Benue State Research Articles

Awareness and Utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools for Enhanced Research among Postgraduate Students in Universities in Benue State

The credibility of research outputs from Nigerian universities raises concerns, especially among postgraduate students.in view of this, the study investigated Awareness and utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools for Enhanced Research among Postgraduate Students in Universities in Benue State. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. A sample of 231 postgraduate students participated in the study. The convenience sampling technique was used to obtain the sample. A self-constructed questionnaire titled Awareness and Utilization of AI Tools Questionnaire was used for data collection. The research questions were answered using mean and standard deviation, and the hypotheses were tested using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Major findings revealed that there is a significant difference in the mean ratings of postgraduate students based on programme type on the level of awareness of AI tools for enhance research in universities in Benue State, and there is a significant difference in the mean ratings of postgraduate students based on programme type on the extent of utilization of AI tools for enhance research in universities in Benue State. Based on the findings, it was recommended among other things that faculties/departmental heads should organize Seminars and workshops aim at intimating postgraduate students on the use of various AI tools for enhanced research.

Occurrence of Anaplasmosis among Cattle in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria

Anaplasmosis, a tick-borne disease affecting cattle, poses significant economic challenges in Benue State, Nigeria. Despite its prevalence, detailed studies on its pathology and economic implications are limited. The study investigated the prevalence and seasonal occurrence of anaplasmosis in cattle, along with its distribution across different age classes and sexes. Blood samples were collected over a three-month period covering both dry and wet seasons. Samples were obtained from 432 cattle via jugular vein puncture and processed using the thin blood film method. Microscopic examination was conducted to detect tick-borne hemoparasites. Statistical analysis, employing the chi-square test, was performed to evaluate differences within categorical variables. Of the 432 cattle examined, 31.0% were males and 69.0% females. Female cattle exhibited a higher overall prevalence of infection (68.1%) compared to males (31.9%). A prevalence of 58.7% was recorded for the wet season compared to the dry season (41.3%), but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Adult cattle had the highest prevalence of anaplasmosis (71.0%), followed by juveniles (14.6%) and calves (14.1%). Among males, adult cattle had the highest infection rate (28.3%), while among females, adult females had the highest prevalence (71.7%), with statistical significance at P < 0.05 compared to other age classes and sexes. The findings provide valuable insights into the epidemiology of anaplasmosis in cattle and underscore the importance of considering location, season, age class, and sex in disease management and control strategies.

Health risk assessment of radiation dose level in oranges and mangoes fruits from farms in Benue State, Nigeria

The health risk and radiation dose level in Oranges and Mangoes due to ingestion from farm locations in Benue State was assessed. A total of fifty (50) samples were collected in five different farm locations in Benue State, the samples were washed with distilled water to remove dirt, a radiation meter was placed 10cm from the fruits and measurements were taken for 30 seconds, background radiation levels and radiation dose level from the fruits were measured and calculated. The results showed that the radiation dose level for Oranges ranged from 1.489 to 2.365 mSv/hr and 1.122 to 1.899 mSv/hr for mangoes and the Annual Equivalent Doses (AED) for Oranges and Mangoes consumption was estimated to be 0.107 and 0.027 mSv/yr, respectively. Both values exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) recommended limit of 1.0 mSv/yr. The high radiation levels could be attributed to naturally occurring radioactive materials in the soil or water, contamination from nearby sources. The Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) was calculated, with values of 0.2677 for Oranges and 0.683 for Mangoes, which are lower than the safe limit specified by WHO. While there is minimal risk associated with radiation exposure from consuming these fruits, further monitoring and investigation are necessary to ensure food safety and security in the study area.

Determination of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Clarias gariepinus and Tilapia zillii Smoked using Charcoal and Gas Smoking Kilns in Benue State

Determination of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Clarias gariepinus and Tilapia zillii Smoked using Charcoal and Gas Smoking Kilns in Benue State

EFFECT OF VIGOROUS INTENSITY AEROBIC EXERCISE REGIMEN ON PLASMA CHOLESTEROLS OF ADULTS IN BENUE STATE UNIVERSITY, MAKURDI-NIGERIA

Background: Abnormal plasma cholesterols are major risk factors for stroke, coronary heart disease and peripheral vascular diseases globally. Efforts are currently ongoing to come up with the best approach for health promotion and disease prevention, as well as clinical management of abnormal plasma cholesterol. Vigorous intensity aerobic exercise regimen is presently being investigated in this direction.. Methodology: This study investigated the effect of vigorous intensity aerobic exercise regimen on plasma total cholesterol and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol of adults in Benue State University, Makurdi. The design of the study was guided by two research questions. Two hypotheses were formulated and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study adopted two group pretest posttest quasi experimental design. The study population comprises twenty-one (21) Benue State University staff in the experimental group, and another twenty-one (21) for the control group. The proforma used for the data collection was validated by three experts, one from Measurement and Evaluation, one from the Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education and one from College of Health Sciences all in Benue State University, Makurdi. Data generated were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 25). A descriptive statistics, mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions, and an inferential statistics, Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) and Paired Samples Test were used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. Results: The findings revealed that out of the 21 participants in the two groups, 12(57.14%) were males, while 9(42.86%) were females. The age range in the control group was between 28 to 65years, while that of the experimental group was between 36-68years. Vigorous intensity aerobic exercise regimen was found to have statistically significant effect on plasma total cholesterol (P = 0.000<0.05). Even though high density lipoprotein-cholesterol was found to be elevated by vigorous intensity aerobic exercise regimen, the level of the elevation was discovered not to be statistically significant (P = 0.110 > 0.05). Conclusion: The study concluded that public health education experts as well as other healthcare workers should henceforth incorporate vigorous intensity aerobic exercise regimen prescription in public health awareness on health promotion and disease prevention, as well as clinical management of patients with abnormal plasma total cholesterol.

Measurement of Radon Gas Concentration in Sources of Drinking Water in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria Using Radon Detector (RAD-7)

Study’s Excerpt Radon gas contamination across diverse drinking water sources within Makurdi, Nigeria, was investigated. The RAD-7 detector was used, and the results revealed elevated radon levels exceeding WHO limits in some specific locations. There is a need for targeted risk mitigation strategies and continuous monitoring of Radon gas contamination in the area. Full Abstract Concern over radon gas's potential health risks when used or ingested in homes is growing, as is the issue with its presence in sources of drinking water. In this study, water samples were collected from various locations in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria, and the amount of radon gas present was measured using the Radon Detector (RAD-7). The study used a methodical sampling strategy to gather water samples from wells, boreholes, and surface water bodies throughout various Makurdi locations. The gathered water samples were examined using the RAD-7 detector, a trustworthy and sensitive device for measuring radon gas. The radon levels ranged from trace levels (20.0 ) to higher quantities (122.0 ), raising worries about potential health implications for nearby people reliant on these water sources. Thirty (30) samples of water were gathered for this investigation. The samples' radon content ranged from 10.3 to 122.0 Bq L-1, which is within the World Health Organization's (WHO) allowable limit and other regulatory bodies (100 Bq L-1) except in the sample collected from Court 5 and Logo1, which was higher than the set limit. The results of the analysis demonstrated that there were large variations within the range of 0.61 0.39-11.80 1.85 and a mean of 57.36 in the amounts of radon gas in the water samples obtained from the different sources. More research and monitoring are advised to gain a complete understanding of radon distribution and to develop workable radon risk reduction plans for water sources.

Menstruation Knowledge, Stigmatization and Support Perception of Adolescent Boys in a Rural Secondary School in Benue State, Nigeria

Purpose: To assess menstruation knowledge and stigmatization and support the perception of adolescent boys in a rural secondary school. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study of 121 secondary school boys drawn from all classes using a simple random sampling technique. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, and perception of menstruation. Findings: Most of the respondents, 55.4 % were aged between 15-18 years. Those in their fourth-year class (SS1) were more (40.5%). Some felt that menstruation was a disease (13.4%), contagious (24%), and unclean (29.8%). Those with correct knowledge of menarche were 97.5%. Those willing to obtain more knowledge on menstruation were 79.3%. More than half, 57% were unwilling to share food, items, and bedrooms with a menstruating female and 38.8 % believed that women should observe restrictions during their period. Those willing to offer support were 47.9% which was the highest and no support 1.7%. Teasing of girls in their period was reported by 20.6% of the respondents. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: There was good knowledge of menarche. However, misconceptions about menstruation and teasing were observed. This study contributes to theory by exploring boys' perceptions of menstruation and linking their misinformation to menstrual stigma. Practically, it emphasizes the need for educational programs, awareness campaigns, and peer support systems to reduce stigma and improve understanding. On a policy level, it advocates for menstrual education in school curricula, gender equality in health education, and policies addressing cultural misconceptions around adolescent reproductive health. More health education on menstruation needs to be given to secondary school boys.

A Poisson regression approach for assessing morbidity risk and determinants among under five children in Nigeria

In this paper, we have provided more insights on the relationship between under five morbidity in Nigeria and some background characteristics using a Poisson regression model and the most recent 2018 NDHS data on Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI), diarrhoea and fever. Some of our results are that children 36-47 months old have the highest risk of ARI [OR=1.45; CI (1.31,1.60)] while children less than 6 months old have the lowest risk of ARI [OR=0.14; CI (0.11,0.17)]. The prevalence of diarrhoea is generally high among children under 48-59 months old but highest among children 6-11 months old [OR=4.34; CI (3.69,5.09)]. Compared to children 48-59 months old, children in all other age categories except 24-34 months old have a high risk of fever [OR=0.95; CI (0.73,1.24)]. ARI is more prevalent among female children [OR=8.88; CI (8.02,9.82)] while diarrhoea [OR=21.75; (19.10,24.76)] and fever [OR=4.78; CI (4.31,5.32)] are more prevalent among male children. Children in urban areas are more likely to suffer ARI [OR=9.49; CI (8.31,10.85)] while children in rural areas are more likely to suffer both diarrhoea [OR=21.75; CI (19.10,24.76)] and fever [OR=4.90; CI (4.26,5.63)]. Children in the South-South have the highest risk of ARI [OR=4.03; CI (3.65,4.454)] while children in the North Central have the lowest risk of ARI [OR=1.55; CI (1.38,1.74)] and highest risk of diarrhoea [OR=3.34; CI (2.30,5.11)]. Children in the Northeast have the highest risk of fever [OR=1.30; CI (1.14,1.48)]. In the Northcentral region, Kogi state has the highest prevalence of fever [OR=2.27; CI (1.62,3.17)], while Benue state has the lowest [OR=0.35; CI (0.20,0.60)]. Children in Abuja state face similar risks of fever and diarrhoea [OR=0.84; CI (0.55,1.27)], with the risk of diarrhoea in Abuja being comparable to that in Plateau state [OR=1.57; CI (0.92,2.70)]. Nasarawa state records the highest incidence of diarrhoea in the Northcentral [OR=5.12; CI (3.03,8.65)], whereas Kogi state reports the lowest [OR=0.29; CI (0.16,0.53)]. In the Northeast, Borno state has the highest rate of fever [OR=3.28; CI (2.80,3.84)], and Bauchi state the lowest [OR=0.38; CI (0.29,0.50)]. In Adamawa state, the risks of fever and diarrhoea are nearly equivalent [OR=1.17; CI (0.97,1.41)], and the risk of fever there is similar to that in Taraba state [OR=0.92; CI (0.75,1.12)]. Diarrhoea is most prevalent in Yobe state [OR=3.17; CI (2.37,4.23)] and least prevalent in Borno state [OR=0.26; CI (0.20,0.33)]. In the Northwest, the risk of fever is similarly high in Zamfara and Kebbi states [OR=1.04; CI (0.93,1.17)], with Kastina state showing the lowest risk [OR=0.39; CI (0.34,0.46)]. Children in Zamfara state experience notably different risks of fever and diarrhoea [OR=0.07; CI (0.05,0.10)]. Kaduna state reports the highest incidence of diarrhoea [OR=21.88; CI (15.54,30.82)], while Kano state has the lowest [OR=2.50; CI (1.73,3.63)]. In the Southeast, Imo state leads in fever incidence [OR=8.20; CI (5.61,11.98)], while Anambra state has the lowest [OR=0.40; CI (0.21,0.78)]. In Abia state, the risk of fever is comparable to that in Enugu state [OR=1.03; CI (0.63,1.71)], but the risks of fever and diarrhoea in Abia differ significantly [OR=2.67; CI (1.75,4.06)]. Abia state also has the highest diarrhoea rate in the Southeast [OR=2.67; CI (1.75,4.06)], with Ebonyi state having the lowest [OR=0.05; CI (0.03,0.09)]. In the South-South region, Bayelsa and Edo states have similar risks of fever [OR=1.28; CI (0.84,1.95)], with Akwa Ibom state reporting the highest fever rate [OR=4.62; CI (3.27,6.52)] and Delta state the lowest [OR=0.08; CI (0.02,0.25)]. Children in Bayelsa state face distinctly different risks of fever and diarrhoea [OR=0.56; CI (0.34,0.95)]. Rivers state shows the highest incidence of diarrhoea in the South-South [OR=10.50; CI (4.78,23.06)], while Akwa Ibom state has the lowest [OR=0.30; CI (0.15,0.57)]. In the Southwest, Lagos and Osun states have similar risks of fever [OR=1.00; CI (0.59,1.69)], with Ogun state experiencing the highest incidence [OR=3.47; CI (2.28,5.28)] and Oyo state the lowest [OR=0.18; CI (0.07,0.46)]. In Lagos state, the risks of fever and diarrhoea are comparable [OR=0.96; CI (0.57,1.64)], and the risk of diarrhoea is similar to those in Ekiti, Ogun, and Ondo states. Oyo state has the highest diarrhoea rate in the Southwest [OR=10.99; CI (3.81,31.67)], with Ogun state reporting the lowest [OR=0.77; CI (0.42,1.42)]. Children of mothers with more than secondary education are significantly less likely to suffer ARI [OR=0.35; CI (0.29,0.42)], whereas children of mothers without any education run a higher risk of diarrhoea [OR=2.12; CI (1.89,2.38)] and fever [OR=2.61; CI (2.34,2.91)]. Our analysis also indicated that household wealth quintile is a significant determinant of morbidity. The results in this paper could help the government and non-governmental agencies to focus and target intervention programs for ARI, diarrhoea and fever on the most vulnerable and risky under five groups and populations in Nigeria.

Late Cancer Presentation and Increase Palliative Care Burden on Healthcare Delivery in Makurdi Benue State: A Need for Strategic Intervention

The study employed a narrative review design for the purpose of identifying statistical findings on late-stage cancer diagnosis from previously published studies to use as evidence to describe the prevailing incidence of patients’ presenting with late-stage cancer disease in Benue State. The data were searched from journals indexed in Google scholar, Semantic scholar, ResearchGate, Cross-references, PubMed, DOAJ, and Abstract journals. The statistical results obtained from the review shows that, late-stage cancer presentation among people who develop the disease is a common situation in Nigeria. Specifically, to Benue State one among the few published studies reported that patients who had presented with advanced clinical diseases as evidenced by fungating masses, palpable axillary nodes, are indications of histologically established metastatic disease. Another study applying the FIGO Staging method revealed that (81.8%) presented with advanced stage disease ranging from stage IIb–IV and stage III disease was the commonest with (42.9%) of cases. A recent study revealed that (46.7%) of patients were diagnosed with stage II disease. Whereas (49.1%) presented with advanced stage III and (1.3%) stage IV disease respectively. Based on these evidences, is the pertinent need to solicit for a strategic intervention by various stakeholders in the health system to establish a specialized palliative care service facility in Benue State. Late cancer presentation is an eligible condition for palliative care; early and routine referral of cancer patients for palliative care will accord patients the benefits of enjoying improved QOL and delay of early death from the disease.

Microorganisms Associated with Tomato (Lycopersicum Esculentum) Rot and Effect of Neem (Azadirachta Indica) Extract in Rot Control in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria

Tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum) is a vital agricultural crop globally, yet it is significantly affected by various microbial pathogens leading to post-harvest rot, which threatens food security and economic stability. This study aimed to identify the microorganisms associated with tomato rot in Makurdi Metropolis and evaluate the efficacy of neem (Azadirachta indica) extract as a biocontrol agent. A total of 60 tomato fruits were sampled from the five major markets within the Makurdi metropolis. They were cultured on Nutrient agar, MacConkey agar, Potato Dextrose agar, Mannitol salt agar, and Eosin Methylene blue agar. The organisms identified were Klebsiella sp, Salmonella sp, Proteus vulgaris, Enterobacter sp, Shigella sp, Staphylococcus sp, Bacillus sp, Escherichia coli, Rhizopus sp, Mucor sp, Aspergillus sp, and Fusarium sp. Neem extract was used for susceptibility tests on the bacterial isolates at 10%, 50%, and 100% concentration, and it was found most effective on some bacterial isolates at higher concentrations of 100% with wider zones of inhibitions. Vegetative growth of the fungi on neem extract decreased with increase in concentrations. This finding proved the potentiality of plant extracts for controlling the fungal rot of tomato fruit. A pathogenicity test was conducted with readings taken at intervals of days and it was noticed that the microbial isolates were actually the cause of tomato rot. This study underscores the importance of identifying microbial threats to tomato crops and highlights neem extract as a promising natural alternative for managing tomato rot, promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Makurdi Metropolis and Nigeria at large.

Econometric Analysis of Factors Affecting Access to Market by Yam Farmers in Benue State

It is evident that in developing countries, agriculture serves as a foundation for economic activities. It plays an active role in determining the wealth, social and political system of a society. Therefore, policies and programmes as well as research and development in the sector is necessary for increased productivity and marketing. This study examines the variables influencing yam farmers’ access to markets in Benue State. The level to which the produce intended for sale the previous season was actually sold was used to determine whether or not the market was accessible. Data were collected with the use of a structured questionnaire from three local governments in Sankera Zone, the dominant yam producing zone of Benue state. The results of the logistic regression analysis showed the variables that affected the likelihood that a farmer in the study area would have easy access to markets. Gender, educational attainment, prior farming experience, vehicle ownership, and market space all showed positive and had a significant impact on the likelihood that a farmer would have simple access to the market. However, the age of the household and size had a negative effect, and were statistically significant. A farmer training programme is strongly recommended to equip farmers with modern farming techniques. Additionally, the establishment of infrastructural facilities, market boards, and yam processing factories were recommended to support their endeavors.

Assessment and Modeling of Workplace Exposure to Solar Ultraviolet Radiation in Makurdi, Nigeria

Solar radiation though beneficial to life but the harmful effects of over exposure especially in Nigeria has been neglected and its measurement/prediction has received negligible attention in the literature. This study measured and modeled workplace exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (SUVR) in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria. Digital broadband meter was used to measure solar power density in three site while polymer Polysolphone dosimeters were fitted on a human manikin and placed in the sun between 10:00 am- 4:00pm (6 hours) to quantify the amount of Solar UVR absorbed by three occupational workers (Traders, Fishermen and Staff/Students). Five dosimeters were deployed in each of the three sites for calibration to measure UV absorbance in J/m2 while seven in each site were used for body parts. UV/VIS-spectrophotometer was handily used to measure both post and pre-absorbance and the UV exposures were calculated. The UV index was also calculated. Result shows that, head top had the highest exposure values 7.19kJ/m2, 6.51kJ/m2 and 7.00kJ/m2, while the least values was under cloth cover 2.47kJ/m2, 2.08kJ/m2 and 2.20kJ/m2 for traders, fishermen and staff/students respectively. Similarly, the calculated cumulative exposures were 3289.36kJ/m2, 497.82kJ/m2 and 1515.60kJ/m2 at the market square, river bank and the campus respectively. These values were higher than international ICNIRP average value 30J/m2. UV index at market square was 9 (media graphic colour purple), while at river bank and BSU campus was 8 (media graphic colour reddish). High mean irradiant values with high UV index indicates high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Therefore, use of sun protective clothing is recommended and reduce time in the sun especially between 1:00pm and 2:00pm to prevent over exposure that will lead to serious harmful effects especially at the market place.

Is There Any Possibility of Improving Upper Basic Students’ Self-Confidence and Academic Performance in Social Studies Using PEDDA and IEPT Instructional Strategies? — A Field Report

This research investigated the possibility of improving upper basic students’ attention and academic performance in social studies in Benue State, Nigeria using Prior-Conception, Exploration, Discussion, Dissatisfaction and Application (PEDDA) and Invitation, Exploration, Proposing-Explanation and Taking action (IEPT). The study adopted a pretest, posttest, control group, quasi-experimental research design. The instruments used for data collection were Social Studies Self-Confidence Scale (SSSCS) and Social Studies Performance Test (SSPT). Cronbach Alpha was used to ascertain the reliability index of SSSCS which gave reliability values of 0.86. Kuder-Richardson (KR-21) formula was used to test internal consistency of SSPT which yielded a reliability value of 0.92. The population was 11,656 Upper Basic Two students offering social studies in Benue State, Nigeria. A sample of 288 students (Male=158 and female=130) drawn from 9 schools within the 9 Local Government Areas (LGA) out of 23 LGA in the Benue State, Nigeria was selected using multi-stage sampling techniques. Two research questions and two null hypotheses guided the study. The research questions were answered using Mean and Standard Deviation scores while the null hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance using results from Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). The study revealed that there was significant difference in the mean self-confidence ratings of students taught social studies using PEDDA, IEPT strategy and discussion method [F2, 287=2146.076, P<0.05]. The study revealed that there was significant difference in the mean academic performance scores of students taught social studies using PEDDA strategy, IEPT strategy and discussion method [F2, 287=374.360, P<0.05]. It was recommended among others that to maximize self-confidence in social studies class, teachers’ trainee should be train on the application of PEDDA strategy and IEPT strategy and serving teachers should employ the use of PEDDA and IEPT strategies in teaching social studies. Social studies teachers are also encouraged to use PEDDA strategy in teaching to enhance students’ self-confidence and academic performance in social studies.

Effect of Gender on Students’ Attention and Academic Performance in Analytical Chemistry Using Collaborative-Predict-Explain-Observe-Explain (CPEOE)

This research investigated the possibility of enhancing senior secondary school students’ academic performance irrespective of gender in analytical chemistry concept using Collaborative-Predict-Explain-Observe-Explain (CPEOE). The study adopted a quasi-experimental research design. Analytical Chemistry Attention Inventory (ACAI) and Analytical Chemistry Performance Test (ACPT) were the instruments used for data collection. Cronbach Alpha was used to ascertain the reliability index of ACAI which gave reliability value of 0.87. The internal consistency of ACPT was tested using Kuder-Richardson (KR-21) formula which yielded a reliability value of 0.96. The population was 7,152 SS2 students offering chemistry in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria. A sample of 157 students drawn from 3 schools in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria was selected using multi-stage sampling techniques. Four research questions and four null hypotheses guided the study. The research questions were answered using Mean and Standard Deviation scores while the null hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance using results from Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). The study revealed among others, that there was no significant difference between the mean attention rating of male and female students taught analytical chemistry {F1, 78 = 1.020, P>0.05}. It was also revealed that that there is no significant difference between the mean academic performance of male and female students taught analytical chemistry using CPEOE {F1, 78 = 4.890, P>0.05}. It was recommended among others that since CPEOE is not gender sensitive. Hence, both male and female students should be involved in CPEOE classroom to enhance their attention and academic performance in analytical chemistry. Serving teachers should be encouraged to use CPEOE in teaching analytical chemistry concepts.

The Role Of Traditional Rulers In Curbing Farmer Herder Conflict In Ukum Local Government Area Of Benue State, 2011-2023

This study interrogates the role of traditional rulers in the management of farmer herder conflict in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue state, 2011-2023 with the aim of unfolding the persistent incursion on the farming communities of Ukum LGA by the herders and the task of traditional rulers in managing it. Using Eco violence theory the study explained the inextricable link between the environment and violent conflicts between the herders and farmers n Ukum LGA. The study used the descriptive survey design. Qualitative method of data collection was adopted and the instruments for data collection were key informant interview and focus group discussion. The secondary data were gathered from text books, and journals. The method of data analysis was the explorative as the data were descriptions, accounts and experiences or feelings of the respondents. The study found that the nature of farmer herder crisis is the conflict between the economic activities of human beings for survival and the effect of the survival on the ecosystem.. the effect is the intolerable experience the indigenes are passing through as the idle youths have turned the conflict as a means of livelihood. Though the traditional rulers have been trying to curb the situation, there are challenges that are rooted in politics. The study concludes that government must be careful in selecting the traditional rulers and give them a free hand in managing the affairs of their communities. The study recommends majorly that Government must embrace the modern system of livestock farming to reduce competition over scarce environmental resources

Cultural and Moral Beliefs/Practices Towards Children With Congenital Anomalies Among the Idoma of Benue State.

Cultural and Moral Beliefs/Practices Towards Children With Congenital Anomalies Among the Idoma of Benue State.

Effect of nutritional status on the performance components of physical fitness of amateur basketball players in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria

Optimal nutritional status is crucial for enhancing the physical fitness components of amateur basketball players as it directly influences their strength, endurance, and overall performance. This study assessed the effect of nutritional status on the performance components of physical fitness of amateur basketball players in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria. This was a cross-sectional ex post facto study. Participants were 80 (40 male and 40 female) secondary school basketball players from a population of 160 (80 males (8 teams) and 80 females (8 teams) who were selected using random sampling technique from 16 registered teams from the 2023 Benue State Secondary School Basketball League organized by the Benue State Sports Council, Makurdi. All the participants underwent nutritional assessment based on WHO standards. The participants’ height and weight were measured in accordance with the protocol of ISAK. The Slalom test was performed to evaluate agility. The Harre circuit test (HCT) was used to assess coordination. Speed was assessed using the 50m dash. Reaction time was assessed using the reaction time ruler drop test. In all the tests, those with lower time were considered to be more fit and vice versa. Mean and standard deviation were computed for the performance of the participants in agility, coordination, speed and reaction time. The participants were split into three in relation to nutritional status (normal, thin/wasted and stunted). The analysis of variance was used to find out the different performance components of adolescents in relation to nutritional status. All the analyses were performed on 95% confidence intervals using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS v21). The result of the study indicated that nutrition has significant effects on agility (F=10.495, df=2, 77; p<0.05), coordination (F=17.750, df=2, 77; p<0.05), speed (F=5.908, df=2, 77; p<0.05) and reaction time (p<0.05) of amateur basketball players in Makurdi. It was concluded that nutritional status has a significant effect on several key performance components of physical fitness among amateur basketball players in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria. It was recommended among others that coaches should take the nutritional status of their players as important as other parameters to ensure a better performance of their players in basketball. Key words: Nutritional status, physical fitness, performance, amateur, basketball, secondary school

Realist evaluation of a community-based antiretroviral therapy (CBART) programme for key populations in Benue State in Nigeria

BackgroundWorld Health Organization recommended community-based ART (CBART) approaches to improve access to antiretroviral treatment (ART) and treatment outcomes among key populations living with (KPLHIV). Key populations (KP) are female sex workers, men who have sex with men, persons who inject drugs, and transgender people. How CBART for KP (KP-CBART) worked and why, for whom and in what circumstances it worked within KP communities or at community sites, are yet to be described. The aim of this study is to describe the different KP-CBART approaches or models in Nigeria, identifying the context conditions and mechanisms that are likely to produce the desired outcomes.MethodBuilding on our previous study eliciting an initial programme theory for KP-CBART, we used a multiple case design and cross-case analysis to evaluate 3 KP-CBART approaches, namely: One Stop Shop clinic; community drop-in centre; and outreach venue. Between 2021 and 2023, we conducted a retrospective cohort study, 99 indepth interviews and 5 focused group discussions with various actors. Using realist evaluation, we synthesised context-mechanism-outcome configurations (CMOCs) and developed programme theory for each of the cases and an overall theory.ResultThe analysis showed the central importance of decentralizing ART service delivery to a safe place within the community for KPLHIV. The provision of ART in a KP friendly environment triggered a feeling of safety and trust in the healthcare workers among KPLHIV, resulting in KP-CBART acceptance and improved ART uptake, medication adherence and retention on ART. KP community engagement in ART delivery, peer support through support group meetings, and linkages with KP-led organizations improved self-efficacy, fostered solidarity and a sense of belonging among KP. These resources encouraged and motivated clients to engage with the KP-CBART model. However, fear of disclosure of HIV and KP status, and lack of trust between KP groups, demotivated and discouraged KPLHIV from initiating ART and continuing their treatment in KP-CBART.ConclusionTo optimise access to ART and treatment outcomes for KPLHIV, policy makers and health practitioners should ensure the provision of a safe place for ART service delivery that can be trusted by the clients and the KP communities.

Rural Banditry and the Vulnerable: Managing the Internally Displaced Persons’ Camps in Benue State, Nigeria

Rural Banditry and the Vulnerable: Managing the Internally Displaced Persons’ Camps in Benue State, Nigeria

Assessment of the Level of Utilization of Immunization Services Among Nursing Mothers in Some Local Government Areas of Benue State, Nigeria

The study investigated the level of utilization of immunization services among nursing mothers in some local government areas of Benue state. Descriptive cross sectional research design was adopted and multistage sampling procedure was employed. The questionnaire for the respondents titled assessment of the levels of utilization of immunization services among nursing mothers (ALUISNM). The study population consists of 1,500 nursing mothers in selected LGAs of Benue State. Mean, standard deviation were employed to analyze the data obtained from the respondents, while the null hypothesis was verified using the t-test of ANOVA. It can be deduced that the height of utilization of immunization services amongst the nursing mothers in Benue State is fair. The result that 765 (54.3%) utilized immunization services against 670 (45.7%). The result pointed out that there is high level of utilization of immunization services among women with secondary education (57.6%) followed by those with tertiary education. Based on socio economic status immunization were utilized more by women who are unemployed and self-employed with (56.0%) and (55.3%) respectively. Based on location of immunization services, utilization was more by the urban women (60.0%) than semi urban and rural women. Also based on religion utilization of immunization is higher with those of Islam traditionalist than the Christians. The utilization of immunization services and factors such as socio-economic status [F(2,(1462) = 1.139, p>0.05], location [F(2,(1462) = 2.249, p>0.05]. and religion [F(2,(1462) = 0.528, p>0.05] showed no verifiable significance differences. But there was a significant difference with regards to education [F(3,1461) = 15.773, p<0.05]. Conclusively, there was positive level of utilization of immunization services from the study and therefore recommended that issues like location of health facilities, awareness, education etc should be addressed.