, treatment-seeking behaviour and preventive measures. Data was analyzed using SPSS 25.0. Data obtained was analyzed to generate descriptive Statistics and Chi-square test results (p < .05) was considered significant. The prevalence of malaria was 25.5% (51/200). [95% CI = 19.6-32.1]. Malaria infection was highest among women aged 26-30 years (30.6%) and lowest among 21-25 years (17.4%). About treatment-seeking behaviour, 44% reported having malaria during pregnancy with 60% visiting a hospital, while 11% relied on local herbs. Majority (75%) sought treatment immediately while 12.5% waited 3-5 days. No significant association (p = .79; p > .05) was found between malaria awareness and treatment or prevention choices. Malaria prevalence was 25.5% among the pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in Eket and most of the participants had good knowledge of malaria and its fatality. They sought treatment promptly. There is need to correct misconceptions and to emphasize the importance of early treatment through health education.

Certification and Entrepreneurial Development in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

This study examined the relationship between certification and entrepreneurial development in Nigeria. The specific objectives were to ascertain the relationship between certification as a cosmetic chemist, certification as Esthetician, and entrepreneurial Development in Nigeria. This study was delimited to three local government areas in Akwa Ibom States, namely Uyo, Eket and Ikot Ekpene. This study adopted a survey research design and utilized primary data collected from a sample of two hundred and forty-two (242) respondents across the three Local Government Areas selected for this study in Akwa Ibom State. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, analysis of variance and multiple regression analysis via SPSS 25.0 statistical package. The study findings revealed that Certification as a cosmetic chemist has an insignificant positive relationship with entrepreneurial development in Nigeria. This suggests that having certifications as a cosmetic chemist does not significantly impact entrepreneurial development in Nigeria while Certifications as an esthetician has an insignificant negative relationship with entrepreneurial development in Nigeria. This result indicates that having certifications as an esthetician is negatively correlated with entrepreneurial development in Nigeria. It was thus concluded that certification exerts a significant effect on entrepreneurial development at 5% level of significance. The study recommended, amongst others, that individuals holding certifications as estheticians should consider supplementing their expertise with additional skills or exploring alternative pathways within the cosmetics industry that align more closely with entrepreneurial opportunities.

BEARING CAPACITY AND FOUNDATION QUALITY OF SUBSOILS IN PARTS OF THE MAIN CAMPUS OF AKWA IBOM STATE UNIVERSITY, IKOT AKPADEN, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

The study of the Foundation quality of Subsoils in parts of the main campus of Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot Akpaden, Eastern Niger Delta, Nigeria was carried out with the aim of determining the bearing capacity of the subsoils and designing suitable foundations for the construction of structures. Through field and laboratory investigations carried out, the geophysical study revealed four geo-electric layers namely; the top soil, silty clay, sand, and clayey sand. Six geotechnical boreholes were drilled in the field to a maximum depth of 15m each, with standard penetration tests and cone penetration tests carried out. Soil samples were extracted at 1meters each for different laboratory tests including; moisture content, liquid limit, plastic limit, bulk density, specific gravity, particle size distribution, shear box test, undrained shear strength and Consolidation test. The subsurface stratigraphic profile consists of clayey silty sand (0-7m), sandy silty clay (2-14m) and sand (10-15m) from top to bottom. The clayey silty sand are soft to firm, low to medium compressibility clays with liquid limit, plastic limit and average cohesion values of 23% to 41.5%, 14% to 24% and 14KN/m2 to 64KN/m2 respectively. Ultimate bearing capacity values of the clayey silty sand range from 152.65KN/m2 to 667.94KN/m2. The sandy silty clays are soft, intermediate to high compressibility clays with liquid limit, plastic limit and average cohesion values of 44% to 83%, 25.5% to 51% and 10KN/m2 to 32KN/m2 respectively. Ultimate bearing capacity values of the sandy silty clay range from 269.43KN/m2 to 582.4KN/m2.The sand is poorly graded, medium dense with standard penetration N- values ranging from 13-16. The ultimate bearing capacity ranges from 7878.12KN/m2 to 11423.36KN/m2 respectively. Standard penetration tests and pile bearing capacity analysis indicate that the sands are suitable foundation materials for construction. A Pile foundation terminated within the sand substratum is recommended for large structures.

Communicating health information at the community level in Nigeria: examining common practices and challenges

ABSTRACT Background Communicating health information at the community level is a vital strategy in managing community health issues in Africa. This study examines the different practices of communicating health information towards improving community health in Nigeria, and how effective they have been. The social cognitive theory (SCT) provides the conceptual framework for the study. Methodology A qualitative study was carried out in three states from three out of the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The states were Akwa Ibom State (South-south), Anambra State (South-east) and Kano State(North-west). The primary data for the study were collected from a diverse group of stakeholders cutting across community leaders, policy-makers, and informal and formal health providers, using ninety in-depth interviews and twelve Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Thematic analysis was used to explore the data. Result Different practices of communicating health information in Nigeria include organizing meetings among community members, training community health workers, data/records management, community collaboration for health, use of educational institutions, and community advocacy. The study identified inadequate finance, shortage of manpower, lack of motivation and cultural beliefs as barriers to effective practices of communicating health information at the community level. Conclusion There are unsystematic and sub-optimal communications of health information at the community level, which can militate against such information and hinder the effective delivery of health programmes to communities. Hence, health communication and promotional interventions should align with the needs of the communities, encompassing their structural, cultural, social, religious and economic systems. Abbreviations LGAs: Local Governments Areas; CDC: Centre for Disease Control; FMOH: Federal Ministry of Health; IDIs: In-depth Interviews; CSOs: Civil Societies Organisations; FGDs: Focus Group Discussions; UNTH: University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital; CGW: Community Group for Women; R: Respondent; OIC: official-in-charge; WDC: Ward Development Chairman; TBAs: Traditional Birth Attendants; IHP: Informal Health Provider; HMIS: Health Management Information System; PMV: Patent Medicine Vendor; HIV: Human Immune Virus; NGOs: Non-governmental Organisation; CL: Community Leader; HRH: Human Resources for Health; PHC: Primary Health Care; USAID: United States Agency for International Development; WHO: World Health Organization; OO: Obinna Onwujekwe; EE: Enyi Etiaba; AJA: kogwu James Abah; HPRG: Health Policy Research Group

Forest Resources Extraction, Indigenous Livelihood and Sustainability Dilemma in Tropical Africa: Case Study of Akwa Ibom State

The study examined ‘Forest Resources Extraction, Indigenous Livelihood and Sustainability Dilemma in Tropical Africa: Case Study of Akwa Ibom State’ in a bid to restore the forestry sector that is threatened by an alarming rate of deforestation, urban expansion, over-population and high demand for forest based products. 400 copies of questionnaires were administered to respondents in the study area who were farmers, fish processors, canoe builders, fuel wood dealers, timber dealers and furniture designers. Questionnaires as well as semi-structured interviews were used in the study for data analysis. Following the interview done as well as the results of questionnaires retrieved from the study area, it was realized that though forest resource extraction was laced with sufficient economic benefits, yet little efforts were made towards re-afforestation and this challenge the sustainability of the forestry sector in the entire state. At field reconnaissance, illegal logging as well as conversion of forested landscape into peasant farmlands/plantation was spotted. Nevertheless, the study recommended that there should be improved legislation in the forestry sector, provision of alternative job to reduce dependence on forest based services, selective logging and primarily mass campaign on re-afforestation in order to stabilize the ecosystem and protect inter-generational utilization of forest-based products.

Heavy Metals Pollution in Ambient Air and Health Risk Assessment in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Aims: Air pollution is an enormous problem due to its detrimental health effects on exposed populations. The present study assessed the level of heavy metals in ambient air and related health risk based on ingestion, inhalation, and dermal routes of exposure to heavy metals. Place and Duration of Study: Sampling was performed at three selected junctions namely: Mobile matt (MM), Uqua junction (UJ), and Marina junction (MJ) using pre-weighed Petri dishes for 15 minutes at 1.5 m above ground surface. Methodology: Heavy metal concentrations such as cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), arsenic (As), nickel (Ni), Copper (Cu) and chromium (Cr) were investigated using standard methods. The non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks were assessed using exposure concentration (EC), hazard quotient (HQ), and hazard index (HI), and additional lifetime cancer cases. Results: Metal concentrations at MM, UJ, and MJ vary from 63 to 165 (mg/m3) for Cd, 314 to 823 (mg/m3) for Cr, 3 to 28 (mg/m3) for Pb, 284 to 412 (mg/m3) for Mn, 1 (mg/m3) for As, 73 to 202 (mg/m3) for Ni and 1 to 3 (mg/m3) for Cu, respectively, over a 15-minute average. All of the observed heavy metals' mean concentrations - Cr, Cd, Cu, Pb, Mn, As, and Ni are higher than the ATSDR reference concentration for inhalation. HI for children at MJ indicated the possibility of non-CRs through ingesting. The probability of non-CRs by inhalation and skin exposure was demonstrated by HI for adults and children at MM, UJ, and MJ. While the ILCR values for Cd and Ni revealed moderate carcinogenic hazards from ingestion and inhalation of these metals at MM, UJ, and MJ, the ILCRing and ILCRinh values for Cr indicated substantial CRs from this metal. ILCRder values for Cr and Ni indicate low CRs for dermal routes. Conclusion: Continuous monitoring of metals and health risk assessment is recommended in the study area.

Blue Resources Under-Exploitation and Development Impediment along Atlantic Coastline: Example from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

The study painstakingly assessed ''Blue Resources under-exploitation and Development Impediment along Atlantic Coastline: Example from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria’’. Reconnaissance survey was done prior to field work between September 2024 to February 2025. The study employed descriptive method of data analysis alongside in-depth interview using community leaders, Women Association and Youth Forum and other concerned social groups. Focus Group Discussion was further employed using 15 males and 15 females with participants ranging from 28 years and above. Forty (40) structured questionnaires were distributed to heads of household in ten (10) selected communities making a total of 400 questionnaires. Findings revealed that there are numerous blue resources potentials in Akwa Ibom State including blue food, blue tourism resources, blue mineral, blue energy, blue-green resources and blue transport. The study revealed that in order of resource utilization, blue minerals and blue tourism take the leads, while investment in blue energy, maritime services, wetlands farming and aquaculture was under-utilised. Linking this finding with the level of economic development of the region, blue resource under-utilisation contributed significantly to the declining economic situation. It was further realized that household economic status was relatively low in comparison to the huge natural resources availability. The study however, recommended that more efforts should be re-directed towards multi-sectoral and holistic resource management that could ensure that all dimensions of blue resources in the region are incorporated into the economic sector for development. Hence, an organized, participatory and multi-lateral investment, laced with modern skills on environmentally friendly resource exploitation, resource marketing and resource value-chain optimization are suggested.

Gastrointestinal Helminths of Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) in Urua-Nka Market, Eket Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Gastrointestinal helminths of chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) cause significant health problems leading to growth retardation, reduced egg production, increased susceptibility to diseases and economic losses in poultry farming. A study was conducted to identify gastrointestinal helminth of chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) and to estimate the prevalence rate in Urua-Nka Market, Eket local government area of Akwa Ibom state, southern Nigeria. Gastrointestinal content of samples collected was examined for the presence of helminth ova and oocysts using floatation and sedimentation methods. Out of the 150 samples examined, an overall prevalence of 39(26%) was recorded. Six species of helminth parasites were found. These parasites include Choanotaenia infundibulum 3(7.69%), Rallietina tetragona 7(17.95%), Davainea proglottina 4(10.26%) the Cestodes, Trichostrongylus tenuis 9(23.08%), Strongiloides avium 10(25.64%) and threadworm Capillaria annulata 6(15.38%). Chi square (ꭓ2) was used to analyze the data obtained. There was no significant difference in parasitic infection based on the number of helminth species (P = .22). There is need to educate poultry farmers on the impact of gastrointestinal helminths infection on chicken. Appropriate management practices should be carried out regularly like deworming using prescribed medicines. This will prevent losses in egg and meat production.

Evaluation of Haematological and Cytokine Indices of Humans in a Gas Flare-Impacted Community

Purpose: This study examined the effects of gas flare exposure on haematological indices and cytokines levels of residents of Ibeno, an oil-bearing community in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Haematological parameters were assessed on whole blood samples using electrical impedance method, while the serum was used for cytokine analysis using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Statistical analysis was done using SPSS (version 21 for windows, SPSS Inc., Chicago, USA). Student t-test (independent-samples) was employed to ascertain the statistical significance of the difference between means. Findings: Blood analysis results showed reduced RBC, haemoglobin and platelet but increased white blood cells in test group (TG) compared to control group (CG). Interleukin-4 (IL-4) levels in test subjects significantly increased relative to control subjects, but the reverse was the case with transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and interleukin-10 (IL-10). The haematological parameters and cytokine levels are suggestive of imminent dangerous health conditions. Exposure to flare gas pollutants has endangered the health of residents of Ibeno. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Empirical studies on the impact of gas flaring on humans have not been adequately documented. There is need for more research and documentation of research findings on gas flaring. There is also a dearth of data on possible effects of gas flaring on cytokines, and by extension, the immune system. All these underscored the crying need for this research. It is therefore recommended that the Federal Government of Nigeria should strengthen the capacity of regulatory agencies such as the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) to enforce adequate sanctions that can check environmental pollution by oil companies. Government should set a realistic date for ending gas flaring since the 2020 deadline was not met.