Akwa Ibom State Research Articles

Pollution Status of Dumpsites within Uyo Metropolis, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

The study evaluates the heavy metals, geo-accumulation index and contamination factor in soil around dumpsites in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected, during rainy season, at depth of 0-15cm and 15-30cm from two study sites (A, B) and a control site (C). Soil samples were all analyzed for heavy metals (Pb, Ni, Cd and Cu) using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). The concentration of Lead at site A for depth 0-15 cm ranged from 13.71 -14.90 mg/kg with a mean value of 14.38 ± 0.61 mg/kg; Nickel varied from 2.35 – 3.22 mg/kg (2.74 ± 0.44 mg/kg); Cadmium ranged from 3.78 – 4.13 mg/kg (3.93 ± 1.18 mg/kg); Copper ranged from 27.84 – 28.34 mg/kg (28.14 ± 0.27 mg/kg). The heavy metals concentration in soil at sites A and B followed the sequence, Cu > Pb > Cd > Ni while at the control site; Cu > Cd > Ni > Pb. The calculated geo-accumulation index (Igeo) showed that the soil samples from sites A and B for Pb, Ni and Cu belong to class 2, which implies that the soil was moderately contaminated. The Igeo values for Cd at sites A and B were classified as 4, indicating a strongly contaminated soil. However, Igeo of Cd at the control site is class 3, implying moderately to strongly contaminated soil. Calculated contamination factor (CF) showed that Pb, Ni and Cu for sites A, B and control at depths 0-15cm were in class 1 (low contamination), while Cd contamination was class 4 except at control site (15 -30cm) which showed CF of class 3. The contamination degrees (CD) for the sampling sites A and B showed considerable contamination and their pollution load index (PLI) indicated a progressive deterioration of the sites; however, the control site recorded very minimal state of pollution. Generally, the results found that the top soil (0 – 15 cm) was more contaminated than the sub soil (15 – 30 cm) of all sample sites studied. The results of this study imply that the inhabitants around Sites A and B are exposed to Cadmium pollution and the soil is not suitable for agricultural practice, since plants can take up these toxic metals and bio-accumulate them in their tissues. Cadmium, at high concentration in plants, can cause serious clinical and physiological effects on humans when consumed as food.

Business Intelligence and Competitive Advantage of Hotels in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

This study was carried out to examine the influence of business intelligence on competitive advantage of hotels in Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria. The survey research design was used in the study. The study had a population of 1,806 and a sample size of 327 determined with Taro Yamane’s formula for sample size determination. The questionnaire was the primary instrument used in data collection. The instrument recorded 73.7% response rate. Data analysis was done with simple regression method. Results of data analysis indicated that data management system (Beta =1.252, t=3.547, p>0.05) has a insignificant influence on hotels competitive advantage in Akwa Ibom State. It also indicated that mobile devices (Beta= 1.095, t= 2.375, p<0.05) have a significant influence on hotels competitive advantage in Akwa Ibom State. It was concluded that business intelligence can lead to competitive advantage of hotels in Akwa Ibom State. It was recommended that hotels in Akwa Ibom State provide for a sound and reliable data management system that can facilitate its capacity to make prompt business decisions to aid its operations towards being ahead of others in their line of business. It was also recommended that hotels in Akwa Ibom State use applicable modern devices that can enhance its operations in delivering quality services to various customers in order to earn competitive advantage.

Adoption of Google Meet Technology and Evaluation Competence of Evaluation Students in Nigeria

This study examined the adoption of Google meet technology and evaluation competence of evaluation students in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Three objectives, three research questions and three hypotheses were respectively formulated to guide this study. Ex-post facto research design was adopted for this study. The population of this study was all the 30 master and doctorate degree evaluation students in the Faculty of Education, University of Uyo and Akwa Ibom State University from the 2016/2017 to 2019/2020 academic sessions. A 4-point scale titled Google Meet Technology and Evaluation Competence Scale was developed by the researcher and used for data collection with reliability index of 0.73 was used for data collection. The instrument was duly administered on the respondents and the data collected were analyzed and used in answering the research questions and testing the hypotheses at .05 alpha level. The findings of the study revealed that Google meet technology is reliable, effective and efficient in improving instructional delivery of evaluation courses, evaluation knowledge as well as evaluation competence of evaluation students. Based on the findings of the study, it was concluded that Google meet technology enhances evaluation competence of evaluation students in Akwa Ibom State. It was recommended among others that evaluation lecturers and students should have positive attitude towards technology usage, acquire the necessary technological skills and adopt Google meet technology in teaching and learning of evaluation as this would help to improve evaluation students’ competence.

Readability and Content Coverage Indices of Three Approved Mathematics Textbooks for Senior Secondary School Three in Akwa-Ibom State

The study investigated the readability and content coverage indices of three approved mathematics textbooks for senior secondary school three in Akwa-Ibom State. Two research questions and two corresponding hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted utilitarian evaluation research design. Three (3) out of the twelve (12) approved mathematics textbooks were drawn using simple random sampling technique. Purposive and non-proportionate stratified random sampling techniques were used to draw sixty (60) senior secondary school three students from population of 340 SSS3 students from three schools in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area of Ikwa-Ibom State. The instruments used for data collection were the three approved mathematic textbooks, syllabus or scheme of work for SSS3 students and Mathematics Textbook Reading Level Evaluation Questionnaire (MTRLEQ). MTRLEQ was validated by three experts in measurement and evaluation for face and content validities. Gunning Fog Index and Topical Coverage index were used to answer the research questions. One-way analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA) and Linear Chi-square were used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 levels of significance. Based on the findings, it was observed that among the three mathematics textbooks, New General mathematics was read successfully by the students. Recommendations were made among others that mathematics textbooks should be written using simple English at the secondary school level.

Technological Skills and the Performance of Managers of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

This study was to assess the influence of technological skills on the performance of managers in Small and Medium Scale Enterprise (SMEs). The study was born out of the fact that over the years, one of the major challenges of SMEs managers has been grossly attributed to the absence of inadequate use of technology. The study adopted survey research design. Population of the study was made up of 320 registered SMEs in Uyo. Using Taro Yamene’s formulae for sample size determination, 180 was arrived at as the sample size. Source of data was from primary source gotten from copies of administered questionnaire. The descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the study. The descriptive statistics were percentage and frequency distribution tables which were used to capture respondents’ demographic characteristics and frequency distribution of the responses on the study variables. Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient statistical tool was used in assessing the relationship between the studied variables. Findings revealed that there exist a positive correlation between technological skill and production output; technological skill and efficiency of SME managers; and technological skill and competitiveness of SME managers. Conclusively, it is established that SME managers possessing effective Technological skill is very important to the performance of their enterprises.

Amino and Fatty Acid Composition of Achara (Pennisetum Purpureum) Molded Melon. (Mgbam) Soupmeal

This study investigated the amino and fatty acid composition of Achara(Pennistetum purpureum) with molded egusi / melon (citrilluslanatus) soup meal a typical soup that is mostly consumed in Isiala-ngwa and Umuahia in Abia state and also in some part in Akwa-ibom state. The ingredients used in the soup preparation were melon / egusi seeds (Citrillus lanatus), achara/ elephant grass (Pennistetum purpureum), meat, crayfish, usu, Ukazi (Gnetum africanum), stock fish, snail, pepper, and palm oil and they were purchased at watt market, Calabar. It was an experimental study and the soup was prepared using standardized recipe in Nutrition and Dietetics Laboratory. Amino and fatty acid content of the soup meal were determined using standard methods. The fatty acids composition revealed the predominance of saturated fatty acids; palmitic acids and stearic acid (30.02%) and 27.03%) in the soup meal, and some unsaturated fat such as Poly n-6, and Oleic acid (23.50% and (20.10%) respectively. The Amino acid profile revealed that the soup is rich in protein (essential and non essential amino acids). The concentration of glutamic acid was seen to be highest (13.63±0.01), followed by Aspartic acid (8.46±0.00), Lysine (6.52±0.01), Leucine (6.36±0.01), glycine (5.81±0.01) and Arginine (5.59±0.00) respectively, Based on the findings it was concluded that the level or amount of saturated fatty acids (palmitic and stearic acids) in the soup meal were high and this can be detrimental to health because saturated fats increases the level of Low density lipoprotein which contributes to the risks of having heart diseases such as hypertension. It was also discovered that the increase level of the saturated fat in the soup was as a result of the quantity of palm oil and melon used in the preparation. However, the fatty acid component were of plant origin, so are easily broken down. Therefore, it is advisable that a moderate lesser quantity of melon and palm oil should be used in the soup preparation in order to reduce the level of saturated fat. It was also discovered that the amount of amino acid content in the soup was commendable and there was no variation or difference with the concentration of amino acids (essential and nonessential amino acids) in Hen’s egg which is recommended by FAO as a source of complete protein. Hence the soup meal will contribute in alleviating occurrence of diseases related to protein deficiency such as kwashiorkor, marasmus, and protein energy malnutrition to it consumers and likewise contribute in meeting the nutritional requirement of human growth and development.

2023/2024 School of Nursing, Anua, Uyo Akwa Ibom State Application Form is out ☎️(07065892637-07065892637 Dr.(Mrs.) GRACE The current approved entry requirement is five (5) O'level credit passes in Mathematics, English Language, Physics, Chemistry and Biology at not more than two (2) sittings from any of the following: West African Examination Council (WAEC), National Examination Council (NECO)

2023/2024 School of Nursing, Anua, Uyo Akwa Ibom State Application Form is out ☎️(07065892637-07065892637 Dr.(Mrs.) GRACE The current approved entry requirement is five (5) O'level credit passes in Mathematics, English Language, Physics, Chemistry and Biology at not more than two (2) sittings from any of the following: West African Examination Council (WAEC), National Examination Council (NECO)

2023/2024 School of Nursing, Eket Akwa Ibom State Application Form is out ☎️(07065892637-07065892637 Dr.(Mrs.) GRACE The current approved entry requirement is five (5) O'level credit passes in Mathematics, English Language, Physics, Chemistry and Biology at not more than two (2) sittings from any of the following: West African Examination Council (WAEC), National Examination Council (NECO)

2023/2024 School of Nursing, Eket Akwa Ibom State Application Form is out ☎️(07065892637-07065892637 Dr.(Mrs.) GRACE The current approved entry requirement is five (5) O'level credit passes in Mathematics, English Language, Physics, Chemistry and Biology at not more than two (2) sittings from any of the following: West African Examination Council (WAEC), National Examination Council (NECO)

A Critical Analysis of Monolingual and Bilingual Pupils’ Ability to Predict Outcome and Comprehend Sentences in a Reading Comprehension

This study was carried out to analyze the monolingual and bilingual pupils’ ability to predict outcome and comprehend sentences in a reading comprehension passage. The research design adopted for the study was Quasi-experimental design. The study was conducted in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The population of the study comprised all 5,074 primary schools. The sample size that was used for the study consisted of 127, drawn from primary 3 pupils from 4 private primary schools in Uyo Senatorial District. The main instrument used for data collection in the study was titled “Performance of Monolingual and Bilingual Pupils” (PMBP). To ensure face and content validity of the instrument, the PMBP was given to the researcher’s supervisor and four experts (two in the Department of Early Childhood Education and two in English Department, all in the University of Uyo). In order to ensure the reliability of the research instrument, the PMBP was trial-tested on 30 private primary school children who were not part of the study, but the respondents have similar characteristics with those in the study area. The research questions 1-2 were answered using mean and standard deviation statistics, while the null hypotheses 1-2 were analyzed using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). Decisions on the 2 null hypotheses were taken at .05 level of significance. The study concluded that monolingual and bilingual pupils do not differ significantly in their ability to predict outcome and comprehend sentences in reading comprehension passage. One of the recommendations made was that government, through effective monitoring, should ensure that all private schools teach the vernacular as a subject to their pupils as stipulated in the National Policy on Education for effective implementation.

REGRESSION MODEL OF TOPOGRAPHY WITH THE DISTRIBUTION OF SELECTED SOIL PROPERTIES IN NORTHEAST AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

Regression model of topography with the distribution of selected soil properties in Northeast Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria was carried out. The aim was to establish a regression model of topography with the distribution of selected soil properties in Northeast Akwa Ibom State for soil properties predictions and management. Topographic map (or elevation map) of the study area was generated from digital elevation model (DEM) at 30m resolution acquired from United State Geological Survey (USGS). It was classified into three elevation classes of lower elevation (0-50 masl), middle elevation (50-100 masl) and higher elevation (100-150 masl) to guide field sampling. With the aid of Global Positioning System (GPS), the classes obtained from topographic map were cross-checked (ground-truthing) in the field. Modified Conditioned Latin Hypercube Sampling Method was used in selecting observation points. Each observation point was purposively selected to fall within the classes of topographic map to give a good coverage of both feature space (classes of topographic map) and geographical space (study area). A total of 120 soil samples were collected at a depth of 0-30cm and 30-60 cm using soil auger. The samples were taken to the laboratory for analysis. The results revealed variation in soil properties among the three topographic classes under study. Sand fraction was significantly higher (p > 0.05) in lower elevation than other elevation classes while silt and clay fractions were significantly higher (p > 0.05) in the middle and higher elevations than lower elevation in the study area. Soil pH was significantly higher (p > 0.05) (slightly acid) in the lower elevation than middle and higher elevations (moderately acid). Electrical conductivity and base saturation were significantly higher (p > 0.05) in the lower elevation than middle and higher elevations. Organic carbon, total N, ECEC, exchangeable Mg and exchangeable K were significantly higher (p > 0.05) in the middle elevation than that of lower and higher elevations. Available P of higher elevation was significantly higher (p > 0.05) than that of lower and middle elevations. The study also showed that topography accounted for 3 % variation of sand and silt fractions; 5 % variation of clay fraction and 4 % variation of soil pH. Topography also explained 19 % variation of available P, 8.4 % variation of exchangeable K and 5.5 % variation of organic carbon and total N in the study area. The remaining fractions of variation may be attributed to other factors of soil formation such as parent material, climate, organism and time.

RISK ASSESSMENT OF PESTICIDE RESIDUES IN WATER SAMPLES FROM NWANIBA RIVER, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

Ecological risk assessment of pesticide residues is not only germane but critical in view of their inherent health challenges and for informed decision-making process. This study was conducted to assess the levels of contamination of organochlorine pesticide residues in water from Nwaniba River in Uruan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. The analysis was carried out using Gas Chromatography with electron capture detector (GC-ECD). The obtained results revealed the predominance of Dieldrin in the different samples of water analysed from Ufak Effiong in the Southern District (station I) and Akani Obio in Uruan Central District (station II) of Uruan. Pesticide levels were found to be significantly higher than the World Health Organization /Food and Agricultural Association (WHO/FAO) Maximum Residue Limits (MRL). The concentrations of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) ranged from Below detection limit (BDL) - 2.37 × 10-1 ng/µL for water samples. Carcinogenic risk values for γ-BHC, delta-BHC, Dieldrin, Endosulfan I and Heptachlor epoxide in the water samples were found to be less than 1.0 × 10−5, thus posing no potentially serious cancer risk to consumers. The values of cancer risk obtained were lower (6.448 × 10- 11 and 7.208 × 10-11) than the established maximum limit. Hazard index (HI) values calculated for pesticide consumption through water by children and adults are all above unity, indicating that high toxic risks are associated with them. The HI values for children exposure are significantly lower compared to those of adults of Ufak Effiong and Akani Obio. This study reveals that the physicochemical parameters of water obtained from both stations were below the maximum permitted levels set by World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ). It also provides a baseline data and critical information to encourage effective monitory and management of the ecosystem.

Assessment of heavy metal content in groundwaters of Ikpe Community, Akwa Ibom State, Niger Delta, Nigeria

Accumulation of heavy metals in groundwater system could portend adverse health consequences to users. Heavy metal content of five randomly selected hand dug wells in Ikpe community, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria was assessed between April and November 2022. The water was evaluated using standard methods and water quality indices to determine its suitability for human consumption. Eight heavy metals were evaluated using Heavy metal Pollution Index (HPI) and Comprehensive Pollution Index (CPI). The results were compared with the National drinking water standard. Results showed that chromium ranged from 0.001 to 0.20 mg/L, cadmium (0.001 - 0.008 mg/L), nickel (0.01- 0.08 mg/L), manganese (0.001- 0.6 mg/L), zinc (0.36 -1.90 mg/L), iron (0.1 - 0.8 mg/L), lead (0.001 - 0.02 mg/L) and arsenic (0.00 - 0.004 mg/L). HPI and CPI ranged between 44.62-126.30 and 0.18-1.33, respectively. Concentrations of these heavy metals exceeded acceptable limits, except lead and arsenic. The concentration of the metals from wells 2, 4 and 5 were generally higher and/or had values that exceeded acceptable limits. This could be attributed with geogenic and anthropogenic influences as well as the general conditions of the wells and their environment. The water quality indices (HPI and CPI) showed varying levels of heavy metal pollution in line with the heavy metal concentrations. Consequently, it can be concluded that water from wells 2, 4 and 5 is not suitable for human consumption, and it can be used for other purposes.

EXAMINING OPERATION-BASED TANGIBILIZATION FACTORS AND THEIR IMPACT ON PATRONAGE OF TELECOMMUNICATION PRODUCTS IN AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA: A MULTIPLE REGRESSION ANALYSIS

This research aims to examine the impact of operation-based tangibilization factors, such as the cleanliness of service stores, the physical appearance of employees, the visual appeals of service providers, the customer service store, and the visual appeal of materials associated with service providers, on the patronage of telecommunication products in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. We established a research hypothesis to guide the study. The study employed a survey research design technique and gathered data from primary sources through the administration of a questionnaire. The respondents consisted of 384 individuals who were users of telecommunication products. The researchers utilised multiple regression analysis to examine the formulated hypothesis. The results of the study indicate a statistically significant relationship between the tangibility dimensions, including the neatness of the service store, employee physical appearance, the visual appeal of service providers’ customer service stores, the visual appeal of materials associated with the service provider, and the patronage of telecommunication products in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.. A regression coefficient of 0.743 supports this relationship. Based on the findings and conclusions of this study, it is advisable to ensure that the physical environment, facilities, and infrastructure of the company consistently reflect the values and principles of the organisation.

Antibiotic Profile and Molecular Characterization of Typhoidal Salmonellosis among Abattoir Workers in the Southern Region of Nigeria

Typhoid fever remains endemic in most developing countries with large scale transmission through contaminated food and drinking water. Since 2000s, animal and their products have been found to be a common food source for Typhoidal infections. A total of 90 blood specimens, 45 samples each were collected from abattoir and non-abattoir workers in Akwa Ibom State and were screened for Salmonella species using standard cultural and serological techniques. The overall prevalence rate was 12 (13.3%). Salmonella species were distributed in all the three senatorial districts of the State. Percentage distribution of Salmonella isolates was 3 (3.3%) for Uyo, 4 (4.4%) for Eket and 5 (5.6%) were isolated from Ikot Ekpene districts. Out of 90 human subjects screened, 12 (13.3%) were positive and 5 (5.6%) were isolated from non-abattoir while 7 (7.7%) were isolated from abattoir workers. In this study, serological significant titre of ≥160 of Typhoid fever cases was confirmed by blood culture. According to sero-grouping and source of sample collection 4.4% S. typhi was isolated from abattoir workers followed by S. paratyphi A (3.3%) while S. typhimurium and S. gallinarum (2.2%) and S. enteritidis (1.1%). Increase prevalence of Salmonella serovars such as S. gallinarium, S. typhi, S. Typhimurium and S. enteritidis with regular consumption of slaughter meat and other product without proper disinfection and appropriate boiling, represent a serious public health risk in Akwa Ibom State. Demographic data obtained in this study showed that majority of the abattoir workers across the three districts were within the ages of 21 to 30 (33%), 39% were none graduate while 30.4% were secondary school leavers. Fever was recorded as the highest clinical signs and symptoms followed by headache, abdominal cramps, diarrhoea and vomiting. Generally, all the isolates identified as Salmonella were tested for their susceptibility to antimicrobial agents. The results showed that Chloramphenicol, Ciprofloxacin and Cefuroxine were 100% sensitive to S. gallinarum, S. paratyphi A, 93% susceptible to S. typhi and 80% to S. typhimurium and S. enteritidis. Whereas all isolates were 100% resistant to Septrin, Tetracycline and Ampicillin antibacterial agents used. The emergence of multiple drugs resistant Salmonella from abattoir workers shows that the continuous use of drugs in animal husbandry as growth promoters should be re-examined. Other factors as sources of Salmonella contamination in slaughter markets can be minimized by good hygienic practices and biosecurity measures.

Sales Promotion Strategies and Retention of Customer Brand Loyalty in Airtel and Globacom in Akwa Ibom State

This study examines the relationship between Airtel and Globacom sales promotion strategies such as Borrow and Pay Later and Bonus MB Data on retention of, and advocacy for customer brand loyalty especially in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The study was premised on the Behaviour Theory. The survey research design was used involving 380 respondents who were subscribers to the networks, selected through a multi-stage sampling technique from ten communities, with the availability of the network in the state. The instrument of data collection was the questionnaire. The copies of the questionnaire were administered to the respondents in each selected community for 15 weeks. Descriptive statistics, frequency tables and weighted mean score were used to analyse data. The results of the study showed that the majority (2.88) of the respondents maintained their loyalty to these network services following these strategies; the influence of the sales promotion strategies of Airtel and Globacom on respondents’ loyalty to the networks and levels of loyalty to Airtel and Globacom networks vis-à-vis the loyalty indicators: Retention, Advocacy and Re-purchasing are significant. These imply that Borrow and Pay Later and Bonus MB Data on customer brand loyalty are very important sales promotion techniques for telecommunication firms. It is recommended that telecommunication firms and similar organisations should put in effective strategies to manage the marketing activities that influence customers’ loyalty to their brands.

Temperature trend in Niger Delta Region, Nigeria

The study was set to examine the temperature trend in Nigeria's Niger Delta region, Nigeria using a descriptive research design. Six (6) States in the Niger Delta Region (Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Edo and Delta States [BRACED]) were selected for the study. The study utilized the annual temperature data gathered from the Climate Research Unit (CRU) Ts 4.06 at 5o x 5o latitude and longitude grids point. The results show that the Niger Delta region had a temperature of 26.3oC.The outcomes of the Mann-Kendall test revealed that a considerable rising trend exists in temperature in Bayelsa, Rivers, Edo, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Delta States. The Mann-Kendall test on seasonal temperature showed that a significant rising trend exists in temperature from January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November to December. The outcomes of the ANOVA show a significant variation in temperature amongst Bayelsa, Rivers, Edo, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Delta State as determined by one-way ANOVA (F(5,720) = 530.244, p = .000). Arising from the above, the study recommends that the emission of gas and carbon should be extinguished; trees planting campaigns should be advocated in the Niger Delta Region to reduce the direct effect of the ultra violet sun ray.

Socio-Cultural Context and Civil Registration of Under-Five Children in Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria

Vital statistics play a crucial role in development planning and effective utilization of resources in any nation, hence the need for the effective participation of citizens in civil registration. However, in Nigeria, effective civil registration has been marred by the socio-cultural environment and other contextual factors. This study investigated the influence of socio-cultural environment on the registration of births and deaths of under-5 children in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The study examined the influence of cultural beliefs about maternal and child health, health seeking behaviour, poverty and administration of civil registration on under-5 children births and deaths. Primary data was gathered through 30in-depth and 3 key informant interviews conducted on child bearing women (18-49 years) and civil registrars respectively, as well as 6 focus group discussions with community members. Data were transcribed verbatim and transcripts analysed using NVivo version 12, based on pre-determined themes derived from study objectives. Findings reveal the negative influence of cultural beliefs about maternal and child health, health seeking behaviour, poverty, and civil registration administration on the registration of under-5 children births and deaths. To improve the civil registration of under-5 children, the study recommends intensification of awareness campaigns on the importance, usefulness and procedure of registering under-5 children; deconstructing the cultural myth surrounding maternal and child health; encouraging the use of formal health facilities for maternal and childcare; in centivizing delivery in formal health facilities and siting of registration points across communities, in order to facilitate ease of access.

Aspects of the Biology of (Pseudotolithus elongatus) Bobo Croaker Fish From Jaja Creek, Ikot Abasi Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, South Eastern Nigeria

Aspect of the biology of Pseudotolithus elongatus was carried out in Jaja creek in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area, between December to May, 2022. A total of hundred and eighty (180) fish specimens were analyzed for sexual dimorphism, sex ratio, size distribution, gonad morphology, reproductive investment using gonadosomatic index, hepatosomatic index and condition factor and determination of Length-weight relationship. Male and female were identified, results showed that the males were significantly more than the females with the ratio of 1.0: 0.7 and was significant difference from the expected 1:1 ratio. The smallest fish examined was male with the total length of 13.9cm while the largest fish was male with the total length of 26.0cm the male possess a pair of testes while the females possess a pair of ovaries. The GSI ranged from 0.08 to 8.13 and the HSI ranged from 0.08 to 4.66, K ranges from 0.63 to 1.08 respectively. The regression exponent showed that males were isometric; females negative allometric and combined sexes negative allometric. The r value obtained showed a strong linear relationship between the length and weight of the species. The Length-weight relationship showed allometric growth for the species. Jaja Creek seems to be polluted as the growth exponent and condition factor showed negative allometric growth pattern and less than one respectively. Hence proper monitoring of the ecosystem is recommended.

Anthropometry of thyromental distance of adult Ibibios and Annangs in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

The thyromental distance (TMD) is defined as the distance from the thyroid notch to mental prominence with the head fully extended. The objective of this study was to investigate thyromental distance among adults of Ibibio and Annang Ethnic groups of southern Nigeria. A total of 600 volunteers consisting of 313 (52.2%) males and 287 (47.8%) females, aged between 21-50 years were measured. Annang males and females had higher thyromental distance of (7.27 ± 0.06 cm; 6.91±0.05 cm) compared to the Ibibio males and females (7.13±0.06cm; 6.82±0.05 cm), respectively. The mean thyromental distance of the Annang subjects was significantly higher at p˂ 0.03 than that of the Ibibio adults. In most cases the highest mean thyromental distance was recorded within the 31-40 years age range.

SPATIO-TEMPORAL ANALYSIS OF HEAT INDEX IN THE OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT IN UYO, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

The study analysed spatio-temporal analysis of heat index in the outdoor environment in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The study made use of meteorological data including minimum and maximum temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and solar radiation from 1985 to 2021 obtained from NiMet. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used for the data analysis. Results showed that both minimum and maximum temperatures in Uyo increased with increasing time while the monthly mean minimum and maximum temperature decreased from January to December. The mean total heat index continued to rise at the rate of 0.13381 in Uyo. The mean total heat index increased at the rate of 0.1998 in the dry season and 0.0968 in the rainy season in Uyo. The study concluded that the air temperature and relative humidity in Uyo are increasing from 1985 to 2021 while solar radiation and wind speed are slightly decreasing. However, the heat index in Uyo was increasing from 1985 to 2021 and as a result the human comfort in the outdoor environment becomes a challenge. The study thus recommended that the menace of increasing heat index in Uyo should be critically looked at so that the human comfort can be improved. Also, afforestation programme should be encouraged to decrease the heat in the outdoor environment