2024

The aim of this project is assess bamboo as an alternative to steel reinforcement in concrete structures which offers similar performance as steel reinforced concrete which can be used in areas where bamboo is abundant. Three samples each of dimension 500×100×100mm of plain, bamboo and steel reinforced concrete beam of seven, fourteen and twenty-one days after curing were subjected to a flexural test to measure their flexural strength. This test was conducted with a four point load flexural machine, with load applied on the beams to determine the ability of the beam to withstand bending forces. The beam samples were weighed before and after curing to obtain their weight gain and water absorption rate. The average flexural strength obtained from the plain, bamboo and steel reinforced beams of a period of seven days, fourteen days and twenty-one days was recorded. The result showed that for a period of seven days, the plain, bamboo and reinforced steel beam had a flexural strength of 9 N/mm², 16.67 N/mm² and 25 N/mm². Fourteen days 15N/mm², 23.33N/mm² and32.33N/mm². Twenty-one days 19N/mm², 29.67N/mm² and38.33N/mm². For water absorption the percentage is consistently higher compared to the plain and steel beam at each time interval. At seven days the water absorption was at 1.55%, and it increases further at fourteen days at 1.79% and twenty-one days 1.62%. based on the acquired results bamboo reinforced concrete can be suitable for structures such as farm sheds, rural housing and low-rise residential building for element such as walls.

This project presents the developments of a vision-based system for aerial pipeline Rightof-Way surveillance using optical/Infrared sensors mounted on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV). The aim of research is to develop a highly automated, on-board system for detecting and following the pipelines; while simultaneously detecting any third-party interference. The proposed approach of using a UAV platform could potentially reduce the cost of monitoring and surveying pipelines when compared to manned aircraft. To evaluate the performance of the system, the algorithms were coded using Python programming language. The pipeline endpoints are identified by transforming the 16-bits depth data of the explored environment into 3D point clouds world coordinates. Then, using the Random Sample Consensus (RANSAC) approach, the foreground and background are separated based on the transformed 3D point cloud to extract the plane that corresponds to the ground. Following that, these boundaries were filtered out, after being transformed into a 3D point cloud, based on the real height of the pipeline for fast and accurate measurements using a Euclidean distance of each boundary point, relative to the plane of the ground extracted previously. The filtered boundaries were used to detect the straight lines of the object boundary (Hough lines), once transformed into 16-bit depth data, using a Hough transform method. The pipeline is verified by estimating a centre line segment, using a 3D point cloud of each pair of the Hough line segments, (transformed into 3D). Then, the corresponding linearity of the pipeline points cloud is filtered within the width of the pipeline using Euclidean distance in the foreground point cloud. Then, the segment length of the detected centre line is enhanced to match the exact pipeline segment by extending it along the filtered point cloud of the pipeline. The third-party interference is detected based on four parameters, namely: foreground depth

Highway accidents are a significant concern worldwide, leading to substantial loss of life, property, and economic productivity. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of highway accidents by investigating their frequency, underlying causes, and exploring effective preventive measures. Through an extensive review of historical accident data, this research will assess key factors contributing to highway accidents, including human behavior, vehicle conditions, environmental influences, and road infrastructure. Special attention will be given to identifying accident-prone areas (blackspots) and determining the most common types of accidents, as well as the timeframes in which they frequently occur. To better understand the root causes of these accidents, the study will employ statistical analysis and machine learning techniques on data sourced from government databases and highway safety reports. The study will focus on critical factors such as driver error, vehicle malfunctions, poor road design, adverse weather conditions, and inadequate traffic management systems. It will also analyze the effectiveness of existing safety measures like traffic signals, road signage, and speed limits, while proposing new, data-driven interventions for improving highway safety. The expected results of this research include a clearer identification of high-risk areas and times for highway accidents, as well as the discovery of key accident causative factors. Based on these findings, the study will propose targeted solutions, such as enhancing road infrastructure, increasing public awareness campaigns on safe driving, implementing stricter vehicle inspection protocols, and adopting advanced traffic monitoring systems. Ultimately, the results are expected to provide actionable insights for policymakers and highway authorities to reduce accident rates and improve overall road safety.

This study examined “The Influence of Family Background as a Determinant of Deviant Behavior among Senior Secondary School Student in Oredo Legal Government Area of Edo state”. A descriptive research design which involves the collection of data through the use of questionnaires was adopted for this study, to solicit information from respondents. Five research questions were used to guide the research. The population of this study consists of fifty private Senior Secondary Schools in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State with one hundred and forty students in total. The sample Size of the study comprises of one hundred and four students from ten selected schools. The simple random sampling technique was used to select the sample for this study. Frequency count and simple percentage was used to analyze the research question and 0.72 was realized from the reliability test carried out on this study, which showed that the instrument for the study is reliable. The findings revealed that family background influence student behavior to a very great extent. Since family is the first agent of socialization, it a very important factor to how a child behaves in school. Family size and structure and motivation from parents are the major family background variables that can influence a child’s behavior, There is a relationship between the family background and behavior of students, a poor family background can contribute negativity to a child’s behavior and this can affect the child’s academic performance which can contribute negativity to the child’s future, It was recommended that enlightenment programs should be carried out to help parents to understand the influence their various activities has on their children behavior and ensures they do everything within their means to help their children improve in their character .

A single-mother family refers to a nuclear unit where the mother is the primary caregiver for one or more children, often referred to as a mother-headed family. Single motherhood can be an overwhelming experience, given the numerous challenges faced while trying to care for their children and assume the roles of both parents. The study aimed to investigate the challenges, coping strategies, and social support systems available to single mothers in Ovia North East Local Government Area, Edo State. This study utilises Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory, Role Theory, and Lazarus and Folkman's Transactional Model of Stress and Coping to explore the challenges and coping strategies of single mothers in Ovia North East Local Government, Edo State. The study utilized an exploratory qualitative design, employing thematic analysis to understand the lived experiences and coping strategies of single mothers in Ovia North-East LGA. The research focused on single mothers within the LGA, using purposive sampling and a researcher-developed interview guide to collect qualitative data. Data analysis involved transcribing interviews and identifying key themes, with ethical considerations such as informed consent and confidentiality maintained throughout the research. The study reveals that single mothers in Ovia North East Local Government Area, primarily young women aged 18-25, face challenges such as financial instability and emotional isolation, relying on informal networks, education, and religious support to cope due to the absence of formal assistance. The study recommends government support programs, access to education and skills training, strengthened social support networks, awareness campaigns to reduce stigma, and improved access to healthcare and childcare services for single mothers.

Waste management is a major challenge in Nigeria, where only 20% of the 32 million tonnes of solid waste generated annually is collected through a formal system and 10% is recycled. The rest is either dumped, burned, or landfilled, causing environmental and health problems such as pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, resource depletion, and disease transmission. "Trash to Treasure" explores the transformative journey of waste materials into valuable resources. Through innovative processes and technologies, waste is converted into reusable materials, contributing to environmental sustainability and economic development. This study “Trash To Treasure A Study of Chicason Recycling Hub Project Anambra State Nigeria. The study explores the processes utilized by Chicason Recycling Hub for waste conversion, its contribution to pollution reduction, economic benefits like job creation, positive impacts on public health and well-being, and challenges posed by technological limitations, regulatory hurdles, and societal perceptions hindering its effectiveness. The study employed a descriptive survey research design utilizing a self-designed questionnaire.A sample of 43 respondents consisting of staff of Chicason Recycling Hub Project was used for the study. The findings indicate that Chicason Recycling Hub's effectiveness in waste management and resource recovery, and its positive environmental impact through pollution reduction, climate change mitigation, and ecosystem preservation. Additionally, it was found that the project has some economic benefits, which are job creation and revenue generation, along with its positive social impacts on community development and public health. Based on the findings of the study recommendations include streamlining regulations, investing in technology, community engagement, capacity building, and fostering collaborative partnerships for sustainable waste management

This study examines the historical evolution and operational efficacy of Amnesty International (AI) as a pioneer in the global defense of human rights. Founded in 1961 by Peter Benenson, the organization transformed global civil society by pioneering grassroots mobilization and impartial reporting. This research investigates how AI influenced international human rights protection from its inception through 2004—a critical period marked by the Cold War, decolonization, and the post-9/11 emergence of the global War on Terror.Using a qualitative historical methodology, this study analyzes archival data, organizational reports, and external treaty evaluations to assess AI's impact across three core areas: the liberation of prisoners of conscience, the global abolition of the death penalty, and the eradication of state-sanctioned torture. The findings reveal that AI's strict adherence to political neutrality and rigorous fact-finding gave it unparalleled moral authority, enabling it to successfully pressure repressive regimes, shape international legal frameworks (including the 1984 UN Convention Against Torture), and shift global public opinion. However, the study also highlights the strategic challenges AI faced toward the end of the 20th century, particularly as it struggled to balance its traditional civil-political rights focus with emerging demands for economic, social, and cultural rights.The study concludes that between 1961 and 2004, Amnesty International served as an indispensable catalyst for the institutionalization of global human rights. Its legacy confirms that non-state actors can effectively hold sovereign states accountable, fundamentally rewriting the rules of international relations in favor of human dignity.

This study examines efficiency management and accountability within the Nigerian local government system, using Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State as a case study. Local governments are strategically positioned to drive grassroots development; however, their operational efficiency and accountability mechanisms are frequently compromised by systemic challenges. The primary objective of this research is to evaluate the extent to which financial accountability and administrative efficiency impact public service delivery in Akoko-Edo. Using a mixed-methods research design, data was gathered through structured questionnaires administered to local government staff and residents, alongside semi-structured interviews with key council officials. Secondary data was sourced from local government financial reports, academic journals, and official publications. The theoretical framework for this study is anchored on the Principal-Agent Theory and Democratic Decentralization Theory. The findings reveal that while institutional frameworks for accountability exist, their efficacy is severely undermined by: Interference: Excessive political encroachment from the state government, particularly through the State Joint Local Government Account (SJLGA). Capacity Gaps: Inadequate training of administrative staff and weak internal audit mechanisms. Lack of Transparency: Poor public access to financial records, which stifles community engagement and oversight. Consequently, the study notes that inefficiency and a lack of robust accountability have resulted in dilapidated rural infrastructure, suboptimal healthcare services, and a general deficit in grassroots development. Based on these findings, the study recommends: Financial Autonomy: The full implementation of local government autonomy to eliminate restrictive state-level financial controls. Institutional Reforms: Strengthening internal and external audit processes, alongside regular capacity-building workshops for local government personnel. Community-Inclusive Budgeting: Adopting open-governance frameworks that allow Akoko-Edo residents to actively participate in project formulation and monitoring, thereby fostering a culture of mutual accountability.

Water, the essence of life and the most abundant substance on Earth, is a molecule composed of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom. It's a vital resource that shapes our planet's geography, climate, and biological diversity. Water's unique properties, such as its ability to dissolve substances, transport nutrients, and regulate temperature, make it indispensable for all known forms of life. Its cycle through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff supports ecosystems and human civilizations alike. The study of water encompasses its history, from the ancient seas where life originated, to its presence in the outer reaches of space. Science delves into its molecular mysteries and conservation efforts focus on sustaining this irreplaceable resource for future generation.

This study examined the adoption of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in early childhood learning in Nigeria through the development and evaluation of an interactive educational system designed for kindergarten children. The study was motivated by the challenges associated with traditional teaching methods, including limited learner engagement, inadequate educational resources, and the need for innovative approaches to enhance literacy development among young learners. The primary objective was to develop an interactive educational database that supports alphabet learning and promotes literacy skills through engaging, child-friendly activities. A survey research design was adopted, and data were x collected using structured questionnaires administered to teachers in selected public and private schools in Edo State, Nigeria. A total of 25 valid responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that teachers strongly support the integration of interactive educational technologies into kindergarten education, with all respondents agreeing that such systems can enhance learner engagement and learning outcomes. The study also identified major challenges facing kindergarten education, including inadequate funding, insufficient infrastructure, and lack of technical support. Based on the findings, an interactive educational system was designed and implemented using the MERN stack (MongoDB, Express.js, React.js, and Node.js). The system incorporates interactive games, colorful graphics, personalized learning features, and curriculum-aligned educational content. The study concludes that ICT- driven educational systems have significant potential to improve early childhood learning in Nigeria by making learning more engaging, accessible, and effective. It recommends increased investment in educational technology infrastructure, teacher training, parental involvement, and the development of culturally relevant digital learning resources to support the successful adoption of ICT in early childhood education..