Afe Babalola University Based Journals
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The Challenges of President Muhammadu Buhari's (PMB) Cash Nigeria Transfers as Poverty Reduction Strategy in Nigeria
No full textPoverty has been on the increase in Nigeria. In 2016, the Federal government of Nigeria under President Muhammadu Buhari (PMB) established the National Social Investment Programs (NSIPs), including Cash Transfers (CTs). The cash transfers programme targeted the poorest of the poor by giving eligible households N5000 monthly (transferred bi-monthly), with the aim of graduating them out of poverty after three years of implementation. This paper analyzed the challenges that impeded the successful implementation of the PMB cash transfers. Using qualitative case-study methods, six Nigerian States were studied. Findings revealed that the program encountered several challenges such as poor targeting, inconsistent and incomplete payments, inadequate monitoring, bribery among other issues that resulted in its failure to lift the “poor beneficiaries” permanently out of poverty. For any future cash transfers to make positive impacts, it is recommended that Nigeria’s policymakers ensure that the challenges identified in this paper are adequately addressed
The Trajectory of Transnational Security in West Africa: Recalibrating the Elements of Regional Integration for Strategic Policy Options in the Sahel Region
Get PDFThe instability and crises in West Africa and the Sahel have changed the security landscape in the region. There has never been a more urgent need for a more cooperative regional environment due to the increasing mobility of conflicts. Methodologically, qualitative and content analysis was employed. Findings revealed that the Sahel region as a whole is characterized by the challenges of establishing governmental authority and promoting development across large and sparsely populated areas in poor institutional environments. The study also revealed that the Sahel's illegal trade in commodities and people has generally suffered as a result of the violence, and many issues related to human security are transnational in nature. As a result, Mauritania's president, Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz, inspired the G5S to forge unity among governments with longstanding rivalries in order to combat the insecurity that has been perceived as a regional issue in 2014, while serving as president of the African Union (AU). The study concludes that, the social, ethnic, and religious heterogeneity of the region, the plurality of threats, and the permeability of territories that necessitate cross-border synergies make it exceedingly difficult to pursue a "comprehensive" approach or "integrated" response to terrorism in the Sahel, for previous approaches to the Sahel were likewise beset by a lack of cooperation in the formulation and application of response plans. There is a need for nations in the region to have the power to address the risks to peace and security, but first, they must all get over a number of internal challenges. Each nation has a stake in enhancing stability
Development of an IoT Based Water Quality Monitoring Device for Domestic Fish Ponds
Get PDFThis study focuses on developing an affordable IoT-based water quality monitoring system for domestic fish ponds. The system aims to enable remote monitoring of critical water parameters, offering real-time data access through mobile or web interfaces. It includes an alert system to notify the pond owners of any significant changes in water quality, allowing swift corrective action. The initiative stems from challenges faced by aquaculture farmers due to insufficient knowledge about water pH levels. Understanding pH's importance, especially within the optimal range of 6.5-9.0 for fish culture, is crucial for success. Tests conducted on the system's performance in detecting various pH levels across different pond environments demonstrated its reliability in identifying low and normal pH levels. However, anomalies were observed in detecting higher pH levels, indicating potential sensitivity limitations that need further investigation for system refinement. While the system excelled in detecting low and normal pH levels accurately, improvements are required for detecting higher pH thresholds to ensure comprehensive monitoring across diverse water conditions. This enhancement is crucial for effective fish pond management and reducing losses for aquaculture farmers
Evaluation and Multi-Objective Optimisation of Cutting Parameters in Turning of AISI 1020 Mild Steel using Formulated Cutting Fluid
No full textInput parameter like the cutting fluid is one of the requirements for minimal surface roughness, cutting temperature, tool wear and optimal material removal rate coupled with improved machinability and productivity. The evaluation of the optimal factors of surface roughness, material removal rate, cutting temperature and tool wear in the turning of AISI Mild Steel with the use of eco-friendly fluids. Concerns has been raise globally about the non - biodegradability and non-recyclability of the conventional fluids in the research space. This prompted the research interest in replacing the mineral oil based fluids with eco-friendly cutting fluid such as castor seed oil based cutting fluid (CBCF). The locally sourced castor seed oil was investigated for its physiochemical properties as well as its fatty acid composition (FAC). The cutting fluid was formulated using ratio 1:9 of oil with additives to distilled water and then characterized. In turning of AISI 1020 Mild Steel, the evaluation of surface roughness, material removal rate, cutting temperature and tool wear under the CBCF compared to the mineral oil based cutting fluid (MBCF) were carried out using Taguchi experimental design and Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) for multi-response optimization. The formulated cutting fluid showed pH value of 8.47, viscosity of 0.830 mm2/s, good resistance to corrosion, good stability and milkfish in colour. From the GRA, the multi-response optimal factor combination under the CBCF is (1250 rev/min) spindle speed, (0.6 mm/rev) feed rate and (1.0 mm) depth of cut, all at level 3 while under the MBCF, it also shows (1250 rev/min) spindle speed, (0.6 mm/rev) feed rate and (1.0 mm) depth of cut all at level 3. The parameters from Taguchi and GRA results are in agreement with results from other vegetable oil based fluids and this study also contributes and improves the science of machining
Enhancing Social Engagement among Online Learners' Using AI-Driven Tools: National Open University of Nigeria Leaners' Perspective
Get PDFThe need for online education has increased significantly. People now prefer to work to fulfill the necessities of life and pursue education to advance their skills because of the rising difficulty. This quest increases the demand for distance education thereby raising questions about how distance learning institutions can effectively assist their learners. Employment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools will not only provide solutions but also improve and render effective service and support to learners. AI-driven tools such as personalized or adaptive learning and chatbots for learner support have significantly helped to improve efficiency in virtual environments. This research aims to investigate how National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) students view the contribution of AI tools in enhancing social interaction in their virtual learning environment. The study seeks to determine the requirements, inclinations, and challenges related to social interaction in the online learning space and explore how AI-powered solutions might effectively address these challenges to create a more dynamic and engaging learning environment. A survey was conducted to ascertain the level of awareness among the learners on the use of these tools, the challenges related to social interaction in online space and explore the ways AI-powered tools can effectively address issues in the learning environment to create a more dynamic and engaging learning environment. This study has identified that a greater number of learners in NOUN have little or no knowledge of the availability of these tools as well as how they can effectively use it. The level of awareness of the learners on the use of these tools is low. The study found 27.5% awareness and usage of AI tools provided by the institution. Several platforms were identified by respondents; however, ChatGPT was the most widely used AI platform. The study also discusses the importance of AI tools in enhancing collaboration and social engagement among learners. It identifies the challenges in integrating AI in Education and provides possible solutions to the challenges
Smart Library Automation: Integrating Classification Tree-Based cataloging with XAMPP Server Environment
Get PDFVarious sectors, including libraries, have experienced a revolution due to the swift progress of technology. This involves introducing automation and monitoring systems for more efficient operations. Hence the study Smart Library Automation and Monitoring System as an appropriate solution for these technological advancements. The proposed system integrates cutting-edge technologies to create a smart interconnected library ecosystem. Object Oriented Design Methodology was used as the software engineering technique, the proposed system leverages classification tree-based cataloging, a hierarchical organization method that enhances the accessibility and navigability of library collections. JavaScript, PHP, HTML, CSS, and XML technologies are integrated to develop an intuitive and interactive user interface for the library management system, XAMMP was later used as local server environment to utilize the automation. The system boasts various advanced functions, such as automatic lending and returning of books, shelf monitoring, and cataloging for resource accessibility assurance. By integrating these features into a comprehensive library management solution, it enables proficient utilization with intellectuality sustainability on par with the modern digital era standards
Mechanical and Water Barrier Properties of Inhomogeneous Clay Nano-Particles Reinforced Thermoplastic Starch
Get PDFThis research investigated the development of biodegradable bioplastic as a possible replacement for petroleum-based plastics, which constitute a serious environmental hazard. These hazards include but are not limited to flooding resulting from blocked sewage and danger to aquatic life in marine environments. The solution casting method was used to blend inhomogeneous kaolinite clay nano-particles with distilled water, starch, dilute acetic and nitric acids to produce different compositions of thermoplastic starch (TPS)/Clay composites with clay reinforcements ranging from 2.5 to 10 wt.%. The composites were characterized using an X-ray diffraction (XRD), and the mechanical and water absorption properties were determined. The result revealed a 9-fold improvement in the tensile strength (0.72 MPa), flexural strength increased 5-fold (3.34 MPa), and hardness increased 2-fold (23.56 HVN) as well as a reduction in water absorption by 3-fold (6.63%) when compared to the control. Furthermore, the 10 wt.% clay content composite showed the highest mechanical properties. The significant improvement in the listed properties was attributed to a reduction in crystallinity and the formation of new chemical bonds between the thermoplastic starch and the nano-clay. It was observed that the properties of the composites can be further enhanced if a synchronized machine blender (such as an extruder) is employed
Assessment of Air Pollution Levels from a Building Construction Site on Lagos Island
No full textThe introduction highlights the challenges of air pollution from construction activities on a site in Lagos Island, Nigeria, emphasizing the need for comprehensive studies to assess air pollution levels and evaluate its implications for public health and environmental quality. The methodology outlines the monthly data collection process, using the Earth Sense Zephyr (equipped with electrochemical detectors for gases) to measure CO, NO, NO₂, O₃, and Optical light scattering for particles) to measure PM₂.₅, and PM₁₀, and the ARA n-FRM Sampler for additional data collection on PM₂.₅, and PM₁₀. The study found that CO, NO, and NO₂ levels were influenced by construction activities, vehicle emissions and industrial sources, with notable peaks in CO and NO concentrations during specific months. Ozone levels remained consistently low, likely due to the "titration effect," while particulate matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀) showed significant seasonal variation, peaking during the dry season due to construction dust and dry weather conditions. The findings underscore the need for stringent regulatory measures and effective dust control practices, particularly during periods of increased construction activity and dry weather, to mitigate air pollution and protect public health. In conclusion, the study provides valuable insights into the dynamics of air pollution from a typical construction site in Lagos Island, emphasizing the urgency of sustainable interventions to safeguard public health and environmental integrity. The study proposes enhanced monitoring and surveillance, stringent regulatory measures, promotion of sustainable construction practices, and public awareness and education, to address the challenges associated with construction-related air pollution on Lagos Island
Developing and Implementing an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Driven System For Electricity Theft Detection
Get PDFElectricity theft is a significant challenge for utility companies worldwide, leading to substantial economic losses and inefficiencies in power distribution. Traditional methods of detecting electricity theft, such as manual inspections and routine audits, are often inefficient and ineffective. To address this issue, this study aims to develop and implement an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven system for electricity theft detection. Methodology used are data collection, data analysis, feature selection with Chi-Square, feature transformation with Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Support Vector Machine (SVM) and model for electricity theft detection. To achieve this, a Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm (PSO) was applied to improve training performance of the SVM, using data of meter recharge information collected from Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC). The system effectiveness is validated through extensive testing using real-world data from various regions and scenarios, demonstrating its robustness and adaptability. The system result considering FDR reported that 0.11 was achieved for the particle swarm based SVM model. When TPR was considered for analysis, it was observed that particle swarm based SVM attained a score of 0.89. In addition, Particle swarm based SVM attained PPV of 0.895. In terms of accuracy, the particle swarm based SVM reported an accuracy of 0.857. The result showed that the particle swarm based SVM performed better from the system validation achieved through comparative analysis, hence it is recommended for use to develop the new software for energy theft investigation. The implementation of this AI-driven solution offers numerous benefits, including enhanced detection accuracy, reduced operational costs, and improved overall efficiency of power distribution networks. Moreover, it enables utility companies to take proactive measures to prevent theft, ensuring a more reliable and secure electricity supply for consumers
Design and Finite Element Analysis of a Thresher for Palm Oil (Elaies guineensis) Extraction Plant
Get PDFThis study presents the design and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of a thresher used in palm oil (Elaeis guineensis) extraction plants. The FEA was performed to ensure safe and cost effective of the thresher before fabrication. The analytical design of the threshing shaft and drum of the thresher was validated using SolidWorks (2021) CAD software for static simulation, employing plain carbon steel as the material. For the threshing shaft, forces of and were applied at strategic points, resulting in a maximum bending stress of , significantly below the yield strength of . The shaft's diameter of 50 mm was confirmed as adequate with a factor of safety (FOS) ranging from 3.17 to 142.42, validating the shaft design's safety for fabrication. Similarly, the drum unit, supported by a spider arm and cylindrical bars, was subjected to an equivalent twisting moment of 861.25 Nm and a batch weight of 1226.25 N. The maximum von Mises stress of was well within safe limits, indicating robustness under operational loads. The maximum resultant displacement and equivalent strain were respectively which can be said to be minimal, reinforcing the drum's structural integrity. A minimum FOS of 20.45 further highlighted the drum's durability and resistance to fatigue. These results confirm the reliability and safety of the designed thresher components, ensuring efficient and sustainable palm oil extraction