Sources In Nigeria Research Articles

EXTRACTION OF PURE ALUMINA FROM KAOLIN: A REVIEW

This study demonstrated that high-purity alumina can be generated from kaolin using various methods. It examined different leaching techniques, considering the size and percentage recovery of alumina by weight in selected kaolin samples, the calcination temperature, and the molar concentration of acids over time. Additionally, it analyzed the characteristics of several kaolin sources in Nigeria with the aim of extracting alumina. The research indicates that Nigerian kaolinite clay typically contains 22–40% alumina by weight. However, leaching kaolin yielded alumina with a purity of 60–97 wt%, with particle sizes ranging from 16 to 177 nm. Alumina derived from kaolin is deemed beneficial for manufacturing refractory materials, water purification, and biomedical applications.

Smart Grid Technologies: Advancements and Applications in Nigeria

This study explores the impact of smart grid technologies on the modernization of power grids in response to evolving energy demands and the integration of renewable energy sources in Nigeria. It aims to empirically assess advancements in smart grid technologies, focusing on four key objectives: eval_uating the impact of smart meters on energy consumption and peak demand reduction, analyzing the effectiveness of Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADMS) in enhancing grid reliability and efficiency, assessing the role of demand response programs in balancing supply and demand, and examining the integration and management of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) within smart grids. The research employs a quantitative methodology, collecting and analyzing data from utility companies that have implemented smart grid technologies. Key findings reveal that smart meters significantly reduce energy consumption and peak demand by providing real-time monitoring, while ADMS improves grid reliability and operational efficiency through enhanced fault detection and automated control. Demand response programs effectively balance energy supply and demand, reducing peak loads and energy costs. The integration of DERs increases renewable energy utilization and grid stability but also presents challenges related to variability in power output and management complexity. The study concludes that smart grid technologies play a crucial role in achieving a more resilient and efficient power grid, though addressing challenges related to DER integration and system management is essential for maximizing their benefits.

Effectiveness of electric mass transit buses as a means of public transportation, Lagos case study

The world's transition to more environmentally friendly transportation modes has attracted attention to the importance of electric vehicles in reducing the negative environmental impacts of transportation. In Nigeria, where transportation services are primarily fueled by petrol and diesel, CO2 emissions amounted to approximately 27 million in 2020. Recently, two electric buses and a charging station were launched as proof of concept for a project aimed at supporting the transformation of Lagos public transportation to a carbon free mobility system. Considering that Lagos is currently dealing with rapidly increasing urbanization and a growing transportation industry, the integration of electric vehicles promises tremendous benefits but requires careful evaluation. This study therefore evaluates the feasibility of electric vehicles in Nigeria, using Lagos as a case study. The study uses a multidimensional approach involving questionnaires, interviews, inspections, and the development of an Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) model. With an OEE of 51%, results indicate that the use of electric mass transit buses is sustainable. However, in order to achieve more significant impacts and better performance of the buses, it is necessary to improve the quality of public transportation and integrate renewable energy sources in Nigeria. Overall, this study contributes to the advancement of the ongoing project in Lagos, fostering a paradigm shift towards cleaner and more environmentally friendly mobility in Nigeria. Furthermore, the study promotes the development of an inclusive and broadly applicable methodology for evaluating and advancing transportation solutions globally.

Entry-Level Export Strategies in Developing African Countries

Considering Nigeria as an economically and demographically viable target market, this study examined entry-level export strategies that could facilitate the expansion of foreign firms to the Nigerian market. It was necessitated by the intricacies experienced by foreign companies in obtaining credible information about the Nigerian market for internationalization decision-making. The study adopted a narrative literature review design, relying on experiential insights and secondary data obtained from government and industrial sources in Nigeria to obtain the information presented in the investigation. An in-depth content analysis method was used to analyze the secondary data obtained for the study. From its findings, it was revealed that Nigeria is a profoundly viable export destination for a wide variety of foreign products including consumer electronics, ICT accessories, fashion, cosmetics and smartphone accessories. Nevertheless, the country’s volatile economic condition poses substantial risks for foreign companies in terms of foreign currency fluctuations; but using an export strategy, these risks can be considerably mitigated. This indicates the need for careful and deliberate export planning before entry into Nigeria to ensure that exporters familiarize themselves with information and knowledge of the workings of the Nigerian market. To this end, we recommend that intending export companies should carefully select suitable market segments they can consistently serve; they should also ensure to obtain all necessary certifications and permits from key agencies like the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) to ensure smooth operations; and in terms of export entry option, we recommend a hybrid approach (direct and indirect exportation), which avails companies the opportunity of using local expertise and network to achieve effective distribution while maintaining strong control over their products.

Comparative analysis of solvent extraction of rice bran oil from various sources

This study investigated oil extraction from rice bran a by-product of rice gotten from different sources (Afikpo, Abakaliki, and Emene). The oil was extracted from different particle sizes (150 µm, 300 µm, and 420 µm) of the rice bran using three different solvents namely chloroform, petroleum ether, and n-hexane at constant time of 120 minutes via soxhlet extractor. The physiochemical properties of the extracted oil were boiling point, the saponification values and refractive index were 77 <sup>o</sup>C, 185.130, and 1.334, respectively. Also the acid value, surface tension, iodine value, and relative density were found to 15.040 g, 6.966×10<sup>2 </sup>N/M, 99.480, and 0.779, respectively. The obtained result based on source revealed that the maximum oil yield of 35.05 g was achieved from Abakaliki rice bran using chloroform solvent and particle size of 420 mm, whereas Emene and Afikpo gave 32.62 g and 14.18 g of oil, respectively from same solvent and particle size. Again, the highest volume of oil obtained in terms of solvent used were chloroform, petroleum ether, and n-hexane, in descending order. The physicochemical properties investigated, showed that the extracted rice bran oil (RBO) from the above three sources in Nigeria confirms RBO to be of good quality and can be utilized in many food industries after refining in form of additives/or industrial purposes as well as in generation of energy.

Impact of Electricity Power Consumption on Economic Growth in Nigeria: A Threshold Regression Analysis Approach

Despite the abundance of several electricity sources in Nigeria and Government efforts in attracting private sector investment over the last two decades, the country is still facing several challenges which includes investment, electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and labour related issues that has contributed to dwindling economic fortunes. Therefore, this paper investigated the relationship between electricity power consumption and economic growth in Nigeria from 1990 to 2022. The paper employed a Threshold Regression Approach. The results revealed that the paper observed a negative relationship with economic growth in the regime characterized by low electricity power consumption values of -0.2381. Conversely, higher electricity power consumption values of 0.2556 established a positive relationship in the regime. These findings underscored a nonlinear relationship between economic growth and electricity power consumption following the endogeneously determined threshold value of 0.1301. The study’s implications for policy and investment decisions in Nigeria are profound. The results highlighted the critical role of electricity power consumption growth in shaping economic growth. Policymakers and stakeholders are urged to consider initiatives promoting the expansion and modernization of the power sector, involving infrastructure investment and attracting private sector involvement. Moreover, recognizing the positive influence of labor force growth values of 0.2670 on economic growth, there is an opportunity to harness Nigeria’s abundant labor force. Policy recommendations include a focus on workforce development, education, and training to enhance the skills and productivity of the labor force. In light of the non-significant impact of investment growth (-0.0025) on economic growth, a re-evaluation of privatization efforts in the power sector is recommended. Policymakers should prioritize attracting meaningful investments directed at power sector infrastructural development and create an environment conducive to private sector participation, fostering sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.

Impact and interventions of waterborne and foodborne illnesses caused by bacterial pathogens in Nigeria: A review

Waterborne and foodborne illnesses caused by bacterial pathogens are major public health concerns, especially in developing countries like Nigeria—waterborne pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. and Klebsiella spp. Contribute to the spread of health challenges, primarily due to poor sanitation, contaminated drinking water, and inadequate hygiene. Similarly, foodborne pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp., are major causes of human illness, with animal-based foods often acting as transmission vectors. This review examines the current state of diagnosis, highlighting that most household water sources in Nigeria are vulnerable to contamination, with significant microbial loads exceeding WHO standards. It raises the need for effective interventions such as improved hygiene practices, water supply, sanitation and food safety management systems. Furthermore, this review discusses the impact of these pathogens on public health, noting that waterborne and foodborne diseases result in substantial mortality and economic burdens. Also, implementing good hygienic practices, Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) systems, and public health education are essential strategies for reducing the incidence of these diseases. This review concludes by calling for a collaborative effort among governments, policymakers, stakeholders, and researchers to develop and implement multifaceted interventions to combat these pervasive health threats.

Prevalence and health risk evaluations of mycotoxins in drinking water sources in Nigeria.

Mycotoxins in drinking water are neglected pollutants that have serious health implications when ingested. Common mycotoxins with health concerns include deoxynivalenol (DON), ochratoxin A (OTA), and zearalenone (ZEN). This study considers the distribution and apparent health risks of these mycotoxins in drinking water sources (groundwater, surface water, bottled water, sachet water) in three Southwest Nigeria States: Osun, Oyo, and Lagos States, using the UHPLC-ESI-QTOF. ZEN and DON were found in all 95 water samples across all three states. ZEN in sachet water samples has the highest mean concentrations, with those from Osun, Oyo, and Lagos States having concentrations of 14.96 ± 4.46, 8.59 ± 3.86, and 10.56 ± 2.84 μg L-1, respectively. In contrast, the mean concentrations of all three mycotoxins (± Standard Error of Mean) in bottled water samples are the lowest across the three States. The mean concentrations of OTA in sachet water samples (2.93 ± 0.79, 1.24 ± 0.40, and 3.01 ± 1.50 μg L-1) are slightly higher than those in bottled water (1.47 ± 0.28, 1.53 ± 0.31, and 0.75 ± 0.31 μg L-1) for Osun, Oyo, and Lagos States, respectively. Groundwater samples across the three States had the lowest average pH values, below the WHO's lowest limit of 6.5. Principal Component Analysis studies indicate that all three mycotoxins in water samples are closely associated by source. Possible human exposure values for ZEN suggest some health concerns, especially with the use of sachet water type based on the estrogenicity of this mycotoxin. However, OTA values for all water samples analyzed, are much lower than the tolerable daily intake (TDI) of 4.73 μg kg-1 bw per day provided by European Food Safety Auhtority (EFSA). The levels of DON in all water sample types were of no serious health concern. However, human exposure levels to all three mycotoxins in bottled water fall within safe limits of health-based guidance values (HBGV) indicating that this drinking water type is better treated, unlike sachet water. Nevertheless, stakeholders need to re-examine water quality with respect to these mycotoxins and adopt stringent guidelines and new water treatment strategies to provide consumers with safe drinking water in line with the UN SDG #6.

Distribution and toxicity of dihydroxybenzenes in drinking water sources in Nigeria.

This study provides, for the first time, data on the distribution and toxicity of catechol (CAT) and hydroquinone (HQ) in drinking water sources from Africa. Groundwater (boreholes and hand-dug wells) and surface water in three Southwestern States in Nigeria served as sampling sites. The concentrations of CAT and HQ in groundwater and surface water were determined throughout a period of 12 months, evaluating the effects of seasonal variation (rainy and dry seasons). Mean concentrations of CAT in water samples were higher than those of HQ. In this study, CAT was more frequently detected, with its mean concentration in groundwater samples higher in the rainy season (430 μg L-1) than in the dry season (175 μg L-1). Multivariate analysis using the Principal Component Analysis Software suggests that in most sample sites, CAT and HQ in water samples were from entirely different anthropogenic sources. The most impacted population groups were the toddlers and infants. Similarly, maximum and median concentrations of CAT in water samples pose serious risks to Daphnia at both acute and chronic levels. The results from this study suggest the need for further control of these dihydroxybenzenes through regular monitoring and removal from drinking water during treatment.

A Review of Radon Concentration in Water Sources in Nigeria and its Impact

Given the characteristics of radon, people may unwittingly be exposed to radon through water ingestion. Research on radon concentration has increased over the years due to its negative impact on the body being the major causes of lung cancer. This study reviewed twenty (20) journal publications on radon concentration in water sources (such as well, boreholes, stream and taps) in Nigeria from year the 2016 to 2023. The type of sample, sample location, devices used, the range and mean values of radon concentration (RnC) and annual effective dose (AED) were considered. From the reviewed journals, the average values of RnC ranged from 1.9 Bq/L to 88.0 Bq L-1. When compared with WHO and US EPA recommended limits of 100 Bq L-1 and 11.1 Bq L-1 respectively, all reviewed journals recorded average values of RnC below 100 Bq L-1 and 75 % of the reviewed journals recorded average values of RnC above US EPA recommended limit of 11.1 Bq L-1. The mean AED reported is within the range of 0.02 mSv yr-1 and 92 mSv yr-1 with 30 % above the recommended limit of 0.1mSv yr-1. This result shows that the majority of the radon concentration in water sources in Nigeria reported may not pose any immediate health risk. However, there is a need for continuous monitoring and protective measures to be taken.

Health and exposure risk assessment of heavy metals in rainwater samples from selected locations in Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract Rainwater has being getting popularity in use due to lack of portable water sources in Nigeria. The study seeks to evaluate the health and exposure risk assessment of heavy metals from the usage of rainwater from inhabitants of four oil producing area of Rivers State, Nigeria. A total of 32 rainwater samples were collected from different sampling surfaces (ambient, zinc, aluminium, asbestos and stone-coated) to analyse for arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), mercury (Hg), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) using inductively coupled plasma – optical emission spectrophotometer. Analysed concentration (mg/L) showed varying results across different sampling surfaces converted to average concentration (mg/kg) was below WHO/FAO recommended guideline with no issue associated. Health and Exposure risk assessment were performed on analysed results from rainwater samples as non-carcinogenic risk assessment showed that HI value is less than 1.0 indicating no risk to population who consumes rainwater across different roofing surfaces in Rivers state. Carcinogenic risk assessment showed that chromium-VI were found to be the highest contributor to cancer risk across all sampling surfaces. Special treatment and regulations should be taken into consideration especially on stone-coated roof before administering to children, as they are prone to health issues due to developing immunity compared to adults.

Analysis and Health Risk Evaluation of Aflatoxin B1 Levels in Groundnut (Arachis hypogea ) and Maize (Zea mays ) Samples from Wukari, Nigeria

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a secondary fungal metabolite which is considered a public health concern worldwide due to its genotoxicity and carcinogenicity. In this study, we evaluated the levels and potential health effects of AFB1 in Groundnut and Maize samples from Wukari, Nigeria. Ten samples (each) of maize and groundnuts were collected randomly from local markets and analysed for AFB1. Our findings revealed the presence of AFB1 in all the samples investigated with concentrations ranging between 7.79 – 14.08 μg/kg in groundnuts and 1.48 -15.50 μg/kg in maize samples. Overall, 90% of the analysed samples contained aflatoxin B1 above the allowed limit of 5 μg/kg. The assessment of chronic exposure and probalistic health risk from consumption of AFB1 in the investigated food samples was done via chronic daily intake (CDI) and margin of exposure (MOE) evaluations. Obtained CDI values for groundnut ranged between 14.96 – 28.74 ng·kg−1 BW day−1 for children and 3.20 – 6.15 ng·kg−1 BW day−1 for adults while for maize the values were in the range of 5.38 – 56.42 ng·kg−1 BW day−1 for children and 1.15 – 12.09 ng·kg−1 BW day−1 for adults. MOE values ranged between 3.01 – 31.60 for children and 14.06 – 147.83 for adults. The obtained MOE values are by far lower that the recommended ≥10,000 value thus indicating high carcinogenic risks to consumers of the food items. There is need to create more awareness and interventions on aflatoxin contamination of food sources in Nigeria.

A Review: Assessment of Domestic Solid Fuel Sources in Nigeria

Nigeria has the potential to generate 12,522 MW of electricity, but can only dispatch 4000 MW, which is insufficient for a population of over 200 million people as of 2022. Therefore, Nigerians use solid fuels including firewood and charcoal as an alternative to insufficient electricity for domestic use. The consumption of firewood and charcoal in Nigeria is estimated at 23,745,458 tons and 4,828,689 tons, respectively in 2021, by far the most consumed domestic solid fuel sources in Nigeria. Although there are domestic solid fuel alternatives, such as dung, agricultural residues and coal, to firewood and wood charcoal, their sustainable adoption has been slow in Nigeria, indicating that there is insufficient knowledge of domestic solid fuel sources. This requires a review focused on assessing Nigeria’s national sources of solid fuels. This article presents an overview of the sources of domestic solid fuels in Nigeria, an exploration of different types of firewood and charcoal studies, the impact of solid fuels on climate change and the environment, health risks associated with solid fuel and biomass briquettes and pellets as domestic solid fuel alternatives to charcoal and firewood. The continued production and use of firewood and wood charcoal as domestic solid fuel sources encourage deforestation, desertification and greenhouse gas emission, which in turn pose a threat to a sustainable environment and good health. It is necessary to limit the felling of trees for firewood and charcoal production to curtail their negative impacts on the health of users and the environment. This review covered the thermal, mechanical and physical properties of briquette and pellet fuels as substitutions for firewood and charcoal. It was shown that employing briquettes and pellets as a source of solid fuel in the home will lessen the negative impacts that these fuels have on users’ health, the climate and the environment.

Mutagenicity Studies of Potable Water Sources in Okerenkoko community, Gbaramatu, Delta State, Nigeria

Mutagenic testing of portable water is fast becoming an important protocol for assessing water quality. Two potable water samples were selected from both ground and surface water sources within the Okerenkoko community, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State Nigeria. Ame’s test was employed in the assessment of potential carcinogens in the potable water available to the community. The study was carried out in triplicate to broaden the reproducibility of the study. Sensitivity of the test organism was evaluated using the Salmonella TA98 and Salmonella TA100 which was reconstituted for the study. The average revertant colonies from the study was enumerated to indicate that the test conducted on S3OK (Surface water) had 428.1 and 637.84 revertant colonies using Salmonella TA 100 for both +S9 mix and -S9 mix-conditions respectively while similar replica result was for Salmonella TA 98 was 629.7 and 66.12 revertant colonies. The samples obtained from S1OK had slightly lower number of revertant colonies of 209.16 and 115.94 colonies for Salmonella T.A 100 while for Salmonella T.A 98 had 116.82 and 108.90 colonies for treatments containing S9 mix preparations. The study identified the test organism was Salmonella T.A 98 was more sensitive to the carcinogen present in the S3OK sample being used by a wide population of indigenes of the lower economic class. This study further buttresses the need to develop a more robust monitoring protocol for packaged water sources in Nigeria. Regulatory agencies such as NAFDAC must enforce strict intervention limits for potable water sources.

Availability and Energy Generation Potential of Cattle Rumen Content collected from Vegetable Market Abattoir in Benin City, Nigeria

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a proven technology for treating biomass materials with a view of producing bioenergy and recovering nutrients. Cattle rumen content (CRC) is an example of a waste biomass material that can be a viable feedstock for AD process. This paper accesses the availability and energy generation potential of cattle rumen content (CRC) collected from vegetable market abattoir in Benin City, Nigeria for a ten-year data of slaughtered cattle in Nigeria. Data obtained revealed that an average 99581.303 Metric tons of dry matter from CRC is generated per annum and with a theoretical biomethane yield of 444.90 ml/gVS can potentially generate 420 GW (gigawatts) in form of biomethane annually in Nigeria through the AD process. When compared with other renewable energy sources in Nigeria, it potentially meets 6.44 % supply from other renewable energy sources, and exceeds energy currently being generated from wind and solar sources combined. Anaerobic digestion if deployed is an effective technology to harness the potential that CRC presents Nigeria as a country for affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), clean water sanitation and sustainable communities (SDG 6 and 11), and zero hunger (SDG 2) through soil nutrient enhancement.

The Ibadan Hydrogeophysics Research Site (IHRS)—An Observatory for Studying Hydrological Heterogeneities in A Crystalline Basement Aquifer in Southwestern Nigeria

Crystalline basement aquifers are important drinking water sources in Nigeria and several sub-Saharan African countries. However, an understanding of their local flow and transport processes and pathways is missing due to limited research. The implication has been their suboptimal management, with frequently reported dry wells and groundwater contaminations. To address this challenge, the Ibadan Hydrogeophysics Research Site was established in 2019 as the first field-scale hydrogeological research laboratory in Nigeria to advance understanding of the geologic, hydraulic, and hydrogeochemical variabilities within crystalline basement aquifers. The over 22,500 m2 research site with a 50 m × 50 m area used for active hydraulic testing is located within the University of Ibadan campus and is instrumented with four initial test wells extending through the weathered and fractured zones to a depth of 30 m each. Preliminary hydrogeological and geophysical studies focused on obtaining a conceptual model and knowledge of hydraulic heterogeneities to aid in detailed experimental and numerical studies. A combination of lithological logs and electrical resistivity revealed areas with subvertical fractures as low-resistivity zones (<200 Ωm), and a pumping test revealed a hydraulic conductivity range of 1.9 × 10−10 to 7.2 × 10−6 m/s. The drawdown–time curve shows flow from single-plane vertical fractures. The results of this study will serve as a basis for further targeted field and numerical studies for the investigation of variability in groundwater flow in complex crystalline basement aquifers. The presented field site is posed to support the adaptation and development of field methods for studying local heterogeneities within these aquifers in Nigeria.

Evaluation of Wind Energy Potential in Omu Aran, Nigeria Using Weibull and Rayleigh Models

The depletion of resources and emission of hazardous gases have been identified with conventional sources of energy. The negative influence of conventional sources of energy on the environment necessitates the call for the use of renewable and sustainable energy sources, such as wind. Wind power is one of the available renewable energy sources in Nigeria with huge potential that can be tapped in order to contribute to its energy mix. Wind energy utilization in Nigeria is poor because the available data in all six geopolitical political regions for system design have not been fully analysed and implemented. Wind energy projects are liable to failure if proper analysis is not done. Therefore, before any location could be considered suitable or unsuitable for wind power generation, the power density must be determined using the standard approach. This study, therefore evaluated the wind energy potential of Omu Aran, Nigeria using Weibull and Rayleigh models. Five years data collected from the metrological station of the Landmark University on Lat. 8.14 oN; Long. 5.10 oE were processed and analysed in Matlab computer software using a code developed for two statistical modelling methods (Weibull and Rayleigh). The actual mean yearly wind speed of 3.964 m/s for Kwara falls in the low wind speed. Although, the power density for hours of the day, months, and seasonal variation ranged from 24 to 141 W/m2. More than 50% of the power density for daily hours was less than 100 W/m2 which indicated that Omu Aran, Nigeria belongs to class 1. The coefficient of efficiency (COE) for Weibull probability distribution ranged from 39.95 to 94.9 while the coefficient of determination (COD) R2 ranged from 0.66 to 0.98. This range of performance values for the Weibull model, when compared to the Rayleigh model, were within the acceptable limits for prediction accuracy, hence the Weibull probability distribution function can be used for the preliminary design of wind power plants for Kwara State, Nigeria. Therefore, it would help the relevant stakeholders in wind power project investment to make the appropriate decision.

"Energy Sustainability and Human Welfare in Nigeria: Implications for Sustainable Development "

"Despite the high propensity of energy usage in driving the economic activities, the issues of global climate change and global warming which pose enormous threats to human welfare have motivated the growing need for energy sustainability globally. In the light of the above, the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 7) advocates for the usage of energy from cleaner sources. Meanwhile, impact of energy usage on human welfare has largely been the issue of concern among the scholars in Nigeria. Against this backdrop, this study examined energy sustainability and human welfare in Nigeria. Consequently, data was collected from secondary sources, and analyzed within the framework of Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) and Granger causality test. The summary of the principal findings in this is enunciated as follows; energy sustainability and life expectancy had a positive and significant relationship in Nigeria. Government expenditures on health had both negative and insignificant relationship with life expectancy in Nigeria. Also, there was a unidirectional causality flowing from life expectancy to electricity consumption from hydroelectric sources in Nigeria. Furthermore, one way feedback flows from government expenditure on health to life expectancy. From these findings, this study recommends that Nigeria would want to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals one (1) - promoting good life for the people, and seven (7) - affordable and clean energy simultaneously before the SDGs timeline elapses in 2030, the Nigerian policymakers and all stakeholders should be aggressively involved in energy sustainability movement in the country."

AN APPRAISAL OF LEGAL RESPONSES TO GAS FLARING AND GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSION MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

This paper aims to identify and evaluate the legal responses to the challenges of gas flaring and greenhouse emission management in Nigeria. In Nigeria, there is a need to combat the problem of indiscriminate flaring of gas to provide a safe environment for yet-unborn generations. Gas flaring has resulted in the extinction of species in the environment, and once species are depleted to the point of extinction, they cannot be renewed; as a result, the loss of these plant and animal species will make it difficult for future generations to meet their needs. As a result, it is critical to protect these resources to ensure long-term development. In the face of pollution and environmental degradation, maintaining the environment will be a difficult and debilitating challenge to the ecosystem. Exploration of oil and gas has therefore become an environmental albatross in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. The discharge or flaring of gases from exploration sites pollutes the air, water, and soil. The overreliance on fossil fuels to power cars, industrial machinery and home energy sources in Nigeria has created a risk for petroleum resources, threatening long-term growth. The paper thus introduces the incidences of gas flaring in Nigeria, highlights a brief review of opinions and scholars’ perspectives on the subject and the overview of the challenges of gas flaring and greenhouse gas emission in Nigeria, and explores the impacts of gas flaring in the Nigeria Delta area and the Nigerian ecosystem. The paper finds that there are a number of challenges with the operation, administration and content of the existing legal frameworks and mechanisms available to combat gas flaring and greenhouse gas emissions in Nigeria and there is a need for improvement, to ensure they engender proper clean-up and remediation. The paper concluded by stating that there exists a need to strike a healthy balance between economic development and sustainable development and this can only be achieved if there is a political will on the part of the Nigerian federal government to enforce its anti-gas flaring laws to guarantee energy security and ensure a safe, clean, and healthy environment for all and sundry in Nigeria whilst giving recommendations on the need for effective management, capture, re-use and conversion of flared gases into a power-lean-and-clean project and the regulation/administration of greenhouse emission in Nigeria.

Antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes of invasive Salmonella enterica from children with bacteremia in north-central Nigeria.

Bacteremia due to invasive Salmonella enterica has been reported earlier in children in Nigeria. This study aimed to detect the virulence and antibiotic resistance genes of invasive Salmonella enterica from children with bacteremia in north-central Nigeria. From June 2015 to June 2018, 4163 blood cultures yielded 83 Salmonella isolates. This is a secondary cross-sectional analysis of the Salmonella isolates. The Salmonella enterica were isolated and identified using standard bacteriology protocol. Biochemical identifications of the Salmonella enterica were made by Phoenix MD 50 identification system. Further identification and confirmation were done with polyvalent antisera O and invA gene. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done following clinical and laboratory standard institute guidelines. Resistant genes and virulence genes were determined using a real-time polymerase chain reaction. Salmonella typhi 51 (61.4%) was the most prevalent serovar, followed by Salmonella species 13 (15.7%), choleraesuis 8 (9.6%), enteritidis 6 (7.2%), and typhimurium 5 (6.1%). Fifty-one (61.4%) of 83 Salmonella enterica were typhoidal, while 32 (38.6%) were not. Sixty-five (78.3%) of the 83 Salmonella enterica isolates were resistant to ampicillin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, followed by chloramphenicol 39 (46.7%), tetracycline 41 (41.4%), piperacillin 33 (33.9%), amoxicillin-clavulanate, and streptomycin 21 (25.3%), while cephalothin was 19 (22.9%). Thirty-nine (46.9%) of the 83 Salmonella enterica isolates were multi-drug resistant, and none were extensive drug resistant or pan-drug resistant. A blaTEM 42 (50.6%), floR 32 (38.6%), qnrA 24 (28.9%), tetB 20 (20.1%), tetA 10 (10.0%), and tetG 5 (6.0%) were the antibiotic resistance genes detected. There were perfect agreement between phenotypic and genotypic detection of antimicrobial resistance in tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, and chloramphenicol, while beta-lactam showed κ = 0.60 agreement. All of the Salmonella enterica isolates had the virulence genes invA, sopB, mgtC, and sip4D, while 33 (39.8%), 45 (51.8%), and 2 (2.4%) had ssaQ, spvC, and ljsGI-1, respectively. Our findings showed multi-drug resistant Salmonella enterica in children with bacteremia in northern Nigeria. In addition, significant virulence and antimicrobial resistance genes were found in invasive Salmonella enterica in northern Nigeria. Thus, our study emphasizes the need to monitor antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella enterica from invasive sources in Nigeria and supports antibiotic prudence.