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This study investigated the hydrogeological evaluation of borehole water contamination near a
solid waste dumpsite in Iyowa, Benin City, Nigeria. The aim was to assess how dumpsite
leachate affects groundwater quality by examining physicochemical, microbiological, and heavy
metal parameters. Five borehole samples were collected at varying elevations and distances
around the dumpsite (coordinates: 6°27′29″N–6°27′44″N, 5°36′10″E–5°36′37″E) using GPS
mapping and WHO-recommended sampling procedures. Laboratory analyses covered pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, nitrate, sulphate, phosphate, and selected metals (Pb, Fe, Cr, Zn) determined by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry
(AAS), alongside microbial tests for total coliforms and E. coli. The results (Tables 4.1–4.3, Figures 1–2) showed acidic groundwater (pH 5.19–6.14) below WHO limits (6.5–8.5), with low
alkalinity (4–6 mg/L) and elevated metal concentrations: Pb (0.106–0.428 mg/L), Fe (2.98–7.51
mg/L), and Cr (0.37–3.87 mg/L), all exceeding the permissible limits of 0.01, 0.3, and 0.05 mg/L
respectively. Potassium spiked at 55.8 mg/L in the borehole closest to the dumpsite (Sample 2), indicating direct leachate influence. Microbial tests showed absence of coliforms and E. coli, but
minor heterotrophic bacteria (1 CFU/mL). Overall, the acidic and metal-enriched groundwater
reveals significant leachate intrusion linked to dumpsite proximity, making the borehole water
unsafe for domestic consumption without treatment. The findings highlight the need for
controlled waste disposal, borehole siting regulation, and continuous groundwater monitoring in
Iyowa

This study empirically analyzes the impacts of public debt on manufacturing capacity in Nigeria. The broad objective of this study is to empirically analyze the impacts of public debt on manufacturing capacity in Nigeria. The Ordinary Least Squares method was adopted to analyze the relationship between public debt and manufacturing capacity, private sector loan, Gross Domestic Product, consumption expenditure and interest rate. Secondary data which spans from 1981 to 2024, sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria statistical bulletin for real sector, public sector and World Development Index, was extracted and utilized for empirical analysis. Some forms of pre-estimation tests were carried out in order to obtain satisfactory results. Such tests are the unit root test: test for stationarity, the co-integration test which tests for long run equilibrium relation between the variables of interest of this study. This study seeks to discover the effect of public debt on manufacturing capacity in Nigeria. Therefore, in conclusion public debt positively impacts on manufacturing capacity in Nigeria and it is significant, private sector loan has a significant positive impact on manufacturing capacity, Gross Domestic Product has a significant positive impact on the manufacturing capacity however both consumption expenditure and interest rate have negative impact on manufacturing capacity. Haven discovered from this study the significant positive impact of public on manufacturing capacity in Nigeria, it is therefore recommended that: The federal government should ensure that enough capital is available for the manufacturing sector given the importance of the manufacturing sector to the Nigerian economy. The monetary authority should ensure that the level of interest rate (cost of capital) does not discourage domestic manufacturing industries that need capital from both the money market and the capital market for investment purpose

Sphenocentrum jollyanum is a member of the diverse family of plants which is known as Menispermaceae. It is a perennial plant which thrives in deep shade, from sea-level up to 400m altitude. Extract of this plant has been successfully used as anti-diabetic,anti-bacterial, and antioxidant agents. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of methanol leaf extract of Sphenocentrum jollyanum on biochemical (liver, kidney), antioxidant, hormonal and histopathological parameters of male Wistar rats. A total of twenty-five male Wistar rats were used for this study and equally distributed into five groups. Group 1 served as control, while other groups were the test groups. Group 2 received 0.7mg/kg of sildenafil citrate, Group 3, 4 and 5 received graded doses of 100mg/kg, 200mg/kg, and 500mg/kg body weight of methanol leaf extract of Sphenocentrum jollyanum respectively. Prior to the commencement of the study, the animals were acclimatized for two weeks. The extract was orally administered to the rats, and after twenty-eight days, the rats were sacrificed, and biochemical and histopathological assays were carried out. Results from this study showed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) activity in the group that received 100mg/kg and 500mg/kg body weight of the extract respectively, when compared to that of the control group. There was also a significant increase (P < 0.05) in albumin and total protein concentration in the 500mg/kg body weight test group, compared to that of control. The study also showed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in total sperm cell count in the group administered 0.7mg/kg of sildenafil citrate, compared to that of the control group. There was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) in the 100mg/kg body weight test group, compared to the control group. There was a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in creatinine concentration in the 200mg/kg, 500mg/kg body weight, and the group that received 0.7mg/kg of sildenafil citrate, compared to the control group. Histopathological findings from this study showed a normal testes and prostate gland. The methanol leafe extract of Sphenocentrum jollyanum also showed a high reducing power during Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay when compared to standard ascorbic acid.

Fine aggregates used in concreting works posses different properties, thus affecting concrete quality and durability.. However, it was observed from previous literatures that these properties variation could adversely affect the performance of freshly mixed and hardened concrete, in terms of workability and strength. The aim of this study was to access the properties of fine aggregates sold at different locations in the Benin city by investigating their performance on concrete in both the fresh and hardened state. Concreting materials were procured from four different locations in Edo state namely; Okwae, Okun, Idugbo and Ovia areas of Edo state. Samples are to be labelled according to their locations. Experimental investigations were carried out to approved standards to produce fresh and hardened concrete. Slump and compressive tests was performed on all samples from the four different vendors at the end of 7, 14 and 28days respectively. Concrete prepared with constituents from the Okwae area, yielded favorable slump of 60.82mm and compressive strength of 13.72N/mm2 , thus proving its application in lightweight concreting works. However, concreting constituents from the Ovia area yielded slump value of 71mm and compressive strength of 11.92N/mm2 , proving its viability for use in plain concreting where strength is not the prevailing requirement. Concreting constituents from Idugbo and Okun yielded unfavorable values. The variations in the properties of concrete for all four vendors has no adverse effects on mix design calculations, only if the concrete would be used in light weight application. To ensure safety and economy in reinforced concrete construction, adequate quality control measures should be applied

Despite wide-spread reports of electoral frauds and irregularities in Nigeria, proving same remains a major challenge in Nigerian courts. This study explores the barriers to effectively proving electoral malpractices within the Nigerian political and legal systems. It investigates the institutional, legal, political, and socio-cultural obstacles that hinder the collation, presentation and acceptance of credible evidence in resolution of electoral disputes. The core problem lies in the systemic challenges that make it very difficult for petitioners to provide sufficient evidence to meet the high evidentiary burden required by election tribunals and courts. This research aims to identify and analyze these specific barriers, including procedural obstacles, institutional challenges, and socio-political factors, to understand the barriers to proving electoral malpractices. The methodology adopted for the study is the doctrinal method of research. In doing this, the study examined primary and secondary data which was obtained from scholarly articles, reports of election observer missions, judicial case, and official publications from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The methodology was further developed through a thematic analysis approach, which allowed for a detailed examination of recurring challenges such as evidentiary limitations, influence on electoral tribunals, and the inadequacies of existing legal and institutional frameworks. Findings from the study reveal that the barriers to proving electoral malpractices in Nigeria are multi-dimensional. Legal barriers, such as strict evidentiary requirements and short timelines for litigation, create significant obstacles for petitioners. Institutional challenges, including poorly funded and poorly trained investigative bodies, which further limit the ability to gather credible evidence. Politically, widespread corruption, intimidation, and lack of judicial independence worsen the problem, making it extremely difficult for victims of electoral fraud to obtain justice. The study also identifies key issues such as limited access to reliable evidence, intimidation of witnesses, delays in judicial processes, lack of technological infrastructure, and political interference in legal proceedings as barriers to proving electoral malpractices before the courts in Nigeria. The findings suggest that these barriers not only undermine public trust in the electoral process but also weaken democratic accountability. The study concludes by recommending reforms aimed at strengthening the legal framework, improving evidence-gathering mechanisms, and enhancing the independence of electoral and judicial institutions in Nigeria.

This study examined the Impact of Social Media on Drugs Usage among Youth: A Case Study of Upper Sakponba in Nigeria. The study sampled 395 respondents in Upper Sakponba, Benin City and was anchored on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Social Learning theories. The findings revealed that drugs usage among youth in Upper Sakponba, Benin City, Nigeria, is significantly correlated with social media, with Instagram serving as the main platform for drug-related content. The results show that easy access to drugs and cultural normalisation are major contributors to drug abuse, along with poverty, unemployment, peer pressure and a lack of parental guidance. The study further suggests that focused social media interventions, ethical influencer marketing, digital literacy courses and community-based projects. Stakeholders can encourage healthy lifestyles, offer counseling services and lower youth drug abuse by utilising social media platforms

Despite wide-spread reports of electoral frauds and irregularities in Nigeria, proving same remains a major challenge in Nigerian courts. This study explores the barriers to effectively proving electoral malpractices within the Nigerian political and legal systems. It investigates the institutional, legal, political, and socio-cultural obstacles that hinder the collation, presentation and acceptance of credible evidence in resolution of electoral disputes. The core problem lies in the systemic challenges that make it very difficult for petitioners to provide sufficient evidence to meet the high evidentiary burden required by election tribunals and courts. This research aims to identify and analyze these specific barriers, including procedural obstacles, institutional challenges, and socio-political factors, to understand the barriers to proving electoral malpractices. The methodology adopted for the study is the doctrinal method of research. In doing this, the study examined primary and secondary data which was obtained from scholarly articles, reports of election observer missions, judicial case, and official publications from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The methodology was further developed through a thematic analysis approach, which allowed for a detailed examination of recurring challenges such as evidentiary limitations, influence on electoral tribunals, and the inadequacies of existing legal and institutional frameworks. Findings from the study reveal that the barriers to proving electoral malpractices in Nigeria are multi-dimensional. Legal barriers, such as strict evidentiary requirements and short timelines for litigation, create significant obstacles for petitioners. Institutional challenges, including poorly funded and poorly trained investigative bodies, which further limit the ability to gather credible evidence. Politically, widespread corruption, intimidation, and lack of judicial independence worsen the problem, making it extremely difficult for victims of electoral fraud to obtain justice. The study also identifies key issues such as limited access to reliable evidence, intimidation of witnesses, delays in judicial processes, lack of technological infrastructure, and political interference in legal proceedings as barriers to proving electoral malpractices before the courts in Nigeria. The findings suggest that these barriers not only undermine public trust in the electoral process but also weaken democratic accountability. The study concludes by recommending reforms aimed at strengthening the legal framework, improving evidence-gathering mechanisms, and enhancing the independence of electoral and judicial institutions in Nigeria.

This study examined the degree of application of the Culturo-Techno-Contextual Approach (CTCA) in the teaching of Biology among Biology teachers in public senior secondary schools within Egor Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. The study sought to determine teachers’ level of awareness of CTCA, examine the extent to which they integrate cultural, technological, and contextual elements in Biology instruction, and identify the challenges affecting its implementation. The research adopted a descriptive survey design. The population of the study consisted of all Biology teachers in public senior secondary schools within Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. A census survey was used, and all 17 Biology teachers in Egor Local Government Area formed the sample for the study. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire designed on a four-point Likert scale, ranging from Strongly Agree (4) to Strongly Disagree (1). The questionnaire comprised Sections A, B, C, and D, making a total of 19 items. Section A elicited demographic information from the respondents, while Sections B, C, and D contained five items each. The instrument was administered and retrieved on the spot. The data collected were analyzed using frequencies and simple percentages to provide a clear understanding of the responses and to enable meaningful interpretation. Findings showed that Biology teachers in public senior secondary schools within Egor Local Government Area of Edo State are familiar with the concept of CTCA, but they lack formal training on its practical application in the classroom. The study further revealed that the degree of integration of CTCA principles in Biology teaching is modest but not extensive. Additionally, several challenges were identified as limiting the full implementation of CTCA, including inadequate training opportunities, poor access to technological facilities, and language barriers. The study concluded that the Culturo- Techno-Contextual Approach is yet to be fully understood and effectively implemented by Biology teachers in senior secondary schools. It recommended regular CTCA training for 9 teachers through workshops and seminars organized by the Ministry of Education in Faculty of Education of Universities. The study also emphasized the need for better technological resources in schools to support CTCA implementation and encouraged curriculum planners to revise the Biology curriculum to allow greater cultural and contextual flexibility in teaching.

This study was set out to determine the impact of Diversity and Inclusion, and Employee productivity. The specific focus include to examine the impact of demographics, Inclusion strategies, and pay equity on employee productivity. Also, there was the need to unveil the challenges of workplace diversity and inclusion. The survey research design was employed with a total population size of 100 and a sample size of 44. The primary instrument used for data collection in this study was a structured questionnaire designed to obtain relevant information from transport staff regarding diversity, inclusion, and employee productivity. Both descriptive and inferential statistic were employed in analysing the data. The study found that there is a positive and significant relationship between demographic factors, inclusion strategies, and pay equity and employee productivity.

This study examined the Prevalence of Social Anxiety among Secondary School Students: Implications for Counselling, four research questions were raise guide this study. The population for this study comprised of all 4,027 students enrolled in the 20 public junior secondary schools in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. A total of 100 students constituted the sample size for this study. Using the simple random sampling technique, through balloting with replacement, five (5) students were randomly selected from each of the 20 public junior secondary schools within the local government area. This sampling method ensured that every student had an equal chance of being selected, thereby promoting fairness and reducing sampling bias. The major findings of the study are summarized as follows: Social anxiety is prevalent among secondary school students in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. Students who experience social anxiety often display low academic performance, as fear of judgment and embarrassment hinders active classroom participation and learning. Peer relationships are negatively affected, as socially anxious students tend to withdraw, avoid group interactions, and feel socially isolated. Based on the findings and conclusions, the following recommendations were made that counsellors should develop and implement systematic intervention programs, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness training, and social skills development, to help students manage anxiety symptoms effectively.Teachers should be trained to recognize the signs of social anxiety and adopt inclusive teaching practices that encourage participation without intimidation or ridicule.This study examined the Prevalence of Social Anxiety among Secondary School Students: Implications for Counselling, four research questions were raise guide this study. The population for this study comprised of all 4,027 students enrolled in the 20 public junior secondary schools in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. A total of 100 students constituted the sample size for this study. Using the simple random sampling technique, through balloting with replacement, five (5) students were randomly selected from each of the 20 public junior secondary schools within the local government area. This sampling method ensured that every student had an equal chance of being selected, thereby promoting fairness and reducing sampling bias. The major findings of the study are summarized as follows: Social anxiety is prevalent among secondary school students in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. Students who experience social anxiety often display low academic performance, as fear of judgment and embarrassment hinders active classroom participation and learning. Peer relationships are negatively affected, as socially anxious students tend to withdraw, avoid group interactions, and feel socially isolated. Based on the findings and conclusions, the following recommendations were made that counsellors should develop and implement systematic intervention programs, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness training, and social skills development, to help students manage anxiety symptoms effectively.Teachers should be trained to recognize the signs of social anxiety and adopt inclusive teaching practices that encourage participation without intimidation or ridicule.