Central Nigeria Research Articles

A comparison of optical remote sensing data for automatic fracture network mapping in Lokoja region, Central Nigeria

A comparison of optical remote sensing data for automatic fracture network mapping in Lokoja region, Central Nigeria

Effect of Lifestyle Modification on Plasma Lipids of Adults in a Part of North Central Nigeria

Background: Plasma lipids are precursors of adrenal and gonadal steroid hormones, bile acids as well as important component of animal cell wall. However, abnormal plasma lipids are major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases globally. Researchers are currently considering lifestyle modification such as exercise, as an approach to maintaining normal plasma lipids level as well as addressing abnormal ones. Methodology: This study investigated the effect of lifestyle modification (vigorous intensity aerobic exercise regimen) on plasma triglycerides and low 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 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 low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (P = 0.000<0.05). Even though plasma triglyceride was found to be reduced by vigorous intensity aerobic exercise regimen, the level of the reduction was found not to be statistically significant (P = 0.293 > 0.05). Conclusion: The study concluded that healthcare workers should henceforth incorporate vigorous intensity aerobic exercise regimen prescription in public health awareness on the maintenance of plasma level of triglycerides and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol, as well as clinical management of patients with abnormal plasma low density lipoprotein-cholesterol.

Effects of Repeated Reading Approach on Primary 3 Pupils in Public-Primary Schools in Central Nigeria

The study looked at the effects of repeated reading approach on primary three pupils reading in Pankshin Local Government Area of Plateau State, North Central Nigeria and was carried out in five (5) different public schools located in the rural areas of the Local Government. The main objective of the study was to significantly remedy the reading challenges of primary 3 pupils by increasing their reading ability. The study was a true experimental design of pre-test and post-test with a sample of 110 pupils. The study was conducted within one academic session: September 2022 – July 2023. Means, standard deviation and ANCOVA using IBM SPPS version 22 and Microsoft Excel Spread sheet were used. The study revealed that pupils achieved a significant level of fluency in their reading ability, and it recommended the use of the Repeated Reading Approach to teach learners who have challenges with reading in primary schools.

An investigative study on the causes of depression and the coping strategies among clinical medical students in private universities in North Central Nigeria

BackgroundDepression is among known mental health conditions and students in schools of medicine are not immune to it. In this investigative study, 211 clinical medical students of two private universities from North-Central Nigeria were examined on depression prevalence, the contributory factors and their coping strategies.MethodsThe Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9), the Medical Student’s Stressor Questionnaire (MSSQ) and identified coping strategies according to Coping Oriented to Problems Experienced Inventory (COPE) were instruments of data collection.ResultsThe results were obtained by both descriptive analysis and test of association between some categorical variables. The depression prevalence amongst the participants was 159 (75.4%). Females (124 (78.0%)) were more depressed than males (35 (22.0%)). Factors identified as contributing to depression were the heavy academic workload (124 (78.5%)), insufficient family time (93 (58.1%)) and financial constraints (54 (34.0%)). The most utilized method of coping with their stress was engaging on social media (133 (84.2%)), followed by talking with relatives or friends (99 (62.7%)) and use of recreational drugs (20 (12.8%)). The findings from this study have shown that more than three-quarters of the respondents suffered from varying degrees of depression from mild, 63 (29.9%), moderate, 53 (25.1%) to severe, 43 (20.4%).ConclusionsThe heavy academic workload was a major source of depression. Colleges of Medicine should take pro-active steps towards their students’ mental health and academic workload should be well spaced to reduce the stress imposed by the frequency of examinations.

Comparison of the Effect of Structured Lifestyle Changes Versus Verbal Advice Only on Blood Pressure Control Among Hypertensive Adults in a Tertiary Hospital in North Central Nigeria

Background: Results from several clinical trials show that comprehensive behavioral intervention programs improve lifestyle behaviors and lower blood pressure. The study compared the effect of structured lifestyle modification versus verbal advice only on blood pressure control among hypertensive adults presenting in the GOPD of JUTH. Study Design/Setting: The study was a randomized study involving hypertensive adults aged 20 years and above presenting in GOPD of JUTH. Methods: Participants were consecutively selected and randomized into two groups, a structured lifestyle modification group (Group A) and a verbal advice only group (Group B). Group A was offered a structured lifestyle modification counseling while routine advice only was offered to group B. Data was collected about patients’ socio-demographic, medical and lifestyle habits that included dietary and exercise history. Physical examination included blood pressure measurement. Participants were followed up monthly for twelve weeks during which blood pressure measurement was routinely carried out and changes in their lifestyle habits reported. The primary outcome was reduction in BP. The means at 95% confidence intervals of the blood pressure values of the two groups were determined using paired t-test analysis. Data was analyzed on an intention to treat basis. A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant in all analyses. Results: The mean systolic blood pressure reduction in group A was 17 mmHg (8.7, 25.3; 95% CI) after 12 weeks versus 6.67 mmHg (0.47, 12.87, 95% CI) in group B. The mean diastolic pressure reduction after the same period was 8 mmHg (3.5, 12.5; 95% CI) in group A and 5.33 mmHg (1.5, 9.1; 95% CI) in group B. Paired t-test analyses revealed that these reductions were statistically significant in both groups. Conclusion: Findings from the study show that individuals with hypertension can make and sustain, during a period of 12 weeks, multiple lifestyle modifications which can control or reduce blood pressure. There is therefore a need for improved lifestyle intervention programs, including those appropriate for delivery in the clinical setting, that enable individuals with or at risk for hypertension to adopt long-term healthier lifestyles Keywords: Lifestyle modification, Hypertension, Blood pressure

The dialectics of intergroup relations between the Alago and Eggon peoples of Central Nigeria

ABSTRACT This study dwells on Alago-Eggon relations within the discursive remit of the dialectics of intergroup relations in Nasarawa State, Central Nigeria. Historicizing the patterns, dynamics, shifts and trajectories of their relations over the years, the study found that the two groups have engaged in diverse forms of mutually beneficial and supportive relationships as close geographical and cultural neighbours. The study revealed that the relationship between the groups witnessed a dramatic setback in the 2010s, following primordial contestations for power by their political elites, which plunged the two groups into inter-communal animosity. The study noted that the relationship between the two groups has been largely tense and hostile since the onset of their communal crises, and that has had significant implications for their peaceful coexistence and social cohesion.

Mosquito Species Composition in Nasarawa Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Study’s Excerpt The resting densities, biting rates, and indoor mosquito populations in Nasarawa LGA were assessed. Prokopack aspirator is applied for morning mosquito collection and the dissecting microscope for identification of species-specific attributes. The results highlight critical areas for targeted vector control to mitigate malaria transmission in the region. Full Abstract Numerous mosquito species are capable of carrying various tropical diseases. This study ascertained the composition of mosquitoes in Nasarawa Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Central Nigeria. Adult mosquitoes were collected between 0600 and 0900 hours in the morning using a battery-operated Prokopack aspirator. The mosquitoes were then placed in a petri dish with proper labelling and taken to a laboratory for identification and dissection. Using a dissecting microscope and identification key, mosquitoes were sorted and morphologically classified according to their morphological features. The mosquito midgut was dissected to check for sporozoites infectivity. The man-biting rate (MBR) and indoor resting density (IRD) were computed. A total of 314 adult mosquitoes, spanning four species and belonging to the Anopheline and Culicine mosquito groups, were found to be resting indoors with An. gambiae representing 39.2% of the total composition. A significant difference in mosquito abundance (χ2= 58.866, df = 3, P=0.001) was observed between the four species that were reported. There is no discernible variation in the mosquito composition in the research region (χ2= 4.861, df = 2, P = 0.088). A statistically significant variance in sex was noted (χ2=285.235, df = 2, P = 0.000). The biting rate was recorded at 2.6 bites per person per night, and an indoor resting density of 5.23 mosquitoes per room per night was recorded. There was a noteworthy distinction in the abdomen condition of the mosquitoes (χ2 = 45.564, df = 3, p < 0.001). Mosquito species abundance in October was 200 (63.7%), compared to 114 (36.3) in September. Nonetheless, a noteworthy distinction was observed in the abundance of mosquito species throughout the research months (χ2= 7.5076, df = 1, P-value = 0.006). Based on the study's findings that provided insight into the species composition of the mosquito population in the study area, it is recommended to remove possible breeding grounds, promote the use of insecticide-treated nets, and prioritize interrupting vector-human contact as a means of halting the spread of malaria parasites.

An Examination Of Traditional Craft As A Component Of Tsangaya System Of Education In North Central Zone Nigeria

An examination of traditional craft as component of tsangaya system of education in north central zone Nigeria. A survey research approach and a Multi-Stage Cluster Sampling procedure. Data was gathered from 297 respondents drawn from tsangaya schools from 3 selected states in north-central Nigeria, kwara, Nasarawa and Niger State. The collection of data was using a questionnaire that was structured and well-validated. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for the data analysis. The outcome revealed the overall mean score of 3.93 for the ten skills needed as agreed by the respondents. The overall mean score of 3.71 of the five attitudinal items as agreed. The overall mean score of 4.05 of the four awareness statements listed as agreed. The cluster mean score of 3.46 shows serious challenges towards Traditional Craft Skills. The findings show that awareness has the highest Beta value (B=0.729, P<0.05). The findings supported the formulated hypothesis, therefore, we reject H0. Followed by attitude with (B=0.400, P<0.05) the findings also supported the hypothesis, therefore, we reject H0. The challenges had the lowest Beta value of (B=0.022, P<0.05) and also have a significant impact on the traditional craft skills. The findings equally supported the formulated hypothesis, therefore, we reject H0. In conclusion, attitude and awareness had a serious impact on entrepreneurship skills acquisition program. Hence, Adj.R2 of 98.6% as shown on Table 5 is an indication of another 1.4% unexplained factors that are not considered in this study. Therefore, its recommended that Governments at all levels (Federal, State and Local governments) should come up with more effective means of supporting the traditional craft in Tsangaya School’s system in north central Nigeria

Anatomy of Niger and Benue river sediments from clay to granule: grain-size dependence and provenance budgets, Nigeria

ABSTRACT This study explores in detail the complexity of textural–compositional relationships in fluvial sediments. To this aim, fifteen size fractions (from clay to granule) of three sediment samples characterized by virtually identical size distribution from the Niger and Benue rivers in central Nigeria were separately analyzed by multiple methods (optical microscopy, manual and semi-automated Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, elemental geochemistry, Nd isotopes). The independent mineralogical and geochemical datasets thus obtained allowed us to investigate processes of sediment generation for five diverse size modes (clay, fine cohesive silt, very coarse frictional silt, very fine sand, coarse sand) derived in different proportions from different sources (wind-blown dust, soils and paleosols, fine-grained and coarse-grained siliciclastic units, igneous and metamorphic bedrocks). Controls on the size distribution of detrital minerals (settling equivalence, size inheritance, weathering, mechanical durability, and chemical durability through multiple sedimentary cycles) were examined, specifically focusing on tectosilicates and on the long-standing petrological problem of feldspar–grain-size relations. Various factors determine the composition of different size modes: kaolinite-dominated clay derives from both deeply weathered soils or paleosols and distant Saharan sources; cohesive silt is largely recycled from mudrocks and soils formed in sedimentary basins. The proportion of detritus derived first-cycle from basement rocks increases from very coarse silt to very fine sand, whereas the coarse-sand mode is quartz-dominated with scarce plagioclase and amphibole and local occurrence of garnet, staurolite, monazite, or xenotime reflecting a combined influence of size inheritance from igneous (pegmatite) and metamorphic sources, mechanical and chemical durability, and recycling from coarse-grained siliciclastic units. Sediment budgets based on mineralogical, geochemical, and geochronological signatures consistently indicate dominance of Benue sediment supply, although the contribution from the Niger mainstem to the Niger Delta is inferred to have been notably greater in the wetter past, before clastic fluxes dropped in response to the aridification of the Sahel.

The Role of Migrant Scholars in the evolution and development of Islamic Schools in Jos Town, 1915-1957

This paper is an examination of the migration of Islamic scholars to Jos Town and the consequential establishment of Islamic schools between 1915 and 1956. Jos, a town located in central Nigeria, witnessed a significant influx of Islamic scholars during the period between 1915 and 195. These scholars, hailing from diverse backgrounds, converged in Jos and brought with them a wealth of knowledge, religious teachings, and cultural influences. The paper chronicles the circumstances that facilitated their migration, the impact of their arrival on the religious landscape of Jos, and the crucial role played by the Islamic schools they established in propagating Islamic education. Through a meticulous examination of historical records, oral traditions and primary sources, the paper unveils a captivating chapter in the cultural and educational history of Jos, shedding light on the enduring legacy of these migrations and the establishment of Islamic schools in this vibrant town.

An assessment of perceived patient satisfaction and glycaemic control pattern among adult diabetics attending a tertiary care clinic in north central Nigeria

Background: Patient satisfaction as one of the indicators of patient centered care, has taken a central point in the management of chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus. Aim/objectives: This study aimed to assess perceived patient satisfaction and glycaemic control among adult diabetics attending the General Out-Patient Clinic. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted between September 2021 and November 2021 involving 134 adult diabetic patients selected by systematic random sampling. Data was collected by interviewer administered questionnaire. Height, weight, blood pressure measurements and fasting blood glucose assay were done. Data was analyzed with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Analysis was done at the 5% level of significance with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: A larger population (81) of the participants were females representing 60.4%. The mean age of the patients was 51.82 ± 12.19 years. The level of perceived patient satisfaction and glycaemic control were 88% and 37.3% respectively. Blood pressure status was the only independent predictor for patient satisfaction. Ethnicity, level of education, occupation and average monthly income showed statistically significant relationship with glycaemic control. Furthermore, comorbidity, perceived patient satisfaction, medication adherence, BMI and blood pressure status also showed statistically significant association with glycaemic control. Conclusion: Less than 40% of participants achieved good glycaemic control despite high level of perceived patient satisfaction (88%) in this study.

Treatment Options and Referral Pattern among Patients with Retinal Diseases Attending an Eye Clinic in a Tertiary institution, North Central Nigeria.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the treatment modalities and pattern of referral of patients with retinal diseases in the eye clinic. Methods: All consenting new patients attending the eye clinic were recruited for the study and interviewed by the author. The treatment offered to the participants diagnosed with retinal disease (medical, surgical, LASER, optical or a combination) was recorded. Information on the patient’s referral for vitreoretinal consultation (this could be ‘yes’ or ‘no’) and reasons for the referral were also documented and analyzed. Results: treatment options for the 278 study participants were: medical for 100 (36%), optical for 94 (33.8%) optical correction, surgical for 24 (8.6%), LASER photocoagulation for 6 (2.2%) and a combination of LASER photocoagulation and intravitreal avastin injection for 20 (7.2%) patients. Counselling and watchful expectancy accounted for treatment of 34 (12.2%) patients. Seventy-four patients of the 278 included in the study had retinal diseases. Of these 74 with retinal diseases, 46 (62.2%) were referred to vitreoretinal units out of which 39 (84.8%) patients were referred to the vitreoretinal unit in JUTH and 7 (15.2%) were referred to vitreoretinal units elsewhere. The referrals were largely on account of unavailability of requisite equipment in 3 (42.8%) patients, surgical expertise in 2 (28.6%) patients and patient request in 2 (28.6%) cases. Conclusion: The need for establishment of standard vitreoretinal services strategically in each geo-political zone of Nigeria to cater more efficiently to the needs of patients with retinal diseases and appropriate referral cannot be overemphasized

A Few Year Review of Still Birth at The Prince Abubakar Audu University Teaching Hospital Anyigba, North Central Nigeria

Introduction: An estimated 2.6 million still birth occur annually in the world in 2015. Nigeria then accounted for about 12.2% of this being the second highest still birth rate. Still birth is death of the fetus at or after 28 weeks of gestation. In some clime it is death of a fetus at or after 22 weeks. Aim: The study aim is to review still birth, determine the rate and characteristics of stillbirth at the Prince Abubakar Audu University teaching hospital, Anyigba, North Central Nigeria. Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted at Prince Abubakar Audu University Teaching Hospital in Anyigba, Nigeria between September and December 2023. We reviewed deliveries over a 5 year period; between January, 2018 and December 2022. A tool was used to extract data on pregnancies, live births, still births and other relevant related information about the parturients. Data was analyzed (descriptive analysis) using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20. Results: The institutional stillbirth rate is 3.8% (38 per 1000 deliveries). Majority of Women that had stillbirth were in the age range 21 to 39 years (82%), 29 (56.8%) booked while 18 (38.3%) were unbooked. 25(49%) were multiparae followed by 17 (33%) who were primigravidae and 9(18%) grand multiparae. 55 % (28) of the stillbirths were macerated at delivery while 45 % (23) were fresh still births. Preeclampsia/eclampsia (19.6%) was the most identified risk factor followed by prolonged obstructed labour (11.8%), ruptured uterus (9.8), PPROM (9.8%) and Preterm delivery (9.8%). The others are abruption placentae (5.9%), maternal infection (3.9%) and congenital abnormality (2%). Conclusion: The still birth rate of 38/1000 total births is unacceptably high leaving a lot of women with muted grief after childbirth. We need more effort to eliminate or reduce the incidence of still births.

Women in Cassava Processing and Marketing in North Central Nigeria: Are they any Happier?

Cassava is one of the most important staple food items available in Nigeria. Nigeria is the largest producer of cassava and it’s considered the most important tropical root crop providing food and income to over 30 million farmers, processors and traders. The objective of this study is to ascertain the happiness status of women combining occupation of processing and marketing cassava with family responsibility in north-central Nigeria. This objective is motivated by novelty of such researches in the research area. The findings revealed that women in processing and marketing of cassava in north central Nigeria are happy. The study concludes that happiness question in the study area is influence by the people’s culture where one will hardly said he/she is unhappy. The study therefore, recommends that community leaders and local government authorities encourage women in cassava processing and marketing to always form cooperative societies. This will not only make them a formidable common front but will improve their contributions/supports to families from their cooperatives pool resources.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Dramatic Approaches in Improving Oral Communication Skills among Arabic Language Students of Colleges of Education in North Central Zone Nigeria

Recent literature highlights a widespread issue of poor oral competence and communication skills among Arabic language students in Nigerian institutions of higher learning. Contributing factors, including the use of inappropriate teaching methods, have been identified. This study explores the impact of using drama techniques to enhance Arabic oral communication skills among students in Colleges of Education across North Central Nigeria. A pre-experimental design was utilized, with one group serving as the experimental group and the other as the control group. The intervention took place during the second semester of the 2023/2024 academic year, involving 51 students in their 200 level. The sample was divided into 26 students for the experimental group and 25 for the control group. To measure outcomes, a test and evaluation scale for oral expression skills was developed. Statistical analysis, including means, standard deviations, and independent sample t-tests, were applied. The findings indicated a statistically significant difference in favour of the experimental group, suggesting that drama techniques can be an effective approach for improving spoken Arabic, particularly within the Nigerian educational context

Analysis of 4G/LTE Network Performance in North-Central Nigeria: A Comprehensive Drive Test Approach

The proliferation of mobile devices and escalating demand for data services have resulted in a substantial increase in data traffic across Nigeria, especially in the North Central region due to heavy migration of individuals and organizations towards Abuja, the federal capital. However, despite the growing adoption of 4G/LTE networks in North Central Nigeria, users encounter persistent challenges in accessing high-speed internet and poor service network. This study investigates the performance of 4G/LTE networks in North-Central Nigeria using a comprehensive drive test methodology carried out in Abuja, Lafia and Makurdi. It covered a duration of 3hrs (12.00noon to 15.00pm) for 3days (3rd - 6th January, 2024). For each test day, drive tests covered a period of data measurements divided into 3,600 time-steps, with each time-step sized at 1sec; and scaled to 1:150 units. Key metrics including network speed, latency, uptime, coverage, and signal power were evaluated across major Mobile Network Operators. Result shows that D-NGN has the highest mean speed (9.543Mbps), packet loss (2.007%), uplink percentage (97.714%), and Network coverage (87.514%). It has the least latency (25.921) but high packet loss (2.007%). However, C-NGN shows lowest mean speed (6.638Mbps), uplink percentage (38.706%) and Signal power (-78.057dBm) but lowest mean packet loss (0.121%). A-NGN has the highest mean signal power (-61.867dBm) while B-NGN has highest latency (44.070ms) and lowest Network coverage (60.731%). This reveals that D-NGN has dominance in network performance, outperforming A-NGN, B-NGN, and C-NGN. It is recommended that MNOs in North-Central Nigeria should strategically enhance their network infrastructure to improve service delivery, particularly in suburban and rural areas where performance lags. D-NGN, the frontrunner in network speed and coverage, could further solidify its market leadership by addressing identified latency and packet loss issues especially in Makurdi. Moreover, MNOs with lower performance metrics could invest in expanding coverage and optimizing network configurations to meet user demands, thereby increasing competitiveness and customer satisfaction across the region.

The Effect Of Changes In Lifestyle Measures On Weight And Body Mass Index Among Adult Pre-Hypertensive Patients In A Tertiary Hospital In North Central Nigeria

Background: Results from several clinical trials show that comprehensive behavioral intervention programs improve lifestyle behaviors and lower weight and BMI. The study was undertaken to determine the effect of structured changes in lifestyle measures on weight and BMI among pre-hypertensive adults presenting it the GOPC of JUTH. Study Design/Setting: The study was a randomized controlled experimental study involving pre-hypertensive adults aged 18 years and above presenting in GOPC of JUTH. Methods: Participants were consecutively selected and randomized to a control and an intervention group. The intervention group was offered a structured lifestyle modification counseling while routine advice only was offered to the control group. Data was collected about patients’socio-demographic, medical and lifestyle habits that included dietary and exercise history. Physical examination was done to include height, weight and BMI. Participants were followed up monthly for twelve weeks during which physical examination was routinely carried out and changes in their lifestyle habits reported. The outcome measures were reduction in weight and BMI. The difference in the means of the outcome measures at pre- and post-intervention were determined using the independent and paired student t-tests at 95% confidence interval. Data were analyzed on an intention to treat basis. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant in all analyses. Results: On completing the study, independent t-test showed that the mean weight difference between the two study groups was 0.17kg (p=0.96; -5.77, 6.12, 95% CI) and the mean BMI difference was 0.32kg/m2 (p=0.79; - 2.07, 2.71, 95% CI). These were not statistically significant. However, significant improvement in healthy lifestyle habits were notably more in the intervention group. Desirable changes in the mean weight and BMI were more evident among participants of the intervention group after the 12 weeks study, although there were no statistically significant differences in the two groups. Conclusion: Findings from the study showed that although individuals with pre-hypertension can make and sustain, during a period of 12 weeks, multiple lifestyle modifications which can significantly control or reduce weight and BMI, structured changes on lifestyle measures may not be better than routine verbal advice only among pre-hypertensives in the study setting. There is a need for improved lifestyle intervention programs, including those appropriate for delivery in the clinical setting, that enable individuals at risk for hypertension to adopt long-term healthier lifestyles

Optimisation of Some Conditions for the Biodegradation of Low-Density Polyethylene Strips by Fungi Isolated from Parts of North Central Nigeria

Optimisation of Some Conditions for the Biodegradation of Low-Density Polyethylene Strips by Fungi Isolated from Parts of North Central Nigeria

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Adoption of Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine among Females in Kwara State

Cervical cancer, though preventable, is a disease caused by infection with high-risk strains of human papillomaviruses (HPVs). Adoption of cancer preventing activity such as the uptake of the HPV vaccine is essential for limiting incidences of cervical cancer globally. This study was to ascertain the knowledge, attitude and adoption of the HPV vaccine among females in Kwara state of North Central Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey involving 400 females from sixteen local government areas in Kwara State was used. Data were obtained and presented by simple descriptive statistics using tables and charts. Stepwise regression were used to test the correlation between the sociodemographic variables and acceptance of HPV vaccination. The study showed that 351(87.8%) out of the 400 female respondents were not knowledgeable about the HPV, while 49(12.2%) persons were knowledgeable of the HPV. The 49 persons that are aware, got the information from print media 17(35%), broadcast 20 (41%) health personnel's 12 (24%). 87% of those aware of HPV, know that it is transmitted sexually. However, only 31 (63%) of these 49 respondents which is equivalent to 8% of the total study participants were aware of the existence of the HPV vaccines. Therefore, we can conclude that the female in Kwara state have little knowledge about the HPV and HPV vaccine. Also from the regression analysis, the study showed that factors such as educational background, marital status and religion had p-values of (0.562, 0.08, 0.104) which is greater than α=0.05 and so influenced the adoption of the HPV vaccine.

Preliminary Analysis of Ceramic Styles in Fier, Lankan, and Daffo, Southern Jos Plateau, Central Nigeria

Preliminary Analysis of Ceramic Styles in Fier, Lankan, and Daffo, Southern Jos Plateau, Central Nigeria