THE UNBROKEN CYCLE; CORRUPTION AND ECONOMIC STAGNATION IN NIGERIA.

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
This project topic has been a recurring theme in various art forms/styles, yet its impact in the society has been limited. Various artist has attempted to tackle this issue through their work, using powerful imagery and symbolism to convey the devastating effect of corruption on the country’s development. Nevertheless, despite these efforts, the cycle of corruption and economic stagnation remains unbroken, and the desired change has not been achieved to its fullest. This work aimed to grab the attention of the government to the harmful effects of corruption and economic stagnation on Nigerians daily lives
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

HEMATINIC PROPERTY OF THE POLYHERBAL AQUEOUS LEAF EXTRACT (Ipomoea batatas, Justicia carnea, and Ficus sur) IN PHENYLHYDRAZINE HYDROCHLORIDE INDUCED ANAEMIA IN WISTAR RATS

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
Anaemia remains a significant global health challenge, with conventional iron supplementation frequently associated with gastrointestinal side effects and poor patient compliance. This has necessitated the exploration of herbal alternatives with improved safety profiles and better tolerability. This study evaluated the hematinic potential of a polyherbal aqueous extract combining leaves of Justicia carnea, Ipomoea batatas, and Ficus sur using an experimental Wistar rat model of hemolytic anaemia. Thirty-six Wistar rats were subjected to phenylhydrazine hydrochloride-induced hemolytic anaemia (40 mg/kg for seven consecutive days). Following confirmation of anaemia through significant reductions in red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, and packed cell volume on Day 1, the animals were randomly assigned to six groups: three treatment groups receiving the polyherbal extract at graded doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg; a positive control group administered 5 mg/kg folic acid; a negative control receiving no treatment; and a normal control group without induction or treatment. Treatment interventions continued on daily basis for 14 days. Post treatment assessment demonstrated dose-dependent hematological recovery across all measured parameters. The highest dose (100 mg/kg) exhibited remarkable efficacy, producing a 60.15% increase in Red Blood Cell (RBC) count, 38.50% elevation in hemoglobin levels, and 55.66% improvement in Pack Cell Volume (PCV), with the performance comparable to the standard folic acid control. Statistical analysis revealed significant inter-group differences in RBC count at Day 7 (p = 0.005) and PCV at Day 14 (p = 0.05).
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF FAST DISINTEGRATING TABLETS OF DICLOFENAC POTASSIUM USING A BLEND OF SUPER DISINTEGRANTS

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
Fast-disintegrating tablets (FDTs) are tablets designed to dissolve rapidly when placed on the tongue resulting in quick disintegration of the drug into solution when in contact with saliva. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate fast disintegrating tablets of
diclofenac potassium using different concentrations of sodium starch glycolate (SSG) and croscarmellose sodium (CCS) as superdisintegrants.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

FACTORS INFLUENCING RECYCLING BEHAVIOR AMONG UNIVERSITY OF BENIN STUDENTST

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
The increasing concern over environmental sustainability has highlighted the need to understand and promote effective recycling behaviors among university students. This study, titled “Factors Influencing Recycling Behavior among Students of the University of Benin (UNIBEN)”, investigated the determinants of recycling practices, with particular attention to the persistent gap between awareness and actual participation despite institutional sustainability initiatives.Anchored in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the study examined how attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control influence students’ recycling intentions and actions. The research also explored the role of demographic variables—age, sex, and religious affiliation—in shaping these behaviors. A sample size of 250 students was selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected through a self- structured questionnaire administered to undergraduate, part-time, and postgraduate students at UNIBEN. Section A captured demographic information, Section B explored factors influencing recycling behavior, and Section C assessed the moderating effect of demographic variables on these behaviors. Hypotheses were tested at a 0.05 significance level. xii Findings revealed that 67.1% of the respondents demonstrated positive recycling behavior and acknowledged some social expectations to participate, their actual engagement was significantly constrained by perceived behavioral control challenges, including limited recycling bins, unclear waste segregation procedures, and irregular collection services while 32.9% exhibited negative or inconsistent recycling behavior. The study shows that while students generally display positive recycling behavior, structural and institutional barriers limit full participation. Recommendations include expanding recycling infrastructure, integrating environmental education into the curriculum, engaging student cultural and religious groups, and establishing a formal campus environmental policy. By implementing these strategies, the University of Benin can transform positive attitudes into meaningful recycling action and serve as a model for sustainable waste management in nigeria
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

GC–MS PROFILING AND in silico ASSESSMENT OF THE in vitro ANTIPANCREATIC LIPASE ACTIVITY OF Ocimum gratissimum (SCENT LEAF) AQUEOUS LEAF EXTRACT

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a long-term metabolic condition that disrupts the normal regulation of glucose, lipid, and protein metabolism. Pancreatic lipase can contribute to diabetes by increasing the breakdown and absorption of dietary fats, which in turn raises free fatty acids in the bloodstream. These fatty acids cause lipotoxicity, damaging pancreatic β-cells and decreasing their ability to produce insulin. This study investigated the anti-pancreatic lipase potential of the aqueous leaf extract of Ocimum gratissimum by identifying its phytochemical constituents through Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and evaluating their molecular interactions with pancreatic lipase using in silico techniques. Results from the study showed the presence of twenty-seven (27) phytocompounds identified from the aqueous leaf extract of O. gratissimum using GC-MS technique. The most abundant phytocompounds from the plant were Supraene (17.71%), Glycerin (11.38%), 1,4-Dimethoxy-2,3-dimethylbenzene (8.07%), N-Butyl acetamide (7.11%), and Thymol (5.86%). To assess their anti-pancreatic lipase potential, all twenty-seven phytocompounds and the standard drug (Orlistat) were docked with pancreatic lipase to evaluate their binding interactions with the protein. Several of the bioactive compounds demonstrated stronger binding affinity with protein in comparism with the standard. However, α-Selinene (-6.5 kcal/mol), and β-Selinene (-7.1 kcal/mol), demonstrated the strongest binding interaction
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

THE INTEGRATION OF VOCATIONAL TRAINING AMONG ADULT LEARNERS IN PIONEER LITERACY EDUCATION CENTRE IN OREDO LGA

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
This study explores the integration of vocational training into academic curricula in Nigeria, emphasizing its potential to bridge the gap between education and the labor market, thereby addressing the nation's challenges of unemployment and economic development. With a historical emphasis on theoretical learning, the Nigerian education system has left graduates ill- equipped with the practical skills demanded by employers. This research identifies the critical benefits of incorporating vocational education, such as enhanced employability, entrepreneurship promotion, and alignment with national development goals. The methodology employed for this research involved a descriptive survey design, targeting adult learners at the Pioneer Literacy Centre in Benin City. A sample of 50 participants was selected using simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire designed with a modified Likert scale. The questionnaire was divided into two sections: personal demographic data and specific research questions. The validity of the instrument was ensured through expert review, while reliability was assessed using test-retest methods. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, focusing on frequency counts, percentages, and mean scores to draw conclusions regarding the integration of vocational aining.Additionally, the study draws comparisons with successful global models, showcasing the importance of dual education systems that combine academic learning with practical workplace training. It highlights the necessity of fostering collaborations between educational institutions and industries, addressing resource constraints, and changing societal perceptions of
vocational education to enhance its attractiveness. Despite facing challenges like inadequate funding and societal biases, this study advocates for a multi-stakeholder approach that includes government initiatives, public-private partnerships, and public awareness campaigns. Through comprehensive analysis, the research underscores the transformative potential of vocational
education in fostering economic empowerment and social inclusion, ultimately contributing to sustainable development in Nigeria.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

NIGERIAN MUSIC INDUSTRYAS A TOOL FOR SOCIO-POLITICAL REFORMS IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Faculty
Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
Culture and politics have gained renewed scholarly attention, especially within the context of non-traditional diplomacy and soft power. Soft power is the ability of a country to attract and co-opt rather than coerce and often finds its strongest expression in culture, values, and institutions. In the case of Nigeria, one of the most potent cultural exports in recent decades has been its music industry. This industry, once rooted in traditional folk sounds and later politicized by artists like Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has evolved into a global force of influence through genres like Afrobeat, Afropop, and Afrofusion. Historically, Nigerian musicians have not only entertained but also challenged state authority, interrogated societal injustices, and shaped public opinion. Artists such as Fela, Eedris Abdulkareem, and more recently, Falz and Burna Boy, have transformed their musical platforms into vehicles of resistance and civic engagement. Music has become a channel through which disillusionment, national trauma, and the desire for reform are expressed particularly among Nigeria’s politically conscious youth population. This was most visible during the #EndSARS protests, where music provided both a soundtrack and a unifying call for justice.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

THE ANTIDEPRESSANT EFFECT OF THE HYDRO-METHANOL LEAF EXTRACT OF Icacina trichantha OLIV. IN MICE

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, and lack of motivation. Antidepressant drugs are not rare to find and they are not addictive however, some people may experience discontinuation (withdrawal-like) symptoms if they stop taking antidepressants suddenly especially SSRIs and SNRIs emphasizing the need for safer alternatives. Icacina trichantha Oliv. It is a medicinal plant that belongs to the family Icacinaceae, used traditionally in the treatment of depression. However, there is limited scientific evidence supporting such claims. This study evaluates the
antidepressant potential of I. trichantha in mice. Fresh leaves were collected, air-dried, pulverized, and extracted using a 1:1 water and methanol solvent to obtain H-MLE of I. trichantha after concentrating to dryness. Phytochemical screening was carried out using Sofowara 1993 and Harborne 1973. For antidepressant activity, 25 mice were randomly allotted into 5 groups of n = 5. Group I received 10 ml/kg deionized water, groups II – IV received graded doses of the plant extract 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, and group 5 received 25 mg/kg imipramine for both FST and TST. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, phenolics, saponins, and carbohydrates. Results obtained revealed that H-MLE had a significant increase at 400 mg/kg when compared to control (P < 0.05) for both TST and FST. This study supports its use in the treatment of
depression in traditional medicine which could be due to the presence of secondary metabolites.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

THE INTEGRATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AS A PROFESSIONAL TOOL IN ARCHITECTURAL FIRMS IN BENIN CITY

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
The rapid evolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents unprecedented opportunities for architectural innovation, yet its adoption remains uneven in emerging markets. This study examines the integration of AI as a professional tool within architectural firms in Benin City, Nigeria, with the explicit purpose of demonstrating its value and encouraging strategic implementation across local practices. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were gathered through structured surveys of 15 practitioners, in-depth interviews with 10 employed architects in architectural firms, and detailed case studies of four firms at varying
levels of digital maturity. Quantitative analysis looked at how many firms use AI, which tools they use, and how it affects their work pace, while qualitative analysis explored the challenges, supports, and unique experiences of each firm.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

EFFECTS OF Sphenocentrum jollyanum AQUEOUS LEAF EXTRACT ON CADMIUM CHLORIDE-INDUCED CARDIAC DAMAGE IN WISTAR RATS

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
Cardiac damage induced by environmental toxins such as cadmium chloride (CdCl₂Cl₂) poses a major public health concern. Cadmium chloride accumulates in tissues, exerting harmful effects through oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular damage, particularly affecting the cardiovascular and hematological parameters. Sphenocentrum jollyanum, a medicinal plant rich in flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins, possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may counteract such damage. This study evaluated the protective effects of S. jollyanum aqueous leaf extract on cadmium -induced cardiac damage in Wistar rats. Thirty- six Wistar rats were divided into six groups (n=6): Group A control (1ml of distilled water), Group B (10 mg/kg CdCl₂Cl₂), Groups C (150mg/kg extract) and D (300 mg/kg extract), and Groups E (CdCl₂Cl₂ + extract at 150 mg/kg) and F (CdCl₂Cl₂ + extract at 300 mg/kg). Treatments were administered orally for 28 days. Parameters assessed included body and heart weights, hematological indices (RBC, WBC, hemoglobin, platelets), and cardiac histology and histochemistry analysis for Masson’s Trichrome. Group B showed significant reductions in body weight, RBCs, hemoglobin, platelets, and exhibited myocardial degeneration, inflammation, and extracellular matrix (ECM) disruption. Co-treatment with S. jollyanum, especially at 300 mg/kg (Group F), significantly reversed these effects, restoring hematological values, preserving myocardial architecture, and maintaining ECM integrity. Histological sections from Group F showed well-aligned cardiomyocytes, normal collagendistribution, and reduced inflammation
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor