RISK ASSESSMENT

In the digital era, the role of non-technical users in ensuring cybersecurity has become increasingly critical. This research project delves into the multifaceted domain of enhancing cybersecurity awareness among individuals without technical backgrounds. The primary objective is to conduct a comprehensive study that evaluates the current state of cybersecurity awareness among non-technical users and proposes effective strategies for improvement. The study will adopt a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys, interviews, and behavioral observations to assess the existing level of cybersecurity awareness among the target demographic. Special attention will be given to understanding common misconceptions, areas of vulnerability, and the impact of individual behaviors on overall cybersecurity posture. Furthermore, the research will explore the efficacy of various educational interventions, including workshops, training modules, and awareness campaigns, in enhancing cybersecurity knowledge and practices among non-technical users. The project aims to identify the most effective methods for imparting cybersecurity concepts in an accessible and engaging manner. The anticipated outcome of this research is a set of evidence-based recommendations for organizations and educational institutions to design and implement tailored cybersecurity awareness programs. By bridging the gap between technical intricacies and everyday user experiences, this study seeks to contribute to a safer digital environment for all individuals, regardless of their technical expertise

Groundwater serves as a vital source of drinking water for millions worldwide, particularly in regions with limited access to treated surface water. However, its quality is increasingly compromised by contamination from heavy metals (HMs), which originate from both geogenic and anthropogenic sources. These metals pose significant non-carcinogenic health risks due to their persistence, bioaccumulation, and toxicity even at trace concentrations. This study evaluates the non-carcinogenic health risks associated with the ingestion of groundwater contaminated by heavy metals in the selected study area. Concentrations of key heavy metals including arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) were determined using standard analytical techniques. Spatial distribution patterns were analyzed to identify contamination hotspots. Health risk assessments were conducted for both children and adults using established models that calculate hazard quotients (HQ) and hazard indices (HI). The findings reveal varying degrees of exposure risk across age groups and sampling locations, underscoring the urgent need for targeted public health interventions and sustainable groundwater management strategies. This research contributes valuable data to environmental health science and supports policy development aimed at mitigating heavy metal exposure through ingestion pathways.

Mooring systems remain one of the most critical safety components in marine operations, yet failures continue to occur across ports and offshore environments. These failures often lead to equipment damage, operational disruptions, and, in severe cases, loss of life. This study investigates the major causes of mooring system failures and evaluates the associated risks, with a particular focus on mooring practices in port environments. The research combines a detailed review of mooring system fundamentals with an assessment of human, environmental, and equipment-related factors that influence failure. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain first-hand information from marine professionals, and the responses were analysed using the Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) technique. The findings reveal that human error, inadequate inspection routines, worn mooring lines, and environmental forces such as strong winds and currents are leading contributors to mooring failures. Several failure modes were identified, but the highest Risk Priority Numbers (RPNs) were associated with poor maintenance culture, deviation from safety procedures, and the use of degraded lines. These areas represent the most urgent risks requiring intervention. The study also highlights gaps in compliance with standard mooring system management practices, including inconsistent adherence to the Mooring System Management Plan (MSMP). Based on the results, the research recommends stricter enforcement of mooring safety procedures, regular condition onitoring of mooring equipment, improved crew training, and the adoption of structured risk-assessment tools such as FMEA during operations. Strengthening these areas will significantly reduce the likelihood of failures and enhance the overall safety and reliability of mooring operations in Nigerian port environments.