DEVELOPMENT

DEVELOPMENT, ORGANOLEPTIC CHARACTERISTICS, AND PROXIMATE COMPOSITION OF INDIGENOUS SMOKED BEEF SAUSAGE IN NIGERIA

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
This study explored the development, sensory qualities, and nutritional composition of indigenous smoked beef sausages made with Iru (fermented locust beans) and Evbharie (fermented melon) as natural flavoring agents. The research aimed to evaluate the effect of these local condiments on the sensory characteristics and proximate composition of beef sausage, serving as substitutes for common synthetic additives such as sugar and nitrite. Fresh beef (2.3 kg) was procured from New Benin Market, Benin City, Nigeria, and processed in the Food Science and Technology Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin. The meat was washed, minced, and divided into ten treatments with varying levels of Iru and Evbharie: T1 (1% Iru), T2 (2% Iru), T3 (3% Iru), T4 (1% Iru + 0.5% Evbharie), T5 (0.5% Iru + 1% Evbharie), T6 (1%Iru + 1% Evbharie), T7 (1% Evbharie), T8 (2% Evbharie), T9 (3% Evbharie), and T10 (control with sugar, salt, pepper, garlic, onion, ginger, and thyme). Goat intestines served as casings, preserved in saline solution, and the sausages were smoked for about one hour to produce intermediate-moisture meat. A sensory evaluation was conducted with thirty semi-trained panelists using a five-point hedonic scale (5 = Excellent, 1 = Poor). Attributes assessed were appearance, aroma, flavor, texture, juiciness, and overall acceptability. Proximate composition was analyzed according to AOAC (2019) methods to determine moisture, protein, fat, ash, and crude fiber contents. Results showed that the inclusion of Iru and Evbharie affected the sensory properties of the smoked beef sausage. Samples containing both condiments were generally preferred, with Treatment 6 (1% Iru + 1% Evbharie) achieving the highest appearance (22 votes) and aroma (15 votes). The control (T10) scored best in flavor (26 votes), texture (25 votes), juiciness (27 votes), and overall acceptability (29 votes). Although traditional condiments produced unique flavor 11 and aroma profiles, consumers still showed familiarity-based preference for the conventional seasoning. Proximate analysis indicated that sausages containing Iru had slightly higher protein values due to its leguminous origin, while Evbharie contributed to higher fat and fiber content. Moisture levels were moderate, confirming the sausages as intermediate-moisture meat products with good storage potential. The exclusion of nitrite eliminated cured color formation but improved the natural safety profile of the sausage. In conclusion, the study established that Iru and Evbharie can be successfully used as indigenous seasonings in sausage production without significantly compromising nutritional or sensory quality. Among all treatments, T6 (1% Iru +1% Evbharie) offered the most balanced attributes. This research provides insight into the potential of local condiments as natural, health-conscious alternatives to chemical additives, supporting the development of culturally acceptable and nutritionally rich meat products. It further emphasizes the value of integrating indigenous food resources into Nigeria’s modern meat processing industry for
sustainable product innovation.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

DEVELOPMENT OF AN AI POWERED CHATBOT FOR MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
The rising prevalence of mental health challenges globally, coupled with limited access to timely psychological support, has highlighted the need for innovative technological solutions. This study focuses on the development of an AI-powered chatbot designed to provide mental health support by offering real-time, accessible, and personalized interactions to users experiencing stress, anxiety, or depressive symptoms. The research involved designing and implementing a conversational agent capable of understanding natural language inputs, delivering evidence-based interventions, and directing users to professional help when necessary. A prototype system was developed using machine learning and natural language processing techniques, with performance evaluated through user engagement, response accuracy, and perceived helpfulness. Findings indicate that AI-powered chatbots can serve as a supplementary tool for mental health support, offering continuous availability and reducing barriers to care. The study underscores the potential of integrating artificial intelligence into mental health services, providing an accessible platform for early intervention and emotional assistance.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

STUDENTS’ PERCEPTION OF THE BENEFITS OF ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT STUDY TOWARDS SELF RELIANCE: A CASE STUDY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
Entrepreneurial development study in the University of Benin is
one mandatory course encouraged by the federal government
to be taught in universities in order to inculcate in graduates
skills for self reliance. Entrepreneurial programme is therefore
seen as an important tool in reducing unemployment amongst
university graduates. Therefore this study was designed to
examine Students Perception of the Benefit of Entrepreneurial
Development Study Towards Self Reliance in the University of
Benin. The sample population consists of 110 students who
have experienced entrepreneurial study. Data were collected
through the use of well structured self-administered
questionnaires designed to illicit information from the students. The study has positive benefits because it impacts and equips
the students with entrepreneurial, managerial, and business
development skills. In conclusion, the course helps to build
entrepreneurs who are likely to become engaged in small and
medium scale enterprise which would ultimately lead to the
economic development of Nigeria. it is then encourage that all
higher institutions in the federation should embrace entrepreneurial development course into their curriculum. Furthermore, the research study recommends amongst other things that the centre for entrepreneurial development should set-up information centre which would enlighten and educate the students about the benefit in taking interest in the programme. workshop and seminars should be organized for seasoned entrepreneurs to mentor the student.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

DEVELOPMENT OF TIME AND DEPTH STRUCTURAL MAPS FOR THE ANYI FIELD D5000 RESERVOIR IN STATIC MODELLING

Author(s)
Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Anyi field's seismic volume in order to provide the best structural frameworks for the D5000 reservoirs, which would be utilized to create precise static models. Using fault representations and depth-converted surface maps, the reservoir's structural model was built. There are two main East-West oriented faults that define the reservoir's structural structure. The Amosi growth fault borders it to the north, while the Klin boundary fault borders it to the south. It is structurally an elongated rollover anticline that is oriented east-west. Channels and shorefaces make up the majority of the reservoir. The data was revalidated and quality-checked, and a thorough literature study was carried out. A MADCOW bandpass filter was used to reduce both coherent and random noise in the seismic data. Well-toseismic calibration was then performed utilizing Anyi-001's sonic log. They interpreted the fault and horizon. Checkshots from Anyi-006, from which the time and depth map was constructed, were used to simulate velocity. Amplitude extraction was then used to improve seismic visualization and find characteristics or anomalies associated with reservoir characteristics, including fluid connections, channels, fractures, and changes in porosity. The results of this investigation indicate that the D5000 reservoir has a limited potential for hydrocarbon recovery and accumulation in the Anyifield (Anyi-006) but a high potential in the Okoko field (Okoko-001). In order to maximize gas recovery from this significant reservoir, the results provide a better knowledge of the stratigraphic disposition of the reservoir, which will aid in better interpretation, lower drilling risk, and well-informed economic decisions. Additionally, this study's results confirm that seismic interpretation, velocity modeling, and attribute analysis techniques are trustworthy and efficient means of evaluating the Niger Delta's reservoir features and volumetric analysis
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF ETSAKO-EAST IN THE 21st CENTURY

Faculty
Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
Introduction
The Chinese saying that “women hold up half the sky” is not an over-exaggeration. Women are the bedrock of the development of any nation. Throughout human history, women played vital roles in their nation’s development. Women's economic empowerment is particularly important in developing countries, where women often face barriers to accessing financial resources, markets, and employment opportunities. When women are economically empowered, they are better able to support themselves and their families, bringing positive impacts on their communities and the economy as a whole. Another important aspect in which women’s participation has contributed immensely to the growth of a community or a nation is through their political representation . Nigerian women are a diverse group of individuals who have a wide range of experiences and backgrounds. They are mothers, daughters, sisters, wives, entrepreneurs, professionals, and activists. They played very vital roles in pre-colonial and colonial times and also contributed significantly towards the fight for Nigeria’s independence. They also helped in checking the excesses of the colonial administration in 1924 through the popularly known protest as the Aba Women's Riot where they protested against the forceful introduction of taxation in Eastern Nigeria . Great women like Mrs. Ranson Kuti, Mrs. Margaret Ekpo, and Elizabeth Adeyemi Adekogbe played prominent roles in the independence of Nigeria. Not forgetting the fact that the famous Empire of Zauzzau (Zaria) flourished under Queen Amina, Ile-Ife under Molemi, and Benin under Emotan.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

RELEVANCE OF MATHEMATICS EDUCATION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ENTREPRENEURIAL SKILLS IN SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS

Year of Publication
upload
Publication Type
Abstract
The purpose of this research was to examine how middle and high school students in the Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State might benefit from maths classes in order to hone their entrepreneurial abilities. In the Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, two hundred and fifty (250) pupils were chosen at random from one public school and four private institutions. A total of twenty-five (25) questionnaire items were developed to address the five (5) research topics that were posed to direct the study. A questionnaire titled "The relevance of Mathematics education in the development of entrepreneurial skills in senior secondary schools" was utilised as the research instrument for the study. The data collected was analysed using the following statistical methods: frequency count, mean, standard deviation, and t-test. Out of the 250 copies issued, 247 questionnaires were returned. According to the research, students in senior secondary schools can benefit from developing their entrepreneurial skills through exposure to mathematics. Mathematical concepts such as basic operations (+, -, ÷, Ï), ratio and proportion calculations, interest (simple and compound), profit and loss, discount and commission, percentages and fractions, and the ability to organise business activities and time, estimate production costs, and solve everyday problems related to business transactions are all part of this curriculum. The results supported the need for regular and comprehensive math education across all grade levels; moreover, it was determined that students would benefit greatly from having access to experienced math educators who could guide them in developing the problem-solving and managerial abilities essential to entrepreneurship.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor