Edo State Research Articles

Awareness and use of Plantain Technology in Owan, Ovia North East Local Government of Edo State, Nigeria

The study examined the awareness and use of plantain technology. Owan community in Ovia North east local government of Edo state was purposively sampled due to NIHORT intervention few years ago. The specific objectives considered in the study were socioeconomic characteristics of the respondents, farming activities of respondent’s household, and awareness and utilization of plantain technologies by respondent. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered through personal interviews with the respondents and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The result showed that most (60.0%) of the respondents were females, all were married and majority(83.3%) were educated. Also, plantain/banana constituted 83.3% of crops cultivated by the respondents. In the same vein results further showed that most (63.3%) of the respondents were aware of the improved varieties while 16.7% adopted the technology. Majority (73.3%) of the stakeholders that used the technology experience significant increment in the level of production after using NIHORT technology. Year variety was first adopted was found to be significant 0.027at p=0.005. The study concluded that there was low rate of adoption and thus recommended that there should be proper follow up and monitoring after technology has been disseminated to farmers.

Characterization and classification of some soils formed from coastal plain sands origin in Edo State, Nigeria

Characterization and classification of some soils formed from coastal plain sands origin in Edo State, Nigeria

Heated Humidified High Flow Nasal Cannula for Non-Invasive Primary Respiratory Support in Neonates: Experience of a Referral Neonatal Level III Facility in South-South Nigeria

Background: Heated humidified high flow nasal cannula (HHHFNC) is an increasingly used tool for non-invasive ventilation (NIV) in neonates and children needing advanced respiratory support.1 In neonates, common indications for HHHFNC therapy include: respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), post extubation from mechanical ventilation; and other causes of respiratory distress. Its use in Nigeria is not widespread. The aim of this study is to assess the indications, clinical characteristics, outcome and determinants of the successful use of HHHFNC for providing primary respiratory support for neonates referred and needing NIV in a Level III NICU in Nigeria. Methods: This was a retrospective study. All neonates in this study were referred to our facility, Med-Vical Medical Centre, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria and received HHHFNC for primary respiratory support. Results: The highest indication for primary use of HHHFNC for neonates was respiratory distress syndrome (50.0%). The success rate of HHHFNC in this study was high (70.0%). Although not statistically significant, a higher proportion of neonates in the failure group weighed less than 1kg, while in the successful group, a higher proportion was delivered after 28 weeks. All infants who stayed longer than 7days on admission belonged to the successful group, and none failed HHHFNC therapy. This difference was statistically significant (p=0.011). In conclusion, this study revealed that the success rate of HHHFNC therapy as primary respiratory support in neonates with respiratory distress is high (70.0%), thus it can be used confidently in neonates needing NIV. Length of hospital stay was the only significant factor associated with the successful use of HHHFNC as primary respiratory support.

PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND BACTERIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF BOREHOLE WATER FROM EIGHT SELECTED LOCATIONS WITHIN BENIN METROPOLIS, EDO STATE, NIGERIA

In Nigeria, borehole water is a dominant source of drinking water. The quality of the water has diminished substantially due to various anthropogenic activities. Thus, this study seeks to x-ray the physicochemical and bacteriological quality of borehole water in some crowded localities in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Heterotrophic plate count and total coliform count were carried out sing pour plate method. Antibiotic susceptibility test was done using the Kirby-Bauerdisc diffusion test. Except for one case each of iron (0.32 ± 0.11), Manganese (0.16 ± 0.06), Cadmium (0.005 ± 0.01) and Lead (0.12 ± 0.01) that were found to be above the recommended WHO and NAFDAC limits, the heavy metals had concentration levels that were within the stipulated limits. Isolates were phenotypically and molecularly identified as:Klebsiella aerogenes, strain OBANOR&OKWU 100; Streptococcus pneumoniae, OBANOR&OKWU 101; Pseudomonas aeruginosa, OBANOR&OKWU 102; Staphylococcus aureus, OBANOR&OKWU 103 and Micrococcus lylae, OBANOR&OKWU 104 using the 16S rRNA gene analysis. Isolates were deposited in the United States GenBank under accession numbers: OK017170, OK017423, OK017480, OK017486 and OK019091 respectively. Generally, the isolates showed low resistance rates (14.29 % - 19.05 %) to the antibiotics used in this study except for Cefuroxime and Ampicillin with extremely high resistance rates of 80.95 % and 85.71 % respectively. Majority of borehole water samples were found to be contaminated. This study highlights the need for continuous monitoring and quality assessment of the borehole water available for consumption.

Drivers and outcomes of international migration on infrastructural development of Edo State, Nigeria

Drivers and outcomes of international migration on infrastructural development of Edo State, Nigeria

Evaluation of Candidates Performance in Core Subjects and Financial Accounting in the May/June 2014 Wassce in Egor and Oredo Local Government Areas, Edo State, Nigeria

Evaluation of Candidates Performance in Core Subjects and Financial Accounting in the May/June 2014 Wassce in Egor and Oredo Local Government Areas, Edo State, Nigeria

Performance Analysis and Assessment of Ihovbor Power Plant, Edo State, Nigeria

Performance Analysis and Assessment of Ihovbor Power Plant, Edo State, Nigeria

A Comparative Analysis of the Impact of Niger Delta Crisis on Edo and Delta States

The Niger Delta region of Nigeria has faced crises for over 40 years, resulting in high crime rates and increased insecurity of people, property, and investments. This study examines the impact of the regional crisis on the socioeconomic development and well-being of the inhabitants of Delta and Edo States. Employing quantitative research methods, including primary data collection instruments such as surveys and structured interviews, the study refined and codified the data for regression analysis. The findings reveal the detrimental effects of the Niger Delta crisis on the socioeconomic well-being of residents in both states, particularly in hindering access to essential needs such as clean water, quality education, and a healthy environment. Regression coefficients and modified coefficients of determination showed that residents of Delta State are more significantly affected by the crisis than those in Edo State. The study suggests enforcing international best practices in corporate social responsibility for oil and gas companies in the region. It also emphasizes the need for basic infrastructural development and adequate compensation and environmental remediation to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.

Evaluation of patient safety culture practice amongst pharmacy staff in secondary and tertiary Hospitals in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria

Patient medical and medication safety is of paramount interest and one of the major goals of quality healthcare delivery system. The study evaluates patient safety culture amongst pharmacy staff in tertiary and secondary hospitals in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.Data was obtained by administering a validated patient safety questionnaire developed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), AHRQ data and analytical tool and GraphPad Prism 6. Fisher’s exact tests were used to compare the items and composite measure results between UBTH and Central Hospital. A composite score of ≥ 75% was seen as areas of strength, while score of less than 50% indicates areas requiring improvement. The results were considered significant at P < 0.05. Teamwork had the highest positive responses for both healthcare facilities, with PSC scores of 84% and 95% respectively for UBTH and Central Hospital (P = 0.0192). Reporting patient safety errors, also shows a statistically significant difference (P = < 0.0001) and a positive score of (65%), and (23%) for UBTH and Central Hospital. Only Central hospital scored above 75% in areas of communication openness (81.3%), organization learning continuous improvement (78.3%), communication about errors (78.3%), and handoffs and information exchange (78.3%). The positive ratings of UBTH and Central Hospital were 58% and 75%, respectively.The overall patient safety culture practiced in both hospitals is obviously good. There is higher ‘teamwork’ amongst pharmacy staff in Central Hospital, while UBTH staff showed better patient ‘safety error reporting. The composite measure averages show that both healthcare facilities have the potential for improvement.

Microbiological assessment of the quality of domestic water consumed in Southern Edo State, Nigeria

Microbiological assessment of the quality of domestic water consumed in Southern Edo State, Nigeria

Effects of Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid and Some Chlorides of Divalent Metals on the Initial Velocity of Crude Peroxidase from Watermelon Rind

Aim: This study investigated the effects of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and some chlorides of divalent metals on the initial velocity of crude peroxidase from watermelon rind Study design: In vitro enzyme assay. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria between September 2023 to November 2023. Methodology: The kinetics of the oxidation of Guaiacol by the crude peroxidase from the rind of watermelon in the presence of varying concentrations of EDTA and the chloride salts of iron, copper was determined spectrophotometrically by monitoring the oxidation of Guaiacol to produce a brown tetraguaiacol at a wavelength of 470nm. The various salt concentrations were varied between 0.5 mM and 3 mM. Each of the reaction mixtures used in the kinetic study comprised; 2.3 mL of 0.6 M sodium acetate buffer (pH 5.4), 0.2 mL of 0.02 mM Guaiacol, 0.1 mL of crude extract, 0.2 mL of varying concentration chloride salt, 0.2 mL of 2 mM of H2O2 added last to start the reaction. The final concentration of H2O2 in the 3 mL assay was 0.13 mM. The total volume of the reaction mixture was 3 mL. The absorbance was read every 2 seconds for one minute after adding hydrogen peroxide using a stop-clock. The control had no metal ion but replaced with distilled water Results: Results showed that EDTA reduced the activity of the enzyme in a concentration dependent manner. CuCl2 and FeCl2 activated the enzyme and FeCl2 being a better activator within the salt concentration range of 0.5 mM to 3 mM. Conclusion: These findings are of great importance to industries in understanding the mechanism of action of peroxidase from the rind of watermelon, especially as the search for cheap and alternative sources of peroxidases continues.

Correlation of Fine Particulates and Meteorological Parameters in Indoor Public Schools Environment within Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria

This study focused on the correlation of fine particulates and meteorological parameters in indoor public school environments, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Thirty public schools (17 primary and 13 secondary) were selected for the study. The PM2.5 samples were taken 1.5 – 2.0 meters within the human breathing zone. The sampling was done using an Apex 21 S Casella regular pump with a conical inhalable sampling (CIS) head for eight hours at a flow rate of 3.5L per minute (LPM). The 37-diameter quartz filters were processed in a muffle furnace for four hours at 450 – 500 oC before sampling and weighing afterward. The results obtained showed variations in the meteorological parameters with a range of temperature from 28.52 – 29.82°C. The relative humidity ranged from 84.22 – 427.78%; pressure was 1006.70 - 5052.87 mmHg; wind speed was 4.13 – 1660.88 Km/h and dew point was 24.7 – 3293.56%. The correlation coefficient showed a positive relationship exists in meteorological parameters between primary and secondary schools’ sources of enrichment. The PM2.5 mass concentration had the range of 135 – 785.31 µg/m3 which were above the stationary limits of 25 µg/m3 and 35 µg/m3 stipulated by the National Ambient Air Quality Standards and World Health Organization, respectively. These call for greater attention to alleviate all negative outcomes of environmental health issues.

Genetic Characterization of Antibiotic-Resistant Staphylococcus spp. and Mammaliicoccus sciuri from Healthy Humans and Poultry in Nigeria.

Staphylococcus spp. poses a significant threat to human and animal health due to their capacity to cause a wide range of infections in both. In this study, resistance genes conferring antibiotic resistance in Staphylococcus spp. and Mammaliicoccus sciuri isolates from humans and poultry in Edo state, Nigeria, were investigated. In April 2017, 61 Staphylococcus spp. isolates were obtained from urine, wounds, nasal and chicken fecal samples. Species identification was carried out by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer method for 16 antibiotics. Whole-genome sequencing was used for characterization of the isolates. The 61 investigated isolates included Staphylococcus aureus, S. arlettae, M. sciuri, S. haemolyticus, and S. epidermidis. A total of 47 isolates (77%) belonged to human samples and 14 (23%) isolates were collected from poultry samples. All were phenotypically resistant to at least three antimicrobial(s). Multiple resistance determinants were detected in the human and poultry isolates analyzed. Phylogenetic analysis revealed close relatedness among the isolates within each species for S. arlettae, M. sciuri, and S. haemolyticus, respectively. This study delivered comprehensive genomic insights into antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus species and M. sciuri isolates from human and poultry sources in Edo state, Nigeria, from a One Health perspective.

Exploring the Relationship Between Lifestyle Factors, Cholesterol Levels, and Non-Communicable Diseases Risk: A Cross-sectional Survey of Middle-aged Adults in Edo State, Nigeria

NCDs are a global health issue, especially in low-income and lower-middle-income countries. LLMICs lack a clear grasp of the link between socioeconomic position and behavioural risk factors for NCDs, unlike high-income nations. A cross-sectional survey of middle-aged adults in Edo State, Nigeria, examined how lifestyle factors like alcohol and tobacco use, poor diets, and physical inactivity affect socioeconomic position. A comprehensive search of 13 electronic databases, including Embase and MEDLINE, grey literature, and reference lists found primary research published between January 1, 1990, and June 30, 2015. Numerous socioeconomic and lifestyle studies from LLMICs were included. Data extraction focused on household and individual-level data, study types, methodology, outcomes, and results utilising the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organisation of Care Group data collecting checklist. Due to study design and outcome measure diversity, narrative synthesis was used. Of 4,242 records reviewed, 75 studies satisfied inclusion criteria, including 2,135,314 people aged 10 and older from 39 LLMICs. The results showed that lower socioeconomic groups used smoke and alcohol more, while higher socioeconomic groups ate more fats, salt, and processed foods. Contrary to predictions, higher socioeconomic groups reported less physical activity. To accomplish Sustainable Development Goal 3.4, which aims to reduce early NCD mortality by one-third by 2030, socioeconomic inequities must be targeted. These policymakers and health practitioners must prioritise poverty-health nexus solutions to reduce NCD burdens.

Modelling and Simulation of Microgrid Energy Systems in Edo State: Unveiling Opportunities and Addressing Challenges

This paper presents the design and simulation of a microgrid energy system tailored for a Polytechnic community in Edo State, Nigeria. The system was initially sized and designed using Homer Pro software, resulting in a configuration that includes the grid system, 3,726 solar panels each rated at 0.5 kW, a 1.5 MVA diesel generator, and a 500 kW inverter, covering an area of 17,696 m² with a total cost of ₦295. The design achieves a simple payback period of 3 years and 5 months, reducing electricity bills by 88% and lowering CO₂ emissions. Given the high PV capacity of 1,863 kW required, additional software tools such as OpenSolar, PVWatt, and REopt were utilized to optimize the PV size. The optimized design features a PV capacity of 675.2 kW, comprising 96-cell modules each rated at 500 W, with 25 modules connected in series and 54 in parallel. The system also includes a utility grid connection and a diesel generator for emergencies. The microgrid was then simulated in a MATLAB/Simulink environment to analyze its dynamic performance. The initial simulation showed acceptable dynamics with load variations but was slow. To address this, a reduced order model was developed in MATLAB/Simulink, enhancing simulation speed by over four times compared to the original model. Additionally, a monitoring system for the microgrid was designed, requiring 54 DC current sensors, one DC voltage sensor, nine AC current sensors, and six AC voltage sensors, all connected to a data logger interfaced with a computer system for remote monitoring and control. This paper provides comprehensive details on system design, sizing, dynamic simulation, reduced order modeling, and monitoring.

Development of Point of Use Household Water Purification SystemUsing Locally Sourced Clay Material

Access to clean and safe drinking water remains a critical challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study focused on the development of a point-of-use household water purification system utilizing locally sourced clay material. The clay, collected from Imiegba in Edo State, Nigeria, was molded into ceramic filters and fired to create a porous structure essential for filtration. The system's effectiveness was evaluated by testing water from the Omouku River before and after filtration, with analyses conducted for physicochemical parameters, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants. Results indicated significant improvements in water quality, including the complete elimination of heterotrophic bacteria and reductions in heavy metal concentrations. The study underscores the potential of locally available materials in providing a sustainable and affordable solution for improving access to safe drinking water in regions with limited resources. Recommendations include regular monitoring, community education, and further research to optimize the filtration system's performance.

Emotional Intelligence And Test Anxiety Among Secondary School Students In EGOR Locality Of EDO State, Nigeria

The study investigated emotional intelligence and test anxiety among secondary school students in Egor Locality of Edo State, Nigeria with a view to guide them to overcome the usual fear syndrome associated with examinations.The study adopted a descriptive survey design.The target population consisted of 6069 (six thousand and sixty-nine) students in the 10 (ten) public Senior Secondary Schools in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. A sample size of 380 (three hundred and eighty) secondary school class 2 students, were randomly selected from five randomly selected secondary schools in the study area. Two instruments, the Schutte self-report Emotional intelligence test (Schutte et al., 1998) and the Test Anxiety Questionnaire (Nist & Diehl, 1990) were adapted to collect data for the study. Mean, Standard Deviation, Pearson Product Moment Correlation and t-test were adopted to analyse the data. Findings indicated a moderate level of test anxiety among the students, though not found to be dependent on the sex of students. A non-significant negative correlation was also found to exist between emotional intelligence and test anxiety. Based on the findings, it was recommended that the government should continue to deploy professional counsellors to schools to assist in improving the usual fear syndrome associated with examinations among students. In addition, school counsellors as a routine service, should provide students with skills to improve emotional intelligence and strategies that would help to overcome test anxiety.

Rationale for Crime and Cybercrime Perpetuators in Edo State Nigeria

Rationale for Crime and Cybercrime Perpetuators in Edo State Nigeria

Assessing the Factors Affecting the Standards of Secondary School Education in Ehor Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria

Globally, the drive towards attaining quality education continues because the development of nations has been linked to the education of its citizens, especially the youth. However, the poor standard of secondary school education has raised so much concern in Nigeria because they do not meet the societal demand regarding quality. Challenges encountered include a stirred population explosion in the classroom at all levels, deteriorating physical facilities; continued inadequacy in funding; recurrent strike actions by all sectors as well and student unrest that leads to a truncated academic calendar, particularly in higher institutions. Hence, the research problem centers on the need to systematically investigate and assess the factors affecting the standards of secondary school education in Nigeria. Thus, the study conducted a comprehensive assessment of multifaceted aspects of enhancing the standards of secondary school education in Ehor Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria. The study adopted the survey research design while purposive and random sampling techniques were used to select the secondary schools, teachers, and SS 3 students in Egor Local Government area of Edo State. The main research instrument is a questionnaire. Data collected was analyzed with the use of Statistical packages of the social sciences. Results among other findings confirmed that educational standards are falling in the study area. It further shows significant differences between the standards of education now and in the last ten years. The paper recommends the availability of school facilities and other resources necessary for effective teaching and learning processes that will enhance the standard of secondary education in Nigeria.

Water Quality Assessment of Outdoor Public Swimming Pools in Ovia North East, Edo State, Nigeria

Poor water quality management practices of public swimming pools have raised concerns about the health safety of these recreational facilities. This study evaluated the physicochemical properties and bacteriological quality of four (4) outdoor swimming pools in Ovia North East, Local Council of Edo State, Nigeria. Results of physicochemical analysis showed that water temperature (25.75 - 26.38°C), pH (3.78 - 6.1), electrical conductivity (37.5 - 72.5 mg/L), total dissolved solids (14.58 - 38.43mg/L), turbidity (0.75 - 4NTU), dissolve oxygen (6.03 - 7.43mg/L), residual chlorine (0.03 - 0.13mg/L), alkalinity( 7 - 26.5mg/L), hardness (6 - 36mg/L), were within the World Health Organisation and Environmental Protection Agency stipulated maximum permissible limit for recreational waters except for pH and residual chlorine levels. The presence of pathogenic microorganisms in all the studied pools – total bacteria count (1 – 3 cfu/100mL), total coliform count (1 – 5 cfu/100 mL) and E. coli count (1 – 2 cfu/100 mL) predisposes the users of these facilities to microbial infection. The findings demonstrated that the swimming pools did not meet the required standards, particularly in terms of pH levels, residual chlorine, and microbial parameters. There is a need for ongoing monitoring of swimming pool water quality, improving bathers’ hygienic practices, raising awareness about the associated risks, and providing training for governmental inspectors