Plateau States Research Articles

Nexus among indigenous languages, agricultural radio programmes and behavioural change towards agricultural practices in Nigeria

This study investigated the interrelationship between indigenous languages, agricultural radio programmes and behavioural change towards agricultural practices in Nigeria, focusing on three states (Benue, Nasarawa and Plateau). The following research objectives guided the study: to ascertain farmers' awareness of radio programmes in indigenous languages, identify farmers' sources of information, ascertain farmers' access to agricultural extension workers and the language of engagement, and examine the influence of radio programmes in indigenous languages on farmers’ behaviour towards agricultural practices. The study adopted a survey research design with a questionnaire administered to 663 randomly selected farmers in Plateau, Nasarawa, and Benue states using a multistage sampling technique. Findings showed that indigenous languages play an integral role in bringing about behavioural change towards agriculture in Nigeria, with a mean Score of 3.4706 and a Standard Deviation of 1.5668. Further findings also indicate that agricultural extension workers are ready sources of information, with the language of communication being that of the local community. The study concluded that behavioural changes are evident in agricultural practices because these programmes have exposed farmers to innovations that have positively affected their agricultural practices. Thus, it is recommended that agricultural radio programmes aired in local languages should continue to be encouraged and sustained. This will help keep farmers abreast of trends in the farming sector, improving their agricultural practices.

Assessment of participants’ perception on the use of mass drug administration in communities endemic to <i>Wuchereria bancrofti</i> Cobbold, 1877 in Northern Nigeria

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is one of the neglected tropical diseases that cause permanent long term disability inform of hydrocoele, lymphoedema and elephantiasis that develop as a result of inflammation of the lymphatic system. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of lymphatic filariasis and perception of participants towards Mass Drug Administration (MDA) programme. The study was a community-based cross-sectional study for screening microfilariae of Wuchereria bancrofti in consenting participants. A total of 1010 participants’ from selected communities on the MDA programme in 5 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Bauchi, Plateau and Kaduna states were enlisted into to the study. The communities were chosen based on the presence of the people living with LF according to the signs and symptoms. A well-structured adapted questionnaire was administered to collect participants’ information and their perception of the MDA programme. Microflaria of Wuchereria bancrofti were identified based on the sheathed nuclear, caudal nuclei and bent tail in Parasitology and Entomology Research Laboratory, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-squared and odds ratio. Participants with knowledge (294/1010; 29.11%) of the MDA programme were less than those without knowledge (716/1010; 70.89%) of the MDA. Similar, the prevalence of LF was higher in participants with knowledge (26.87%) of the MDA than in those without knowledge (25.14%). The status of participation showed that, those that participated (380/1010; 37.62%) in the MDA were lower than those did not participants (630/1010; 62.38%); the infection in participants that did not partook in the MDA programme had higher prevalence (29.68%) of LF than those that participated. Participants gave various reasons for not being part of the MDA programme ranging from absent (177/1010; 17.53%) at the time of the campaign to side effect (2/1010; 0.20%) of the drugs after taking it. However, those that gave reasons for not participating because Community Drug Distributors (CDD) did not come, had highest prevalence (40.74%) of LF compared to those that gave reasons as side effect (0.00%) for not taking the drugs. Overall LF prevalence of 25.64% was found in this study. There is poor knowledge of MDA programme among the participants in the communities examined. Similarly, microfilaria was present in some participants despite the MDA campaign in the selected states. Intensive awareness campaign and drug distribution need to be carried out in most of the remote communities in the affected states. Furthermore, members of the communities must be part of the CDDs for acceptability and effectiveness of the campaign.

The Relevance of Shari’ah to Curbing Insecurity in the North-Central Nigeria

The research is designed to establish the relevance of Shari’ah in curbing insecurity in the North-Central Nigeria with particular reference to Niger, Nasarawa and Plateau States. The study employed descriptive survey, various respondents comprising Islamic Religious Organizations, Muslim Law-enforcement agents, Shari’ah Court Judges and the Muslim society in the North-Central Zone. Proportional sample technique was used to select five hundred and forty (540) for the study, while a total of fifty respondents from neighboring states of Niger for the purpose of pilot study. A reliability coefficient of 0.089 was obtained for all the forty-five (45) items in the instrument. The study found that there has been lack of commensurate disciplinary actions to crimes. The study also found that there is no proper knowledge and guidance of Islam. Added to these findings is that the entire life system of people is not guided by Shariah provisions. Based on this research, the researcher recommended among others that Shari’ah provisions should be well taught and understood with a view to curbing insecurity menace in the affected states. Proper knowledge and guidance of Islam should be adhered to and imparted to people in the society with a view to curbing insecurity acts. Government in collaboration with stakeholders (community leaders, youth leaders and other leaders of Community based Organizations) should come up with lasting solutions to insecurity in their affected states and / or communities. Government should deploy security agents to insecurity vulnerable areas with a view to dislodging the banditry attacks.

Hierarchical and Non- Hierarchical Cluster Classification of Precipitation Time Series Data in Nigeria

Precipitation is highly unpredictable over space and time, and is an indicator for climate change. The present work classified average yearly precipitation over the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Nigeria into various groups. The hierarchical and non- hierarchical (k-means) cluster method was used in the classification of 37- years precipitation data (1984-2020). The results showed that six major clusters were formed. The Precipitation across the 36 states and the FCT in Nigeria can be classified as Light precipitation for Sokoto, Borno, Kastina, Yobe and Kano States; Moderate precipitation for Kebbi, Zamfara, Dutse, Yola, Gombe and Bauchi States; Heavy precipitation for Kaduna, Plateau, Kwara, Taraba, Nassarawa, Benue and Kogi States; Very Heavy precipitation for Osun, Ogun, FCT, Ekiti, Niger and Lagos States; Shower for Edo, Abia, Delta, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, Ondo and Oyo States and lastly, Heavy Shower for Akwaibom, Imo, Rivers, Bayelsa and Cross River States.. The rangs of precipitation based on the six classification are 1.5-1.8mm (Light precipitation), 1.9-2.7mm (Moderate precipitation), 2.8-3.6mm (Heavy precipitation), 3.7-4.3mm (Very Heavy precipitation), 4.4-5.4mm (Shower) and greater than 5.5mm (Heavy Shower). The hierarchical cluster method performed better than the non- hierarchical (k-means) cluster method in structuring the precipitation data and shaping it into groups (clusters) such that observations within the same group are more similar than those in different groups. The results of this study can contribute to a better understanding of the climate condition of the36 States and the FCT in Nigeria.

Does sustainability matter at tourism sites? Impact of motivation and employee-ambidexterity on employee-innovative-behaviour

Purpose: The sustainability of tourism sites in plateau states has been a significant concern. This study aims to analyze the impact of motivation (intrinsic and extrinsic) and employee ambidexterity on innovative employee behavior on the sustainability of tourism sites in Nigeria. Research Methodology: A quantitative approach was adopted and a questionnaire-based survey was conducted among employees of five government tourism sites in Plateau State, Nigeria. A total of 163 responses were received and multiple regression analyses were conducted using Smart-PLS version 3.2.7. Results: The results revealed that (a) intrinsic motivation significantly impacts innovative employee behavior, (b) extrinsic motivation significantly impacts innovative employee behavior, (c) intrinsic motivation significantly impacts employee ambidexterity, (d) extrinsic motivation significantly impacts employee ambidexterity, (e) employee ambidexterity significantly impacts employee innovative behavior, (f) employee ambidexterity mediates the relationship between intrinsic motivation and employee innovative behavior, and (g) employee ambidexterity mediates the relationship between extrinsic motivation and innovative employee behavior. Limitations: This research was conducted on five renowned government tourism sites in the Plateau State; private tourism sites/recreation facilities could be included. Contributions: This study recommends that managers of tourist sites should incorporate intrinsic and extrinsic motivational practices to stimulate positive employee work outcomes that will, in turn, enhance the sustainability of tourist site resources and offer a welcoming, memorable, and friendly experience to tourists.

Does sustainability matter at tourism sites? Impact of motivation and employee-ambidexterity on employee-innovative-behaviour

Purpose: The sustainability of tourism sites in plateau states has been a significant concern. This study aims to analyze the impact of motivation (intrinsic and extrinsic) and employee ambidexterity on innovative employee behavior on the sustainability of tourism sites in Nigeria. Research Methodology: A quantitative approach was adopted and a questionnaire-based survey was conducted among employees of five government tourism sites in Plateau State, Nigeria. A total of 163 responses were received and multiple regression analyses were conducted using Smart-PLS version 3.2.7. Results: The results revealed that (a) intrinsic motivation significantly impacts innovative employee behavior, (b) extrinsic motivation significantly impacts innovative employee behavior, (c) intrinsic motivation significantly impacts employee ambidexterity, (d) extrinsic motivation significantly impacts employee ambidexterity, (e) employee ambidexterity significantly impacts employee innovative behavior, (f) employee ambidexterity mediates the relationship between intrinsic motivation and employee innovative behavior, and (g) employee ambidexterity mediates the relationship between extrinsic motivation and innovative employee behavior. Limitations: This research was conducted on five renowned government tourism sites in the Plateau State; private tourism sites/recreation facilities could be included. Contributions: This study recommends that managers of tourist sites should incorporate intrinsic and extrinsic motivational practices to stimulate positive employee work outcomes that will, in turn, enhance the sustainability of tourist site resources and offer a welcoming, memorable, and friendly experience to tourists.

Impact of capital Structure on Innovation and Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Nigeria: A study of the sector in the North Central States

The issue of capital structure of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and the impact of each component on the innovation and performance of the sector in Nigeria has been lingering. A number of studies have been done on financial leverage businesses but none on SMEs in Nigeria. The aim of this study therefore is to examine the impact of capital structure on innovation and performance of SMEs in Nigeria: A study of the sector in the North Central States of the country. Random sampling technique was adopted and data were sourced primarily from 480 respondents comprising owners and managers of 127 SMEs operating in Plateau, Nasarawa, and Kogi States in the Central Zone of the country. Responses to the questionnaire designed to reflect five points Likert scale were analysed using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). Results indicated that Crowd Funding (CF) an external sources of finance has the most significant impact on the innovation and performance of these enterprises. The study recommended that while SMEs operators should develop a platform for exchange ideas on financing sources available to the sector, Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), the regulatory authority of the sector in the country should develop programmes to encourage innovative ability of the operations of enterprises.

Ethno-Botanical Survey: Exploring Indigenous Remedies for African Animal Trypanosomosis in Nigeria

The Fulani pastoralist of Nigeria and other indigenous livestock farmers have used medicinal plants to treat various animal diseases for centuries, amongst which include the African animal trypanosomosis (AAT). It is a severe debilitating parasitic disease of livestock and some wild animal species. It is caused by pathogenic Trypanosomes and transmitted by Tsetse flies. It causes severe economic losses to livestock farmers in Africa. In this study, an ethno-botanical survey was conducted in the Tsetse-endemic areas of Bauchi, Plateau and Kaduna States of Nigeria to identify medicinal plants used traditionally to treat AAT. During the study, eighty questionnaires were administered to the respondents who were predominantly Fulani pastoralists, and other indigenous livestock farmers. seventy-eight questioners were fully completed and retrieved. The study revealed that that most of the respondents have retained the tradition knowledge system of medicinal plants passed down to them for generations. The study revealed various herbal preparation methods employed by indigenous Nigerian livestock farmers, including decoctions, infusions, and incorporating plant material into feed. Fifteen medicinal plants species belonging to 13 families were identified to be used by Nigerian pastoralist for the treatment AAT. These included Khaya senegalensis (28.2%), Azadirachta indica (25.6%), Boswellia dalziellii (23%), Prosopis africana (23%), Anogeisus leocarpus and Terminalia avicennioides (21.8%), Adansonia digitata and Annona senegalensis (19.2%), Pilostigma thoningii (16.7%), Nauclea latifolia (15.0%). Balanites aegyptiaca (12.5%). Eucalyptus torelliana (11.5%), Tamarindus indica (10.3%), Ximenia americana (9%) and Guiera senegalensis 7.7%).
 Conclusions: The information obtained from this study and the medicinal plants identified can be harnessed for the development of plant-based medicaments for the treatment of AAT.

Topological phases of monolayer and bilayer depleted Lieb lattices

Existence of nontrivial topological phases in a tight binding Haldane-like model on the depleted Lieb lattice is reported. This two-band model is formulated by considering the nearest-neighbor (NN), next-NN (NNN) and next-NNN hopping terms along with complex phase which breaks the time reversal symmetry of this semi-metallic system. Topological feature of this model is studied along with the presence of sublattice symmetry breaking staggered onsite energy. Combined effect of these two broken symmetries is found crucial for an additional transition between nontrivial and trivial phases. System exhibits two types of phase transitions, say, between two nontrivial phases and nontrivial to trivial phases. Nonzero Chern numbers, existence of Hall plateau and symmetry protected edge states confirm the presence of the nontrivial phases. This two-band system hosts four different types of phases where two are topological. Additionally topological properties of stacked bilayer of the depleted Lieb lattices is also studied with similar Haldane-like Hamiltonian. This four-band system is found to host Chern insulating phases, with higher values of Chern numbers supported by in-gap edge states.

Trust in Shared Narratives

AbstractStories are a function of violent conflicts. Stories provide reasons for and can serve to instigate conflicts, they make conflicts readable, and they provide narrative closure, i.e., a sense of finality, and thus potentially restore trust between conflict parties. This study focuses on a specific form of storytelling used in a conflict setting, namely docudrama and re-enactment of traumatic experiences of conflict. The study posits that, in the absence of other forms of effective civic dissent to force better outcomes in governance and particularly the provision of security through the state, docudrama and the re-enactment of personal experiences of violence can lead to conscientization and healing, even as the stories expressed in re-enactment lay the groundwork for post-conflict narrative closure. The location of study is in Benue and Plateau States, Nigeria. Because of climate change and migratory pressures in the wake of the drying up of Lake Chad these states are prone to violent land disputes. The target population of the study are refugees affected by conflicts between Fulani herdsmen and farmers, who are currently estimated at over 100,000. The study offers an opportunity to be active participants and to acquire skills and training in storytelling and re-enactment primarily to women, children and youths. Interviews, focus group discussions (FGD s), and participatory observation are used to collect data. A pilot study in Daudu camp in GumaLGA(Local Government Area) and later in 2023, a Theatre for Development and a feature film was carried out in Adeke, Ogondu and Asyoko community of Benue State and a Theatre for Development Drama and Feature Film production carried out in MikangLGAof Plateau State illustrate the methods and aims of the study. Anchored in “Reflective African Theory” the study uses Brecht’s “Forum Theatre” technique to show how docudrama can be used to explore the motives of the violent conflict and contribute to the rebuilding of trust in situations of conflict. The study, which results from a collaboration between the authors in the framework of the World Academy of Sciences, aims to contribute to the corpus of African studies and offer new perspectives for peace and conflict studies.

Toxic Metals Contamination of Cattle Hide Singed With Scrap Tyres

Processed cattle hide popularly known as “Ganda” in Nigeria is widely eaten as a substitute for meat but the commercial method of processing this food delicacy through singeing with scrap tyres has become a source of concern due to possible heavy metals contamination. This study evaluates the presence and levels of Cd, Cu, Fe, Pb, and Zn in the cattle hide samples obtained by using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). The hide samples analyzed were obtained from seven states across the three geopolitical zones in northern Nigeria. Cd was not detected in most of the samples, notably from Niger, Zamfara, Adamawa and Plateau states, while concentrations of 0.0001±5.77E-5, 0.0005±4.71E-5, and 0.009±0.001 mg/kg detected from Kano, Kaduna, and Taraba, respectively, were lower than the maximum permissible level of 0.05 mg/kg set by the reference limits. Pb concentrations in all the samples analyzed were 1.080±0.072 to 1.760±0.160 mg/kg which surpassed the maximum permissible level of 0.1 mg/kg set by the reference limits, while other heavy metals were below the safe limits. The high levels of Pb introduced to the singed hide beyond the reference limits could be linked to the use of scrap tyres in the burning hairs of the hide, and it could be of great concern after consumption. In view of the above possible health implications that might arise, a detailed and proper health risk assessment technique needs to be employed in future research.

Taxation Potency on Human Capital Development: Verdict from Panel Fixed Effect Model

This study examined taxation impact on human capital development in North Central States in Nigeria. The data emanated from the state boards of internal revenue, office of Accountants general, state planning commission of the selected states in North Central Nigeria and the National Bureau of Statistics' document from 2010 to 2020. The selected states are Kwara, Niger, Kogi, Benue, Nasarawa and Plateau states. The study used econometric model to examine how taxes affect growth of human capital development. The numerical estimate of the co-efficient in various equations was obtained using panel data analysis through pooled regression, fixed model, random effect model and Hausman test. The findings showed that personal income tax and value added tax have positive and significant effect on human capital development. Road tax has positive and insignificant effect on human capital development. More so, external loan has positive and significant effect on human capital development in North central states Nigeria. It is concluded that taxation significantly impacted human capital development in north central states, Nigeria. It is recommended that taxation funds should be fully channeled by government into development of human capital properly, and meticulously utilized and managed efficiently to absolutely attain and improve human capital in North central states, Nigeria. Also, government should involve the usage of electronic means for collection of taxes from road users in order to track or drive all the road users into tax net, and to reduce or eradicate road tax evaders so as to enhance revenue drive.

Comparative analysis of groundnut oil quality in the north-central zone of Nigeria: Determination and evaluation of heavy metals, fatty acids, Phospholipids, and iodine values in groundnut oil

The research presents a comparative analysis of the quality of locally produced groundnut oil (Arachis hypogaea) sold in the north-central zone of Nigeria markets (Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau States). The aim was to assess and compare the qualities of the oils and to know the safety of human consumption. The groundnut oil produced biodiesel, shampoo lubricants, and soap-making industries. The concentrations of the heavy metals were analyzed with atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). It showed that the lead, zinc, and copper (Pb, Zn, Cu) were within the FAO/WHO recommended limit, while Cd (0.201-0.331 mg kg-1) was above the limit (0.07 mg kg-1). Also, the gas chromatography (GC-FID) results indicated that twelve fatty acids (linoleic > oleic > palmitic > stearic >lignoceric > arachidic acid > behenic > erucic> arachidonic > margaric > linolenic > palmitoleic) were obtained in the groundnut oils in all markets and fatty acids include caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, and myristic acid were absent in oils. In addition, the magnitude of six Phospholipids (phosphatidylcholine > phosphatidylethanolamine> phosphatidylinositol > phosphatidylserine > phosphatidic acid > lysophosphatidylcholine) were also achieved, respectively. The iodine were below the FAO/WHO and the acid value was higher than the normal range.

Amino Acid Profile of the Oil Seed of Guizotia scabra Harvested From Plateau and Kaduna States – Nigeria

Guizotia scabra (L.F cass. composite) is an oil seed crop found wildly and in some areas cultivated at middle and higher elevations in Nigeria and other African countries. The medicinal importance attached to the plant and the acceptance of the seed in some of our rural areas for preparing different types of delicacies is the driving force of this research. The objectives of this study were to determine the amino acids profile. PTH Amino acid analyser was used to determine amino acids in the sample. Amino acid profile revealed that Glutamic acid in the sample from Plateau was 2.57 g/100g protein while Kaduna state was 3.14g/100g protein; arginine in the sample from Plateau was 1.72 g/100g protein while that from Kaduna was 2.06 g/100g protein. Leucine from Plateau was 1.69 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 2.10 g/100g protein; aspartic acid in the sample from Plateau was 1.55 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 1.80 g/100g protein. The sample from Plateau was 1.00-glycine per100 g protein while that of Kaduna was 1.17 g/100g protein, tyrosine in sample from Plateau was 0.52 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.34 g/100g protein, isoleucine in sample from Plateau was 0.49 g/100 g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.82 g/100g protein. In addition, Alanine in the sample from Plateau was 0.42 g/100 g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.53 g/100g protein as valine in the sample from Plateau was 0.41 g/100 g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.61 g/100g protein. The sample from Plateau has 0.41g proline per 100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.51 g/100g protein. Glycine in the sample from Plateau was 0.38 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.50 g/100g protein, and phenylalanine in the sample from Plateau was 0.35 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.44 g/100g protein. The sample from Plateau has 0.24g cysteine per100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.24 g/100g protein; threonine in the sample from Plateau was 0.19 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.28 g/100g protein. The sample from Plateau has 0.16g serine per g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.22 g/100g protein. The concentration of tryptophan in the sample from Plateau was 0.16 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.23 g/100g protein and histidine in the sample from Plateau was 0.10 g/100g protein while that from Kaduna was 0.19 g/100g protein. The essential and non-essential amino acids from plateau state are 36.19% and 38.18% respectively while that from Kaduna state are 38.44% and 61.56% respectively. These therefore makes the seed a good source of protein and it is hereby recommended for the fortification of diets that are low in protein for both man and animals.

Correlates of community resilience to violent conflict in north central Nigeria: Evidence from Benue and Plateau states

This study analyses the determinants of community resilience to violent conflict in north central Nigeria. It adopts mixed research methodology through multistage sampling technique. This involved the purposive selection of Benue and Plateau states. The study is anchored on social capital as a valuable theoretical framework to understand community resilience. It raises a pertinent research question. What are the factors influencing community resilience to violent conflict in Nigeria’s north central? Primary data were obtained through household data collection in Jos, Barkin Ladi, Makurdi, and Gbajimba where respondents were chosen for questionnaire administration. Through multiple regression, the study identified social solidarity, group identity, collective efficacy, number of household member(s) in active employment, and trust as determinants of community resilience to violent conflict. These findings yield insight for theories, policies, and practices. The study concludes that it is important to account for social solidarity, collective efficacy, and trust in strengthening community resilience.

PREVALENCE OF HYDATID CYSTS IN LIVER AND LUNGS OF CATTLE SLAUGHTERED IN SELECTED ABATTOIRS IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and fertility of Hydatid cysts of Echinococcus granulosus in Cattle slaughtered in selected abattoirs in Northern Nigeria and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from February to December, 2022. Gross examination was carried out by visual inspection and palpation of lungs and liver of 1,881 Cattle in order to determine the availability and organ localization of hydatid cysts. A total of 95(5.1%) of the study population harboured one or more cysts in liver and lungs. Highest prevalence was recorded in cattle slaughtered in Gombe State (10.9%) followed by Kaduna (6.2%) the least was in Kogi State (1.9%). The difference of prevalence among the states was statistically significant (p<0.05). There was association of prevalence of hydatid cysts with location in Gombe (OR=2.637, 95% CI=1.570-4.431) which was significant and Kaduna states (OR=1.451, 95% CI=0.957-2.200) but not significant. There was no association of hydatid cyst infection with location in cattle slaughtered in FCT, Kogi and Plateau States (OR<1.0).Overall age-specific prevalence of cysts in cattle was directly proportional with age; the 5 years and above age group had highest prevalence (6.2%) while the least was in 1-2 years age group (1.2%). Prevalence was significantly associated only with cattle in 5 years and above age group (OR=2.141, 95% CI=1.295-2.538). Difference in prevalence of hydatid cysts among the age groups in all locations was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Overall prevalence of hydatid cysts was higher in females (5.7%) than males (4.0%) the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05); ...

Design, Implementation, and Coordination of Malaria Therapeutic Efficacy Studies in Nigeria in 2018.

Prior to 2018, malaria therapeutic efficacy studies (TESs) in Nigeria were implemented separately at different sites, as assigned by the National Malaria Elimination Program (NMEP). In 2018, however, the NMEP engaged the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research to coordinate the 2018 TESs in 3 of 14 sentinel sites with the objective of standardizing their conduct across all three sites: Enugu, Kano, and Plateau states in three of six geopolitical zones. Artemether-lumefantrine and artesunate-amodiaquine, the two first-line drugs for treatment of acute uncomplicated malaria in Nigeria, were tested in both Kano and Plateau states. In Enugu State, however, artemether-lumefantrine and dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine were the test drugs, with dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine being tested for potential inclusion in Nigerian treatment policy. The TES was conducted in 6-month to 8-year-old children and was funded by the Global Fund with additional support from the WHO. A multipartite core team comprised of the NMEP, the WHO, the U.S. Presidential Malaria Initiative, academia, and the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research was set up to oversee the execution of the 2018 TES. This communication reports best practices adopted to guide its coordination, and lessons learned during in the process, including applying developed standard operating procedures, powering the sample size adequately for each site to report independently, training the investigating team for fieldwork, facilitating stratification of decisions, determining efficiencies derived from monitoring and quality assessment, and optimizing logistics. The planning and coordination of the 2018 TES activities is a model of a consultative process for the sustainability of antimalarial resistance surveillance in Nigeria.

Characterization of Nigerian Zircon Sand and Its Suitability for Different Industrial Applications

This paper describes the potential industrial use of zircon from Nigeria (Plateau, Nasarawa, Kano, Kaduna, Bauchi, and Adamawa states). Different techniques, equipment, and indices such as scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, specific gravity, refractive index, pH, and hardness were used to examine the samples. The X-ray diffraction showed predominantly quartz, zirconium oxide, and other heavy minerals. All twelve samples showed the presence of Zr-O, SiO42−, Zr-OH, and OH, with pH values ranging from 7.3 to 7.8. Six of the zircon samples had a refractive index between 1.4 and 12.5. The hardness values ranged from 0.0021 to 0.0703 GPa, while the elastic moduli were between 0.00558 and 0.9593 GPa. Four of the twelve untreated zircon samples with specific gravities above 4.2 g/cm3, which is the United States Geological Survey minimum recommended standard for zircon sand, needed to be upgraded to increase the ZrO2 weight percentages and purity toward improving their suitability for zircon-reinforced composites applications in aerospace and also for ceramic, foundry, building and construction, and refractory industries. The study’s findings can be incorporated by the industries into their businesses for the development of novel industrial materials as well as the processing methods and procedures for beneficiation of the mineral for value-addition.

Determination of antimicrobial use in commercial poultry farms in Plateau and Oyo States, Nigeria

BackgroundIndiscriminate use of antimicrobials for the prevention and treatment of bacterial infection in animals is a common practice in Nigeria as in other developing countries. These antimicrobials are purchased over the counter without restrictions and often administered in form of medicated feedstuffs. In Nigeria, like most developing countries, antimicrobial prescription data are not routinely collected or reported at the farm level, instead import data are used in reporting antimicrobial consumption. Farmers can be useful sources of data on the use of antimicrobial agents by class, animal species, production type and age. The objective of the study was to determine the knowledge, attitude and practices of poultry farmers on antimicrobial resistance and to generate data on antimicrobial use (AMU) in poultry farms in Plateau and Oyo states in accordance with the guidelines of the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH).MethodsA questionnaire used by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in Ghana was adopted and modified to collect data on the knowledge, attitude and practices of farmers on AMR and AMU and to collect AMU data from selected poultry farms. A focus group discussion (FGD) was conducted in Plateau state with poultry farmers and representatives from the state veterinary services, using a checklist. The aim of the FGD was to have an idea on antimicrobial use among poultry farmers and to generate additional questions that might be added to the questionnaire. Stratified random sampling technique was used to select 50 farms from Plateau and Oyo states, using the list of registered poultry farms in the two states as sampling frame.ResultsNinety eight percent (98%) of farmers gave antibiotics as prophylactic treatment to day old chicks. There were 47 different products used in the two states within the study period. We observed that five classes of antibiotics (Tetracyclines, Penicillins, Aminoglycosides, Polypeptides and Fluoroquinolone) were used in the two states. A total of 351 kg of active ingredients from seven different classes, namely: tetracyclines, penicillins, aminoglycosides, polypeptide, fluoroquinolones, amphenicol and macrolides were recorded from the two states. Some products contained cocktail of antibiotics, having up to six different classes with very high concentration of active ingredients which are not in the list of registered antimicrobials reported to WOAH.ConclusionThe concept used for this survey proved that the approach can be applied for AMU surveillance in the animal health sector. It also provided insight on farmers’ knowledge and practices with regards to the use of antimicrobials which is missing in the national import data. The need for “stronger” antibiotics was identified as one of the drivers of antibiotic resistance.

Ethno-Religious Conflicts, Residential Patterns and the Role of Women in Conflict Resolution: The Plateau and Bauchi States Experience

The central thesis of this study is ethno-religious conflicts, residential patterns and the role of women in conflict resolution. The study was limited to Jos North, Jos South, Toro and Tafawa Balewa Local Government Areas of Plateau and Bauchi States, Nigeria. Survey design was adopted for this study. Using the multi stage and purposive sampling techniques, 382 respondents emerged as the study sample. Intractable conflict theory was employed to further a better comprehension of the problem. The study adopted both quantitative and qualitative data. Regression and ANOVA statistical techniques were employed to test the hypotheses using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 26). The study among others revealed that: a major cause of the ethno-religious conflicts in the study areas that influenced residential segregations, is religion intolerance. The study also revealed the role of women in peace building and conflict resolution in the mixed residential areas of the study. The study recommends resourceful and revitalizing ways through which the protracted ethno-religious conflicts in Plateau and Bauchi States in particular and Nigeria in general, can be stemmed in order to allow for the emergence of peaceful mixed residential patterns.