Savanna-A Journal of the Environmental and Social Sciences
Savanna is an international multidisciplinary peer-reviewed journal of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. It is published quarterly by Ahmadu Bello University Press Limited, Zaria. The Regular Edition of the journal covers current topics on Environmental and Social Sciences which include but not limited to climate science and climate change, regional development and planning, architecture, Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS), resource and environmental management. The journal also publishes timely Special Issues on emerging and topical issues in all aspects of the environment and human societies. The Special Issues consider the latest developments in methodological approaches in the environmnetal science, arts and social science studies.Savanna is published in print and online.
Ahmadu Bello University Press Limited Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Spatial Mapping of Renewable Energy Potentials in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
This study analyzed the renewable energy potentials (solar energy, wind energy and hydropower) in Zaria using Geographic Information system (GIS). Three types of data were used for this study namely; solar radiation data, wind speed data and hydrological data. Twenty two (22) year monthly average of solar radiation and 10 year monthly average of wind speed data (at an altitude of 50m) of each political ward in the study area were obtained from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). These are the available solar radiation and wind speed data on the NASA website. These data were used to map the solar and wind energy potentials in ArcGIS 10.3 software. The hydropower potential was determined by digitizing the water bodies in the study area in ArcGIS environment.Findings revealed that the amount of solar radiation received in the study area ranges from 5.52 to 5.78kWh/m2/day.It was found that the wind speed in the study area ranges from 3.20 to 4.50m/s.Three sites have been identified that can be used for generating hydropower in the study area. These are, Ahmadu Bello University (A.B.U.)/Kubanni dam, Shika dam, and River Galma. It was observed that the solar energy potential in the area is enormous while the wind energy potential is moderate but significant for generating electricity in the area.Also, each of the dams identified in the area has small scale hydropower potentials which can be harnessed to increase the energy supply mix in the area.
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Geospatial Analysis of Solar Energy Potentials in Kaduna State, Nigeria
This study analyzed spatially solar energy potential in Kaduna State with a view to identifying the optimum sites for harnessing solar energy in the area. Geospatial techniques were applied to map solar energy potentials using the ground measured and the satellite solar radiation data of the study area. Specifically, the Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) interpolation was applied to generate the solar radiation map using the Spatial Analyst tool in ArcGIS software. In order to identify solar energy potential sites in the area, the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) of the area was obtained from the Shuttle Radar Topographic Mapper (SRTM) data in ArcGIS environment. Then, the slope and aspect maps of the area were generated from the DEM. Then, the solar radiation map, the DEM, the slope and aspect maps were ranked based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Finally, the solar radiation map, the DEM, the slope and aspect maps were integrated using weighted overlay to produce the map of solar energy potential sites in the area. Based on the satellite data, the minimum and maximum insolation values recorded in Kaduna State were found to be 4.47kWh/m2/day in August and 6.32kWh/m2/day in March/ April respectively. Based on the ground data, the minimum and maximum insolation values recorded in the state were found to be 4.92kWh/m2/day in August and 7.00kWh/m2/day in March respectively. Correlation between the ground and the satellite insolation data was found to be positive.Analysis showed that Kaduna State can be divided into three classes in terms of solar energy potentials namely; areas of very high, high and moderate solar energy potentials, which are spread across the 23 Local Government Areas of the state.The maximum insolation values are found during the months of March, April and May in the study area. Therefore, these are the optimum times for harnessing solar energy in the area.
Geostatistical Approach to Crime Mapping in Kaduna South of Kaduna State, Nigeria
In this study, two geostatistical techniques (Getis-Ord Gi* and Kernel Density) were used to determine the spatial distribution and pattern of crime hotspots in Kaduna South Local Government Area in northwestern Nigeria. In addition, the two geostatistical techniques were compared and used to analyze the spatial pattern of crime in the area. The advantages and disadvantages of the two techniques were highlighted; and appropriate locations for siting new police stations in the area were recommended.
AGeospatial Database for Secondary Schools Facilities in Zaria Education Zone, Kaduna State, Nigeria
The National Policy of Education in Nigeria contends that the success of education for all hinged on proper planning and effective location of school facilities with a data management. This paper focused on the creation of geospatial database for effective management of secondary schools facilities in Zaria Education Zone. The aim of the study was achieved through identification of public secondary schools in the study area by means of mapping using their geographic coordinates. The spatial locations of the schools were complemented with the attribute data of some basic facilities in creation of the geospatial database for the schools. Some attribute data were obtained from Zaria Education Zone verified through administration of checklist to the schools heads and completed during field observation. A satellite image of the study area was obtained using Google pro to derive the maps through digitizing process. Finally, a geospatial database was created with the spatial and attribute data encoded; and analysis carried out using ILWIS 3.3 software. The result of the analysis showed a clustered distribution of schools in Zaria and Sabon-Gari parts of the study area, while it was dispersed in Soba Local Lovernment Area. The database also provides the users with a working environment for data management. It was recommended that more schools, classes, facilities and staff should be provided by government in the deficit areas.
Analysis of Vacant Land Value Variations in Zaria Urban Area, Nigeria
The Zaria urban area in Kaduna State has been a centre for several socioeconomic activities. This has therefore attracted population from far and near. Consequently, the area has witnessed increased demand for land for housing and other purposes, thus, leading to a continuous rise in land value – both over space and time. Using questionnaire administered on estate dealers/agents, this study tried to analyse the spatio-temporal pattern of vacant land value in the area. Findings revealed that lands around areas occupied by the elites, notably the Government Reserve Area (GRA) had higher values than the others, while over time the values have been continuously on the rise, until the period after 2012, when the values went down by an average of -20%, due to the security challenges that bedeviled the area and indeed the country as a whole. It was suggested that the Kaduna State government should start the idea of land banking that would take care of all class or category of people at reasonable rates, so that the housing shortage being witnessed can be ameliorated.
Effects of Coal Mining on Landuse/Landcover in Maiganga, Akko Local Government Area, Gombe State, Nigeria
This study examined the effects of coal mining on landuse/landcover in Maiganga, Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State. Landuse/landcover status of the study area in 2007, 2011 and 2016 was acquired using Landsat Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+) of 2007with a 30 meter spatial resolution; Landsat ETM+ of 2011 with a 30 meter spatial resolution; Landsat 8 image of 2016 with spatial resolution of 28 meters which were obtained from the United States Geological Survey website (February-September, 2016). The datasets were geo-referenced to geographic coordinates. The images were imported into Erdas Imagine 9.2 environment where they were rectified to a common projection (Universal Traverse Mercator). The mining site was subset from each of the larger scenes in Erdas Imagine 9.2 software since the satellite images come in bands and cover large areas. Supervised classification technique was performed using maximum likelihood classification (MLC) algorithm. This technique enabled generation of training classes based on the actual landuse/landcover themes present within the study area and helped in curtailing ambiguity associated with the unsupervised technique of image classification. The result revealed that the dominant landuse type for the period under review (2007-2016) is agricultural (64.65%). Though there is a steady but gradual decrease in percentage - 62.59% in 2011 and 60.52% in 2016. The study concluded that the gradual decrease in percentage is due to the conversion of hitherto agricultural land to mining land and the expansion of settlements. It was recommended that the mining activities should curtail the incidences of coal mine fires which pumps tons of smoke and other pollutants into the atmosphere by providing firefighting equipment and personnel for prompt intervention.
Analysis of Landuse/Landcover Change in Southern Part of Kaduna Metropolis, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Landuse and landcover change drives changes that limit availability of products and services for human and livestock, and can undermine environmental health as well. This paper analyzed landuse/landcover change (LULCC) in the southern part of Kaduna metropolis. The data used were; Landsat (4) Thematic Mapper (TM) of 1990, Landsat (7) Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM +) of 2001 and Landsat (8) ETM + of 2014 all with 30m spatial resolution. Erdas Imagine Software version 9.2 and ArcGIS version 10.1 were used for the analysis. Supervised classification technique with Maximum Likelihood Algorithm was used to classify the data into landuse/lancover classes. An overlay analysis was carried out in order to determine the changes in the landuse/landcover classes. The results revealed an overall change in landuse/landcover status of the area. Urban landuse witnessed an overall increase of 186.29% with an annual expansion rate of 7.76% within the study period (1990-2014). Agricultural land which was the most dominant in 1990, decreased by 25.64% in 2014. Similarly, vegetation and bare surfaces decreased by 48.13% and 18.81% respectively within that period. The study recommends that there should be periodic monitoring and modelling of landuse and landcover changes in the study area for formulating effective environmental policies and management. There is also the need to control urban development by by relevant agencies in the area in order to avoid harphazard developments that may have negative consequences on the environment and the people.
An Assessment of the Urban Canopy Heat Island (UCHI) of Kano Metropolis During the Dry/Hot Season
Urbanization has had a profound impact on our local, regional and even global climate, through the modification of the natural environment by replacing it with artificial surfaces, canyons and materials. This study assessed the nature of Urban Canopy Heat Island (UCHI) intensities in Kano metropolis during the hot/dry season. This study involved the measurement of temperature within the period and determination of the UCHI within Kano metropolis. The study measured the temperature data using an automatic temperature data logger and determined the UCHI from the data collected. The different sample stations were determined using the canyon zoning system known as the Urban Climate Zone (UCZ). Temperature and UCHI variation for the study were also determined for two periods that showed its diurnal distribution. The study area was categorized into 13 stations and all the classes of the UCZ fit into the study area. The UCHI characteristics showed a generally warm profile during the day time and night time periods, suggesting that most of the stations had high temperatures. This can be attributed to the season, as it is classified as hot and dry, thereby allowing for high insolation and consequent warming and heat retention capacity of the surface and the overlying atmosphere. The UCHI intensities can be attributed to the nature of the surface materials and characteristics, as well as level of human activities ranging from moderate to high, taking place within the various stations. It is thereby recommended that extensive vegetation of the metropolis be carried out so as to mitigate the effect of the UCHI within the area.
Thermal Perception in Relation to Physical Characteristics of Urban Outdoor Spaces in Katsina, Katsina State, Nigeria
Influence of urban spaces on quality of life in cities has been an issue of concern to researchers for decades. This study investigated the effect of urban physical planning pattern on thermal perception amongst people in a semiarid town of Katsina, Nigeria during hot dry and cool dry seasons. The study also examined people’s awareness of the microclimatic modification effects of some physical characteristics of urban outdoor spaces. Data used in this study include average monthly maximum and minimum temperature, physical characteristics of outdoor spaces (width and orientation of streets, amount of trees), thermal perception and satellite imagery. Data collection involves temperature data from Katsina Airport, physical characteristics of outdoor spaces through field study and using Google Earth software and thermal perception through structured interviews. Results revealed that physical characteristics of urban outdoor spaces and background microclimatic condition influence peoples’ thermal perception of their immediate environment. It also revealed a high level of awareness among people as regard ways of enhancing the thermal quality of urban outdoor spaces. This study suggests that in the tropics, minimizing the negative effects of microclimatic modifications of urban physical structures should always be considered before aesthetic in urban planning and design schemes.
Assessment of Drought Intensity in Katsina And Its Environs
This study examined drought occurrences and their intensities in Katsina and its environs. Katsina is an area prone to drought. Rainfall data covering 1971 to 2010 was obtained from the archives of Nigerian Meteorological Agency. The data was analyzed using Normalized Rainfall Index .The Normalized Rainfall Index was used to characterize drought occurrences. This was with the intention of finding out their percentages of occurrences over a 40 year period (1971-2010). Results showed that moderate intensity drought prevailed in the study area during the study period representing about 38.46% of the total drought occurrences in the period of study. Findings further indicated that mild and severe droughts were the least occurred intensities in the area representing 30.77% each. These situations means that farmers and other stakeholders like government and nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) in the study area need to have a reorientation of not waiting for the occurrence and effects of high intensity drought, but put in place policies and measures that will consistently mitigate occurrences and effects of low intensity drought. The paper concludes that the study area has been tilting towards decreasing number of drought occurrence and intensity due to increasing wetness over the recent years. The paper recommends that there is the need to use spatial and temporal characteristics of past droughts to serve as indicators of their future patterns of occurrence. There is also the need to shift emphasis away from the old methods of tackling high intensity drought effects to newer methods of combating the effects of moderate and low intensity droughts.
Assessment of Onset Dates, Cessation Dates and Length of Growing Season in Parts of Katsina State, Nigeria
This study investigated the onset dates, cessation dates and length of growing season in Katsina, Kaita and Jibia Local Government Areas of Katsina State, Nigeria. The characterization of these parameters was based on daily rainfall records spanning over 1981 – 2010. Methods used for investigation include the ogive cumulative pentad rainfall, trend lines and linear trend line equations. Results obtained indicate later onset dates and later cessation dates of rains during the study period. An increasing trend was observed in the length of growing season in the same period. Based on the foregoing, it is recommended that early maturing seed varieties should be provided to farmers before onset dates of planting. Taking this measure will no doubt be a way forward to our source of security in Katsina State.
Assessment of the Relationship between Weather and Road Traffic Accidents in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Assessment of the association between selected weather parameters which include rainfall, air temperature, visibility, relative humidity, wind speed and evaporation rate and the occurrence of road traffic accidents (RTAs) was conducted in Zaria unit command of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) which is located between Latitudes 10°49'19'' to 11°28'12'' North and longitudes 7°05'41'' to 8°08'8'' East. Data transformation was carried out on the data obtained for weather and RTAs while Pearson’s product moment correlation coefficient was used to assess the magnitude and direction of association between the weather parameters and the RTA variables in Zaria. The weather parameters were tested against each of the seven RTA variables (which are: fatal, serious, minor and total cases of RTA on one hand and the number of passengers injured or killed and total casualties on the other hand) annually and then monthly to see the nature of association between the two.Rainfall was found to have a positive association with six them; number of wet days on the other hand had a negative association with six of them. Air temperature also had a positive association with six of them including total number of cases and casualties. Visibility and relative humidity had a positive association with all of them while evaporation rate had a negative association with all the RTA variables.
Analysis of Traffic Flow Problems in Ilorin Central Business District, Kwara State, Nigeria
Nowadays, traffic situation in major Nigerian cities is simply chaotic. Ilorin which is a medium size city is not an exception. The city’s (Ilorin) Central Business District (CBD) and important commercial corridors are congested with automobiles. Though the traffic flow problems on these commercial corridors have not yet assumed the deplorable stage as those of the larger cities such as Lagos, but signs of potential bottlenecks are already emerging, as demonstrated by the high rate of growth of commercial activities along the roads and difficulties experienced in traffic movement on these roads. With these anticipatory problems, the issue of traffic flow draws significant attention each day and should not be left until it deteriorates to unbearable level. It is against this background that this paper aimed to analyse traffic flow in commercial areas of Ibrahim Taiwo Road and Murtala Mohammed Way areas of Ilorin CBD as a basis of identifying traffic flow problems and making appropriate recommendations for improvement. The methodology used includes; road inventory, traffic volumetric count, delay study, origin-destination survey and capacity study were conducted to gather information about traffic situation of the studied roads. The study established that traffic congestion due to high volume beyond road capacities at both morning and afternoon peak periods (13,154.97pcu and 15,354.89pcu), traffic delays and time wastage with average delay time of 10.44minutes across all roads, and traffic problems associated with poor design and operational capacity where most of the roads has as high road capacity overused of 5,648pcu and as low as 883pcu in the metropolis. Hence, the paper recommended that, the use of motorcycle and tricycle as a means of public transport should be discouraged by providing Bus Rapid Transit system in the CBD and the metropolis at large. There is also the need to improve on the integration of landuses with transit corridors to reduce excess travel demand in the metropolis.
An Analysis of Traffic Congestion in Zaria Urban Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria
Traffic congestion hinders smooth flow of traffic and increases time between origins and destinations. This study is aimed at analyzing traffic congestion in Zaria urban area.The study obtained data from questionnaire survey, observation and secondary sources. The analysis was done using simple descriptive statistics and it revealed that the causes of traffic congestion in the study area includes; poor parking habits, encroachment of commercial activities such as the erection of container and wood shops on road shoulders, street hawking, existence of narrow road and presence of pot holes. It was found that traffic congestion occurs mostly at peak periods which depicts the time for rush hour and this covers both morning and evening periods. The findings also showed that 86% of the respondents opined that traffic congestion can last for hours, while 14% of the respondents were of the opinion that it can last for a few minutes to half an hour. Deductions from the analysis of the study showed that consequences of traffic congestion can result in lateness to work and school, loss of business contacts and increase in travel time. It is however recommended that the authorities concerned should construct alternative routes in order to mitigate traffic congestion especially in the hotspots and ensure enforcement of traffic control regulations in the study area.
Evaluation of the Pollution Level of Some Heavy Metals in Soil of Bompai Industrial Area, Kano State, Nigeria
Soil pollution has become an issue of global concern due to it effect on soil, ecosystem and the entire environment. This study evaluated the concentration of some heavy metals and pH and determined the level of their pollution. Two locations (contaminated and control locations) were identified whereby ten soil samples were collected and then analyzed for Cr, Cd, Fe, Ni, Pb and Cu and pH. The results revealed that the mean value of heavy metals in contaminated location are Cr (64.81±10.12), Cd (4.37±0.6), Fe (55.54±5.28), Ni (191.94±22.34), Pb (43.6±3.77), Cu (118.28±15.12), which were found to be higher than that of the control location Cr (18.72±1.48), Cd (3.59±0.92), Fe (45.49±6.0), Ni (171.53±12.06), Pb (32.04±3.0), Cu (45.39±3.01). Some heavy metals Cr, Pb, Fe and Cu were found to be below the European Union Regulatory values (EU), while Cd and Ni were found to be higher than EU values. The single pollution model evaluation revealed that the soil of the area is potentially and slightly polluted with Cd and Ni respectively. Increase of organic matter and establishment of private treatment plant for the treatment of waste before discharge were recommended.
The Effect of Industrial Clustering on the Performance of Small and Medium Scale Tailoring Businesses in Samaru, Sabon Gari Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria
This study examined the effect of industrial clustering on the performance of small and medium scale tailoring businesses in Samaru, Sabon Gari Local Government Area of Kaduna State in Nigeria. Questionnaire and Global Positioning System (GPS) were used for data collection. A total of 180 questionnaires were administered to the respondents. Data was analysed using both descriptive andPearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) statistics. The Average Nearest Neighbour Analysis tool in ArcGIS 10.1 software was used to determine the spatial distribution of tailoring businesses in the study area. Findings revealed a strong correlation index of 0.704 between industrial clustering and the performance of small and medium scale tailoring businesses. Also, the result showed nearest neighbour index with a p-value of 0.000001, and a z-score of -19.288510 which indicated that the spatial distribution of the SMEs is clustered. Hence, SMEs derive a lot of benefits from clustering; it was recommended that SMEs should have access to low interest loan that would improve the productive capacity of the tailoring businesses.
Sources and Seasonal Variation in Prices of Livestock and Farm Produce in Maigatari and Dungass Markets
This study analyzed the sources and seasonal variation in livestock and farm produce in Maigatari and Dungass markets across Nigeria and Niger border. The study relied mainly on primary data derived using focus group discussions. The data was analyzed qualitatively through careful collation and arrangement, and the results presented in tables. The findings revealed that the supply and prices of both livestock and farm produce fluctuated according to seasons. Farm produce were cheaper in Maigatari market than in Dungass market and livestock were cheaper in Dungass than in Maigatari market. It was also discovered that there was inadequate market infrastructural facilities. Therefore, it was recommended that there should be urgent needs to educate traders on these seasonal variations, provide enough market infrastructures and encourage traders to buy farm produce in Maigatari market and exchange it with livestock from Dungass to boost their capitals and profits.
Land Suitability For Irish Potato (Solanum tuberosumL.) In Rugu-Rugu Village of Kano State, Nigeria
Lack of soil information contributed to the low output especially in the drylands region. This study conducted land evaluation for Irish potato cultivation under fadama irrigation management in Rugu-Rugu district, TudunWada Local Government Area, Kano state. The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) framework was adopted. Simple random sampling method was used in the collections of soil samples in each of the mapping units. Three soil mapping units were identified on the basis of soil characteristics which includes the Recessional land (RA), Lower fadama land (LF) and the Upper fadama land (UF). The result indicated that mapping unit RA (Recessional land) was found to have only two limitations – soils chemical properties and drainage, mapping unit LF (Lower fadama land) was found to have four limitations – soils chemical properties, slope, drainage and land workability and mapping unit UF (Upper fadama land) was the most serious with five limitations – soils chemical properties, slope, drainage, erosion hazard and land workability. The study recommends for application of organic and inorganic fertilizers in a complimentary manner, drainage network of the irrigated area should be revisited and ridges to be constructed across the slope direction.
An Assessment of the Geomorphological Significance of Soils in Parts of Niger State, Nigeria
This study assessed the geomorphological significance of soils in parts of Niger State. The objectives of the study include identifying the types of geomorphic responses in the study area and determining key soil physical properties of the study area. Fifty six soil samples comprising of four sub-samples were taken over eleven locations and analysed for particle size distribution and Atterberg limits. Slope characteristics along sampled points were also determined. The results of Atterberg limits tests indicate that 7.1% of the samples have a plasticity index less than 7, with 80.3% of the samples ranging between 7- 17, while 12.5% of the samples have plasticity index greater than 17- 27. Particle size distribution tests indicate that the soils of the study area are generally sandy –sandy clay loam. Five classes of slopes were identified in the study area and the results showed that slope classes between 2°– 2°.59″ and 3°– 3°59″ have the highest frequency of 14 and 12 respectively. This study showed that the soils in the area have moderate plasticity index and are well drained. However, the presence of active clays in some of the samples and the slope characteristics of the study area may mutually reenforce swelling and heaving in soils and geomorphic processes such as gullying and water ponding in concavities (depressions and potholes). Recommendations include linking geomorphological information to infrastructural planning and development and timely repairs of infrastructures.
Spatial Analysis of the Distribution of Soil Characteristics on Fadama Land along River Challawa in Kano State, Nigeria
This study analyzed the spatial distribution of soil characteristics on Fadama land along River Challawa in Kano State, Nigeria. Considering the apparent variability of soils at the river bank to support landcover, some six clusters were chosen for sampling three points per cluster at a single level depth of 15cm. Standard laboratory’s soil routine analysis was utilized for analyzing selected parameters (pH, N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na, OC, CEC and Zn). From the results, the primary nutrients NPK had the mean values as 0.76 g/kg-1, 26.35 g/kg-1 and 0.31 g/kg1 respectively; and secondary nutrients, Ca, Mg and Na were found to have mean values of 4.42cmol/kg-1 , 0.80cmol/kg-1 and 0.30cmol/kg- respectively. Sand, silt and clay particles had the following respective mean levels of 48.78g/kg-1, 39.11g/kg-1 and 12.11g/kg-1 respectively. Similarly, the values for soil reactions range from (pH H2O 6.00-6.900 and pH CaCl25.40-5.90). These data were subsequently transformed inGeographic Information System (GIS) environment using Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) interpolation model in the ArcGIS 10.1 software. The resultsshowed spatial variability in the distributions of soil parameters. While some parameters such as nitrogen are moderately and adequately distributed, others like potassium were grossly under represented by a fraction of distribution measure. However, some others such as calcium, magnesium and sodium were relatively and fairly distributed in the whole study area. This study recommended that farm site analyses of soil parameters should be periodic rather than on irregular basis.
The Role of Women in Water Resource Utilization in Gwale Local Government Area of Kano State, Nigeria
Women are rarely involved in decisions relating to water policies and strategies as well as water resource management. This study aimed to assess the role of women on water resource management in Gwale Local Government Area, Kano State. The major sources of domestic water supply, uses of water in the study area, method and utilization of domestic water uses were identified. Five wards were selected in the local government area with twenty respondents drawn from each for the study. Simple random sampling techniques were used for the study. Questionnaire was used as instrument for data collection. The data obtained were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics. The study revealed that, majority of the people in the study area obtain their domestic water from the borehole and some buy water from vendors for their domestic activities every day. The supply of water by vendors in this area reduces the tension of water scarcity by making it affordable and in turn it provides jobs to them. Women in the study area play a vital role in managing the water available to them every day in all areas of domestic uses including sanitation management. The study recommended that, women should be encouraged to participate in committees on water resource policies and programmes. Government should ensure gender equity with regards to access to and control of water resources. Public-Private Partnership should be encourage towards the development of a well-designed project for integrated water supply in the area.
Allocative Efficiency among Sesame Farmers in Benue State, Nigeria
This research was conducted to examine the allocative efficiency and its determinants of sesame farmers in Benue State, Nigeria.The allocative efficiency and its determinants were determined by the use of Cobb-Douglas stochastic frontier production function. Structured questionnaires were used for the collection of primary data on socio-economic characteristics, the inputs used and the outputs of sesame from 154 farmers. Multistage sampling technique was used for this study. Results of the study revealed that costs of farm size, seed and labour impacted positively on sesame output and were significant at (p< 0.01) level. The determinants of allocative efficiency were age, farming experience, household size, extension contact, membership of cooperative society and amount of credit received. Age, farming experience and extension contact were found to reduce allocative inefficiency, while household size, cooperative society membership and amount of credit received increased allocative inefficiency. The result shows a mean allocative efficiency of 0.69 and a range of 0.31 to 0.92. The study concludes that allocative inefficiency exists in the study areas as depicted by the maximum value of 0.92. Therefore, it is recommended that sesame farmers should adopt cost-saving agricultural technologies and practices in order to reduce allocative inefficiencies. Sesame farmers should also be prudent in the use of credit facilities for sesame production.
Spatial Pattern of Agricultural Development Programmes in Kano State, Nigeria
This study assessed the spatial pattern of agricultural development programmes in Kano State. Questionnaire and documented materials constituted major sources of data. Twelve Local Government Areas (LGAs) were purposively selected across the three Senatorial districts in the state. Some 384 respondents were randomly selected from these LGAs. The Standardized score (Z-score) analytical technique was employed using the three dimensionsand the associated ten variables. The three dimensions namely Infrastructural dimension, Farm output dimension, Farm asset and technology dimension while the ten selected variables are: access to land area, cropping intensity per annum, chemical fertilizer consumption (bags), number of agricultural labourers hired, financial institutions/commercial banks, access to road, modern equipment adopted on farms, number of research extension workers, number of livestock (cow/goat) and number of poultry (chickens). The results of the Infrastructural dimension revealed that Eight LGAs are advantaged while the remaining areas were found to be disadvantaged. Based on the Farm output dimension, it was found that seven LGAs are advantaged while the remaining five LGAs are disadvantaged. The results of the Farm asset and technology dimension revealed that eight LGAs were found to be advantaged while the remaining four LGAs are underprivileged, the LGAs in this category of advantage include Kura with Z-score of 1.00, Rano with Z-score of 0.99, Tofa with Z-score of 0.16, Warawa with Z-score of 0.72, Minjbir with Z-score of 0.66, Danbatta with Z-score of 0.55, Rogo with Z-score of 0.07 and Gwarzo with Z-score of 0.04 in that descending order of performance. However, Tsanyawa, Doguwa, Madobi, Gaya with Z- score values of -0.06, -0.08, -0.18, -1.89 respectively are underprivileged. On the basis of these findings, the study recommends that there is need for the agricultural development to spread across the entire state through agricultural development programmes.
The Use of Traditional Adaptation Measures Against Climate Variability among Pastoralists in Katsina State, Nigeria
Africa is particularly vulnerable to climate change owing to its low adaptive capacity and high dependence on climate-sensitive resources such as water resources and ecological systems. This has led to myriads of environmental challenges. However, most rural communities have developed various technical solutions and institutional mechanisms to deal with these environmental constraints. This study therefore assessed the indigenous coping strategies employed by pastoralists inresponse to adverse effects of climate change in Katsina State. A sampleof 367 pastoralists was selected for the study.Structured interview and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) were employed for data collection. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chisquare. Results indicated that a significant proportion (65%) of the respondents adopted various strategies to combat adverse effect of climate change. In addition, the constraints to the effective use of indigenous coping strategies against climate change were identified to be: poverty, poor access to information on climate change, low level of education, land tenure system and inadequate physical and social infrastructure in the rural areas among others. The study concludes that traditional and institutional knowledge accumulated and maintained through practice over countless generations, offers valuable insights into the state of the environment. Consequently, a synergy is needed between local institutions, national and international frameworks for the successful adaptation to climate change.
Physical Planning Inputs in Managing Desertification: A Case Study of Jibia Local Government Area in Katsina State, Nigeria
Jibia Local Government Area falls within the arid zones of the desert. This region is characterized by low amount of rainfall, high temperature, low humidity which has caused frequent drought in the area thereby making the area vulnerable to desertification. This has adversely affected the socioeconomic activities of the inhabitants of the area. This study utilized climatic data to examine the prevailing physical environmental conditions in Jibia, also field survey data was acquired to investigate the present desertification adaptation strategies in the area with a view to making physical planning proposals. Since Jibia falls within the arid zone, it is therefore proposed that in planning a settlement in the area, emphasis should be based on centralizing the residential areas; this should then be followed by an open space for future expansion. Trees should be provided round the residential areas to serve as buffer against the winds and sunrays. Moreover, there should be an expanse of farmland for cultivation by the inhabitants at the outskirts of the residential areas. Narrow routes shaded with trees should also be provided.
Characterisation of Groundwater Potential Zones for Rural Water Supply in Parts of Kano State, Nigeria
Delineation and characterisation of groundwater potential zones was undertaken in sixteen rural areas that were selected from eight local government areas of Kano State. Pumping tests were conducted in sixteen open wells in the area. Depths to water levels were obtained from the open wells. Groundwater potential zones were delineated through weighted overlay of the results and six thematic maps of the environmental conditions. Groundwater potential zones were characterised based on environmental conditions and pumping test results. Result showed that five groundwater potential zones were identified which are very high, high, moderate, low and very low. It is established that areas with lower draw down of 7.81m to 9.70m at 30 minutes are areas with higher discharge rates at 30 minutes of between 0.65L/m to 1.11 L/m;and areareas that fall within very high, high and moderate Groundwater Potential Zones (GWPZS). It can be observed that Riruwai, Zainabi, Tumbau, Tudunkaya, Fammar and Tumbau recorded higher draw down of 13.80m to 15.40m at 30 minutes. In these same areas, discharge was found to be 0.5 to 0.7L/m. It was also determined that very high, high and moderate groundwater potential zones are characterised by alluvial soil, hydromorphic soils, and ferruginous soils; and such areas geologically, are associated with pink and white granite, quartzite suits fractured valley fills and older granitic formations of various types. Also, all good prospect areas are characterised by high lineament density, high drainage density, high runoff, high vegetation cover and low relief or low slope values. Lithosols and reddish to reddish brown soil areas are of poor potential.Based on these findings, it can be recommended that groundwater potential map and thematic maps produced can be updated from time to time for water resources development.In addition, study of this nature should be supported by more high resolution terrain data like radar images.
An Assessment of the Treatment of Selected Heavy Metals by the Tamburawa Water Treatment Plant in Kano State, Nigeria
An analysis of water in the Kano River was carried out to determine the concentration of three selected metals; (Cu, Fe and Mn) before and after treatment by the new Tamburawa plant in Kano, from January to September 2009. This study was situated in the downstream area of the drainage basin, where the Challawa River merges with the Kano River, so as to capture effluents probably not captured by previous studies and to investigate the efficiency of the treatment plant in removing metal pollutants. The concentrations of the metals were determined using the spectrophotometer after digestion of both the raw and treated water samples using the Nitric acid digestion method. The result of the laboratory analysis revealed that the selected metals were present within the basin in varying concentrations across the season. Simple percentages were used to ascertain the level of reduction of the selected metals by the new Tamburawa treatment plant. It was found that the treatment plant was more efficient in reducing the concentration of the metals during the dry season than the rainy season. Cu had a concentration of 0.504mg/l in July of which only 34% was removed, Fe and Mn had 1.870mg/l and 0.520mg/l in August and September, but only 20% and 47% were removed respectively. The study concluded by suggesting proper monitoring of effluent discharge into the river by industries and also the upgrading of the treatment plant with state of the art facilities for better water treatment.
Analysis of Water Quality of Selected Wells in Gonin-Gora, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Groundwater is considered to be safe for drinking, but increasing evidences have revealed that, its chemical composition or physical characteristics may render it unsafe for human consumption. As a result, this study was undertaken to analyse the water quality of selected wells in Gonin-Gora Kaduna State. Water samples were randomly collected from nine (9) different wells at strategic positions, the source and levels of concentration were determined to ascertain the water samples for human consumption. Magnesium, Calcium, Alkalinity, BOD, Chloride, Colour, Nitrate, Total Hardness, Turbidity and pH parameters (variables) were generated from each of the nine (9) analysed water samples for statistical analyses. The regression analysis was used to compare the relationship between distance of dumpsites and level of pollution, while chi-square was used todetermine a significance difference between empirical values and WHO standards for drinking water. Therefore, the results have shown that, there is a significant difference between the levels of concentration of the well water and W.H.O standards for drinking water. The study recommended that water from open wells should be treated before humanconsumption.
Analysis of the Biophysical Quality of Domestic Water in Toro Local Government Area, Bauchi State, Nigeria
Water quality analysis of surface and groundwater was carried out in Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi state located on the central highlands of northern Nigeria. Samples were collected from streams, rivers, ponds, wells and boreholes. The area was stratified into three districts and six samples were collected from each district (a total of 18 samples). The samples were subjected to laboratory analysis to taste for the physical and biological parameters in the water, and the results were compared with the World Health Organization (WHO) standard. The results of the analysis showed that only 3 of the 18 samples fell below the WHO standard in terms of biological fitness. The result of the physical parameters showed that the temperature of all the samples fell below the WHO standard; while turbidity of 11 of the samples fell below the WHO standard. In the case of appearance and taste, 5 samples are objectionable as set by WHO. The odors of all samples are unobjectionable as set by WHO. Based on these findings, recommendations were made on how to improve the quality of water in the study area.
Assessment of the Living Conditions of Internally Displaced Persons in Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria
Internally Displaced persons (IDPs) are mostly victims of various kinds of injustices or violent confrontations, perpetrated by either their own government against them or by others. The study assessed the living conditions of IDPs in Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria. The objectives were to examine the living conditions of IDPs and assess the coping strategies IDPs have developed to survive. Questionnaire was the main instrument for collecting data which was complemented by in-depth interviews. A total of 335respondents were sampled for the study. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data collected using SPSS version 20. The results were presented in form of tables, frequencies and percentages. The result showed that St. Theresa Cathedral and Malkohi camps had more females (66%) than males. A high percentage of the respondents were widows (46%) and all respondents were displaced as a result of insurgency in Northeastern Nigeria. The major needs of IDPs on the camps were food, hygiene, health and psychosocial support as these were all lacking. The coping strategies adopted by the IDPs to survive include: reliance on food aid from government; non-governmental organizations, and individuals (49%); moving out of the camps for emergency health care (49%); organizing sanitation activities (100%), engaging in recreational activities for psychosocial therapy (63%). Thus, all government agencies responsible for protecting and assisting IDPs and other local and international humanitarian actors must therefore ensure effective measures are put in place to provide suitable accommodation, livelihood assistance, medical facilities and psychotherapy to improveon the deterioration conditions IDPs are living in.
An Analysis of Catastrophic Health Expenditure on Non-Communicable Diseases by Households in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are fast becoming major causes of morbidity and mortality around the world, affecting the well-being of numerous individuals at an alarming rate. The NCDs examined in this research were Cancer, Diabetes and Cardiovascular disease (Hypertension) which were selected purposively because they are among the most common NCDs in the world.Some households face catastrophic health expenditure and impoverishment as a result of spending on medical bills of the NCD patient.Catastrophic spending is the situation whereby healthcare expenditure is greater than or equal to 40% of household income. Some 384 copies of questionnaire were systematically administered among patients or their caregivers in systematically selected hospitals in Kaduna State. Descriptive qualitative statistical techniques were used for analysis. ANOVA was used to test the statistical difference of catastrophic spending between households managing each of the NCDs. The resultsshowed that households with Cancer patients have the highest percentage of involvement in catastrophic spending(40.6%), followed closely by households with hypertensive patients(37.5%), and lastly households with diabetic patients(11.7%). Also, the quantitative analysis showed a statistically significant difference (0.001) in catastrophic spending between the households managing NCDs. The economic effects of the NCDs have particularly pushed families into catastrophic spending, thus plunging them further into impoverishment and a vicious cycle of poverty and disease. In conclusion, there is a significant difference in the economic effect of NCDs on households in Kaduna State. The economic burden on households managing NCD patients can be alleviated by institutional interventions aimed at sharing the cost of treatment with the family. The insurance schemes should also be expanded to accommodate NCDs and nongovernment workers.
Spatio-Temporal Distribution of Polio Cases in Kaduna Central Senatorial Zone, Kaduna State, Nigeria
This study analysed the spatio-temporal distribution of polio cases in Kaduna Central Senatorial Zone, which comprises of BirninGwari, Chikun, Giwa, Igabi, Kaduna North, Kaduna South and Kajuru. Records of polio cases from the year 2006 to 2016 were collected from Primary Health Care Development Agency and State Ministry of Health. This includes addresses of the infected children and the healthcare centres visited by the infected children. Mobile topographer was used to take the home coordinates while ArcGIS 10.1 was used to analyse the data. The result of the analysis showed that significant numbers of polio cases were recorded in settlements along the major roads linking so many towns and villages most especially in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area. It was recommended that robust security patrol team should be deployed in these areas so as to tackle the security problems thereby making these areas accessible to health workers.
Effects of Beliefs and Economic Status on Family Size in Kano Metroplis, Kano State, Nigeria
Thisstudy examines the effects of cultural beliefs on gender preferences and family size in Kano Metropolis of Kano State in Nigeria. The study used questionnaire and interviews to obtain data on family size, income and ages of parents; the preferences and choices of certain sexes. Descriptive statistics like measures of central tendency, graphs and charts were used for the analysis. The findings showed high birth rate or fertility among couples due to desire to attain certain gender combination. It was also found that traditional title holders, businessmen and lower income earners in the study area beget more children than the educated elites because of the belief that the children are assets. There is also a belief that certain sex is better than others even among wealthy individuals who abhor more children with preference to sons than daughters. Some of the reasons attached to this preference include the assistance sons render at home and market; they serve as source of security at old age as well as heirs of family continuity. It was also found that many families tend to give birth to large number of children in the quest of getting a son(s) especially if the early children are females. Another factor is the cultural belief that encourages polygamy, one of the co-wives may have many males, hence, this triggers competition trying to have modal set. Socio-economic and socio-cultural status show some variations in these trends. Preferences of sex and many children are more common to polygamous couples than in monogamous family. The study recommended theneed for enlightenment among the people to consider both sexes as complementary to one another to reduce the degree of preferences.
An Explanation of the Factors Responsible for Fuelwood Consumption in Zaria and its Region, Kaduna State, Nigeria
This study aimed at examining the factors responsible for fuelwood consumption by households in Zaria and its regions. A systematic (probability) sampling technique was employed in selecting the wards from each Local Government Area (LGA) that make upthe study area. The study used questionnaire to collect data from 384 respondents that constitute households and commercial fuelwood vendors. On average, most of the commercial fuelwood vendors (50%) and the households (39%) have spent over 30 years in fuelwood production and consumption respectively. The respondents for the main survey were selected randomly (by visiting as many households as possible in the sixteen electorate divisions) with no regard to any probability in the selection process to determine the factors influencing fuelwood consumption and the preferred tree/shrub species for firewood in the households. Results showed that majority (77.3%) of the respondents used fuelwood as their major source of energy, it further showed that cheapeness (64%), affordability (8.8) and availability (5%) of fuelwood were found to be the factors responsible for fuelwood consumption in the area. The most preferred tree and shrub species for fuelwood were Isobalina doka (85%), Eucalyptus (83%), Prosopis Africana (73%), Agnogeissus leicarpus (68%), and Parkia biglobosa (63%) among others. Most of the species were reported to have good combustion characteristics. The study recommends that there is urgent need for government to provide cheap, reliable and sustainable sources of energy at affordable prices. Cultivation of fast growing tree species needed to accelerate the regeneration of forests.
Quantifying Household Energy Consumption in Kano Metropolis, Nigeria
This study quantified household energy consumption in Kano metropolis. Clustered sampling technique was employed to categorise the study area into different residential zones on the basis of socio-economic status and residential density, while systematic sampling technique was used to select households at specific intervals, resulting to 528 sampled households. Wood fuel, charcoal and gas were measured in kilogram, while kerosene was measured in litres. At household level, questionnaire was used to get information on the quantity of energy consumption. The study estimated a mean monthly consumption of wood fuel per household at 83.8 kg, with a mean expenditure of 1528 Naira (NGN). Kerosene was estimated at 22.7 litres with an expenditure of 3519.2 Naira per household. The quantity of charcoal consumption and expenditure was found to be 19.02 kg and 1389.1 Naira respectively, while gas consumption and expenditure was estimated at 12.97 kg and 3093 naira. The findings therefore showed a major decrease in the quantity of wood fuel consumption over the period of study. However, the expenditure on it has risen due to the declining value of the Naira. The study concluded that, although, the consumption of wood fuel has decreased drastically, the amount of consumption is still significant, and this might result to the continuous depletion of forest resources and indoor air pollution, which can lead to health problems. Therefore, the study recommends: the use of the newly designed charcoal and wood fuel efficient stoves (capable of saving up to 40 to 60% of energy with less smoke), especially among the very low income earners who cannot afford cleaner sources of energy, and the use of renewable energy.
Analysis of the Chemical Quality of Domestic Water in Toro Local Government Area, Bauchi State, Nigeria
Analysis of the surface and groundwater water in Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi state was conducted in order to test the chemical quality of the water in the area. Samples were collected from wells, boreholes, ponds, streams and rivers in the area. The area was stratified into three districts and six samples were collected from each district making a total of 18 samples. The samples were analyzed in the laboratory to taste for the chemical parameters in the water, and the results were compared with the World Health Organization (WHO) standard. The results of the analysis showed that chemically, the pH, calcium, magnesium, copper, fluoride, zinc, nitrite, manganese, chromium, cyanide, arsenic, and electrical conductivity of the water all fell below the WHO standard. On the other hand, the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), total hardness, total alkalinity, iron, nitrate, lead, sulphate, chloride, and barium in the water had 1, 8, 4, 13, 3, 1, 2, 1 and 11 samples respectively above the WHO standard. Based on these findings, recommendations were given on how to improve the quality of water in the study area.
The Environmental and Health Effects of Quarrying Activities in BanZazzau Area of Zaria City, Kaduna State, Nigeria
This study examined the environmental and health implications of quarrying activities in Ban-Zazzau area of Zaria City in Kaduna State. Questionnaire survey and interviews were conducted to obtain information from quarry workers, residents and stakeholders in the area. The respondents were selected using stratified and random sampling techniques. Findings revealed that in terms of the age structure, majority of the respondents are adults between the age of 26 and 45 years which is made up of 45.8% of the total respondents. These categories of people belong to the active proportion of the population who are likely to bear the burden of the quarry activities in the area. Findings also shows that majority of the respondents are quarry workers and traders each making up of 37.2% and 41.5% respectively. Also, majority of the respondents were found to be literate. In addition, findings revealed that among the activities carried out in the quarry site, the major ones are blasting, crashing and packing of products which amount to 54.3%. Deforestation and damage to farmland were found to be among the main environmental effects of quarry in the study area which made up 55.3%. The most noticeable health effects of quarrying activities were found to be cough, chest pains and throat infections. Suggestions made by the respondents to reduce effects on quarrying activities include control of blasting to reduce vibration and a reduction in dust produced according to 29.8% and 25.5% of the respondents respectively. There is also the need for government to formulate and enforce pollution control policy and also ensure compliance by quarry operators in the area.