FACULTY OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

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

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.

The rapid advancement of smart technologies has significantly influenced various sectors, particularly in urban development and infrastructure management. This study explores the ‘prospect of smart building development in Nigeria, using Benin City as a case study’. The increasing rate of urbanization in Nigeria, projected to reach 70% by 2050, necessitates the adoption of innovative solutions to tackle infrastructural challenges and enhance the quality of life for citizens. Smart buildings, which integrate advanced technologies such as the Internet of
Things (IoT), automation systems, and energy-efficient solutions, present a viable opportunity to improve resource management, energy efficiency, and sustainability in urban environments. The study aims to assess the current state of building infrastructure in Benin City, identify the potential benefits of smart buildings, and evaluate the challenges hindering their widespread adoption. The research adopted a survey research design, employing both primary and secondary
data collection methods. Primary data was gathered through structured questionnaires administered to Estate Surveyors, Engineers, Architects, and Quantity Surveyors in Benin City, with a total of 205 valid responses analyzed using descriptive statistical methods, The findings revealed that while there is growing awareness of smart building technologies, several barriers persist, including high initial capital costs, limited awareness among stakeholders, inadequate
regulatory frameworks, and infrastructural deficiencies such as poor internet connectivity and unstable electricity supply. The study highlights the numerous benefits of smart buildings, including enhanced security systems, energy efficiency, improved indoor air quality, and optimized resource management. However, it also underscores the need for government intervention through supportive policies, public awareness campaigns, and financial incentives to encourage the widespread d adoption of smart building technologies. The research concludes that while the adoption of smart buildings in Nigeria is still at a nascent stage, strategic collaborations between the government, private sector, and educational institutions could pave the way for a more sustainable and technologically
advanced urban environment. This study serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, urban planners, developers, and academics, providing insights into the prospects of smart building technologies and offering recommendations to foster their growth in Nigeria's built environment.

This study explores the multifaceted challenges hindering the effective implementation of the Land Use Charge (LUC) in Edo State, Nigeria. Effective property taxation is crucial for local government revenue generation and service delivery, yet its implementation often faces significant obstacles. Firstly, This research aims to identify these barriers, focusing on three key objectives. First, it seeks to pinpoint the primary challenges to LUC implementation, considering factors such as administrative capacity, data management, valuation methodologies, and collection mechanisms. Secondly, the study examines the influence of public awareness and understanding on taxpayer compliance. It investigates how public perception, knowledge of the LUC, and trust in government affect willingness to pay. Finally, the research analyzes the role of state governance in the LUC implementation process. This includes an assessment of the legal framework, institutional capacity, political will, and the level of transparency and accountability within the relevant government agencies. By addressing these objectives, this study aims to provide insights into the specific challenges facing Edo State's LUC implementation and offer potential recommendations for improvement, ultimately contributing to more effective revenue generation and sustainable level

The study aims to assess the level of adoption of alternative materials with a view to promoting the use of alternative construction materials. The population targets are Engineers, Quantity Surveyors, Builders and Architects, who are major stakeholders in the construction industry. The research method used was quantitative analysis, and a total of 185 responses were obtained. The findings demonstrate that materials with proven performance, familiarity, and accessibility dominate adoption, while innovative bio-based and agro-waste materials remain underexploited. Addressing cultural biases, enhancing public education, developing local processing infrastructure, and implementing supportive policies are essential for promoting sustainable construction practices in Edo State.Innovative materials such as rice husk, palm kernel shells, coconut coir, hemp, and sheep wool should besupported through pilot programs and research to build confidence in their performance. For enhancing the level of adoption, educational campaigns and technical training to increase knowledge of the benefits and proper use of alternative materials,
development of local processing facilities and supply chain

This research examines the role of property managers in enhancing tenant satisfaction and retention in commercial properties in Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria, with particular focus on Nnebisi Road as a case study. The study sought to identify the key management practices that influence tenant satisfaction, assess the impact of property managers on tenant retention, and highlight the challenges encountered in the course of property management. A survey research design was adopted. Data were obtained through the administration of structured questionnaires to 50 commercial tenants on Nnebisi Road, Asaba, and 21 Estate Surveyors and Valuers across Delta State. The responses were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics to establish patterns of tenant satisfaction and professional management practices. The findings reveal that tenants are largely influenced by the responsiveness of property managers to complaints, regular maintenance of facilities, security provisions, and fairness in rental policies. Property managers who consistently provided these services recorded higher levels of tenant satisfaction and long-term occupancy. However, challenges such as inadequate funding for maintenance, poor communication, and lack of
modern management technologies hindered optimal performance.

This study investigated the various applications of glass in construction to educate readers on the social, economic, and environmental advantages of using glass in Nigeria's construction sector. The study examined how glass has been used in most of Nigeria’s building design and construction sector. Although glass has played a significant role in the construction industry and has to a large extent improved the quality of buildings, there is still a great deal of unrealized potential that can be used in construction for novel purposes. Therefore, to broaden people's perspectives and educate them about the significance of glass in daily life, the research compared the usage of glass in the local area to a building internationally acclaimed in the aspects of function, aesthetics and the sometimes- overlooked structural capabilities of glass.

Flooding brought on by excessive rainfall is one of the frequently occurring and widely reported disasters affecting human existence. The purpose of this study is to create flood risk maps of Ikpoba Okha which can be used for predicting the level of vulnerability due to rapid urban development taking place in recent times. The procedure to achieve this involved using the method of Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) in a Geographic Information System (GIS) environment. Among the fundamental datasets requirements for the project were: cloud-free high-resolution satellite images, SRTM DEM data, FAO soil data, rainfall data, etc. Maps of flood-enhancing elements, such as
flood risk vulnerability mapping, were created in Geographic Information Systems using the same scale of 1: 200,000 and geographic coordinate system (WGS 1984 UTM zone 31N). This multiparametric technique includes rainfall distribution, elevation and slope, drainage network and density, land use/land cover, and soil type, among other flood determinants. All the output raster maps
were first ranked using the "Weighted Linear Combination" method with a grid cell size of 0.0028 mm before being sent for Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA). The computation of the consistency ratio at an acceptable level of 0.055 further confirmed the model's validity. Additionally, the research found topography and rainfall as the most significant factors contributing to floods in Benin City.

This study investigates the maintenance culture and its impact on public office buildings in Oredo, Benin City, Nigeria. Using a descriptive survey design with staff from the Oredo secretariat's maintenance department, the study found that the state of maintenance of public buildings is very poor and users have negative perceptions towards maintenance. Key strategies
identified to enhance maintenance culture include establishing a dedicated maintenance team, increasing budgets, regular inspections, public education, and stricter penalties for vandalism. Additional strategies include performance-based contracts, technology-driven solutions, clear maintenance standards, sustainability principles, and staff training. Implementing these
recommendations can significantly improve the condition of public buildings and user perceptions.

This research project, titled "Examining the Causes of Construction Project Failure in Edo State," seeks to shed light on the underlying factors contributing to project failures by examining the factors responsible for the failure of projects, the effect of project failures and offer solution that mitigates the issues of construction project failure within the context of Edo State, Nigeria. This study employs a comprehensive research methodology, including literature review, questionnaires were sent out as a method of data collection, and analysis of construction projects in Edo State. By investigating a wide range of projects across various scales and sectors, this research aims to identify common causes of failure specific to the region. Potential factors under scrutiny include inadequate planning, budgetary constraints, regulatory issues, poor project management, and environmental challenges. The findings from this research will not only enhance our understanding of the construction industry in Edo State but will also serve as a valuable resource for stakeholders, policymakers, and project managers. By pinpointing the root causes of project failures, this study aims to provide actionable insights that can lead to improved project outcomes, reduced costs, and enhanced overall efficiency in construction endeavors within Edo State and beyond. Ultimately, this research contributes to the advancement of construction project management practices and the sustainable development of the region.