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Aba, a major commercial hub in southeastern Nigeria, faces growing air pollution pressures, particularly from carbon monoxide (CO) and aerosols. Sentinel-5P satellite data processed on Google Earth Engine were used to track their concentrations from 2019 to 2024, with annual, monthly, and spatial patterns assessed alongside inter-annual variation. CO peaked at 0.0562 mol/m² in 2024 and was lowest in 2023 at 0.0489 mol/m². February consistently recorded the highest monthly values, reflecting intensified dry-season emissions and limited atmospheric dispersion. Aerosols followed a similar seasonal cycle, peaking in February, with the highest concentration in 2024 (0.1683) and the lowest in 2020 (-0.7115). Spatial analysis revealed persistent hotspots in central and northern Aba, especially around Ariaria International Market, Aba Industrial Zone, and Ngwa Road Market, while outlying areas such as Asa Umu Nka and Crystal Park Avenue maintained lower levels. Statistical testing showed that CO differences were significant in the early years (2019–2020, 2021–2022) and highly significant in the later period (2023–2024 and the 2019–2024 comparison), while no significant changes occurred in 2020–2021 or 2022–2023. Aerosols, by contrast, recorded highly significant differences from
2019 to 2022, but no significant changes in the later years, except for a strong 2019–2024
contrast. Despite these fluctuations, both pollutants remained persistently elevated in densely populated and economically active zones, underscoring continued risks to health and environmental quality. The findings confirm the value of Sentinel-5P and Google Earth Engine for urban air quality assessment and highlight the need for targeted emission control and stronger regulatory oversight.

The study investigated the roles of Christian religious studies in curbing moral decadence among secondary school students in Ikpoba -Okha Local Government Area of Edo State. Four research questions were used to guide the study. Descriptive research design was adopted for the study. The population of the study comprised of thirteen thousand three hundred and thirty students (13,330) in the twenty (20) senior secondary schools in Ikopa Okha Local Government Area of Edo State, and the sample for the study consist of one
hundred (100) students drawn from five (5) secondary schools in Ikopa Okha Local Government Area of Edo State. The simple random sampling technique was used in selecting the schools from the twenty secondary schools in Ikopa Okha Local Government Area of Edo State. Twenty (20) students were drawn from each school with the use of purposive random sampling technique. The instrument used in generating data for the study was closed-ended questionnaire. The questionnaire was validated by the esearcher’s supervisor and two other experts in measurement and evaluation.

This study investigates the increasing developments in building and woodworking
technologies, with an emphasis on how they affect Nigeria's construction industry and
technical education system. Using a descriptive survey research approach, data was
obtained from 120 industrial technical education students using a standardized questionnaire. The findings highlighted major trends, such as the use of computer-aided
design (CAD) tools and advanced woodworking machines, as well as a pressing need for
skills and expertise to keep up with these technological improvements. The study also
found weaknesses in the present curriculum, emphasizing its inadequacy in meeting industrial demands. These findings highlight the necessity of integrating technical education with technological improvements to increase worker preparation and stimulate
innovation in the construction industry.

Malaria is a major public health challenge worldwide with high morbidity and mortality. For prompt and accurate diagnosis, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends
rapid diagnostic test (RDT) as good alternative method for malaria diagnosis in sub- Sahara Africa prior to drug administration and treatment. Malaria RDTs are commercially
available test kits and majority detects Plasmodium falciparum Histidine-rich protein-2
(PfHRP2 gene) as the target antigen. The WHO then recommends that PfHRP2 gene
deletion must be monitored, especially in Africa. The aim of this study was to determine
PfHRP2 gene deletion in blood samples of malaria parasitaemic patients in Kaduna
metropolis. The Study was carried out using microscopy, PCR and RDT. All RDT- negative samples were further subjected to microscopy and molecular analysis (PCR) for
malaria parasite speciation and PfHRP2 gene and deletion. Of the 1196 samples analysed, 694 were negative and 502 were positive by RDT. Of the RDT negatives, 83 samples
were found to be microscopically positive, the 78 samples were for Plasmodium
falciparum species and 5 non-falciparum species (2P. Vivax, 2P. malariae, 1P. falciparum/Vivax). These 83 samples were further subjected NM-PCR and were equally
found positive for malaria, hence classified as RDT false–negatives. Statistical analysis
for frequencies and confidence intervals (Cl) was used for prevalence estimates. Associations were assessed by chi square test. The level of significance was set at P<0.05. The significance package used was Minitab 22.1. From the 83 samples identified as RDTfalse negative by PCR; 69 (5.8%) 95% Cl 4.6-7.0), had gene deletion both in PfHRP2
and PfHRP3, 4 samples (0.33%) 95% CI - 0.94-1.54) had deletion only in PfHRP2 but
not in PfHRP3 and 5 samples (0.42%) 95% CI-0.84-1.64) had deletion in PfHRP3 but not
in PfHRP2. With particular interest and considering PfHRP2 gene only within the total of
1196 samples 73(6.1%) 95% 4.76- 7.44) had evidence of deletion. This study provides
evidence of PfHRP2 gene deletion in Plasmodium falciparum in Kaduna and PfHRP2
deletion was detected in the 73 samples analysed. This surveillance study also discovered
that there is no significant difference (p<0.001) in Plasma level of CRP, IFN- and IL-6 of
blood samples of participants with intact PfHRP2 gene and those with PfHRP2 gene
deletion. It is, therefore, highly recommended that more surveillance studies across
different geographical zone of the country be carried out to determine the full extent of
PfHRP2 deletion frequencies. It also recommended that routine RDT kit contain
additional PfHRP3 antigen, to improve the RDT efficacy and provide broad spectrum of
diagnosis

This study evaluates the microbial contamination in raw meat across four various open
market in benin city. Inadequate meat handling and contamination lead to spoilage, waste and reduced shelf life, which negatively affect both producers and vendors. Meat vendors often do not have access to refrigeration, and meat is displayed in unsanitary conditions, making it susceptible to microbial growth. The lack of cold chain infrastructure, where meat products are transported and stored at proper temperatures, exacerbates the situation. In Addition, foodborne illness outbreaks can result in costly hospitalizations, legal liabilities, and loss of consumer trust in the meat supply chain (Wagener et al., 2020). In Benin City, improving microbial detection and control measures would not only enhance public health but also boost the economic sustainability of the local meat industry. As a result, meat often remains at temperatures favorable to bacterial growth for extended periods, leading to foodborne disease outbreaks (Bokhari et al., 2021). In Benin City, as in many Nigerian cities, there is a notable lack of proper monitoring and regulation of food safety standards, making it difficult to address these issues effectively. The slaughtering process often takes place in poorly regulated slaughterhouses where hygiene and sanitation practices are inadequate. According to a study by Akinmoladun et al., (2020), many slaughterhouses in Edo State lack proper waste disposal systems, hygienic facilities, and pest control measures, which create an environment conducive to microbial growth. Slaughtered meat is often exposed to contamination from unclean surfaces, utensils, and equipment. Moreover, there is often a lack of adequate training in food safety practices for slaughterhouse workers, resulting in improper handling and processing of meat (Ajayi et al., 2020). The contamination of meat is not limited to slaughterhouses. In Benin City’s open-air markets, where meat is sold directly to consumers, poor handling practices and improper storage conditions further contribute to microbial contamination. Meat vendors often do not have access to refrigeration, and meat is displayed in unsanitary conditions, making it susceptible to microbial growth. The lack of cold chain infrastructure, where meat products are transported and stored at proper temperatures, exacerbates the situation. As a result, meat often remains at temperatures favorable to bacterial growth for extended periods, leading to foodborne disease outbreaks (Bokhari et al., 2021). In Benin City, as in many Nigerian cities, there is a notable lack of proper monitoring and regulation of food safety standards, making it
difficult to address these issues effectively.

Substance abuse among youths has become a pressing public health concern in Nigeria. Despite numerous interventions, the prevalence of substance use continues to rise, contributing to a host of health, social, and economic problems.The purpose of this research is to establish the effectiveness of peer support programs in addressing substance abuse among youth in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The study's objectives are to identify the major types of peer support programs available for youths in Benin City, Edo State, examine the nature and scope of peer support programs targeted at addressing substance abuse among youths in Benin City, Edo State, assess the impact of peer support programs on reducing substance abuse among youths in Benin City, Edo State, investigate the challenges affecting the implementation and effectiveness of peer support programs in addressing youth substance abuse in Benin City, Edo State, propose possible
solutions that can enhance the effectiveness of peer support programs in reducing substance abuse among youths in Benin City, Edo State.The sample of 100 males and females was selected by purposely sampling technique with an equal number (50 males and 50 females). The instrument of study was questionnaire, during data analysis, quantitative data obtained from questionnaires were analyzed by the use of frequency tables, and percentages. The major findings were that many youths agreed that peer support programs exist and are helpful, although a good number still felt that the programs are not fully available to everyone. This means that while peer support opportunities are present, their reach and accessibility may not be the same across all areas. Another finding revealed hat peer support programs for substance abuse are mostly run by NGOs and community groups rather than the government. They are often shortterm, lack a clear structure, and focus more on emotional and social support than on professional
rehabilitation. Even with these limitations, most respondents agreed that the programs help youths reduce or avoid substance abuse, increase awareness about its dangers, and reduce drugrelated behaviors.

The study examined the impact of forest degradation on rural livelihoods in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria, with specific attention to the
economic implications of declining forest resources and the adaptive responses of forest- dependent households. The objectives were to; determine the average household income derived from non-timber forest products (NTFPs) between 2000 and 2025; assess trends
in forest resource supply and availability; identify major causes of forest degradation, and
evaluate its impacts on livelihood activities and coping strategies among forest-adjacent
communities. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered
to 200 respondents across ten purposively selected villages surrounding the Ehor Forest
Reserve. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, and Analysis of Variance
(ANOVA) to identify patterns of change in income, resource availability, and degradation intensity over time. The findings revealed a progressive increase in household income from NTFPs between 2000 and 2025, suggesting that forest-based economic activities have remained central to rural livelihoods despite increasing environmental pressure. ANOVA results showed a statistically significant variation (F = 2118.295; p < 0.05) in mean annual income across the study years, indicating shifts in forest resource dependence and commercialization. However, evidence of declining forest resource supply was observed, with only 8.5% of respondents reporting abundant forest products after 2020 compared to over 79% in the early 2000s. The study identified illegal logging (98.5%), increased community use (87.5%), and weak enforcement of forest laws (69.5%) as primary drivers of degradation. Furthermore, the availability of trees (99%), firewood (98%), and medicinal plants (93%) showed severe depletion, reflecting a substantial loss of ecological assets. Nearly all respondents (97%) confirmed a regular increase in forest degradation, while environmental problems (65%) and health-related challenges (22.5%) were identified as major consequences

This research study examined the market women association and trading activities
in Benin city Benin was known to the Europeans as early as the second half of the
fifteenth century. It remained independent until the punitive expedition of 1897. Through early trading contacts with various European nations, the stiff resistance to later European encroachment, and through the discovery of the exquisite pieces
of artwork, Benin art became widely known throughout the world. The development
of markets in Benin has involved a transition from traditional, informal system to
more formal and organized structures. While traditional markets remain important, there has been a transformation for greater efficiency and integration with the broader economy, including the use of technology. Benin has a rich history of vibrant traditional markets such as Oba Market and New Benin Market, Ediaken Market, which are crucial for local trade and supply.Women are known to be large economic participators in Markets majorly as traders. In Nigeria this setting has being since the precolonial times. This role has been evident in different markets around the world and Nigeria is included. Such market includes different market in Benin city Oliha market, Oba market, Sant

The study investigated the influence of Laboratory Management on Biology
students’ Learning Outcomes in Secondary Schools in Ovia North East Local
Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. The research specifically examined how the
adequacy and organization of laboratory facilities influenced students’ learning outcomes, determined the extent to which the availability and proper management of laboratory materials and equipment affected performance in Biology practicals, assessed the impact of the frequency and quality of laboratory-based instruction on understanding key Biology concepts, and investigated the relationship between teachers’ laboratory
management practices and students’ overall achievement in Biology. The descriptive
survey design was employed, targeting all Biology teachers and senior secondary school
students in public secondary schools in the area. A sample of 50 Biology teachers and
150 students was selected from 10 public secondary schools using simple random
sampling for schools and stratified sampling for participants within schools. Data were
collected using a validated and reliable structured questionnaire.The instrument, comprising demographic details and 20 Likert-scale items, underwent expert validation
and Cronbach Alpha reliability testing (above 0.70) via a pilot study. The data were
analyzed using descriptive statistics such as , mean scores and standard deviations with
SPSS software. The study revealed that adequate, organized laboratory facilities positively
influenced Biology students' learning outcomes, with well-equipped labs (benches, storage, ventilation, lighting, sinks) enhancing practical engagement, safety, and conceptual understanding. Availability and proper management of materials like microscopes, dissecting kits, Bunsen burners, pipettes, and balances significantly boosted practical performance, fostering competence and precision. Frequent, high-quality lab instruction (thrice-weekly) improved conceptual understanding, retention, and mastery over infrequent sessions. Teachers’ lab management practices showed a moderate positive correlation with overall achievement, rejecting the null hypothesis. Based on these findings, it was recommended that the Ministry of Education increase funding for lab facilities (benches, storage, ventilation, lighting, sinks) to enhance learning outcomes and address inadequacies. School Principals should enforce maintenance for equipment like microscopes and burners to sustain practical proficiency. Biology Teachers must hold sessions thrice-weekly with quality instruction for better retention. Teacher Training Institutions should embed advanced management practices in
programs to maintain achievement gains amid resource barriers.

This study examines the role of oral literature in preserving cultural heritage among students of Oredo Girls College, Benin City, Edo State. The research was guided by three questions focusing on the genres of oral literature used in the school, the roles these forms play in cultural preservation, and the challenges affecting their sustainability. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, with a population of 750 students from which 100 respondents were selected using simple random sampling. A structured questionnaire served as the primary instrument for data collection, and the data were analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Findings revealed that genres such as storytelling, folktales, proverbs, traditional songs, myths, and legends are actively used within the school environment to promote cultural continuity. The study further showed that oral literature strengthens students’ connection to their cultural roots, enhances understanding of societal values, shapes cultural identity, reinforces moral development, and helps preserve indigenous languages. The study concludes that oral literature remains an essential tool for transmitting cultural heritage, but its effectiveness depends on deliberate educational and community efforts. It recommends curriculum integration, teacher training, cultural clubs, and school-community partnerships to sustain and promote
oral traditions among students.